SS. Peter and Paul Ukrainian Catholic Church, Wilkes-Barre

May 16, 2010

Sunday of the Holy Fathers of the First Ecumenical Council

May 16, 2010

The preaching of the Apostles and the decisions of the Fathers established the one faith of the Church. She wears the garments of truth made by the theology from on high, and rightly governs and glorifies the great mystery of devotion. (Kondak of the Sunday)
The profession of Faith that we use in the public prayer of our Church is known as the “Nicene-Constantinopolitan Creed.” It is titled this way because it was written by the bishops of the Church who came together at two Ecumenical Councils. One at Nicea I in 325 AD and one at Constantinople I in 381. The teachings of the Church from these Councils are the foundation of the belief of the Church and recognized as the foundation of our belief. These Councils are remembered annually in the Ukrainian Church with special prayers and hymns on the Sunday after the Feast of the Ascension of Our Lord.
“The profession by all of the divine symbol of faith signifies the mystical thanksgiving to perdure through all eternity for the marvelous principles and modes by which we were saved by God’s all-wise Providence on our behalf.” (“The Church’s Mystagogy”)
Therefore, what we believe is contained in the Profession of Faith. Our belief expressed for all times. The Profession of Faith then is based on the Holy Scriptures and proclaimed by the Church (the Body of Christ.).
Why was a summary of our faith needed? The Council of Nicea (325) was called to look into the problem of those who falsely taught that Jesus was not equal to the Father as God. To overcome this error they wrote the first two parts of the “Creed” as we have it today. But because questions still remained the Council of Constantinople was called and the bishops proclaimed that the Holy Spirit was God, Equal to the Father and the Son. (Very Rev. Archpriest Daniel L. Gurovich, “The Creed and the Holy Trinity”)

DIVINE LITURGY / SERVICES SCHEDULE
Sat. May 15 – 3:45 p.m. Recitation of the Rosary
4:00 p.m. †Louis Morika – Mr. & Mrs. Peter Morika
Followed by a short Moleben to the Mother of God
Sun. May 16 – 8:30 a.m. Divine Liturgy – God’s Blessing for Parishioners
Followed by a short Moleben to the Mother of God
Mon. May 17 – NO SERVICES
Tues. May 18 – NO SERVICES
Wed. May 19 – 9:00 a.m. Health of Bob Parker – Alice Parker
Thurs. May 20 – 9:00 a.m. †Anna Iwaniw – Mr. & Mrs. Michael Demko
Fri. May 21 – 9:00 a.m. †Daniel Kuzminski - Alice Parker
PENTECOST – GREEN SUNDAY – The Descent of the Holy Spirit
Sat. May 22 – 3:45 p.m. Recitation of the Rosary
4:00 p.m. †Nicholas Kozicki – Verna Kozicki
Followed by a short Moleben to the Mother of God
Sun. May 23 – 8:30 a.m. Divine Liturgy – God’s Blessing for Parishioners
Followed by a short Moleben to the Mother of God
1:00 p.m. Panakhyda & Blessing of Graves At the PARISH CEMETRY
Divine Liturgies for St. Vladimir (Edwardsville)
Saturday 6:00 p.m. English – Sunday 10:30 a.m. Slavonic

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May 9, 2010

Sunday of the Man Born Blind

May 9, 2010

While I am in the world, I am the light of the world.” When he had said this, he spat on the ground and made clay with the saliva, and smeared the clay on his eyes, and said to him, “Go wash in the Pool of Siloam”. So he went and washed and came back able to see. (John 9:5-7)
The Church presents a poor man who was born blind. The Jews believed that his blindness was God’s punishment for some sin. Christ declared that his misfortune was not punishment, but an act of divine providence “that the goodness and wisdom of God may become known to the world through the sufferings of men”. (My Divine Friend)
“O Christ, I, who am spiritually blind, Come to You as the man born blind did, saying in repentance: You are a radiant light to those who dwell in darkness.” Kondak of the Sunday
ASCENSION THURSDAY – May 13, 2010
“And (behold) I am sending the promise of my Father upon you; but stay in the city until you are clothed with power from on high.” Then he led them (out) as far as Bethany, raised his hands, and blessed them. As he blessed them he parted from them and was taken up to heaven. Luke 24: 49-51
The feast of the Lord’s Ascension always falls on a Thursday, on the fortieth day after Christ’s resurrection. This is one of the principal feast days of our Lord and therefore, has a post-feast of nine days. It celebrates the memory of Christ’s Ascension into heaven and underscores its significance for Christ and for us. St. John Chrysostom, in his homily on the Ascension says: “Today the human race is completely reconciled with God. The ancient battle and enmity have disappeared. We, who were unworthy to live even on earth – are now lifted up to heaven. Today we become heirs to the kingdom of heaven, we, who do not even deserve earth, we ascend to heaven and inherit the throne of the King and Lord. Human nature, against which the cherubim guarded paradise, is now raised up above all the cherubim.” Julian J. Katrij, OSBM, A Byzantine Rite Liturgical Year

DIVINE LITURGY / SERVICES SCHEDULE
Sat. May 8 – 4:00 p.m. Divine Liturgy – Youth of Our Parish
Followed by a short Moleben to the Mother of God
Sun. May 9 – 8:30 a.m. Divine Liturgy – God’s Blessing for Parishioners
Followed by a short Moleben to the Mother of God
Mon. May 10 – NO SERVICES
Tues. May 11 – NO SERVICES
Wed. May 12 – NO SERVICES
ASCENSION OF OUR LORD (Obligation)
Thurs. May 13 – 6:30 p.m. Divine Liturgy & Myrovania
†Sophie Kreitzer – Antonishak Family
Fri. May 7 – 9:00 a.m. †Walter & †Anna Hrynkiw - Walter S. Hrynkiw
Sat. May 8 – 3:45 p.m. Recitation of the Rosary
4:00 p.m. †Louise Morika - Mr. & Mrs. Peter Morika
Followed by a short Moleben to the Mother of God
Sun. May 9 – 8:30 a.m. Divine Liturgy - God’s Blessing for Parishioners
Followed by a short Moleben to the Mother of God
Divine Liturgies for St. Vladimir (Edwardsville)
Saturday 6:00 p.m. English – Sunday 10:30 a.m. Slavonic

Christ is Risen! – Indeed He Is Risen!

The Story of Mother’s Day
The earliest Mother’s Day celebrations can be traced back to the spring celebrations of ancient Greece in honor of Rhea, the Mother of the Gods. During the 1600′s, England celebrated a day called “Mothering Sunday”. Celebrated on the 4th Sunday of Lent (the 40 day period leading up to Easter), “Mothering Sunday” honored the mothers of England.
During this time many of the England’s poor worked as servants for the wealthy. As most jobs were located far from their homes, the servants would live at the houses of their employers. On Mothering Sunday the servants would have the day off and were encouraged to return home and spend the day with their mothers. A special cake, called the mothering cake, was often brought along to provide a festive touch.
As Christianity spread throughout Europe the celebration changed to honor the “Mother Church” – the spiritual power that gave them life and protected them from harm. Over time the church festival blended with the Mothering Sunday celebration . People began honoring their mothers as well as the church.
In the United States Mother’s Day was first suggested in 1872 by Julia Ward Howe (who wrote the words to the Battle hymn of the Republic) as a day dedicated to peace. Ms. Howe would hold organized Mother’s Day meetings in Boston, Mass ever year.
In 1907 Ana Jarvis, from Philadelphia, began a campaign to establish a national Mother’s Day. Ms. Jarvis persuaded her mother’s church in Grafton, West Virginia to celebrate Mother’s Day on the second anniversary of her mother’s death, the 2nd Sunday of May. By the next year Mother’s Day was also celebrated in Philadelphia.
Ms. Jarvis and her supporters began to write to ministers, businessman, and politicians in their quest to establish a national Mother’s Day. It was successful as by 1911 Mother’s Day was celebrated in almost every state. President Woodrow Wilson, in 1914, made the official announcement proclaiming Mother’s Day as a national holiday that was to be held each year on the 2nd Sunday of May.
While many countries of the world celebrate their own Mother’s Day at different times throughout the year, there are some countries such as Denmark, Finland, Italy, Turkey, Australia, and Belgium which also celebrate Mother’s Day on the second Sunday of May. (source www.holidays .net)

When you thought I wasn’t looking
from A Book of Thanks for Mom
Mary Rita Schilke Korzan
When You Thought I Wasn’t Looking
When you thought I wasn’t looking
You hung my first painting on the refrigerator
And I wanted to paint another.
When you thought I wasn’t looking
You fed a stray cat
And I thought it was good to be kind to animals.
When you thought I wasn’t looking
You baked a birthday cake just for me
And I knew that little things were special things.
When you thought I wasn’t looking
You said a prayer
And I believed there was a God that I could always talk to.
When you thought I wasn’t looking
You kissed me good-night
And I felt loved.
When you thought I wasn’t looking
I saw tears come from your eyes
And I learned that sometimes things hurt –
But that it’s alright to cry.
When you thought I wasn’t looking
You smiled
And it made me want to look that pretty too.
When you thought I wasn’t looking
You cared
And I wanted to be everything I could be.
When you thought I wasn’t looking –
I looked …
And wanted to say thanks
For all those things you did
When you thought I wasn’t looking.
Mary Rita Schilke Korzan (c)1980

HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY!

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May 2, 2010

Sunday of the Samaritan Woman

May 2, 2010

Jesus answered and said to her, “Everyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again, but whoever drinks the water I shall give will never thirst; the water I shall give will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life.” (John 4:13,14)
On His way to Galilee, Jesus stopped to rest at “Jacob’s well”, near Sichem, a town twenty miles north of Jerusalem. Samaritans were a mixed race introduced into Palestine by the Assyrians after Sargon II destroyed the city of Samaria in 722 B.C. The woman was surprised, when Jesus, a Jew, asked her for water, for the Jews avoided the Samaritans as heretics. Converted by Christ, the sinful woman left the world, retired into the desert and led such an austere and penitential life that she became a Saint, known as St. Photina.
DIVINE LITURGY / SERVICES SCHEDULE
Sat. May 1 – 4:00 p.m. †John & †Mary Waslasky – Waslasky & Hall Families
Followed by a short Moleben to the Mother of God
Sun. May 2 – 8:30 a.m. Divine Liturgy – God’s Blessing for Parishioners
Followed by a short Moleben to the Mother of God
Mon. May 3 – NO SERVICES
Tues. May 4 – NO SERVICES
Wed. May 5 – 9:00 a.m. †Ann McHale – Alice Parker
Thurs. May 6 – 9:00 a.m. †Walter & †Anna Hrynkiw – Walter S. Hrynkiw
Fri. May 7 – 9:00 a.m. †Barbara Pleshack – Karl Drapiensky
Sat. May 8 – 4:00 p.m. Divine Liturgy – Youth of Our Parish
Followed by a short Moleben to the Mother of God
Sun. May 9 – 8:30 a.m. Divine Liturgy – God’s Blessing for Parishioners
Followed by a short Moleben to the Mother of God
Divine Liturgies for St. Vladimir (Edwardsville)
Saturday 6:00 p.m. English – Sunday 10:30 a.m. Slavonic

Christ is Risen! – Indeed He Is Risen!

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April 25, 2010

Sunday of the Paralytic Man

Sunday, April 25, 2010

Jesus said to him, “Rise, take up your mat and walk.” Immediately the man became well, took up his mat
and walked. (John 5:8,9)

The Church shows us that just as the poor paralyzed man was healed after 38 years of sickness, so every sinner can be spiritually cured from his sin and infirmities, if he turns with faith to the Risen Christ. The Holy Fathers of the Church affirmed the bathing pool, which was named Bethesda in Hebrew, represents the Sacrament of Penance.

