Category Archives: Uncategorized

February 18, 2010 · 12:33 pm

Sunday of Cheesefare

February 14, 2010

“Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and decay destroys, and thieves break in and steal. But store up treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor decay destroys, nor thieves break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there also will your heart be.” Matthew 6:19-21

DIVINE LITURGY / SERVICES SCHEDULE
Sat. Feb. 13 – 4:00 p.m. †Helen Elko – Jake Elko and Family
Sun. Feb. 14 – 8:30 a.m. Divine Liturgy – God’s Blessing for Parishioners
4:00 p.m. Forgiveness Vespers Saints Peter & Paul (Plymouth)
Mon. Feb. 15 – NO SERVICES
Tues. Feb. 16 – NO SERVICES
Wed. Feb. 17 – 6:30 p.m. Stations of the Cross & Sorokousty (St. Vladimir, Edwardsville)
Thurs. Feb. 18 – NO SERVICES
Fri. Feb. 19 – 9:00 a.m. Liturgy of the Presanctified Gifts
6:30 p.m. Stations of the Cross & Sorokousty
FIRST SUNDAY OF THE GREAT FAST
Sat. Feb. 20 – 4:00 p.m. †Leo Pensieri – Mary Pensieri
Sun. Feb. 21 – 8:30 a.m. Divine Liturgy – God’s Blessing for Parishioners
4:00 p.m. Laymen Stations – SS. Peter & Paul (Wilkes-Barre)
Divine Liturgies for St. Vladimir (Edwardsville)
Saturday 6:00 p.m. English – Sunday 10:30 a.m. Slavonic

The Sunday of Cheesefare
“The Holy Church in gradually preparing us for the fast, permits us to eat meat for the last time on Meatfare Sunday.” In years past, “During Cheesefare week, however, she permitted us to eat only dairy products. Just as we bid farewell to meat on Meatfare Sunday, so too we bid farewell to dairy products on Cheesefare Sunday. Hence, the name Cheesefare Sunday. Our people called this week cheese-or butter-week. This Sunday was the last day for pre-Lenten amusements.
On the Saturday before Cheesefare Sunday, in order to provide us with an example and an incentive for fasting and penance, holy Church celebrates the memory of those men and women who, from the earliest times, devoted their lives to prayer, fasting and penance in monasteries or as hermits in the deserts. Julian J. Katrij, OSBM, A Byzantine Rite Liturgical Year

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

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.

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!

