OCH Archives September 2012

THE FEAST OF THE NATIVITY IN THE FLESH OF OUR LORD AND GOD AND SAVIOR JESUS CHRIST

From the "Manual for Orthodox Priests" (Nastolnaya Kniga), Kharkov, 1900
By S.V. Bulgakov.

The establishment of this feast belongs to the very earliest period of the Church. The very content of the feast already indicates the reason for its establishment, namely: the remembrance and glorification of the Nativity in the flesh by the Most Holy Virgin Mary of our Lord Jesus Christ. To this original and fundamental reason another was added very early: in order, through a precise establishment of the feast by revealing the true teaching of the Incarnation and Birth of the Savior, to counteract the errors of certain heretics: Ebionites, Docetists, and Basilidians. Because of these false teachings the ancient Church chiefly emphasized remembrance of the event of Christ's Birth as the revelation of God Himself in the flesh. In the 4th century, with the appearance and spread of Arianism, there appeared a new and more powerful stimulus for the Orthodox Church to glorify the event of Christ's Birth. The Feast was not celebrated on a uniform date until the Church connected the Feast with its opposition to Arianism and Paganism. By removing the feast to December 25, the Church had in view to counteract the insidious errors of Arius concerning the Nature of Christ, and also to counteract the pagan cult on that day and preserve the faithful from participating in it.

It is known that the Romans had on December 25 a feast, the so-called dies natalis Solis invicti, which served to express the idea of the sun's constant return to summer, as if it were renewing itself, and which was a day of unbridled merrymaking among the people, a day of diversion for slaves, children, and the like. Thus in itself this day was better suited than any other for the commemoration of the Birth of Jesus Christ, Who is often called in the New Testament the Sun of justice, the Light of the world, the Salvation of men, the Vanquisher of life and death; and the reprehensible pagan celebration of it was sufficient motive for the Church to ennoble it in the sense of an elevated Christian commemoration. The Troparion hymn of the Feast emphasizes the point of replacing the Pagan feast of the Sun with the celebration of the Birth of God in the flesh, witnessed to by pagan astrologers, the magi:

"Thy Nativity, O Christ, our God, Has shown to the world the light of wisdom. For by it those who worshiped the stars, Were taught by a star to adore Thee, The Sun of Righteousness; And to know Thee, the Orient from on high. O Lord, glory to Thee."

The ancient Church, denying the identity of the two analogous feasts -- the pagan and the Christian - - had already appropriated to the feast of the Nativity of Christ a character of energetic renunciation of pagan superstitions and customs. Affirming our faith in the great mystery of the Incarnation of our Lord Jesus Christ and accusing all heretics who disfigured this dogma by their sophistry, the Holy Church, in celebrating the Nativity of Christ, represents this feast in its hymns as a day of universal joy, "for unto us is born this day a Savior, Who is Christ the Lord" (Lt. Luke 2:10-11). Let Heaven and earth" exclaims the Holy Church, "this day prophetically rejoice; every creature delights for the sake of the Lord our Savior born in Bethlehem: for every idolatrous delusion has passed, and Christ reigns forever." At the same time the Holy Church, by her celebration of the Nativity of Christ, instructs us morally in a holy life worthy of the Lord Who is born. "Today a Savior has been born to us, Who is Christ the Lord, for us men and for our salvation", and we, celebrating now this Birth of Christ the Lord, naturally must kindle in ourselves a determination to be reborn from a life of sin to a life holy and God-pleasing. Our Lord Jesus Christ has come down to earth and entered into a relationship of grace with us whom He "is not ashamed to call brethren" (Romans 2:11). But in order for us to be worthy of this exalted communion and tie, in order not to reject the Lord come down from heaven, it is necessary for us to withdraw from the darkness of sin and draw near to the light of faith, piety, and good works. Not in glory and magnificence, but in poverty, wretchedness, and humiliation does the Creator and Lord of heaven and earth appear in the world; not a luxurious palace, but a humble cave, receives the King of those who reign and the Lord of those who rule. By this we are shown the greatness of humility, poverty, meekness, and simplicity, and the ruinousness of pride, riches, vainglory, and luxury. The first deemed worthy to hear the Good News of the angels concerning the Birth of the Saviour of the world, and the first to bow before Him, were the simple shepherds of Bethlehem, and after them the wise Persian magi; and thus at the manger of the Savior we see two kinds of people: pastors and magi, i.e., the simplest people and the most cultivated.