DIVINE LITURGY / SERVICES SCHEDULE
Sat. Apr. 24 – 4:00 p.m. †Caroline Kuren – Mr. & Mrs. Peter Morika
Sun. Apr. 25 – 8:00 a.m. Divine Liturgy – God’s Blessing for Parishioners
Mon. Apr. 26 – 9:00 a.m. NO SERVICES
Tues. Apr. 27 – 9:00 a.m. NO SERVICES
Wed. Apr. 28 – 9:00 a.m. †Anna Iwaniw – Audrey Evanchick
Thurs. Apr. 29 – 9:00 a.m. †Walter & †Anna Hrynkiw – Walter S. Hrynkiw
Fri. Apr. 30 – 9:00 a.m. †Margaret Sefcik – Rita Katulka
Sat. May 1 – 4:00 p.m. †John & †Mary Waslasky – Waslasky & Hall Families
Sun. May 2 – 8:30 a.m. Divine Liturgy & Myrovania – God’s Blessing for Parishioners
Divine Liturgies for St. Vladimir (Edwardsville)
Saturday 6:00 p.m. English – Sunday 10:30 a.m. Slavonic

Christ is Risen! – Indeed He Is Risen!

WELCOME – To all who are tired and need rest; to all who mourn and need comfort; to all who are friendless and need friendship; to all who are discouraged and need hope; to all who are hopeless and need sheltered love; to all who sin and need a Savior; and to whomsoever will, THIS CHURCH OPENS WIDE ITS DOORS IN THE NAME OF THE LORD JESUS CHRIST. To all who are worshipping with us today – WELCOME!
REMINDER – KNEELING – As is our custom, from Easter until the Pentecost the faithful will stand at services during those times when they would normally kneel. In this way we celebrate the resurrection of our Lord. For those whom, due to health concerns, standing for long periods is not possible, sitting is permitted.
LITURGY REQUESTS – We ask that if you have dates on which you would like a liturgy offered that you make those requests as early as possible. Request for liturgy dates will be assigned in the order in which they are received. Contact the rectory office to make your requests.
STAYING IN TOUCH – If there is anyone who is regularly unable to attend liturgy but would like to keep in touch with what’s going on in the parish, please contact the rectory office about receiving a copy of the bulletin through the mail.
EARLY LITURGY FOR SHROUD TRIP – On Sunday, April 25th, liturgy will be moved to 8:00 AM to accommodate those traveling to Philadelphia to see the reproduction of the shroud.
CEMETERY NOTES – Now that the weather is warming up please take a moment and visit our cemetery and remove any wreaths, flowers or other items that may have been left to adorn the grave of your loved ones. Remember that there is no trash pick-up at our cemetery and no receptacles for trash either. Please take any rubbish with you and dispose of it properly at home.
PENTECOST GRAVE BLESSING SERVICES -A Panakhyda and blessing of graves will be conducted on Pentecost Sunday, May 23rd, 2010 at 1:00 p.m. at our parish cemetery on Blanchard Street in Plains. Envelopes may be deposited in the collection next weekend, on Pentecost or offered at Cemetery.
PROFITS REPORTED – At last weeks meeting of the Activities Committee the following reports were made regarding March Fundraising. Rummage Sale, Gross Income: $3,677.30, expenses: $497.68, Net Income: $3,179.62. March Pyrohy Sale, Gross Income: $2,657.00, expenses: $448.65, Net Income: $2,208.35. The income from these events will be transferred to the Parish Account to help cover expenses. Over thanks to all who worked so hard to help to raise these funds for our church.
MOTHER’S DAY CARNATIONS – On Mother’s Day weekend May 8th and 9th we will again support the efforts of the Pro-Life Center in defending human life by participating in the 32nd Annual Carnation Drive. All proceeds will aid mothers and babies. Suggested donation is $1.00.
THE SHROUD OF TURIN BUS TRIP – Those attending the Shroud of Turin Bus Trip to Philadelphia are reminded that the bus will be leaving the Churchyard at 10:30 AM. It is anticipated that we will leave Philadelphia about 3:30 PM.
CEMETERY RULES & REGULATIONS – Out of respect for all parish families and their deceased members, these rules and regulations were designed for the uniform appearance, ease of maintenance, safety, and cleanliness of our cemetery. Please give your full co-operation. All decorations, including unplanted and artificial flowers, must be removed before March 31 or be subject to removal. Christmas decorations must be removed by January 31. All stone, metal, and other borders around monuments or memorials are prohibited. Only low borders, one inch above ground level, are permitted in front of hillside graves in order to prevent erosion. No shrub or tree planting is allowed. Loose stone and / or gravel are prohibited on any grave plot. Persons causing any damage to cemetery property will be liable. No dumping on the cemetery grounds or beyond the perimeter. No walking pets through the cemetery. No trespassing on cemetery property after hours. Cemetery hours are 7:00 AM to sundown. These Rules Effective Immediately.
CATHOLIC HOME MISSIONS APPEAL – The annual Catholic Home Missions Collection will be made this year on Sunday, April 25th in our parishes, using specially prepared envelopes sent to the parishes. Our archeparchy typically collects approximately $9,000, but receives annually $100,000 in grants from the Catholic Home Missions. The funds are used for the operation of the seminary, for Communications, and The Way, and for Evangelization, Religious Education and Youth Programs. Please give a donation for this collection because we want to help the dioceses needing extra support. All parishes should participate as we all are beneficiaries!
Right here in the United States, some diocese are unable to provide fundamental pastoral care for their faithful. These “home mission” diocese cannot support an adequate number of priests. They cannot afford funding for youth ministry programs or religious education. Last week there was a special collection envelope included with the bulletin. This week we take up a collection for the Catholic Home Missions Appeal. Help strengthen the Church at home with a generous donation. Additional envelopes will be available in the vestibule.
APRIL IS CHILD ABUSE PREVENTION MONTH – Tips for Summer Camp Safety. Summer is almost here. School is almost out, and a whole host of new opportunities for recreation and relaxation awaits. Maybe you are sending your children to a music or sports camp. Or maybe they have been invited to a friends to go camping in the mountains or at the beach. Whatever the situation, it is important to remember that parents still have the responsibility of controlling access that new people will have to their children. If your children are attending a summer camp, insist that every counselor or anyone who might have access to your children has undergone an application process that includes a criminal background check and reference checks.
For information on how you can become more informed and involved in keeping our children safe, please call: Fr. Andriy Rabiy at 215.873.6162 or 215.627.0143.
ICON OF THE GREAT FAST AND HOLY WEEK – SUNDAY, MAY 2, 2010, 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM. An Examination of the spiritual significance of the Icons of Extreme Humility: The Bridegroom, The Deposition of Christ, The Crucifixion and the Liturgical use of these icons in the Divine Services of the Great Fast and Holy Week. The presenter for the program is Rev. John Ciurpita is currently the Pastor of Holy Ghost Ukrainian Catholic Church in Chester, PA and also serves the community of Sts. Peter and Paul Church in Clifton Heights, PA. He is Chair of the Liturgical Commission of the Archeparchy of Philadelphia and has worked in the fields of Ecumenism and Interreligious Dialogue. Father John is on the Advisory Committee for the Basilian Spirituality Center. He has done retreat work, workshops and days of reflection, centering on the season of the Great Fast and preparing for the feast of the Resurrection. Please register by April 26, 2010, Donation $25.00 per person. Send registration to; Sr. Marina, OSBM, Basilian Spirituality Center, 710 Fox Chase Road, Fox Chase Manor, PA 19046, For information call (215)780-1227.
RETREAT HOUSE – Interested in getting away from it all and meeting God in the quiet of nature? Information about the St. Clare Retreat House at the Holy Dormition Friary in Sybertsville, PA is available in the vestibule of the church.
TRADITIONAL UKRAINIAN DINNER – Sunday, May 16, 2010, from 3:00 to 7:00 P.M.: The Presentation of Our Lord Ukrainian Catholic Church will host “A Traditional Ukrainian Dinner” at its social hall, 1564 Allentown Road, Lansdale (Towamencin Township), PA. Enjoy generous portions of tasty homemade Ukrainian ethnic foods and baked goods: Pyrohy (Ukrainian pierogies); Holubtsi; Ukrainian Kielbasa Sausages, Sauerkraut, Breads, Beverages, and Desserts. Also, enjoy displays and demonstrations of Ukrainian folk arts and crafts by artists: Pysanky (Ukrainian Easter Eggs); Vyshyvanky (embroidery) and Gerdany (beadwork jewelry), all of which will be available for purchase. Tickets are $10.00 per person at the door with seating in the social hall. For advance tickets or more information, call Mike at (215) 715-4871.Take-outs are available.
ST. VLADIMIR CENTENIAL – You are cordially invited to attend the Centennial Anniversary of the founding in 1910 of St. Vladimir Ukrainian Catholic Church in Edwardsville, Pennsylvania. Sunday, July 18, 2010, Solemn Divine Liturgy at One Thrity in the afternoon in Saint Vladimir’s Church, 70 Zerby Avenue. Main Celebrant will be His Grace The Most Reverend Stefan Soroka Metropolitan – Archbishop of Philadelphia. Centennial Jubilee Banquet will follow at The Knights of Columbus 59 Parry Street, Luzerne. Roast Chicken-Breaded Pork Chop-Veal Parmigiana. Open Bar starting at 3:30 p.m. Beer & Soda only. Dinner at 4:30 p.m. Banquet Tickets Adults $39.00 children under seven years free children seven and over adult price. Advance tickets may be purchased by sending a check with full payment for the amount of guests attending to: St. Vladimir Centennial Banquet C/O Helen Nazarek, 70 Zerby Avenue, Edwardsville, PA 18704. (make checks payable to St. Vladimir” Centennial Banquet) for more information call Helen at 570.655.2815 or Diane Stelmack at 570.817.6790. For seating purposes, please print the first and last name of each guest. ABSOLUTELY NO TICKETS WILL BE SOLD AT THE DOOR. NO RESERVATIONS WILL BE ACCEPTED WITHOUT PAYMENT IN FULL. The very last day to purchase banquet tickets is July 11, 2010. All ticket sales are final – no refunds.
BEQUESTS TO YOUR PARISH – Please remember SS. Peter & Paul Ukrainian Catholic Church with memorial gifts and in your will.
RENOVATION FUND – Should you wish to make a contribution to this fund please use the “Special Collection for Renovations to the Church Complex” envelopes that are available
in the back of the church.
FROZEN PYROHY AVAILABLE – Several dozen individually frozen pyrohy remain from our March Lenten Sale. They may be purchased after liturgies or by contacting Stephen Mykulyn 825-0902.
$5.50 / DOZEN
PRINTED COPIES OF ‘THE WAY’ ARE AVAILABLE IN THE VESTIBULE

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April 16, 2010

Sunday of the Myrrh Bearing Women

April 18, 2010

Christ is Risen! – Indeed He Is Risen!

On entering the tomb they saw a young man sitting on the right side, clothed in a white robe, and they were utterly amazed. He said to them, “Do not be amazed! You seek Jesus of Nazareth, the crucified. He has been raised; he is not here. Behold, the place where they laid him.” (Mark 16: 5,6)
This Sunday is dedicated to the holy Women known as “Myrrh-bearing”. On the day of Christ’s resurrection they took ointments and went to Christ’s tomb to anoint His body which was hurriedly buried on Friday. They did not know that Christ had already risen from the dead. Arriving at the tomb, they saw that the stone had been rolled back and an angel clothed in white was sitting at the grave.
This Sunday reminds us that we must adorn our faith with good works, just as the good Myrrh Bearing Women did when they went to anoint with spices the Body of Our Redeemer.