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!
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.
BIRTHDAY GREETINGS – Birthday Greetings to Michael Yatison (2/15). May God grant him long life, good health and happiness. MNOHAYA BLAHAYA LITA!
SPECIAL ANNIVERSARY NOTE – Walter and Marion Melnyk celebrate 70 years of marriage this month (2/3). May God grant them continued long life, good health and happiness. MNOHAYA BLAHAYA LITA!
CANDLES – Candles, blessed on the Feast of the Encounter of Our Lord in the Temple, are available for sale for $3.00 each. Please see Michael Demko.
SOROKOUSTY MEMORIAL SERVICES – There is still time to have your beloved deceased remembered at Lenten Services this year, please fill out and submit the appropriate envelope provided in your envelope box and deposit it with the collection. Please make sure to print your names clearly.
ACTIVITIES COMMITTEE MEETING – The February meeting of the Activities Committee will be held on Thursday, February 18, 2010 at 6:30 p.m. in the Lower Level of the Church. All parishioners are welcome to attend this meeting.
LAYMEN STATIONS – We will be hosting the Laymen Stations of the Cross on the 1st Sunday of Lent, February 21, 2010 at 4:00 PM. The Apostleship of Prayer will again host our reception. Please contact Irene Melnyk (824-0761) to help out with food or monetary donations or to donate your time to help with the Social.
RUMMAGE SALE – Our Annual Rummage Sale will be held March 5-7, 2010. Items are now being accepted. Please bring your sellable items to the school hall before or after liturgies.
THANKS FOR YOUR HELP – Our thanks to everyone who so generously gave up part of their weekend and came out on Saturday morning to help fill Baba’s freezer with food for the upcoming Rummage Sale. And to those who helped with the prep work as well.
DONATIONS NEEDED FOR RUMMAGE SALE KITCHEN – Your generous donations of the following items for the Rummage Sale Kitchen are greatly appreciated; Canned Soda, Onions, Coffee (reg. & decaf.), Margarine, Cabbage, Tomato Sauce, Salt / Pepper, Wide Egg Noodles, Ground Beef, Ketchup/Mustard. DONATIONS MAY BE DROPPED OFF BEFORE OR AFTER LITURGIES
ANNUAL VOTIVE CANDLES – Donations are still being accepted for Annual Votive Candles. If you wish to donate to defray the cost for a votive candle for 2010 please contact the rectory.
IMPORTANT TAX INFORMATION – Your record of individual giving for 2009 is available. If you would like a letter listing your giving for 2009, Please contact the Parish Office. The Parish Financial Report will be available in March.
CONGRATULATIONS – Congratulations to Timothy Mykulyn who was awarded Scouting’s Religious award, the Parvuli Dei medal and Alex Mykulyn who was awarded the Light of Christ medal at a liturgy at SS. Peter & Paul Catholic Church in Plains on Scout Sunday last weekend. Tim and Alex are Cub Scouts in Pack 100 in Plains.
RELIGIOUS EDUCATION CLASSES RESUME – Our Spring Session of the Cross Valley Religious Education classes resumed this Saturday. Catechism classes are offered free of charge to parishioners in grades one through eight, on Saturday mornings from 9:30 to 11:30. (Please call regarding other ages, if interested.) For more info, call the program’s coordinator Christine Mash at 735-1784.
COLLECTION FOR CHURCH IN CENTRAL AND EASTERN EUROPE – Over he next few weeks our diocese will hold the Collection for the Church in Central and Eastern Europe. This collection supports essential pastoral work as well as scholarships for Catholic students, innovative Catholic communications, and Catholic social and humanitarian programs. The Church of this region remains in great need, and your assistance will give faith to the future. Envelopes for this collection were included the bulletin last week, additional envelopes are available in the vestibule. Please make your returns over the next few weeks to aid this worthy cause.
PARISH SIGN DONATIONS – Plans are being finalized for our new parish sign. The sign will be roughly 2 feet by 5 feet, double sided and installed in front of the church. Renderings of the sign are posted on the bulletin board in the back of the church. Our thanks to Catherine Dubinski for her $300 donation toward the cost of the sign. If you’d like to make a donation to help defray the cost, please place your donation with the collection using a Supplemental Envelope from the back of the Church and label it “Parish Sign”.