By this it is suggested to us that the Lord receives all and everyone: He is pleased by unlettered simplicity, when it is united to faithful fulfillment of one's calling, to purity of conscience and life; and He does not reject human wisdom, when it knows how to submit itself to illumination from above and make use of its learning for the glory of God and the benefit of one's fellow men. This instructs each to be satisfied with his lot in life, and at the same time it shows that there is no calling or condition that prevents one from drawing near to God; that honest and industrious labor, conscientious fulfillment of obligations, inspired by faith and hope in God, are always pleasing to God and draw His blessing; that in the eyes of God it is not outward pre-eminence in the world that is precious, but simplicity of heart and conscience, meekness and humility of spirit, submissiveness and obedience to God's law, patience and good-heartedness, hope and devotion to the will of God, kindness and benevolence toward one's neighbor, a walking before God irreproachable in all His commandments and statutes; that these precious qualities do not belong exclusively to any particular class of men; that in every calling and condition a man can be pleasing to God, if he will please Him in word and deed, in wish and thought. In general the manifestation of God in the flesh, so graphically depicted in the Church services of the Feast, with all the accompanying circumstances, is an inexhaustible source for our edification. On the same day is celebrated the memory of the three magi from the East, who learned of the Birth of the Savior by a miraculous star and brought gifts and worshiped Him, and later received baptism from the Apostle Thomas in Parthia and themselves preached Christ. They, as Archbishop Innocent of Kherson has written, "represent the whole of mankind; and their gifts -- gold, frankincense, and myrrh -- symbolically represent all that we can offer to our Savior. Gold represents material gifts and is offered by those who sacrifice something from their labor or acquisitions for the glory of God...Frankincense is offered by those who use, for the glory of God and the benefit of their neighbor, their talents, knowledge, and skill, which are something that cannot be bought with gold. These are God's gift to man, but they can and should also be man's gift to God... Myrrh, like frankincense, gives a fragrance, but its distinguishing characteristic lies in its extreme bitterness; therefore it represents our misfortunes, sorrows, tears, and suffering. They offer myrrh as a gift to the Lord who bear misfortunes in life and suffer innocently, without falling into despondency or complaining...This is the most precious of all the gifts that we can offer the Lord..."

Commemoration is made also on this day of the simple shepherds who were the first of the Chosen People to hear of the Birth of the awaited Messiah. The second day of the Feast is dedicated to the glorification of her through whom the Feast was made possible: the Most Holy Mother of God.

The Kontakion hymn of the Feast:

Today the Virgin gives birth to the Transcendent One, And the earth offers a cave to the Unapproachable One. Angels and shepherds glorify Him, And wise men journey with a star. For a young Child is born for us, Who is the eternal God.

FEAST OF THE EPIPHANY

By Alexey Nikolaev

The government has set up some 70 basins in the city for the believers who want to wash away their sins by bathing in icy waters. This commemorates the baptism of Jesus Christ in the River Jordan. Last year some 330,000 Muscovites took part in the ritual. In Russia, where the winters are severe, a hole will be cut into the ice so that the waters may be blessed. In such conditions, the cross is not cast into the water, but is held securely by the priest and dipped three times into the water.

The Epiphany, celebrated in Russia on January 19, marks the baptism of Jesus in the Orthodox Church. Believing that on this day water becomes holy and is imbued with special powers, Russians all over the country cut holes in the ice of lakes and rivers, often in the shape of the cross, to bathe in the freezing water. Participants in the ritual may dip themselves three times under the water, honoring the Holy Trinity, to symbolically wash away their sins from the past year, and to experience a sense of spiritual rebirth. Orthodox priests are on hand to bless the water, and rescuers are on hand to monitor the safety of the swimmers in the ice-cold water. Other less intrepid Russians may limit their participation in the Epiphany rites to those conducted inside churches, where priests perform the Great Blessing of Waters, both on Epiphany Eve and Epiphany (Theophany) proper.

The water is then distributed to attendees who may store it to use in times of illness, to bless themselves, family members, and their homes, or to drink. Some Russians think any water - even from the taps on the kitchen sink - poured or bottled on Epiphany becomes holy water, since all the water in the world is blessed this day. In the more mild climate of the southern city of Sochi meanwhile, where air and water temperatures both hover in the low to mid fifty degree range Fahrenheit in January, thousands of people jump into the Black Sea at midnight each year on Epiphany and begin to swim in celebration of the feast.

Greek Orthodox bishop at the Great Blessing of Waters on Theophany, releasing the cross off the Glenelg Jetty, South Australia, for one of the swimmers below to retrieve. The water that is blessed on this day is known as "Theophany Water" and is taken home by the faithful, and used with prayer as a blessing. People will not only bless themselves and their homes by sprinkling with Theophany Water, but will also drink it. The Orthodox Church teaches that Theophany Water differs from regular holy water in that with Theophany Water, the very nature of the water is changed and becomes incorrupt, a miracle attested to as early as St. John Chrysostom.

HOLY METROPOLIS OFFERS STRONG ADVICE TO CLERGY

From His Beatitude Metropolitan Stephen

His Beatitude is requesting that all clergy spend adequate time in building up their missions and evangelizing more in the areas which they live in. In some cases statistics show that a few missions have shown no signs of growth in over a year and a couple in over two years. In these cases it was demonstrated through individual files that advertising was lacking for these parishes. This has caused the Holy Metropolis great concern, as well as the Archdiocese. Some clergy may not be taking the vows and their priesthood very seriously and this must be remedied soon. His Eminence Archbishop Timothy suggests that those who need to begin making changes do so soon because the Holy Metropolis wants statistics in 2013 that can be shared with the Patriarchal Vicar for the United States. The Archdiocese will also be preparing a guideline for its clergy on how to advertise and increase the membership in their parishes and missions that will be ready by December 1, 2012 and can be requested at that time. Those needing assistance sooner on this and press releases may write or email their request for assistance sooner, or may call St Nicholas Center at 724.308.6218.