DIVINE LITURGY / SERVICES SCHEDULE
Sat. Apr. 17 – 4:00 p.m. †Anna Iwaniw – Antonishak Family
Sun. Apr. 18 – 8:30 a.m. Divine Liturgy & Myrovania - God’s Blessing for Parishioners
Mon. Apr. 19 – 9:00 a.m. Private Intention – Father Orest
Tues. Apr. 20 – 9:00 a.m. Private Intention – Father Orest
Wed. Apr. 21 – 9:00 a.m. †Catherine Dubinski – Dr. & Mrs. Michael Labuda
Thurs. Apr. 22 – 9:00 a.m. †Walter & †Anna Hrynkiw – Walter S. Hrynkiw
Fri. Apr. 23 – 9:00 a.m. †Barbara Pleskach – Karl Drapiesky
Sat. Apr. 24 – 4:00 p.m. †Caroline Kuren – Mr. & Mrs. Peter Morika
Sun. Apr. 25 – 8:00 a.m. Divine Liturgy & Myrovania – God’s Blessing for Parishioners
Divine Liturgies for St. Vladimir (Edwardsville)
Saturday 6:00 p.m. English – Sunday 10:30 a.m. Slavonic

WELCOME - To all who are tired and need rest; to all who mourn and need comfort; to all who are friendless and need friendship; to all who are discouraged and need hope; to all who are hopeless and need sheltered love; to all who sin and need a Savior; and to whomsoever will,this Church opens wide its doors in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. To all who are worshipping with us today – WELCOME!
REMINDER – KNEELING – As is our custom, from Easter until the Pentecost the faithful will stand at services during those times when they would normally kneel. In this way we celebrate the resurrection of our Lord. For those whom, due to health concerns, standing for long periods is not possible, sitting is permitted.
LITURGY REQUESTS – We ask that if you have dates on which you would like a liturgy offered that you make those requests as early as possible. Request for liturgy dates will be assigned in the order in which they are received. Contact the rectory office to make your requests.
STAYING IN TOUCH – If there is anyone who is regularly unable to attend liturgy but would like to keep in touch with what’s going on in the parish, please contact the rectory office about receiving a copy of the bulletin through the mail.
EARLY LITURGY FOR SHROUD TRIP – On Sunday, April 25th, liturgy will be moved to 8:00 AM to accommodate those traveling to Philadelphia to see the reproduction of the shroud.
BIRTHDAY GREETINGS – Birthday Greetings to Timothy Mykulyn (4/24). May God grant him long life, good health and happiness. MNOHAYA BLAHAYA LITA! ! – KRISTOS VOSKRES!
ACTIVITIES COMMITTEE MEETING – The April meeting of the Activities Committee will be held on Thursday, April 22, 2010 at 6:30 p.m. in the Lower Level of the Church. All parishioners are welcome to attend this meeting.
CEMETERY NOTES – Now that the weather is warming up please take a moment and visit our cemetery and remove any wreaths, flowers or other items that may have been left to adorn the grave of your loved ones. Remember that there is no trash pick-up at our cemetery and no receptacles for trash either. Please take any rubbish with you and dispose of it properly at home.
PENTECOST GRAVE BLESSING SERVICES –A Panakhyda and blessing of graves will be conducted on Pentecost Sunday, May 23rd, 2010 at 1:000 p.m. at our parish cemetery on Blanchard Street in Plains. Envelopes may be deposited in the collection next weekend, on Pentecost or offered at Cemetery. It is anticipated that a Memorial Day Liturgy will be offered on Monday Morning, May 31st, 2010 at the Church.
ANNUAL EASTER DINNER – Many thanks to all who particopated in our annual Easter Dinner- Sviachene last Sunday: Those who helped with arrangements and especially those who attended to keep this tradition going. Congratulations to the winners of the cash raffle: Helen Roman ($100), Susan Zaley Oistad ($75) and Celeste Hess ($50). Income for the dinner was $1,997.00, expenses were $1,572.00, net income was $425.00. This profit will be transferred to the Parish Account.
OUR THANKS – Our Thanks to the Apostleship of Prayer for hosting our annual Easter Dinner – Sviachene. May God grant the members long life, good health and happiness. MNOHAYA BLAHAYA LITA! ! – KRISTOS VOSKRES!
PRINTED COPIES OF ‘THE WAY’ ARE AVAILABLE IN THE VESTIBULE
PORTRAIT OF JESUS! THE SHROUD OF TURIN – Would you like to see the famous Shroud of Turin? The actual burial cloth that wrapped the crucified body of Jesus? The Shroud’s history includes theories of how it was taken from Jerusalem to France and then secretly moved in 1939 to a chapel in Avelline in Southern Italy for safe keeping during WWII. It was later returned to Turin in 1946. Princes’, Dukes, Duchess’ and even Pope John Paul II were persons who claimed its ownership for 2,000 years. On Sunday, April 25th SS. Peter & Paul Church will sponsor a bus to the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in Philadelphia to view the Shroud of Turin Exhibition. The bus will leave the Churchyard at 10:30 AM. It is anticipated that we will leave Philadelphia about 3:30 PM. Edwardsville and Wilkes-Barre will be sponsoring the trip. The cost for the trip will be $25 per person. Should you wish to reserve a seat, please call Dr. Michael Labuda. 820-7105. PLEASE MAKE PAYMENT TO DR. LABUDA.
CATHOLIC HOME MISSIONS – The annual Catholic Home Missions Collection will be made this year on Sunday, April 25th in our parishes, using specially prepared envelopes sent to the parishes. Our archeparchy typically collects approximately $9,000, but receives annually $100,000 in grants from the Catholic Home Missions. The funds are used for the operation of the seminary, for Communications, and The Way, and for Evangelization, Religious Education and Youth Programs. Please give a donation for this collection because we want to help the dioceses needing extra support. All parishes should participate as we all are beneficiaries!
Right here in the United States, some diocese are unable to provide fundamental pastoral care for their faithful. These “home mission” diocese cannot support an adequate number of priests. They cannot afford funding for youth ministry programs or religious education. This week we have included a special collection envelope with the bulletin. Next week we will take up a collection for the Catholic Home Missions Appeal. Help strengthen the Church at home with a generous donation. Additional envelopes will be available in the vestibule.
RENOVATION FUND – Should you wish to make a contribution to this fund please use the “Special Collection for Renovations to the Church Complex” envelopes that are available in the back of the church.
BEQUESTS TO YOUR PARISH – Please remember SS. Peter & Paul Ukrainian Catholic Church with memorial gifts and in your will.
CEMETERY RULES & REGULATIONS – Out of respect for all parish families and their deceased members, these rules and regulations were designed for the uniform appearance, ease of maintenance, safety, and cleanliness of our cemetery. Please give your full co-operation. All decorations, including unplanted and artificial flowers, must be removed before March 31 or be subject to removal. Christmas decorations must be removed by January 31. All stone, metal, and other borders around monuments or memorials are prohibited. Only low borders, one inch above ground level, are permitted in front of hillside graves in order to prevent erosion. No shrub or tree planting is allowed. Loose stone and / or gravel are prohibited on any grave plot. Persons causing any damage to cemetery property will be liable. No dumping on the cemetery grounds or beyond the perimeter. No walking pets through the cemetery. No trespassing on cemetery property after hours. Cemetery hours are 7:00 AM to sundown. These Rules Effective Immediately.
APRIL IS CHILD ABUSE PREVENTION MONTH – Internet Safety for Kids
The Internet has become the new schoolyard for child molesters seeking girls or boys to victimize. Internet “chat rooms” provide a teenager with an opportunity to engage in a “live” conversation with friends from school or church, or with other teenagers from around the world. A chat room is similar to an old-style telephone party line, except that teens are typing. Law enforcement has found that child molesters use chat rooms to gain easy and safe access to teens. Because of the seemingly caring and seductive talent of child molesters, teenagers should be warned that when they are in a chat room, they should never provide anyone with private information, personal information, and especially their specific physical location. For information on how you can become more informed and involved in keeping our children safe, please call: Fr. Andriy Rabiy at 215.873.6162 or 215.627.0143.
ICON OF THE GREAT FAST AND HOLY WEEK – SUNDAY, MAY 2, 2010, 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM. An Examination of the spiritual significance of the Icons of Extreme Humility: The Bridegroom, The Deposition of Christ, The Crucifixion and the Liturgical use of these icons in the Divine Services of the Great Fast and Holy Week. The presenter for the program is Rev. John Ciurpita is currently the Pastor of Holy Ghost Ukrainian Catholic Church in Chester, PA and also serves the community of Sts. Peter and Paul Church in Clifton Heights, PA. He is Chair of the Liturgical Commission of the Archeparchy of Philadelphia and has worked in the fields of Ecumenism and Interreligious Dialogue. Father John is on the Advisory Committee for the Basilian Spirituality Center. He has done retreat work, workshops and days of reflection, centering on the season of the Great Fast and preparing for the feast of the Resurrection. Please register by April 26, 2010, Donation $25.00 per person. Send registration to; Sr. Marina, OSBM, Basilian Spirituality Center, 710 Fox Chase Road, Fox Chase Manor, PA 19046, For information call (215)780-1227.
EMMAUS YOUTH ENCOUNTER - Christ, by His victory over death, shows us His power and says, “There, where all though, “It’s the end!” there a new beginning emerges!” Christ speaks to us not only at Easter time, but in every situation of our life… The Basilian Sisters invite you to the annual Youth Encounter (for ages 18-25) EMMAUS April 25, 2010 at the Basilian Spirituality Center. Presenters will be Sister Diya Zahurska, OSBM, Sister Ann Laszok, OSBM, Rev. George Worschak, Brother Andriy Kelt, Brother Yevhen Gulenko and Olena Pihur. Contact Sister Dia Zahruska, OSBM sdiaosbm@yahoo.com, 215.375.3998 ext. 529.
SAINT BASIL’S UKRAINIAN STUDIES PROGRAM – St. Basil College Seminary (Stamford, CT) opens its doors to the general public this upcoming spring. April 23-25, 2010 is your opportunity to come and learn about the riches of the Ukrainian culture in a program entitled “Come and Discover the Magic World of Pysanka!”. The aim of the program is to acquaint and provide knowledge about Ukrainian Cultural with special focus on “Easter and the spring season” customs and traditions. The program is open for all who are interested and wish to gain first hand experience and knowledge of the ancient Ukrainian traditions and customs. The program fee is $225 and includes meals and lodging. Class space is limited so reserve your spot early. Deadline for registration is April 19, 2010. Additional information, pamphlets, schedules and registration forms are available in the vestibule of the church. Or call (203) 324-4578 or online at www.stbasilcollege.com.
RETREAT HOUSE – Interested in getting away from it all and meeting God in the quiet of nature? Information about the St. Clare Retreat House at the Holy Dormition Friary in Sybertsville, PA is available in the vestibule of the church.
MARRIAGE PREP WORKSHOP – The Annunciation of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Ukrainian Catholic Church, Melrose Park, PA will present a marriage preparation workshop, “Entering the Holy Mystery of Marriage”, on Saturday, April 17, 2010 with a follow up session on Saturday, May 1, 2010. The program will focus on various aspects of marriage, both spiritual and practical, and provides each person an opportunity for greater understanding of one’s partner and a means to strengthen one’s relationship. Registration information is available in the church vestibule. The total cost of the program is $120 / couple and includes materials, lunch and refreshments. For information call (215)635-1627.
BENEFIT RECEPTION - The Ukrainian Catholic University is celebrating the 15th anniversary of its rebirth this year in Lviv after 40 years of Soviet repression and persecution. The university’s vice rector Myroslav Marynovych will be in Philadelphia on Sunday, April 25 to talk about the role of the University in strengthening democracy in Ukraine. As the founder of the Institute of Religion and Society at the University in 1997, Mr. Marynovych has seen many changes over the years and will talk about the current situation in education under the new Yanukovych government. Information stations focusing on the University’s past successes and future plans will be displayed during an afternoon with Mr. Marynovych at the Ukrainian Educational and Cultural Center, 700 Cedar Road, Jenkintown, PA., beginning at 1 p.m. Tickets for the event, sponsored by the Philadelphia Friends of the Ukrainian Catholic University are $25 and can be obtained from the Philadelphia Friends of the UCU at your church, at the Ukrainian Center, MB Financial Bank, or by calling 610-539-8946. Mr. Marynovych will present in Ukrainian with simultaneous English translation
TRADITIONAL UKRAINIAN DINNER – Sunday, May 16, 2010, from 3:00 to 7:00 P.M.: The Presentation of Our Lord Ukrainian Catholic Church will host “A Traditional Ukrainian Dinner” at its social hall, 1564 Allentown Road, Lansdale (Towamencin Township), PA. Enjoy generous portions of tasty homemade Ukrainian ethnic foods and baked goods: Pyrohy (Ukrainian pierogies); Holubtsi; Ukrainian Kielbasa Sausages, Sauerkraut, Breads, Beverages, and Desserts. Also, enjoy displays and demonstrations of Ukrainian folk arts and crafts by artists: Pysanky (Ukrainian Easter Eggs); Vyshyvanky (embroidery) and Gerdany (beadwork jewelry), all of which will be available for purchase. Tickets are $10.00 per person at the door with seating in the social hall. For advance tickets or more information, call Mike at (215) 715-4871.Take-outs are available.
BUFFET BREAKFAST – St. Matthew Evangelical Lutheran Church, 667 North Main Street, Wilkes-Barre will hold a Buffet Breakfast on Sunday, April 25, 2010 at 11:05 AM. Adults $7.00, children 6-12 $3.00, Children under 6 free. Tickets can be purchased by calling Jean at 824-5405, or Suzann at 823-0533. Reservations must be made by Thursday, April 22nd. No tickets will be sold at the door. Sponsored by the Stewardship Board.
ST. VLADIMIR CENTENIAL – You are cordially invited to attend the Centennial Anniversary of the founding in 1910 of St. Vladimir Ukrainian Catholic Church in Edwardsville, Pennsylvania, Sunday, July 18, 2010. Solemn Divine Liturgy at One Thrity in the afternoon in Saint Vladimir’s Church, 70 Zerby Avenue. Main Celebrant will be His Grace The Most Reverend Stefan Soroka, Metropolitan – Archbishop of Philadelphia. Centennial Jubilee Banquet will follow at The Knights of Columbus, 59 Parry Street, Luzerne. Roast Chicken-Breaded Pork Chop-Veal Parmigiana. Open Bar starting at 3:30 p.m. Beer & Soda only. Dinner at 4:30 p.m. Banquet Tickets, Adults $39.00, children under seven years free, children seven and over adult price. Advance tickets may be purchased by sending a check with full payment for the amount of guests attending to: St. Vladimir Centennial Banquet C/O Helen Nazarek, 70 Zerby Avenue, Edwardsville, PA 18704 (make checks payable to St. Vladimir’’ Centennial Banquet) for more information call Helen at 570.655.2815 or Diane Stelmack at 570.817.6790. For seating purposes, please print the first and last name of each guest. ABSOLUTELY NO TICKETS WILL BE SOLD AT THE DOOR. NO RESERVATIONS WILL BE ACCEPTED WITHOUT PAYMENT IN FULL. The very last day to purchase banquet tickets is July 11, 2010. All ticket sales are final – no refunds.