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.
PARISH EVENTS FEATURED IN THE WAY – In the February issue of The Way two articles feature events at our church. Take a moment to check them out. The Way is available online at the Archeparcial web site, http://www.ukrarcheparchy.us. A limited number of black on white, printed copies of The Way are available in the vestibule of the church.
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)
DEANERY FORGIVENESS SUNDAY – The North Anthracite Protopresbytery (Deanery) will conduct Forgiveness Vespers on the Last Sunday before Lent, Cheesefare Sunday, February 14, 2010. The vesper service will begin at 4:00 PM at SS. Peter & Paul Church (Plymouth) and will be followed by covered-dish supper in the parish hall. All deanery parishes are invited to participate and asked to contribute food and donations to the covered-dish supper. Stephen Mykulyn (825-0902) will be coordinating donations from our parish.
LUC NORTH ANTHRACITE COUNCIL – The LUC North Anthracite Council will meet on Sunday, February 21st at 2:00 PM at SS. Peter & Paul in Wilkes-Barre.
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 9 a.m. Interested crafters/ vendors: $15/8’table Contact Janina Everett 570-759-2824 or nacfluc@hotmail.com.
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)572-1269 or Shirley Fowler (570)752-4701.
FISH DINNER – The Social Concerns Committee of the Catholic Community of North Wilkes-Barre is sponsoring an Ash Wednesday Fish Dinner on February 17, 2010 in St. Stanislaus Churh Hall North Main Street, Wilkes-Barre. Adults $8.00 (fish, baked potato, coleslaw/applesauce, relish tray, rolls & butter, beverage and dessert). Child’s Dinner $3.00 (homemade macaroni & cheese, rolls & butter, applesauce & dessert). Takeouts from 3:30 p.m., Dinners will be served from 4:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. For tickets, which must be purchased in advance, call Joyce at the rectory (570) 823-4988.
LITURGICAL MUSIC WORKSHOPS – Come experience a great opportunity to grow in faith and experience the joy of music. Prof. Joseph Roll is offering a Workshop on the Divine Liturgy and the Eight Resurrectional Tones at St. Michael’s Church in Frackville, PA on Friday, March 19 to Sunday, March 21, 2010 and at the Ortynsky Spirituality Center in Philadelphia on Friday, April 16 to Sunday, April 18, 2010. Registration deadlines are March 10, 2010 and April 10, 2010 respectively. The cost for each workshop is $150 per person and includes meals, music and workbooks. Hotel accommodations are available at both locations. Additional information is available in the church vestibule. Contact Rev. Archpriest John Fields at (570)874-1101 for Frackville and Rev. Archpriest Daniel Troyan at (215)922-2917 for Philadelphia.
CRUISE FUND RAISER – Set sail for Bermuda with Fr. Ivan Turyk and St. Stephen Ukrainian Catholic Church, Toms River, NJ. Sail on the Norwegian Dawn Leaving New York on June 6 and returning June 13, 2010. Cabins are $805, $1022 or $1270 per person based on double occupancy and include port, tax and donation, insurance and gratuities additional. Reservations through Zenia’s Travel Club LLC, 46 Muirfield Rd., Jackson, NJ 08527. Phone (732)928-3792; Fax (732)928-3793; email ztc@earthlink.net.
125 YEARS – TRANSFIGURATION CHURCH SHAMOKIN – Transfiguration of Our Lord Ukrainian Catholic Church of Shamokin, is celebrating its 125th anniversary on April 25, 2010. To celebrate this historic event, they will be publishing a DVD. This DVD will detail the rich history of the parish and its founders. To be part of this DVD, please consider placing an ad, which could be a congratulatory or memorial wish for the parish. The deadline for ad submission is February 1, 2010. For further information please call; Mary Ann Charnosky, Adt Manager at (570) 648-7155.
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 http://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 http://www.stbasilcollege.com.
PRINTED COPIES OF ‘THE WAY’ ARE AVAILABLE IN THE CHURCH VESTIBULE