TWO DISCOURCES IN CHRISTOLOGY

By Reverend Fr Seraphim Kanagaratnam CSB
Priest of the Syriac-Greek Antiochian Archdiocese in Malaysia

Christ is in our midst! In one of my earlier emails, I informed you that the article on Miaphysitism (sometimes called Henophysitism) that appeared in the last edition of OCH was par excellence. I truly enjoyed reading that article and am grateful to the editor.

Please can I expound further on this subject i.e., Miaphysitism and Theosis (Deification). But before I expound this subject let us study the thoughts of the two (2) Ancient Theological School of the early Church, namely the Antiochian and Alexandrian. The thoughts of the Antiochian Theological School. This School stressed the literal -historical interpretation of Holy Scriptures and the completeness of Christ humanity. They put a primacy on emphasizing the distinction of natures. Their literal - historical interpretation of Holy Scriptures incited them to assert the reality of the historical Christ in His "Human nature" independent of the Divine Logos, who dwells in Him (according to their expression). The Antiochians thereby adopt "Word-Man" scheme and the formula "Two Natures". Divinity and humanity of Christ can be distinguished in Christ actions, Christ has a real, complete and independent humanity. The Antiochian school starting point of its Christology is "For in Him dwells the fullness of the Godhead bodily"- (St. Paul to Colossians : 2:9)
The thoughts of the Alexandrian Theological School stressed the allegorical interpretation of Holy Scriptures and Christ's Divinity. They put a primacy on emphasizing the Unity of person (much the way we emphasize the unity of human person, despite being composed of a dual nature sorts, the spiritual and physical). The Alexandrians thereby adopts "Word-Flesh" scheme and the formula "The One Nature of God Incarnate".The Alexandrians school starting point of its Christology is "And the Word became flesh" (St.John 1:14).

Now let us discuss miaphysitism and theosis (Deification). The Alexandrian school because of its allegorical interpretation of Holy Scriptures adopts "Word-Flesh (St. John 1:14) scheme and the formula "One Nature of God Incarnate ". Divinity and Humanity of Christ united in one Hypostatic Union. Two natures are united so close that they cannot be distinguished in the union. If Christ's suffering and saving works are not those of the divine but only of the Man, the redemption is undermined. Hence, the divine must unite with His flesh and must be involved in the suffering and saving works. Moreover, because Christ is the second Adam and a new regenerated race of mankind, the union of the divine with the flesh must close as one. In the process of the hypostatic union, the Word of God changes body, soul and spirit and thus transformed human nature itself. Now Christ can change the humanity and situation of every human being. All human beings have possibilities of immortality and perfection through Christ. The transformation of a person (believer) nature takes place through the union with Christ in the rituals of baptism and Eucharist. The dying and rising with Christ in baptism have a transformational effect on the soul and body of the person. The bread and wine in Holy Eucharist is mysteriously changed to Christ's Body and Blood after the celebrant's prayer of invocation to the Holy Spirit (Epiclesis). When a communicant eats Christ's body and drinks His blood, the person receives Christ's divine life through Christ's flesh.

We can see that the core of Alexandrian theology is Deification or the grace of renewal. The renewal of human nature as a whole, to attain sharing in the characteristics of our Savior in place of the corrupt human nature, or as the Apostle state that the believer may enjoy " the partaking in the Divine Nature" (2 Peter:1-4) or "the new man in the image of His Creator "(Col: 3:10).

The Core of Alexandrian theology can be revealed through St Athanasius statement that " The Word of God became man (enethraposen)so that we might be made gods (theopiethomen)". (On the Incarnation PG. ch 54,{3 Vol xxv, col. 192B).

HANDMADE ITEMS FROM UGANDA ON SALE AT BOOKSTORE / GIFT SHOP

[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."

SYRIAC-GREEK ANTIOCHIAN ORTHODOX CATHOLIC ARCHDIOCESE GROWS
From the Syriac-Greek Antiochene Archdiocese

The Syriac-Greek Antiochene Archdiocese is pleased to announce new additions to it and the Holy Metropolis of St Peter. Since January 1, 2012 the Holy Metropolis has established three new missions in the United States, twelve in Africa, and one in Colombia. In the United States, St Ephraim of Syria in Daleville Alabama is under the care of Father John Giddings; and St John the Baptist Mission in Knoxville Tennessee is under the care of Father Gerasimos Slessinger. In Africa twelve parishes and missions have been received from Cameroon, Nigeria, and Zambia. Together they bring in approximately 3,000 faithful into the Archdiocese. Statistics from Colombia are still pending. The Holy Metropolis is in dialogue with several other clergy and their parishes that wish to be received into the Archdiocese from other jurisdictions. In addition, Auxiliary Archbishop Demetrios Zografos from Patras Greece was received into the Church from the Traditional Orthodox Church of Greece. The Holy Metropolis welcomes them all into the Archdiocese.

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

Q. Is the Greek Orthodox Church of Antioch the same as the Syriac Orthodox Church of Antioch? John Ghanayam (Chicago IL)

A. The two Churches are not the same although both are Orthodox Christian. The Syriac Patriarch of Antioch is His Holiness Patriarch Ignatius Zakka, and the Greek Patriarch of Antioch is His Holiness Ignatius IV (Hazim). Both Patriarchates are Orthodox Christian but the Greek is termed "Chalcedonian" and the Syriac is termed "Non-Chalcedonian." The two Churches are separated over the Christology of Jesus. The Greek Church says that Christ is "in" two natures while the Syrian Church says that Christ is "from" two natures. Semantics is the main difference. The Syriac-Greek Antiochian Orthodox Catholic Church is from the Syriac Patriarchate. The issue of Christology was discussed in the previous two issues of the "Orthodox Christian Herald" and may be read online at .