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April 16, 2010

Saint Thomas Sunday

April 11, 2010

Christ is Risen! – Indeed He Is Risen!

Jesus said to him, “Have you come to believe because you have seen me? Blessed are those who have not seen and have believed.” (John 20:29)

“The celebration of the eighth day after the Pasch as the conclusion of Bright Week, from earliest times, had been regarded as a separate feast. The theme of the services of this feast and of the week that follows is the Gospel event describing the apparition of Christ on the eighth day after His Resurrection and the moving scene of St. Thomas’ conversion and profession of faith. Regarding the significance of this feast, St. Gregory the Theologian (†389), in a homily on the Sunday of St. Thomas said: “The old law, which was established for a good purpose, honors the day of renewal, or rather, should we say, that with the day of renewal it honors new blessings. For, was not the first day of the resurrection, which occurred after the holy and glorious night, also a day of renewal? Why, then, do we give this name to today’s feast? That day (i.e. of the Resurrection) was a day of salvation, while this day is the commemoration of salvation. By its very nature, that day separates the burial and the resurrection, while this day is a day of an altogether new birth. Today we celebrate a genuine renewal, going from death to life. Therefore, cast off the old man and renew yourselves and live in newness of life.”
Our Church celebrates the memory of St. Thomas the Apostle on the 6th of October, whereas the Latin Church celebrates it on the 21st of December. About the apostolic work of St. Thomas, in a homily delivered on Thomas Sunday, St. John Chrysostom eulogizes St. Thomas thus: “Of all the other Apostles he was, at one time, the weakest in faith but, with God’s grace, he became more courageous and more untiring than the rest. He traversed almost the whole known world, preaching the word of God fearlessly to nations that were fierce, savage and bloodthirsty.” St. Thomas is believed to have died a martyr’s death for the Christian faith in India.” Julian J. Katrij, OSBM, A Byzantine Rite Liturgical Year

DIVINE LITURGY / SERVICES SCHEDULE
Sat. Apr. 10 – 4:00 p.m. Divine Liturgy & Myrovania – †Anne Dnistransky - Basil Dnistransky
Sun. Apr. 11 – 8:30 a.m. Divine Liturgy & Myrovania – God’s Blessing for Parishioners
Mon. Apr. 12 – NO SERVICES
Tues. Apr. 13 – NO SERVICES
Wed. Apr. 14 – 9:00 a.m. †Catherine Dubinski – Mary Anne Mudrak
Thurs. Apr. 15 – 9:00 a.m. †John & †Eva Proch – Matilda Proch
Fri. Apr. 16 – 9:00 a.m. †Walter & †Anna Hrynkiw – Walter S. Hrynkiw
Sat. Apr. 17 – 4:00 p.m. †Anna Iwaniw – Antonishak Family
Sun. Apr. 18 – 8:30 a.m. Divine Liturgy & Myrovania – God’s Blessing for Parishioners
Divine Liturgies for St. Vladimir (Edwardsville)
Saturday 6:00 p.m. English – Sunday 10:30 a.m. Slavonic

Happy Easter. Christ is Risen! Indeed He is Risen! Thank You for Your Kind Gifts and Your Work and Dedication to Your Church During this Pascal Feast. May Our Risen Lord Grant You Long Life, Good Health and Happiness… MNOHAYA BLAHAYA LITA! – KRISTOS VOSKRES! Rev. Orest Kunderevych