HAPPY ST. VALENTINE’S DAY
A Special Valentine…
“For God so loVed the world,
That He gAve
His onLy
BegottEn
SoN
That whosoever
Believeth In Him
Should Not perish,
But have Everlasting life.”John 3:16

HELP WANTED – Ss. Peter & Paul Ukr. Cath. Church, W-B is seeking temp. help with prep and event day work associated with it’s Annual Rummage & Homemade Food & Bake Sale. (March 5, 6 & 7) Positions are available in the following areas; Salespersons, Pricers, Parking Attendants, Kitchen Staff, Set-Up/Clean-Up Crews. Work at home positions available for Bakers. F/T & P/T positions available. No experience necessary, on the job training provided. Compensation limited to personal gratification. Rewards heavenly. Benefits your parish. To find out how you can help call 825-0902.

In Gethsemane, Jesus begged His disciples to “watch one hour” with Him…Another Lent begins tomorrow. 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?

February 8, 2010

The following is a brief summary of the minutes taken at the Parish and Pastoral meeting which was held on February 04, 2010.
High levels of contamination, such as the presence of exposed asbestos, unhealthy mold & mildew, and higher than normal reading of radon gas have been detected in the Parish Rectory., These problems create an unacceptable health environment which may have caused respiratory problems for our pastors family. Fr. Orest met with Archbishop Stefan Soroka, to notify him of this situation. He responded quickly, and gave him full authorization to immediately address these problems. MAC’S Restoration LLC which specialized in the removal of asbestos mold and mildew did the work with a cost of $2931.68

Temporary housing was provided by Extended Stay Hotels, Wilkes-Barre, Pa, at 129.00 per day.

Bids are currently being accepted for drainage problem that exists on the creek side of the rectory which contributes to the mold and mildew situation. Tadon problems will be corrected following the remediation of asbestos, mold, and mildew at a cost of $695.00.

Archbishop Stefan Soroka has procured an official replica of the Shroud of Turin for display at our Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in Philadelphia. The replica will be on exhibition at the cathedral from February 21, 2010-June 29, 2010. A bus trip will be held on Sunday, April 25, 2010. Since this is a spiritual event, Father Orest requests young and old alike attend. Dr. Michael Labuda is in charge of the trip. Part of the cost will be covered by our Parish funds. Each parishioner will be asked to contribute a certain amount. Bus companies will be called to consider the cost of the trip. Additional information will be featured in future bulletins.

Our Parish sign will be installed sometime in the spring.

Recording Secretary,
//S//
Janet Feszchak

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February 8, 2010 · 3:10 pm

Meatfare Sunday

February 7, 2010

“The Lord is coming and who will not fear Him? Who will be able to appear before His face? O my soul, prepare for this encounter.” (Ode 3 of the Canon in the Matins of the Sunday of Meatfare)

The Sunday of Meatfare
“The week following the Sunday of the Prodigal Son is called Meatfare week and it terminated on the Sunday called Meatfare Sunday. Meatfare Sunday is the last day on which it was still permissible to eat meat before the Great Fast. Meatfare means “farewell to meat.” Hence, the name “meatfare” Sunday. Of course, we are speaking here of the time when the Great Fast was observed in all strictness.
The Sunday of Meatfare is also called the Sunday of the terrible judgement. In this day’s Gospel Christ speaks of the terrible Judgement, of the reward of the righteous, and the eternal punishment of the wicked. The entire service of this day is devoted to the Last Judgement. By recalling the manner in which the Terrible Judgement will be carried out, this service is designed to fill us with salutary fear, sorrow for our sins and to stress the importance of good works, especially works of mercy.” Julian J. Katrij, OSBM, A Byzantine Rite Liturgical Year

DIVINE LITURGY / SERVICES SCHEDULE
Sat. Feb. 6 – 4:00 p.m. †Basil Ratkoff – Helen Ratkoff
Sun. Feb. 7 – 8:30 a.m. Divine Liturgy – God’s Blessing for Parishioners
Mon. Feb. 8 – NO SERVICES
Tues. Feb. 9 – NO SERVICES
Wed. Feb. 10 – NO SERVICES
Thurs. Feb. 11 – 9:15 a.m. Divine Liturgy – No Intention Offered
Fri. Feb. 12 – 9:15 a.m. Divine Liturgy – No Intention Offered
CHEESEFARE SUNDAY – FORGIVENESS SUNDAY
Sat. Feb. 13 – 4:00 p.m. †Helen Elko – Jake Elko and Family
Sun. Feb. 14 – 8:30 a.m. Divine Liturgy – God’s Blessing for Parishioners
Sun. Feb. 14 – 4:00 p.m. Forgiveness Vespers – Saints Peter & Paul (Plymouth)
Divine Liturgies for St. Vladimir (Edwardsville)
Saturday 6:00 p.m. English – Sunday 10:30 a.m. Slavonic

LENTEN SERVICES – The following Services will be offered in our Church during the Great Fast. Stations of the Cross & Sorokousty Services – Wednesdays 6:30 PM, Liturgy of the Presanctified Gifts – Fridays 9:15 AM. Lent begins Monday, February 15, 2010
In Gethsemane, Jesus begged His disciples to “watch one hour” with Him.
Another Lent begins a little over a week from now.
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?