Q. What is the customary head dress of priests in the Syriac-Greek Antiochene Rite? Fr John Giddings (Alabama)

A. The customary head dress of clergy in the Syriac-Greek Antiochene Rite is a Byzantine-style black kamilavka which is usually worn in cassock and during the processional and recessional at the Liturgy of the Mass.

Q. Is the collar worn by clergy with the cassock in the Syriac-Greek Antiochene Rite? Fr John Giddings (Alabama)

A. Yes, a cassock collar rabat is worn under the cassock as is done in the Roman Church by its clergy. Only religious brothers wear only a cassock without a collar.

Q. What are the names of the vestments worn by priests in the Syriac-Greek Antiochene Rite? Fr Thomas Mullen (San Francisco CA)

A. In the Syriac-Greek Antiochene Rite priests and bishops wear the customary vestments consisting of the Alb (Sticharion/Stikharion), Cincture, Stole (Epitrachelion), and the Chasuble (Phelon). A bishop will add the omophorion at certain times during the Liturgy. He may also wear the epigonation and his pectoral cross and Panagia. However, when concelebrating with the Primate or his Coadjutor the bishops wear only a pectoral cross.

Q. What Liturgy is used in the Syriac-Greek Antiochene Rite? Mary Espinoza (Cleveland OH)

A. The Byzantinized Liturgy of the Mass of St Gregory the Great is used and always in the vernacular of the country or individual parish. The Liturgy is the Syriac-Greek Antiochian of St Gregory and it is the Byzantinized form, i.e., it is the Occidental form that has Byzantine modifications. Our Liturgy is welcomed by both Western and Eastern rite faithful as it is familiar in certain respects to both.

Q. Who are the bishops of the Syriac-Greek Antiochian Orthodox Catholic Church in Africa? Father Vladimir Raasch (St Paul MN)

A. Currently, the Holy Metropolis has three bishops in Africa. His Excellency Auxiliary Archbishop Anthony of Nigeria is the Ordinary of the First Diocese of Nigeria & All Africa. His Grace Bishop Adalbert is the Ordinary of the Episcopal Vicariate of Cameroon. His Grace Bishop Ignatius is the Ordinary of the Episcopal Vicariate of Zambia.

Q. In the last edition of the "Orthodox Christian Herald " the terms "Diocese" and "Eparchy" were used to describe an area overseen by a bishop. What is the difference? Anthony Salvetti (South Bend IN)

A. There is actually no real difference except that some jurisdictions use one term and others use the other term. However, in the Syriac-Greek Antiochian Orthodox Catholic Church we are considering using the term "eparchy" to replace the current use of "Episcopal Vicariate" and maintaining "diocese" for the "First Diocese" of each country, e.g., in Africa. This will end confusion over the term "Vicariate" headed by a vicar who is a priest, and an "Episcopal Vicariate" headed by a bishop.

Q. When do children begin to receive Holy Communion in the Orthodox Catholic Church? Jeff Markham (Pittsburgh PA)

A. The Syriac-Greek Antiochian Orthodox Catholic Church, as do all Orthodox Christian Churches, allow infants to receive Holy Communion. When an infant (or adult) is baptized into the faith they are also Chrismated (Confirmed) and then receive First Holy Communion.

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.

DOMESTIC PARISHES & PRAYER GROUPS

The Syriac-Greek Antiochian Archdiocese of the Eastern Orthodox Catholic Church, like other small Orthodox jurisdictions, realizes that there are members who live far away from the nearest parish to them. In some cases, there are parishes of other jurisdictions that are in communion with us or in which mutual recognition has been exchanged. In such cases our members may attend those churches until one of ours is opened in their locality. In other cases, there are those living in an area with no parish at all to attend, and for them they may belong to an existing parish and be on its rolls as a member. Such persons would be allowed to use the Typica Service within their homes on Sunday and Holy Days. Domestic Churches, Chapels, and Prayer Groups may be established in homes until a parish or mission can be officially established. "Distance Parishioners" would also be allowed to make their 10% tithe to the parish attached to uniting them to it in good standing. For further information contact His Excellency Bishop Timothy at rbsocc@juno.com or St Nicholas Center, 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.

MONASTIC RECEPTIONS + PROFESSION OF VOWS

Lay Brother Christopher Andonian will be admitted into the Community of St Basil as an Aspirant Lay Brother on November 18, 2012 by His Eminence Archbishop Timothy Kjera at St Nicholas Chapel, Sharon PA. He was approved by His Beatitude Metropolitan Stephen.
Lay Brother Martino Nathen Smith will be admitted into the Community of St Basil as an Aspirant Lay Brother on November 18, 2012 by His Eminence Archbishop Timothy Kjera at St Nicholas Chapel, Sharon PA. He was approved by His Beatitude Metropolitan Stephen.