WELCOME – To all who are tired and need rest; to all who mourn and need comfort; to all who are friendless and need friendship; to all who are discouraged and need hope; to all who are hopeless and need sheltered love; to all who sin and need a Savior; and to whomsoever will,this Church opens wide its doors in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. To all who are worshipping with us today – WELCOME!
REMINDER – KNEELING – As is our custom, from Easter until the Pentecost the faithful will stand at services during those times when they would normally kneel. In this way we celebrate the resurrection of our Lord. For those whom, due to health concerns, standing for long periods is not possible, sitting is permitted.
LITURGY REQUESTS – We ask that if you have dates on which you would like a liturgy offered that you make those requests as early as possible. Request for liturgy dates will be assigned in the order in which they are received. Contact the rectory office to make your requests.
STAYING IN TOUCH – If there is anyone who is regularly unable to attend liturgy but would like to keep in touch with what’s going on in the parish, please contact the rectory office about receiving a copy of the bulletin through the mail.
EARLY LITURGY FOR SHROUD TRIP – On Sunday, April 25th, liturgy will be moved to 8:00 a.m. to accommodate those traveling to Philadelphia to see the reproduction of the shroud.
BIRTHDAY GREETINGS – Birthday Greetings to Janet Feszchak (4/13) and Volodymr Kunderevych (4/13). May God grant them long life, good health and happiness. MNOHAYA BLAHAYA LITA! – KRISTOS VOSKRES!
PARISH SIGN INSTALLED -Our Parish sign was installed this past week by Sign-A-Rama. Our thanks to all who made this project possible through their generous donations.
CEMETERY NOTES – Now that the weather is warming up please take a moment and visit our cemetery and remove any wreaths, flowers or other items that may have been left to adorn the grave of your loved ones. Remember that there is no trash pick-up at our cemetery and no receptacles for trash either. Please take any rubbish with you and dispose of it properly at home.
THANKS – Thanks to everyone whose efforts (seen or unseen) prepared our church for this Pascal Feast. Thanks also to everyone who helped in our commemoration of the Passion of Our Lord and the celebration of His Resurrection.
EASTER DINNER – SVIACHENE – SUNDAY, April 11, 2010 Cocktails 2:00 p.m. – Dinner 3:00 p.m. Plains Ambulance Association Hall, Maffett Street, Plains
PRINTED COPIES OF ‘THE WAY’ ARE AVAILABLE IN THE VESTIBULE
PORTRAIT OF JESUS! THE SHROUD OF TURIN – Would you like to see the famous Shroud of Turin? The actual burial cloth that wrapped the crucified body of Jesus? The Shroud’s history includes theories of how it was taken from Jerusalem to France and then secretly moved in 1939 to a chapel in Avelline in Southern Italy for safe keeping during WWII. It was later returned to Turin in 1946. Princes’, Dukes, Duchess’ and even Pope John Paul II were persons who claimed its ownership for 2,000 years. On Sunday, April 25th SS. Peter & Paul Church will sponsor a bus to the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in Philadelphia to view the Shroud of Turin Exhibition. The bus will leave the Churchyard at 10:30 AM. It is anticipated that we will leave Philadelphia about 3:30 PM. Edwardsville and Wilkes-Barre will be sponsoring the trip. The cost for the trip will be $25 per person. Should you wish to reserve a seat, please call Dr. Michael Labuda. 820-7105. PLEASE MAKE PAYMENT TO DR. LABUDA.
CATHOLIC HOME MISSIONS – The annual Catholic Home Missions Collection will be made this year on Sunday, April 25th in our parishes, using specially prepared envelopes sent to the parishes. Our archeparchy typically collects approximately $9,000, but receives annually $100,000 in grants from the Catholic Home Missions. The funds are used for the operation of the seminary, for Communications, and The Way, and for Evangelization, Religious Education and Youth Programs. Please give a donation for this collection because we want to help the dioceses needing extra support. All parishes should participate as we all are beneficiaries!
This year, the Catholic Home Missions Appeal turns its focus to youth ministry, an essential component of the life and vibrancy of the Church. In youth ministry programs, young Catholics grow in faith and gain valuable leadership skills. Without this Appeal, poorer dioceses in the United States cannot sustain vital youth programs. Next week’s bulletin will contain a special collection envelope. On April 17-18 and 24-25 we will take up a collection for this Appeal. Please be generous and help strengthen the Church at home. Additional envelopes will be available in the vestibule.
RENOVATION FUND – Should you wish to make a contribution to this fund please use the “Special Collection for Renovations to the Church Complex” envelopes that are available in the back of the church.
BEQUESTS TO YOUR PARISH – Please remember SS. Peter & Paul Ukrainian Catholic Church with memorial gifts and in your will.
CEMETERY RULES & REGULATIONS – Out of respect for all parish families and their deceased members, these rules and regulations were designed for the uniform appearance, ease of maintenance, safety, and cleanliness of our cemetery. Please give your full co-operation. All decorations, including unplanted and artificial flowers, must be removed before March 31 or be subject to removal. Christmas decorations must be removed by January 31. All stone, metal, and other borders around monuments or memorials are prohibited. Only low borders, one inch above ground level, are permitted in front of hillside graves in order to prevent erosion. No shrub or tree planting is allowed. Loose stone and / or gravel are prohibited on any grave plot. Persons causing any damage to cemetery property will be liable. No dumping on the cemetery grounds or beyond the perimeter. No walking pets through the cemetery. No trespassing on cemetery property after hours. Cemetery hours are 7:00 AM to sundown. These Rules Effective Immediately.
APRIL IS CHILD ABUSE PREVENTION MONTH – Teach Kids to Protect Themselves at Home. We consider our homes to be safe places for our children. But being home alone can pose risks for children. Here are a few tips to teach kids that will help keep them safe when you are not with them at home: Never answer the door if alone. Do not invite anyone in the house without the permission of a parent or babysitter. Don’t tell anyone on the phone that your parents are not home. Instead tell them that your parents can’t come to the phone, and take a message. For more tips, please visit www.kidsafe.com. For information on how you can become more informed and involved in keeping our children safe, please call: Fr. Andriy Rabiy at
215.873.6162 or 215.627.0143.
ICON OF THE GREAT FAST AND HOLY WEEK – SUNDAY, MAY 2, 2010, 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM. An Examination of the spiritual significance of the Icons of Extreme Humility: The Bridegroom, The Deposition of Christ, The Crucifixion and the Liturgical use of these icons in the Divine Services of the Great Fast and Holy Week. The presenter for the program is Rev. John Ciurpita is currently the Pastor of Holy Ghost Ukrainian Catholic Church in Chester, PA and also serves the community of Sts. Peter and Paul Church in Clifton Heights, PA. He is Chair of the Liturgical Commission of the Archeparchy of Philadelphia and has worked in the fields of Ecumenism and Interreligious Dialogue. Father John is on the Advisory Committee for the Basilian Spirituality Center. He has done retreat work, workshops and days of reflection, centering on the season of the Great Fast and preparing for the feast of the Resurrection. Please register by April 26, 2010, Donation $25.00 per person. Send registration to; Sr. Marina, OSBM, Basilian Spirituality Center, 710 Fox Chase Road, Fox Chase Manor, PA 19046, For information call (215)780-1227.
EMMAUS YOUTH ENCOUNTER – Christ, by His victory over death, shows us His power and says, “There, where all though, “It’s the end!” there a new beginning emerges!” Christ speaks to us not only at Easter time, but in every situation of our life… The Basilian Sisters invite you to the annual Youth Encounter (for ages 18-25) EMMAUS April 25, 2010 at the Basilian Spirituality Center. Presenters will be Sister Diya Zahurska, OSBM, Sister Ann Laszok, OSBM, Rev. George Worschak, Brother Andriy Kelt, Brother Yevhen Gulenko and Olena Pihur. Contact Sister Dia Zahruska, OSBM sdiaosbm@yahoo.com, 215.375.3998 ext. 529
SAINT BASIL’S UKRAINIAN STUDIES PROGRAM – St. Basil College Seminary (Stamford, CT) opens its doors to the general public this upcoming spring. April 23-25, 2010 is your opportunity to come and learn about the riches of the Ukrainian culture in a program entitled “Come and Discover the Magic World of Pysanka!”. The aim of the program is to acquaint and provide knowledge about Ukrainian Cultural with special focus on “Easter and the spring season” customs and traditions. The program is open for all who are interested and wish to gain first hand experience and knowledge of the ancient Ukrainian traditions and customs. The program fee is $225 and includes meals and lodging. Class space is limited so reserve your spot early. Deadline for registration is April 19, 2010. Additional information, pamphlets, schedules and registration forms are available in the vestibule of the church. Or call (203) 324-4578 or online at www.stbasilcollege.com.
RETREAT HOUSE – Interested in getting away from it all and meeting God in the quiet of nature? Information about the St. Clare Retreat House at the Holy Dormition Friary in Sybertsville, PA is available in the vestibule of the church.
MARRIAGE PREP WORKSHOP – The Annunciation of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Ukrainian Catholic Church, Melrose Park, PA will present a marriage preparation workshop, “Entering the Holy Mystery of Marriage”, on Saturday, April 17, 2010 with a follow up session on Saturday, May 1, 2010. The program will focus on various aspects of marriage, both spiritual and practical, and provides each person an opportunity for greater understanding of one’s partner and a means to strengthen one’s relationship. Registration information is available in the church vestibule. The total cost of the program is $120 / couple and includes materials, lunch and refreshments. For information call (215)635-1627.
BENEFIT RECEPTION – The Ukrainian Catholic University is celebrating the 15th anniversary of its rebirth this year in Lviv after 40 years of Soviet repression and persecution. The university’s vice rector Myroslav Marynovych will be in Philadelphia on Sunday, April 25 to talk about the role of the University in strengthening democracy in Ukraine. As the founder of the Institute of Religion and Society at the University in 1997, Mr. Marynovych has seen many changes over the years and will talk about the current situation in education under the new Yanukovych government. Information stations focusing on the University’s past successes and future plans will be displayed during an afternoon with Mr. Marynovych at the Ukrainian Educational and Cultural Center, 700 Cedar Road, Jenkintown, PA., beginning at 1 p.m. Tickets for the event, sponsored by the Philadelphia Friends of the Ukrainian Catholic University are $25 and can be obtained from the Philadelphia Friends of the UCU at your church, at the Ukrainian Center, MB Financial Bank, or by calling 610-539-8946. Mr. Marynovych will present in Ukrainian with simultaneous English translation.
TRADITIONAL UKRAINIAN DINNER - Sunday, May 16, 2010, from 3:00 to 7:00 P.M.: The Presentation of Our Lord Ukrainian Catholic Church will host “A Traditional Ukrainian Dinner” at its social hall, 1564 Allentown Road, Lansdale (Towamencin Township), PA. Enjoy generous portions of tasty homemade Ukrainian ethnic foods and baked goods: Pyrohy (Ukrainian pierogies); Holubtsi; Ukrainian Kielbasa Sausages, Sauerkraut, Breads, Beverages, and Desserts. Also, enjoy displays and demonstrations of Ukrainian folk arts and crafts by artists: Pysanky (Ukrainian Easter Eggs); Vyshyvanky (embroidery) and Gerdany (beadwork jewelry), all of which will be available for purchase. Tickets are $10.00 per person at the door with seating in the social hall. For advance tickets or more information, call Mike at (215) 715-4871.Take-outs are available.
BUFFET BREAKFAST – St. Matthew Evangelical Lutheran Church, 667 North Main Street, Wilkes-Barre will hold a Buffet Breakfast on Sunday, April 25, 2010 at 11:05 AM. Adults $7.00, children 6-12 $3.00, Children under 6 free. Tickets can be purchased by calling Jean at 824-5405, or Suzann at 823-0533. Reservations must be made by Thursday, April 22nd. No tickets will be sold at the door. Sponsored by the Stewardship Board.
ST. VLADIMIR CENTENIAL – You are cordially invited to attend the Centennial Anniversary of the founding in 1910 of St. Vladimir Ukrainian Catholic Church in Edwardsville, Pennsylvania, Sunday, July 18, 2010. Solemn Divine Liturgy at One Thrity in the afternoon in Saint Vladimir’s Church, 70 Zerby Avenue. Main Celebrant will be His Grace The Most Reverend Stefan Soroka, Metropolitan – Archbishop of Philadelphia. Centennial Jubilee Banquet will follow at The Knights of Columbus, 59 Parry Street, Luzerne. Roast Chicken-Breaded Pork Chop-Veal Parmigiana. Open Bar starting at 3:30 p.m. Beer & Soda only. Dinner at 4:30 p.m. Banquet Tickets, Adults $39.00, children under seven years free, children seven and over adult price. Advance tickets may be purchased by sending a check with full payment for the amount of guests attending to: St. Vladimir Centennial Banquet C/O Helen Nazarek, 70 Zerby Avenue, Edwardsville, PA 18704 (make checks payable to St. Vladimir’’ Centennial Banquet) for more information call Helen at 570.655.2815 or Diane Stelmack at 570.817.6790. For seating purposes, please print the first and last name of each guest. ABSOLUTELY NO TICKETS WILL BE SOLD AT THE DOOR. NO RESERVATIONS WILL BE ACCEPTED WITHOUT PAYMENT IN FULL. The very last day to purchase banquet tickets is July 11, 2010. All ticket sales are final – no refunds.

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April 16, 2010

Easter Sunday

April 4, 2010

Christ is Risen! – Indeed He Is Risen!

The Significance of the Resurrection
“The resurrection of Christ is incontrovertible proof of his divinity. When the Pharisees and the Scribes demanded a sign from Christ which would prove that He is the Son of God, He answered them saying that they will not receive a sign other than that of the Prophet Jonas: “For even as Jonas was in the belly of the fish three days and three nights, so will the Son of Man be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth,” (Matthew 12, 40). And so it happened. On the third day of His death, the glorious Resurrection took place.
The resurrection of Christ is the foundation of our faith. What meaning would Christ’s teaching have had if the resurrection, which he had so frequently predicted, had not taken place. The Apostles, when they preached the Gospel, frequently appealed to Christ’s resurrection as to the most convincing argument proving the veracity of Christ’s doctrine. “If Christ has not risen, then,” says St. Paul, “is our preaching vain and vain too is your faith… But, as it is, Christ has risen from the dead, the first fruits of those who have fallen asleep.” (I Cor. 15,14-20) For this reason, the truth of the resurrection and the Christian religion are inseparable.
The resurrection of Christ, finally, is the sure pledge or our own resurrection to a happy everlasting life. Just as Christ rose, so too shall we rise one day to a new and glorious eternal life. Christ Himself assured us of this when He said; “ The hour is coming in which all who are in their graves shall hear the voice of the Son of God. And they who have done good shall come forth unto resurrection of life; but they who have done evil unto resurrection of judgment…For this is the will of the Father who sent me, that whoever beholds the Son and believes in Him, shall have everlasting life, and I will raise Him up on the last day.” (John 5, 28-29; 6,40) Julian J. Katrij, OSBM, A Byzantine Rite Liturgical Year

DIVINE LITURGY / SERVICES SCHEDULE
RESURRECTION
Sat. Apr. 3 – 2:45 p.m. Nadhrobne (Grave Closing)
3:30 p.m. Blessing of Baskets, Followed immediately by: Procession, Resurrection Matins, Divine Liturgy, Blessing of Artos & Myrovania – God’s Blessing for Parishioners
Sun. Apr. 4 – 10:00 a.m. Divine Liturgy & Myrovania – God’s Blessing for Parishioners
Mon. Apr. 5 – 8:30 a.m. †Walter & †Anna Hrynkiw – Walter S. Hrynkiw
Tues. Apr. 6 – 9:00 a.m. †Catherine Dubinski – Mr. & Mrs. Joe Avena
Wed. Apr. 7 – 9:00 a.m. †William Proch – Matilda Proch
Thurs. Apr. 8 – 9:00 a.m. †Barbara Pleskach - Karl Drapievsky
Fri. Apr. 9 – 9:00 a.m. †Catherine Dubinski – Keith Russin
Sat. Apr. 10 – 4:00 p.m. Divine Liturgy & Myrovania †Anne Dnistransky – Basil Dnistransky
Sun. Apr. 11 – 8:30 a.m. Divine Liturgy & Myrovania – God’s Blessing for Parishioners

THE RESURRECTION ICON (THE DESCENT INTO HADES)
In traditional iconography, the actual moment of the Resurrection of Christ was never depicted. The Gospels and Church Tradition are silent about that moment and do not say how Christ arose. Neither does the icon show it.
The action of the event takes place in the depths of the earth, in hell, shown as a gaping black abyss. In the center of the icon is the figure of the Savior. He appears in hell not as its captive, but as its Conqueror and Deliverer, as the Master of life. He is surrounded by a radiant mandorla with rays issuing from the center of the mandorla. His garments are not those in which He is portrayed during his lifetime. They are brilliant white.
The darkness of hell is filled by the light of these Divine rays. Christ tramples underfoot the two crossed boards of hell’s doors that He has pulled down. In many icons, below the doors, in the black abyss, the cast down figure of the prince of darkness, Satan, is seen. The power of hell is destroyed. This is symbolized by the keys, nails, and so forth.
Christ raises Adam from the grave with His right hand and Eve with His left hand. By this he frees Adam’s soul and with it the souls of all those who wait for His coming with faith. This is why, to the right and left of this scene are shown two groups of Old Testament saints, with prophets at the front. On the left are kings David and Solomon in royal robes and crowns and in front of them, John the Forerunner (Baptist). On the right are the prophets. Seeing Him, they at once recognize Him as the One whom they had foretold.
By freeing the old Adam, and with him, the whole of humankind, He laid the foundation of a new life for all humankind. The spiritual raising of Adam is a symbol of the coming resurrection of the body, the first-fruit of which was the resurrection of Christ.
In the upper section of the icon, the two peaks of rock remind us that “the earth shook and the rocks were split” (Mt. 27:51) after the death of Christ. The dividing of the rocks also reminds us of the dividing of the waters of the Red Sea as the Israelites traveled from the slavery of Egypt to the freedom of the Promised Land. www.sspp.ca/Resurrection.htm