APPOINTMENTS & ASSIGNMENTS

His Excellency Auxiliary Archbishop Demetrios Zagrafos of Greece appointed Primatial Legate to Russia, Ukraine, and former USSR countries and will reside in Russia, effective immediately. Appointment made by His Beatitude Metropolitan Stephen.
His Grace Bishop Adalbert Balla Ntsama appointed Vicar Bishop of the Vicariate of Cameroon on September 1, 2012 by His Beatitude Metropolitan Stephen.
His Grace Bishop Ignatius Ozando Benuk appointed Vicar Bishop of the Vicariate of Zambia on September 1, 2012 by His Beatitude Metropolitan Stephen.
Rt Reverend Chorbishop Haralambos Winger appointed Chancellor of the Archdiocese by His Beatitude Metropolitan Stephen on Saturday February 1, 2012. His Chancery Office will be located in Anchorage Alaska.
Very Reverend Archimandrite Padraig Kneafsey appointed Vicar of Ireland and the United Kingdom on April 2, 2012 by His Beatitude Metropolitan Stephen. He was elevated to the rank of Archimandrite by His Beatitude.
Father Filaretos Kimaro appointed pastor of St Nectarios Church and Vicar of the Vicariate of Tanzania on September 1, 2012 by His Beatitude Metropolitan Stephen.
Father Gerasimos Slessinger appointed priest-in-charge at St John the Baptist Mission in Knoxville Tennessee effective September 5, 2012 by His Eminence Archbishop Timothy.
Father John Giddings appointed priest-in-charge of St Ephraim of Syria Mission in Daleville Alabama on September 10, 2012 by His Eminence Archbishop Timothy.
Father John Giddings appointed Chaplain of the Commission on Religious Counseling and Healing on October 25, 2012 by His Eminence Archbishop Timothy.
Father Joachim Kiyimba appointed pastor of Ss Joachim & Anna Church and Vicar of the Vicariate of Uganda on September 1, 2012 by His Beatitude Metropolitan Stephen.
Brother Andrew Trinh CSB assigned to St Nicholas Center in Sharon Pennsylvania effective November 15, 2012.

OFFICIAL FROM HOLY METROPOLIS OF ST PETER APOSTLE

REVISED LITURGIKON – (03.01.12.1) The Holy Metropolis will have completed the Syriac-Greek Antiochene Rite of the Liturgy (Mass) of St Gregory and Liturgikon. Clergy are encouraged to order this newly revised Liturgikon by January 1, 2013. It also contains the Rite of Benediction, Mystery of Confession (Penance), Morning Prayer, and other services. The Liturgikon will be added to without charge as necessary and when new additions are completed until completed in full. Contact the Archdiocese at . The cost for the 2013 Liturgikon is $175.00 and payable to "EOCC." This new Liturgikon supersedes all previous ones and is the official Liturgikon of the Holy Metropolis of St Peter the Apostle.

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 by the Liturgy of the Mass in all parishes. Our jurisdiction has much to be proud of. St Julius of Goa, Archbishop, should have a place in the hearts of all that belong to the Malankara and Syriac-Greek Antiochian jurisdictions. 120 years ago it was from the saintly hands of St Mar Julius of Goa that Archbishop Timotheos Vilathi became our first Archbishop Primate in the United States. May their memories be eternal. We, too, shall celebrate his eternal reward on September 23 annually along with the Malankara Goan Diocese. May he protect us all who call upon him to intercede for us to God.

NEW RULING FOR CANONICAL INCLUSION – (08.23.12.1): The Holy Metropolis of the Syriac-Greek Antiochian Church has now accepted a proposal from the clergy of Africa and the United States to establish more than just vicariates where there exist an adequate amount of faithful that would constitute diocese. It has also approved another proposal to appoint an "Auxiliary Archbishop" to be the spiritual overseer of the Church in Africa for the Holy Metropolis, and as representative of the Archbishop. It is further understood that all such dioceses, eparchies, exarchates, or other such geographical establishments within the Holy Metropolis are subject to the Holy Metropolis and function at its pleasure, and are also under the guidance of the Archdiocese of the Americas & Dependencies and its Archbishop. All bishops will now be greeted as "Your Grace." All auxiliary archbishops as "Your Excellency." The Archbishop of the Archdiocese of the Americas & Dependencies continues to be called "Your Eminence." The Metropolitan Primate continues to be called "Your Beatitude."

Vicariate: a geographical province within a diocese or the archdiocese that is headed by a priest or chorbishop but answerable to a local bishop. Some vicariates may also be independent of a local diocese and directly under the oversight of the archdiocese or the Holy Metropolis.
Eparchy: a general term for an ecclesiastical province, though often used technically to refer to the territory over which the Primate or the Archdiocese has immediate jurisdictional authority.
Exarchate or Diocese: often a missionary diocese, though traditionally referring to a diocese in which there is only one bishop, (or other cleric) with authority who is often referred to as an exarch.
Archdiocese: the main diocese consisting of other dioceses whose ruling bishop is an . In the Syriac-Greek Antiochian Orthodox Catholic Church there is, and has always been, one archdiocese. A diocese is headed by a Bishop Ordinary or an Auxiliary Archbishop. An archdiocese may have constituent dioceses.
Holy Metropolis (or Metropolia or Metropolitanate): the See of the Church, the residence of the Primate, where His Beatitude the Metropolitan Primate governs and oversees the Church from. The Holy Metropolis oversees all the above provinces of the Church.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Prayers Requested:

Tiffany Rae Green the daughter of Drs Mark & Jana Green of Broken Arrow OK. She has been hospitalized for a serious illness. Please pray for her and her son Brayden.

Christ the Pantocrator Sovereign Order of Chivalry:

Andre Tarraf named Knight Chevalier Commander of the Order in Puerto Rico (USA), on September 12, 2012 by His Eminence Archbishop Timothy, Grand Master of the Order.

INCARDINATIONS PENDING / APPROVED – REINSTATEMENT OF FACULTIES

Bishop Michael from the Old Holy Orthodox Catholic Church pending since June 6, 2012, denied October 1, 2012,
Father Gorgi Pacemski from the Macedonian Orthodox Church. (Pending since 02/12)
Father Gerasimos Slessinger received into the Syriac-Greek Antiochian Orthodox Catholic Church on August 20, 2012 by His Beatitude Metropolitan Stephen.
Father John Giddings received into the Syriac-Greek Antiochian Orthodox Catholic Church on September 1, 2012 by His Beatitude Metropolitan Stephen.
Father Michael Skoll from the Orthodox Old Catholic Church pending since June 5, 2012, denied September 10, 2012.

PAROCHIAL CHARTERS

Established:

Holy Nativity of Our Lord Mission, Iganga Uganda (11.28.11)
Ss Cyril & Methodius Parish, Calabar Nigeria Africa (05.01.12)
St Anthony the Great Orthodox Catholic Church, Mbapoghu Nigeria Africa (05.01.12)
St Athanasius Orthodox Catholic Church, Gboko. Nigeria Africa (05.01.12)
St Athanasius Orthodox Catholic Seminary, Nigeria (07.07.12)
St Ephraim of Syria Mission, Daleville Alabama USA (09.05.12)
St Ignatius of Antioch Orthodox Catholic Cathedral, Makogi in Owode LGA,
Ogun State, Nigeria Africa (04.28.12)
St John Chrysostom Orthodox Catholic Church, Ugba Nigeria Africa (05.01.12)
St John the Baptist Oratory & Mission, Knoxville Tennessee USA (08.27.12)
St Moses the Ethiopian Mission, Tanzania Africa (03.09.11)
St Stephen Protomartyr Parish Cameroon Africa (08.20.12)
Virgin Theotokos Church, Kogi State Nigeria Africa (04.28.12)

Dissolved:

St Cyril of Alexandria Parish of Salem-Winston NC (03.03.12)
St Stephen Protomartyr Mission of Hemet CA (06.01.12)

DISCIPLINARY MATTERS

Important Note: Cyril Robert Cranshaw, of California and Nicaragua, is a deposed bishop who has joined with a bishop by the name of Nicholas, uncanonical, and the obscure Orthodox Church of France. He is not recognized and was deposed for issues of false representation, slander, and other serious issues. His deposition was issued in October 2009. He has no sacerdotal or episcopal powers.
Important Note: Steven Matthew Johnson of St Cloud Minnesota is a defrocked priest of the Syriac-Greek Antiochene Archdiocese who is still using his title and dressing as a priest. Please be advised that he was defrocked due to very serious reasons and inappropriate conduct, and the Holy Metropolis has not lifted this sanction. He was defrocked in 2009. He has no sacerdotal powers.
Important Note: Simeon Robert Anderson of Cleveland Ohio is not a bishop of this Church and was deposed. This man has committed several serious infractions for which he was investigated for. The Church of France that he claims to be a bishop in is not canonical and is not recognized by any of the canonical Churches. The Archdiocese has received information on its bishop, Nicholas, that causes great concern. His deposition was issued in October 2009. He has no sacerdotal or episcopal powers.

PRAY FOR THE SICK AND SUFFERING

His Holiness Patriarch Ignatius Zakka I of Antioch
His Beatitude Metropolitan Stephen (Ohio)
His Eminence Archbishop Timothy (Pennsylvania)
His Grace Bishop Adalbert of (Cameroon)
Chorbishop Haralambos Winger (Alaska)
Chorbishop Kuriakos Thottupuram (Illinois)
VR Archpriest Thomas Dillon (New Jersey)
Archdeacon John DeMeis (New York)
Father George Lutaya (Uganda)
Father Sebastian Robles (Canada)
Father Paul Jensen (Texas)
Father Seraphim Kanagaratnam CSB (Malaysia)
Father Luis Nazario CSB (Puerto Rico)
Father Padraig Kneafsey CSB (Ireland)
Father Patrick Lemming (Tennessee)
Father Vladimir Raasch (Minnesota)
Rev Mother Helena (Bofey) SSB (African Congo)
Sister Anna of the Convent of the Holy Virgin Mary (California)
Sister Katherine (California)
Brother Vincenzo Cappabianca CSB (Pennsylvania)
Mr Maximus Daven Powe (Minnesota)
Seminarian Cyril Shazad (Pakistan)
Ms Tiffany Rae Green (Oklahoma)
Mr Maximus Donald Seipke (Minnesota)
Dr Joseph Bannon DCh (California)
Mrs Gretchen Lejeune (Texas)
Mr Hampton Bumgarner (New Jersey)
Mr Brandon Green (Oklahoma)
Mr Dominic Winger (Alaska)
Mr Vincent Colombo (Indiana)
Dr Audrey Daniel DCh (South Carolina)
Dr Marge Ebeling DCh (Arizona)
Mrs Sherry Ellison (South Carolina)
Mr Andrew Lucas (Illinois)
Mr Alexi J Mason (Arizona)
Mr Carl Maus (Maryland)
Dr Karla VonEhrenkrook DCh (Arizona)
Ms Sandra Wiechnik (Indiana)
Mr Howard Youngheim (Indiana)
For our Armed Forces everywhere who are suffering, injured, or who have lost their lives protecting the freedom of others, and their families.
For those suffering in Syria, India, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Iraq, Iran, and all countries where fighting for freedom their freedom, and positive changes in government. Administration continues.
For all our God-loving Bishops, Priests, Deacons, Seminarians, Monks, and Nuns, both living and dead, especially our Most Reverend Primate, His Beatitude Metropolitan Stephen, that they will all have good health and many years!