PYSANKY
The origin of the Easter Egg Tradition
Among the ancient peoples a custom prevailed which required that one did not appear before a great personage for the first time without presenting a gift. A pious tradition relates that Mary Magdalene, when preaching the Gospel, first appeared in the court of Emperor Tiberius, she presented him with an egg painted red, saying:
“Christ is risen,” and with that greeting she began her sermon. Other Christians, following her example also began to present one another with a colored egg on the day of the Resurrection (Easter). The main reason that the egg plays such a role in Easter customs is that it is regarded as a symbol of Christ’s resurrection. Just as from the dead shell of the egg a new life emerges so too Christ came forth from the grave to a new life. The red painted egg is the symbol of our salvation through the blood of Jesus Christ. Julian J. Katrij, OSBM, A Byzantine Rite Liturgical Year

EASTER PASTORAL OF THE UKRAINIAN CATHOLIC HIERARCHY OF THE U.S.A. TO OUR CLERGY, HIEROMONKS AND BROTHERS, RELIGIOUS SISTERS, SEMINARIANS AND BELOVED FAITHFUL
“Were not our hearts burning inside…It is true. Our Lord is risen” (Lk. 24: 32 & 34)
During these past 40 days of the Great Fast, our Church called on us to more intense prayer, penance and charity. This was not a forced imposition making us sad or irritable. Rather, it was an invitation to transformation. It was a challenge to change, to improve ourselves in order that we may be truly worthy to meet and enjoy the glorious Feast of our Lord’s Holy Resurrection.
Just prior to that first glorious Easter Morning, there were betrayals, loneliness, suffering, passion and death. Faith was displaced by fear and sadness in the disciples and friends of Christ. Their hope was buried in the tomb. The last act of love was the weeping women carrying the ointment.
A favorite Resurrection Gospel passage is the event of Emmaus. Two disheartened disciples, Cleopas and Luke, talk sadly along the way about Jesus’ passion and death. Unknown to them, our Lord joins them on the road and explains all those things that had to happen. Later at the meal, after “breaking bread”, the two disciples recognized the Risen Jesus, and as the Gospel tells us, “They said to one another, ‘Were not our hearts burning inside us as He talked to us on the road and explained the Scriptures to us?’” They rush back to meet the other disciples and are greeted with the joyous news, “It is true. The Lord is risen.” (Lk. 24: 32 & 34)
During this whole period of Great Fast preparation, our Church led us gradually to these astonishing Gospel passages announcing the Resurrection of our Lord, God and Savior Jesus Christ. And every time we hear this “good news” our hearts should burn inside us as we marvel at all these things that were done for our salvation. We cannot be silent, we cannot just whisper it, we have to shout it out, not just you and I, but everyone, the whole Church; Christ is risen; truly He is risen!”
The Resurrection of Christ is the greatest proof of God’s love for us. With the disciples, we too realize that there is no Resurrection without the cross. Jesus had to suffer to bring us life. Christ’s victory over death is our victory also because we have been baptized into His death and shall rise with Him in glory. We live according to Christ’s Gospel anticipating His blessings and eternal life.
Faith in the Resurrection leads to life. Our faith in Easter goes beyond the tomb. Yes, we kiss the burial shroud with tears in our eyes. These tears are transformed into gladness because our faith is in the Risen Christ. Our Lord lives.
We do not just read about the Resurrection once a year, celebrate Easter as a historical event, but we rush to the empty tomb and witness the love that conquered death. This faith has meaning for us today and everyday of our lives. Christ’s Resurrection is reflected in our lives when we choose life over death; when we prefer light to darkness; when we choose a life of grace rather than a life of sin; and when we put love where there is hatred and indifference.
We cannot help but witness this faith to everyone, together, in Church, at our Easter meals, “It is true, Christ is risen!” With the two Emmaus disciples, Mary Magdalene and the myrrh-bearing women, Peter and John, the rest of the Apostles, and eventually Thomas, We proclaim: “Are not our hearts burning inside us … It is true! Our Lord is risen!” (Lk. 24: 32 & 34).
The mystery of the Resurrection of our Lord is the most important feast in our Church’s calendar. It is the Feast of Feasts, the Holy day of the Holy days. And we are blessed this year to celebrate Easter together, all our Ukrainian Catholic churches, with our Ukrainian Orthodox Brothers and Sisters, and all Christians. May our faith in the Resurrection ring out a resounding “Christ is Risen” this year everywhere.
On this joyous, solemn and glorious Feast of Easter, we the episcopal shepherds of the Ukrainian Catholic Metropolitan Province of the USA, pray for abundant grace, good health and success in your daily struggles for the good of our families, people and Christ’s Church. Let us all be grateful for all of Almighty God’s great love for us and His generous gifts.
May our Lord’s victory – His conquest over sin and death, and His promise of peace and eternal life be yours always!

Christ is risen! Truly He is risen!

+Stefan Soroka, Metropolitan-Archbishop of Philadelphia
+Richard Seminack, Eparch of St. Nicholas in Chicago
+Paul Chomnycky, OSBM, Eparch of Stamford
+John Bura (author), Apostolic Administrator of St. Josaphat in Parma

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March 29, 2010

Palm Sunday

March 28, 2010

…they took palm branches and went out to meet him, and cried out: “Hosanna! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord, the king of Israel.” John 12:13

Palm Sunday
“Our Lord Jesus Christ climaxed His mission on earth with two memorable events – the resurrection of Lazarus from the dead and His triumphal entry into Jerusalem. These two events, witnessed by great crowds of people, gave a clear and convincing testimony concerning the messianic mission of Christ and His divinity.” Julian J. Katrij, OSBM, A Byzantine Rite Liturgical Year

Loza b’ye,
ya ne b’yu,
vid nyni za tyzhden’,
bude Velykden’

The willow is hitting,
I’m not hitting,
one week from today,
it will be Easter

DIVINE LITURGY / SERVICES SCHEDULE
PALM SUNDAY
Sat. Mar. 27 – 4:00 p.m. †George Mudrak – Mary Anne Waslasky
Sun. Mar. 28 – 8:30 a.m. Divine Liturgy – God’s Blessing for Parishioners
4:00 p.m. Laymen Stations – St. Vladimir (Scranton)
Mon. Mar. 29 – NO SERVICES
Tues. Mar. 30 – NO SERVICES
Wed. Mar. 31 – NO SERVICES
Thurs. Apr. 1 – 6:00 p.m. HOLY THURSDAY – Matins Passion of Our Lord (12 Gospels)
Fri. Apr. 2 – 3:00 p.m. GOOD FRIDAY – Vespers, Procession & Exposition of the Plaschenytsia ADORATION until 8:00 p.m. (please note that Father WILL NOT be available at this time for confession)
RESURRECTION
Sat. Apr. 3 – 2:45 p.m. Nadhrobne (Grave Closing)
3:30 p.m. Blessing of Baskets, Followed immediately by: Procession, Resurrection Matins, Divine Liturgy, Blessing of Artos & Myrovania - God’s Blessing for Parishioners
Sun. Apr. 4 – 10:00 a.m. Divine Liturgy & Myrovania – God’s Blessing for Parishioners

The Holy and Great Fast
“Because we did not fast we were banished from paradise.
So then let us fast so as to return back to paradise”
(St. Basil, On Fasting I)
“The great Holy Fast, called also the Forty Days Fast, is one of the oldest and most sacred Christian practices. The history of the Great Fast is long and rich in tradition, dating from Apostolic times.
The pre-paschal fast is called Great, not only because of the duration but also because of it’s significance in the life of the Church and of every Christian. ”
Julian J. Katrij, OSBM, A Byzantine Rite Liturgical Year

Metropolitan Stefan’s Meditation for Palm Sunday
How fondly I recall how adults shared greetings with others after church on Palm Sunday by gently striking one another on the shoulders with blessed pussy willows. It was a joyful mutual greeting in anticipation of the Easter celebration to come in one week’s time. St. Paul tells Christians in today’s Epistle to always rejoice in the Lord. Joy in the Lord is a sign of the kindness and gentleness which should shine out from each one of us and from the Church upon the world around us. We are encouraged by St. Paul not to be anxious about anything. We are urged to offer everything in prayer to God, with hearts and minds filled with thanksgiving. We are assured that the peace of God which surpasses all understanding will be ours if we entrust ourselves and all whom we hold dear to the loving hands of God. That kind of peace is beyond what mankind can produce or contrive. God gives it to you and to me. Rejoice in it! Surrender your anxieties and worries as you enter Holy Week. Dismiss your priorities. Place Jesus at the center of your life. Prepare to meet the Resurrected Christ!

SAINT VLADIMIR’S (EDWARDSVILLE)
SCHEDULE FOR HOLY WEEK AND RESURRECTION SERVICES
Good Friday, Vespers & Exposition of the Plaschenytsia, Friday, April 2, 5:00 PM
RESURRECTION SERVICES
Holy Saturday, Blessing of Easter Baskets, Saturday, April 3, 1:30 PM
Resurrection, Divine Liturgy, Blessing of Artos & Myrovania, Saturday, April 3, 6:00 PM
Resurrection, Procession, Matins, Divine Liturgy & Myrovania, Sunday, April 4, 7:30 AM

SAINT BASIL’S UKRAINIAN STUDIES PROGRAM – St. Basil College Seminary (Stamford, CT) opens its doors to the general public this upcoming spring. April 23-25, 2010 is your opportunity to come and learn about the riches of the Ukrainian culture in a program entitled “Come and Discover the Magic World of Pysanka!”. The aim of the program is to acquaint and provide knowledge about Ukrainian Cultural with special focus on “Easter and the spring season” customs and traditions. The program is open for all who are interested and wish to gain first hand experience and knowledge of the ancient Ukrainian traditions and customs. The program fee is $225 and includes meals and lodging. Class space is limited so reserve your spot early. Deadline for registration is April 19, 2010. Additional information, pamphlets, schedules and registration forms are available in the vestibule of the church. Or call (203) 324-4578 or online at www.stbasilcollege.com.
RETREAT HOUSE – Interested in getting away from it all and meeting God in the quiet of nature? Information about the St. Clare Retreat House at the Holy Dormition Friary in Sybertsville, PA is available in the vestibule of the church.
MARRIAGE PREP WORKSHOP – The Annunciation of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Ukrainian Catholic Church, Melrose Park, PA will present a marriage preparation workshop, “Entering the Holy Mystery of Marriage”, on Saturday, April 17, 2010 with a follow up session on Saturday, May 1, 2010. The program will focus on various aspects of marriage, both spiritual and practical, and provides each person an opportunity for greater understanding of one’s partner and a means to strengthen one’s relationship. Registration information is available in the church vestibule. The total cost of the program is $120 / couple and includes materials, lunch and refreshments. For information call (215)635-1627.
VESPER-LITURGY OF ST. BASIL THE GREAT – April 1st, 2010 is Holy Thursday where the Mystery of the Eucharist is instituted by Our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Metropolitan Stefan invites all the clergy and faithful to attend the Vesper-Liturgy of St. Basil the Great and celebrate God’s gift of Himself for our salvation. The Liturgy will begin at 10:00AM at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in Philadelphia. (833 N. Franklin St.) During this time, Myron will be consecrated for the Mystery of Chrismation and the washing of the feet will take place commemorating the Mystery of Priesthood. A luncheon hosted by His Grace, Metropolitan Stefan will be held for the clergy after the celebration.

In Gethsemane, Jesus begged His disciples to “watch one hour” with Him…Another Lent has begun Before it ends, will you finally manage to watch one hour with Jesus, and in that hour, to grow closer to Him in prayer…as He yearns for you to do?

SACRAMENT OF PENANCE (CONFESSION)
Before Liturgies or by appointment.
Parish members should go to Holy Confession at least once a month on average, or more often if there is a serious or mortal sin. In case of a serious or mortal sin, one may not receive Holy Communion, until they have first gone to Confession and received absolution. For small or ‘daily’ sins, one may receive Holy Communion as often as once a day, provided they have made an examination of conscience, a sincere Act of Contrition and recite the Prayer before Holy Communion, found in the text of the Liturgy.

Why Pussy-willows on Palm Sunday?
The answer is simple really, no palm trees grow in Ukraine, so willow branches were used, as they were the first to blossom in the spring.
“Among our people, various practices existed, even some superstitious ones, that were associated with the blessed willow branch. The blessed willow branch was never destroyed by our people. Instead, they placed it in the house behind an icon, or planted it in the garden. With it they blessed the cattle, when they were being led for the first time into the pasture. The farmer carried the blessed willow branch around his farm, praying that it might be protected from impure spirits. Some even swallowed the bud of the willow so that “the throat would not hurt.” In some places a blessed willow branch was placed in the hands of the deceased, so that at the general resurrection they would meet Christ carrying the emblem of victory. As they were going out of church on Palm Sunday, the faithful would lightly strike one another on the shoulder with the willow branch, saying: “It is not I who strike you, but it is the willow branch, within a week we shall celebrate Easter.” Thus did they remind one another that Easter was drawing near.” Julian J. Katrij, OSBM, A Byzantine Rite Liturgical Year

Velykyi Tyzhden’ – Ukrainian Easter Week
Velykyi Tyzhden’ (Great or Holy Week) starts with Verbna Nedilia (Willow Sunday – Palm Sunday to others). The willow is used instead of the palm both in the U.S. & Canada as well as Ukraine, because of the similarity of climates – that is – no palm trees! It honors the triumph of Jesus entering Jerusalem. The pussy willow branches have the additional significance of showing life early in the spring, symbolizing the hope of the resurrection. They are gathered and blessed at services. After the service, parishioners gently tap each other with the willows, in imitation of the scourging of Christ while repeating The willow hits, not I; A week from now will be Easter (Loza bje, ne ja bju, Vid neni za tyzhden’ bude Velykyi Den’). The tapping with the willow also signifies the wishes for health, happiness and wealth. After Easter, the willow was either stuck in the ground – and legend would have it that if daughters married that their young man would be healthy, strong and a good provider. Otherwise, as with tradition regarding blessed items, the willows would be burned and the ashes scattered on the fields to ensure a good crop. (Note: In some areas of Ukraine the first week of Lent is referred to as Chystyi Tyzhden’ or Pure Week)
The Great Week was a flurry of activity in Ukraine. Everything had to be done before Holy Thursday as no work was done until after the Easter celebration. House cleaning had to be done, the annual coat of whitewash had to be applied, plowing, planting and the other farm chores. As well, this is when pysanky (meaning to write) would be written (with designs), the food prepared for the Easter basket to be taken to church for blessing and of course the paska and babka had to be baked. The icons would be draped in embroidered linen towels (rushnyky – ritual cloths) in anticipation of Velykyi Den’.
Strastney Chetver (Holy or Passion Thursday), recalls the Passion of Christ. The passion service consists of readings from the twelve Gospels relating the story of the suffering of Jesus. The gospels are read (or sung), along with prayers, prostrations and hymns with bells being rung after each chapter. The bells are then silenced and replaced with either wooden clappers or the striking of a mallet on a board. The bells are not heard again until Easter morning.
Velykodnia Piatnytsia (Good Friday), observes the Lord’s Crucifixion. A fast abstaining from meat and dairy products is observed and no manual labor of any kind is permitted. Conversation is muted and must avoid argument. Good Friday observances include the Veneration of the Holy Shroud. The Holy Shroud is the representation of the sheet that Christ was buried in. There is a procession of worshipers carrying the Crucifix, banners and the Holy Shroud, with the priest carrying the Eucharist and the altar boys carrying lighted candles and the wooden clappers. The congregation circles the church and reenters symbolizing the journey from the Crucifix on Calvary to the tomb. The Holy Shroud is placed on a representative tomb and is surrounded by willows, candles and flowers.
Holy Saturday is when parishioners visit the Holy Shroud to worship and kiss the wounds of Christ. A guard of honor keeps vigil at the Holy Sepulcher. Fasting is continued to prepare the soul for purity of confession on the Great Day. Holy Saturday is also when one goes to the Sviachenia or the Blessing of Traditional Easter Foods. The easter basket contains ham, roasted lamb (symbolizing Jesus), sausages, butter, cheese, Paska, horseradish and salt.
Velykyi Den’ means Great Day and applies to Easter Sunday.
The reference for this is The Encyclopedia of Ukraine, 1984, University of Toronto Press.

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March 22, 2010

5th Sunday of Lent

March 21, 2010

Jesus said to them, “You do not know what you are asking. Can you drink the cup that I drink or be baptized with the baptism with which I am to be baptized. Mark 10:38
DIVINE LITURGY / SERVICES SCHEDULE
FIFTH SUNDAY OF THE GREAT FAST
Sat. Mar. 20 – 4:00 p.m. †John & †Mary Waslasky – Waslasky & Hall Families
Sun. Mar. 21 – 8:30 a.m. Divine Liturgy – God’s Blessing for Parishioners
4:00 p.m. Laymen Stations - St. Vladimir (Edwardsville)
Mon. Mar. 22 – NO SERVICES
Tues. Mar. 23 – NO SERVICES
ANNUNCIATION OF THE MOTHER OF GOD (Day of Obligation)
Wed. Mar. 24 – 7:00 p.m. Divine Liturgy, Myrovania – God’s Blessing for Parishioners
Thurs. Mar. 25 – 9:00 a.m. Divine Liturgy (Edwardsville)
Fri. Mar. 26 – 9:00 a.m. Liturgy of the Presanctified Gifts
6:30 p.m. Stations of the Cross & Sorokousty
PALM SUNDAY
Sat. Mar. 27 – 4:00 p.m. †George Mudrak – Mary Anne Mudrak
Sun. Mar. 28 – 8:30 a.m. Divine Liturgy – God’s Blessing for Parishioners
4:00 p.m. Laymen Stations – SS. Vladimir (Edwardsville)
Divine Liturgies for St. Vladimir (Scranton)
Saturday 6:00 p.m. English – Sunday 10:30 a.m. Slavonic

The Feast of the Annunciation of the Holy Mother of God, March 25
“With the voice of the Archangel we cry out to you, O Most Pure One: ‘Rejoice, O full of grace the Lord is with you.’” (Hymn of Praise of the Feast)
The mystery of the Annunication has fundamental significance, for with it begin the New Testament and our salvation. Mankind had waited thousands of years for the good news of the Archangel concerning the incarnation of the Son of God. Heaven, earth, and the righteous souls in limbo awaited the good news. On this day God fulfilled his promise to send a redeemer, for on this day the “Word was made flesh and dwelt among us.” (John 1,14) In a sermon on the Annunication, attributed to St. John Chrysostom, we read: “ Gabriel was sent to bring Adam the promise of his return from slavery to sin. Gabriel was sent to the Virgin, to restore the honor of womanhood. Gabriel was sent to prepare a worthy bridal chamber for the pure Bridegroom, Gabriel was sent to espouse creature with the Creator. Gabriel was sent to the living palace of the King of angels. Gabriel was sent to the Virgin betrothed to Joseph, but preserved for the Son. The Bodiless servant was sent to one exempt from corruption. A lamp was sent to point out the Sun of truth. Morning was sent to precede the light of day. Gabriel was sent to announce Him, who is in the bosom of the Father and in the arms of the Mother, Gabriel was sent to announce Him, Who is seated on a throne at God’s right hand and, at the same time, rests in a lowly manger on earth.” (Works, Vol. 8. P.854) Julian J. Katrij, OSBM, A Byzantine Rite Liturgical Year

The Liturgy of the Presanctified Gifts
“A typical lenten service is the Liturgy of the Presanctified Gifts. Already in the first centuries there was a custom during the Forty Days Fast to omit the celebration of the Divine Liturgy because, at that time, it was still linked with agape, that is the love banquet, and this was not in keeping with the spirit of fasting. Furthermore, the Divine Liturgy was regarded as a joyous mystery; for this reason, it’s celebration was limited to Saturday and Sunday. On the other days of the week, to give the faithful an opportunity to receive Holy Communion, the Divine Liturgy was replaced by other services, from which the Liturgy of the Presanctified Gifts developed in time. Actually, this is not a Liturgy in the sense of the word, for it does not have consecration of bread and wine: but rather, it is a Vespers service combined with the rite of Holy Communion, for which the bread was previously consecrated. Hence the name of Presanctified Gifts. ” Julian J. Katrij, OSBM, A Byzantine Rite Liturgical Year

Metropolitan Stefan’s Mediation for Fifth Sunday of Great Fast
We hear in the Gospels of the curious exchange with the apostles James and John as to their ambitions. Imagine the reaction of Jesus. He is trying to prepare them for his coming passion. They are preoccupied with striving for places of honor. You and I are often like those disciples. “Have you seen Him?” is the invitation of the Shroud of Turin exhibition at our Cathedral. A tremendous opportunity for you to spend some quality time with our Lord awaits you and me as we make a special effort to venerate the shroud. Jesus waits while we struggle to meet our daily needs and our passions in life. Like the disciples, we are so slow to respond to His invitation. Jesus was calling them, and is calling us in the same way, to a change of mind, a new vision. It has been spiritually enriching to witness the emotional and blissful peacefulness of many of the pilgrims who have come to date. Faithful place themselves, their needs for healing, and holy items on the shroud asking for Jesus’ intervention. My prayer is that you will not allow anything to prohibit your personal pilgrimage to our Cathedral to venerate the Shroud. For more information, see www.ukrcathedral.com or phone Rev. Archpriest Daniel Troyan at 215-922-2917.

LENTEN REGULATIONS – Strict Fast and Abstinence from meat, eggs and dairy products on the 1st Day of Lent and on Good Friday, Abstinence from meat only on all Fridays of Lent as well as Holy Saturday is obligatory. Voluntary abstinence from meat only on Wednesdays of Lent is also encouraged, but not obligatory. Reception of the Sacraments of Reconciliation and Holy Eucharist during the Paschal Season (from the onset of Lent to the Wednesday before Ascension Thursday) is required. Participation in the Lenten Services is encouraged. Fasting and abstinence are not binding on persons 60 or older, the poor, sick, nursing or pregnant women, children below the age of 14 and those who engage in physically hard labor. Prayer and alms giving oblige all!
LENTEN SERVICES
The following Services will be offered in our Church during the Great Fast.
Liturgy of the Presanctified Gifts, Fridays 9:00 AM
Stations of the Cross & Sorokousty Services, Fridays 6:30 PM
LAYMEN STATIONS OF THE CROSS – The Annual Deanery Stations will be held on the following Sundays starting at 4:00 PM.
2/21/10 SS. Peter & Paul (Wilkes-Barre)
2/28/10 St. Nicholas (Glen Lyon)
3/7/10 Transfiguration of Our Lord (Nanticoke)
3/14/10 SS. Peter & Paul (Plymouth)
3/21/10 St. Vladimir (Edwardsville)

SACRAMENT OF PENANCE (CONFESSION) Before Liturgies or by appointment.
Parish members should go to Holy Confession at least once a month on average, or more often if there is a serious or mortal sin. In case of a serious or mortal sin, one may not receive Holy Communion, until they have first gone to Confession and received absolution. For small or ‘daily’ sins, one may receive Holy Communion as often as once a day, provided they have made an examination of conscience, a sincere Act of Contrition and recite the Prayer before Holy Communion, found in the text of the Liturgy.