Note: If you, or someone you know, is sick or suffering, please let us know and you (or they) will be added to the OCH Prayer List. Send full name, address, and age. Thank you.

REST IN PEACE!

Father George Lutaya of Kampala Uganda passed away on November 15th, 2012. Father George had been fighting a long battle with liver cancer. He was assistant pastor of Ss Joachim & Anna Parish in Kampala, Uganda. His Beatitude has requested that all clergy offer prayers for him.

The Church remembers all those who have been killed in the defense of their country, especially those belonging to United States Air Force, Army, Navy, and Marines. May you find reward and peace in the kingdom of Heaven. Rest Eternal!

SYRIA'S TRAGIC TIMES

From Dr Andrew Gill ThPsyD FSAC

Recent news shows the probability that Syria and Turkey are in conflict. This specific conflict is of interest because Russia has a port in Syria for military purposes and supports the leader Assad at this time. There is indication in the prophesy of Elder Pasios which is to be seen if it is true or not that Russia will attack Turkey and that then the West will enter into the war. Here is recent development in Syria and Turkey as of today:

Turkey has returned fire after a mortar bomb shot from Syria landed in a field in southern Turkey. The exchange came the day after Turkey's prime minister, Recep Tayyip Erdogan, warned Damascus that his country would not shy away from war if provoked. It was the fourth day of Turkish strikes in retaliation for mortar bombs and shelling by Syrian forces that killed five Turkish civilians further east on Wednesday. The strikes and counter-strikes are the most serious cross-border violence in Syria's conflict, which began as a pro-democracy uprising but has evolved into a civil war with sectarian overtones. They highlight how the crisis could destabilise the region. Nato member Turkey, once an ally of the Syrian president, Bashar al-Assad, but now a leading voice in calls for him to quit, has nearly 100,000 Syrian refugees in camps on its territory and has allowed rebel leaders sanctuary. Its armed forces are far larger than Syria's.

Erdogan said on Friday his country did not want war but warned Syria not to make a "fatal mistake" by testing its resolve. Damascus has said its fire hit Turkey accidentally. The Hatay provincial governor's office said the round fired from Syria on Saturday hit empty land near the village of Guvecci in Yayladagi district, 50 metres inside Turkey, at 7am. "It is assessed that the shell was fired by Syrian Arab Republic security forces at opposition forces along the border," a statement on its website said. "There was no loss of life in the incident. The Guvecci border post retaliated in kind with four rounds from 81mm mortars." The Dogan news agency said another mortar round from Syria landed around 50 metres from an observation tower near Guvecci around 11am and smoke rose from the area. There were no immediate reports of casualties or retaliation but a response was expected. Dogan said the governor's office had warned people in the area not to go out on balconies or spend time in open places. It said the Red Crescent was offering psychological support to people in the area. There were two similar incidents in Hatay on Friday. "Those who attempt to test Turkey's deterrence, its decisiveness, its capacity, I say here they are making a fatal mistake," Erdogan said in a bellicose speech to a crowd in Istanbul on Friday afternoon. "We are not interested in war, but we're not far from war either. This nation has come to where it is today having gone through intercontinental wars," he said. Turkish artillery bombarded Syrian military targets on Wednesday and Thursday, killing several Syrian soldiers after Syria's initial fatal bombardment.

SYRIA'S CHRISTIANS TAKE UP ARMS FOR FIRST TIME

The Christian community has tried to avoid taking sides in the civil war. In Aleppo, it recruited vigilantes from the Boy Scout movement to protect churches, but as the war moved into the city and spread across its suburbs they have begun to accept weapons from the Syrian army and joined forces with Armenian groups to repel opposition guerrillas. "Everybody is fighting everybody," said George, an Armenian Christian from the city. "The Armenians are fighting because they believe the FSA are sent by their Turkish oppressors to attack them, the Christians want to defend their neighborhoods, Shabiha regime militia are there to kill and rape, the army is fighting the FSA, and the [Kurdish militant group] PKK have their own militia too." For the past six weeks up to 150 Christian and Armenian fighters have been fighting to prevent Free Syrian Army rebels from entering Christian heartland areas of Aleppo.