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March 21, 2010

4th Sunday of the Great Fast

March 14, 2010

He was teaching his disciples and telling them, “The Son of Man is to be handed over to men and they will kill him, and three days after his death he will rise” (Mark 9:31)

DIVINE LITURGY / SERVICES SCHEDULE
FOURTH SUNDAY OF THE GREAT FAST
Sat. Mar. 13 – 4:00 p.m. Helen Pozda – Apostleship of Prayer
Sun. Mar. 14 – 8:30 a.m. Divine Liturgy – God’s Blessing for Parishioners
4:00 p.m. Laymen Stations – SS. Peter & Paul (Plymouth)
Mon. Mar. 15 - NO SERVICES
Tues. Mar. 16 – NO SERVICES
Wed. Mar. 17 – 6:30 p.m. Stations of the Cross & Sorokousty (St. Vladimir, Edwardsville)
Thurs. Mar. 18 – NO SERVICES
Fri. Mar. 19 – 9:00 a.m. Liturgy of the Presanctified Gifts
6:30 p.m. Stations of the Cross & Sorokousty
FIFTH SUNDAY OF THE GREAT FAST
Sat. Mar. 20 – 4:00 p.m. †John & †Mary Waslasky – Waslasky & Hall Families
Sun. Mar. 21 – 8:30 a.m. Divine Liturgy - God’s Blessing for Parishioners
4:00 p.m. Laymen Stations – St. Vladimir (Edwardsville)
Divine Liturgies for St. Vladimir (Edwardsville)
Saturday 6:00 p.m. English – Sunday 10:30 a.m. Slavonic

The Holy and Great Fast
“Because we did not fast we were banished from paradise.
So then let us fast so as to return back to paradise”
(St. Basil, On Fasting I)
“The great Holy Fast, called also the Forty Days Fast, is one of the oldest and most sacred Christian practices. The history of the Great Fast is long and rich in tradition, dating from Apostolic times.
The pre-paschal fast is called Great, not only because of the duration but also because of it’s significance in the life of the Church and of every Christian. ” Julian J. Katrij, OSBM, A Byzantine Rite Liturgical Year

Metropolitan Stefan’s Mediation for the Fourth Sunday of Great Fast
Jesus instructs his disciples that he is to be handed over to men and they will kill him, and three days later after his death he will rise. The disciples did not understand what he was saying, and they were afraid to question him. Jesus desired that his disciples understand God’s plan in Him. There is so much each of us does not yet understand in our faith. Do we take advantage of opportunities to enhance our knowledge and experience of faith? Do we seek to understand God’s plan for us? The exhibition of the Shroud of Turin in our Cathedral is an exceptional invitation to grow in understanding of the meaning of the Lord’s suffering for you and for me. Have you made plans to venerate and to pray before the Shroud? Plan a private visit or a parish group visit. A multi-media presentation on the Shroud planned for the evenings of Friday, April 9th and Saturday, April 10th from 7 to 9 pm is something you don’t want to miss! Have you seen Him? Come to pray and to rejoice in your renewal of faith in Jesus Christ! For more information, see www.ukrcathedral.com or phone Fr. Dan at 215-922-2917.

UKRAINIAN CULTURAL EXHIBIT & CRAFT SALE – Sponsored by League of Ukrainian Catholics, North Anthracite Council Sunday, March 14, 2010 at St. Vladimir Parish Center 428 N. 7th Ave, Scranton PA 18503 - 10:30 to 3:00. Lunch will be available, along with variety of homemade ethnic foods and baked goods. Everyone is cordially invited to attend SUNDAY DIVINE LITURGY at St. Vladimir Church at 10 a.m. Interested crafters/ vendors: $15/8′table Contact Janina Everett 570-759-2824 or nacfluc@hotmail.com.
POTATO PANCAKE SUPPER – Transfiguration of Our Lord Ukrainian Catholic Church is sponsoring a Potato Pancake Supper on Friday, March 19th in the Church Hall. Serving will be from 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM with take-outs available. Dinner includes “made from scratch” potato pancakes, choice of homemade soup, veggies, dessert, and beverage. The cost is $6.00. Reservations are not necessary. However, if you would like take-outs, you may call to reserve your pancakes and give an approximate pick up time. For more information, please call Jill at 824-4603.
ADULT RELIGIOUS EDUCATION – Adult religious education classes at SS Cyril & Methodius Ukrainian Catholic Church, Berwick, will resumed Monday, February 22nd at 7:00 p.m. in church hall. They will continue for four Mondays. This year’s topic will be the Divine Liturgy. Everyone is welcome. The church is located at 706 Warren St, Berwick, PA.
PARISH LENTEN MISSION – SS. Cyril & Methodius Ukrainian Catholic Church, 706 warren St., Berwick, PA will conduct a Lenten Mission on Sunday, March 21, 6:30 pm followed by social & fellowship, Monday, March 22, 6:30 pm and Tuesday, March 23, 6:30 pm followed by social & fellowship. Everyone is welcome. The Mission will be presented by His Grace Bishop Nicholas Samra. Bishop Nicholas was formerly (now retired) Auxiliary Bishop of the Newton, MA Eparchy of the Melkite Byzantine Catholic Church in America. He was born in Patterson, NJ, and was ordained a priest in 1970. He served in parishes in California, Illinois, and New Jersey. In 1989, he was named Auxiliary Bishop of the Newton Eparchy and served as Vicar General in addition to other duties. He has authored many articles on Christian leadership, ecumenism, catechesis, and stewardship. He has published a multi-volume history of the Melkite Church. He is a dynamic speaker, and often gives retreats, missions, and formation weekends to clergy and laity.
PASKA SALE – Saints Cyril and Methodius Ukrainian Catholic, Berwick will have a Paska (Easter Bread) Sale. Plain or Raisin Loaves are available for $7 each. Orders will be available for pick-up on Saturday, March 27th from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the church on Warren Street in Berwick. Order by Sunday, March 21st by calling Pat Reddin (570)752-1269 or Shirley Fowler (570)752-4701.

HOMEMADE LENTEN FOOD SALE – The Catholic Community of North Wilkes-Barre will sponsor Homemade Lenten Food Sales in St. Stanislaus Church Hall, 666 North Main Street, on Fridays during Lent. Potato pancakes, halusky, Manhattan clam chowder and New England clam Chowder. Serving 12:00 noon to 5:00 PM. Eat in or Take out. For Larger Orders Call Joyce at 823-4988.
LENTEN FISH DINNER – St. Mary of the Assumption, Byzantine Catholic Church, North Main Street will hold a Lenten Fish Dinner and Greek Catholic Union Basket Drawing on Friday, March 19th, 2010 in their Social Hall, 522 Madison St., Wilkes Barre, PA 18705. Takeouts 4 PM to 5 PM. Serving 5 PM to 7 PM (or ‘til sold out). Menu: Baked Stuffed Haddock, Potatoes, Vegetable, Homemade bread/butter, Dessert/Beverage. Adults: $8.00 Child $4.50 (under 12). Reservations Suggested 822-6028.

LITURGICAL MUSIC WORKSHOP – Professor Joseph Roll, noted authority on liturgical music of the Ukrainian Catholic Church will conduct a weekend workshop on congregational singing of the Divine Liturgy in English, Fri.-Sun. March 19-21, hosted by St. Michael Church, Frackville, Pa. The workshop will begin Friday March 19 at 4 p.m. and will conclude Sunday afternoon, March 21. The workshop fee, including all instructional materials, music and meals is $150.00 per person. Lodging is available at the Holiday Inn Express Frackville (570-874-1700). Registration forms are included in the vestibule of the church. For more information call: 215-627-0143, 570-874-1101 or email IBAH@aol.com. Deadline for registration is March 10, 2010.

LEAGUE OF UKRAINIAN CATHOLICS RETREAT – The League of Ukrainian Catholics will host their Annual Lenten Retreat Weekend at St. Mary’s Villa Educational & Retreat Center in Sloatsburg, New York. The retreat will be held March 19, 20, & 21, 2010. This year’s theme is “Living the Beatitudes”. The retreat director will be the Very Reverend Mark Fesniak. All are welcome to participate in this weekend of prayer and reflection on the Sermon on the Mount and the Beatitudes as given by Jesus. Anyone who wishes to spend some time away from the unessential activities of everyday, is encouraged to consider joining the retreatants from other parishes of the Metropolia for a weekend of prayer. The retreat begins Friday evening at 7:00 and runs through early Sunday afternoon. Registration is $175 and includes meals and lodging. Deadline for registration is March 10, 2010. Additional information, schedules and registration forms are available in the vestibule of the church.
SAINT BASIL’S LENTEN PILGRIMAGE – St. Basil College Seminary (Stamford, CT) opens its doors to the general public this upcoming spring. March 19-21, 2010 is your opportunity to come and learn about the richness of the Eastern Christian Tradition in a program entitled “Discover the Mystery of Christ in the Lenten Pilgrimage”. The aim of the program is to acquaint one with the richness of Eastern Christian theology and spirituality through the works of the Fathers of the Church, liturgy, icons and prayers. This special program provides an introduction and general overview of the most important issues of the Eastern Christian Tradition. The program is open for all who are interested and wish to gain knowledge about the beauty of Byzantine theology. The program fee is $225 and includes meals and lodging. Class space is limited so reserve your spot early. Deadline for registration is March 15, 2010. Additional information, pamphlets, schedules and registration forms are available in the vestibule of the church. Or call (203) 324-4578 or online at www.stbasilcollege.com.
SAINT BASIL’S UKRAINIAN STUDIES PROGRAM – St. Basil College Seminary (Stamford, CT) opens its doors to the general public this upcoming spring. April 23-25, 2010 is your opportunity to come and learn about the riches of the Ukrainian culture in a program entitled “Come and Discover the Magic World of Pysanka!”. The aim of the program is to acquaint and provide knowledge about Ukrainian Cultural with special focus on “Easter and the spring season” customs and traditions. The program is open for all who are interested and wish to gain first hand experience and knowledge of the ancient Ukrainian traditions and customs. The program fee is $225 and includes meals and lodging. Class space is limited so reserve your spot early. Deadline for registration is April 19, 2010. Additional information, pamphlets, schedules and registration forms are available in the vestibule of the church. Or call (203) 324-4578 or online at www.stbasilcollege.com.
RETREAT HOUSE – Interested in getting away from it all and meeting God in the quiet of nature? Information about the St. Clare Retreat House at the Holy Dormition Friary in Sybertsville, PA is available in the vestibule of the church.
MARRIAGE PREP WORKSHOP – The Annunciation of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Ukrainian Catholic Church, Melrose Park, PA will present a marriage preparation workshop, “Entering the Holy Mystery of Marriage”, on Saturday, April 17, 2010 with a follow up session on Saturday, May 1, 2010. The program will focus on various aspects of marriage, both spiritual and practical, and provides each person an opportunity for greater understanding of one’s partner and a means to strengthen one’s relationship. Registration information is available in the church vestibule. The total cost of the program is $120 / couple and includes materials, lunch and refreshments. For information call (215)635-1627.

UKRAINIANS CALLED TO FULL PARTICIPATION IN CENSUS – by Metropolitan Stefan Soroka April 1st is CENSUS DAY. The census counts the number of people living in the United States of America and gathers some statistics. Only a person’s status is asked. Social Security or other identification is not asked. I urge you to write in “UKRAINIAN” in response to question #9, “race”. This directly impacts government funds allocated for various services and effects representation in politics. Writing in “Ukrainian” will positively help in dedicating assistance for the Ukrainian American community. Participate and be counted as a Ukrainian on Census Day 2010! Thank you!
UKRAINIAN EDUCATIONAL & CULTURAL CENTER – Those wishing to help defray the cost of printing the commemorative book for the 30th Anniversary of the Ukrainian Educational & Cultural Center may purchase an advertisement in the book. Please see the information available in the vestibule. Adds must be placed by March 15th.

PRAYER FOR VOCATIONS
Almighty and Merciful God, Inspire those You have chosen To hear and answer Your call to the Priesthood and Religious Life. Give them the courage to be the prophets for our times. Give them the wisdom and openness to live their personal call. Give them the strength to be ready witnesses of Your love and care for the world. May they find support and encouragement in our words and in our prayers. Through the intercession
of Mary, the Mother of God and all the Saints. Amen.

The Purpose of the Great Fast
“Although our time has brought with it many changes in church laws, traditions, and discipline, and the Second Vatican Council has relaxed the rules for fasting, including the Great Fast, nevertheless, the Forty Days Fast still has significance for our spiritual life. For various reason, today we may be unable to fast in the same way our ancestors did; yet even today we are obliged to a spiritual fast – that is, we are obliged to refrain from sin, and from giving in to our evil inclinations. We are also obliged to pray and to practice virtue and good deeds. In reality then, the most important goal of the Great Fast is our spiritual renewal.” Julian J. Katrij, OSBM, A Byzantine Rite Liturgical Year

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