Last month the Syrian army claimed a 'victory' in removing FSA fighters from the historic Christian quarter of Jdeidah. But Christian militia fighters told the Daily Telegraph it was they who had first attacked the FSA there. "The FSA were hiding in Farhat Square in Jdeideh. The Church committees stormed in and cleansed the area. Then the Syrian army joined us. They claimed the victory on State television," said George, who like many Christian refugees is too scared to give his full name. "The rebels were threatening the churches." The area, defined by its boutique shops, narrow cobbled streets and the spires and cupolas of the Maronite, Orthodox and Armenian churches, had over the weeks become infiltrated with sniper positions and checkpoints, residents said. "FSA snipers were on the rooftops and they were attacking the Maronite church and Armenian residents there," said a former clergyman calling himself John, now in Beirut, who said he had witnessed the battle.

The battle for Aleppo has become bitter, with militant jihadist groups playing a more prominent role than in any other city. It has become increasingly scarred by accusations of atrocities on both sides, most recently the mass killing of 20 regime troops, whose bodies were displayed on a video apparently uploaded to the internet by a rebel militia. Residents of the city told The Telegraph that the city's minorities feared that they would suffer the same fate as Christians in Iraq, who were heavily targeted by the sectarian violence that erupted after the 2003 war. "They are shouting 'the Alawites to the graves and the Christians to Beirut," said an Armenian mother of four who recently fled the city – a claim also made by several other Christian refugees. John said that contrary to reports Aleppo's minority groups and wealthy residents were not all regime supporters. But he said they felt they had to protect themselves from 'peasant immigrants' who were using the war to destroy the city's sophisticated heart. "I am not in support of the government, but the FSA are all a bunch of thugs and thieves. I watched them steal from a textile factory – they took everything; gas, materials, even the beading machines!" Increasingly on the offensive, Syrian rebels killed at least 18 soldiers in a car bomb and ground attack on a military position in neighboring Idlib province, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said.

In Aleppo on Wednesday four Syrian Armenians were reported killed and 13 wounded in an ambush near the airport. The new UN envoy Lakhdar Brahimi is to meet Syrian President Bashar al-Assad in Damascus on Thursday, in a last-ditch effort to rescue the country from civil war. Any military intervention looked to be firmly off limits on Wednesday. Philip Hammond, the defence secretary, made clear that Western countries would not consider such action whilst Russia and China continued to oppose it. Seeing little hope of change many Christians have already joined the hundreds of thousands who have fled the country. The UN High Commission for Refugees said 253,000 Syrians were now registered with them. Many Christians say they hold little hope of returning.

SYRIAC-GREEK ANTIOCHIAN ORTHODOX CATHOLIC ARCHDIOCESE GROWS

From the Syriac-Greek Antiochene Archdiocese

HOMELESS PROGRAM NEEDS DONATIONS
PLEASE CONSIDER A DONATION

[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.

HELP FORM MISSION PARISHES & PRAYER GROUPS

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.

DONATIONS TO THE METROPOLIA

"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." Those making a donation of $100.00 or more will receive a gift made by parishioners of St Paul's Church in Uganda.

Our appreciation to the following for their support:

Anonymous (IN) $25.00
Anonymous (PA) $1,800.00
Mr Charles Slauter (TX) $200.00
Mr & Mrs Michael Sellman (IN) $50.00

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, postage and handling included. Commission members are required to have this icon hanging in their offices and clinics. Order yours today.

Meal Blessing Cards For clergy, monasteries, and homes of the faithful and includes the variations for holy days. Order from Holy Myrrhbearers Monastery, 144 Bert Washburn Road, Otego NY 13825.

Handmade Nun Dolls from the Past Handmade nun dolls from the past. Full habits of many orders of nuns from various Churches including Orthodox, Lutheran, and Roman. Nostalgia brought to your doorsteps. These are beautifully created and show the exact habits of nuns worn many years ago. The wife of one of our priests makes them. You can write for a catalog or additional information to Father Patrick Lemming, St James House, 804 Catlett Road, Sevierville TN 37862.

Religious Articles Hand-Made Prayer Beads from Uganda. Made of good quality materials and most beautifully done, coming in 50 ($15.00) and 100 beads ($25.00). For more information and prices on other items please write to St Nicholas Center, 456 Nimick Street, Sharon PA 16146.

SYRIAC-GREEK ANTIOCHIAN PARISHES AND ORGANIZATIONS OF THE ARCHDIOCESE

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

Commission on Religious Counseling and Healing CRCH.RBSOCC.ORG For information write – Brother Vincent Cappabianca CSB, 456 Nimick Street, Sharon PA 16146. This is an organization for licensed healing professionals in service to God. They serve through the Healing Ministry of the Church.

The Lay Brothers 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 Lay Sisters of St Basil may also write for information.

Community 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 Lay Brothers of the Community. His Eminence Archbishop Timothy is the interim Archabbot.

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 Father 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 for more information.

St Andrew the Apostle Syriac-Greek Antiochian Orthodox Catholic Church located at 5907 Grand Avenue, Duluth Minnesota 55807. Sunday Liturgy: 10:30 A.M. To reopen early in 2013.

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

St John the Baptist Syriac-Greek Antiochian Orthodox Catholic Mission, 709 Loop Road, Knoxville Tennessee; Father Gerasimos Slessinger, priest-in-charge. Phone number to call will be listed in next edition. (In Formation)

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

St Nicholas of Myra Syriac-Greek Antiochian Orthodox Catholic Chapel, 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 Archdiocese, but is in association with it. Contact for more information.