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)
MYASOPUSNA SUNDAY AT TRANSFIGURATION – Transfiguration of Our Lord Ukrainian Catholic Church invites the public to its 2010 Myasopusna prelenten celebration. This cultural event takes place Sunday, February 7, from noon to 4 p.m. at the church hall, Center and Bliss Streets, in the Hanover Section of Nanticoke. Myasopusna Sunday (Meatfare Sunday) is traditionally the last day in the church year during which Eastern Catholics may consume meat, in preparation for the upcoming fast of lent. The parish of Transfiguration Church uses the occasion of Myasopusna Sunday as an opportunity to celebrate and share its Ukrainian heritage with the community, through food, crafts, music, and dance. Dinner (a platter of roast pork, kobasi, baked ham, varenyky/pierogies, homemade borscht, homemade blackbread and butter, rice pudding, and a beverage) will be served from 12:30 to 1:30. The cost for the dinner is $12 (additional donations are accepted). Please call Geri at 824-3880 or Helen at 735-4654, to purchase your dinner tickets in advance. Preferred dinner/entertainment seating will be reserved for those who call by February 1. Dinner will be followed by live Ukrainian music and dance performances, including the Holy Year Choir, Kazka, the St. Mary’s Ukrainian Dancers, a selection of Klezmer tunes, and more. Participation of Ukrainian crafters will include embroidery, woodcrafts, pysanky, and ceramics displays, with many items available for purchase. We hope to have a la carte items available for takeouts in the afternoon. This is a perfect way to spend your Superbowl Sunday afternoon, and perhaps take home something special to eat for your party as well!
PORK AND KAPUSTA-SAUERKRAUT DINNER – St. Vladimir Ukrainian Catholic Church, Scranton will hold a Pre-Lenten Pork & Kapusta Dinner, Sunday, February 7, 2010. There will be one seating at 12:00 noon at St. Vladimir Parish Center, 428 North Seventh Street, Scranton. Adults $11; Children $5.50 (age 6-12); Under 6 – free. Take outs will be available for pick-up between 11:00 and 11:45 a.m. Advance reservations please. Call Kathleen at 346-2414. Divine Liturgy will be celebrated at 10:00 a.m. Everyone welcome! For information, please call 346-2114 only.
CHILDREN / YOUTH PARTY & TALENT SHOW – A Children / Youth Party and Talent Show will be held on Friday, February 12, 2010, 6 to 8 pm at Transfiguration Church Hall, Bliss and Center Streets, Hanover Section. FREE party for children of all ages (tots through teens). The talent show is open to youths of all ages as well. RSVP is not necessary unless you would want to register for the talent show. If you have questions or if you would like to contribute something for the party (a bag of chips, soda, any items for our prize display) please call 735-1784. (This is a good opportunity to make use of your excess holiday gifts!) Call Front and Center Music at 740-2009 to register for the talent show.
DEANERY FORGIVENESS SUNDAY – The North Anthracite Protopresbytery (Deanery) will conduct Forgiveness Vespers on the Last Sunday before Lent, Cheesefare Sunday, February 14, 2010. The vesper service will begin at 4:00 PM at SS. Peter & Paul Church (Plymouth) and will be followed by covered-dish supper in the parish hall. All deanery parishes are invited to participate and asked to contribute food and donations to the covered-dish supper. Stephen Mykulyn (825-0902) will be coordinating donations from our parish.
LENTEN FOOD SALE – St. Vladimir Church, Scranton will hold a Lenten Food Sale with pick ups on Saturday, February 13 from 5:30pm to 7:00pm; Sunday, February 14 from 11:30am to 1:00pm; and Ash Wednesday, February 17 between 11:00am and 6:00pm. Menu includes: Borshch (red beet soup), Manhattan (red) clam chowder, Cream Bean with Potato, and Vegetarian Vegetable soups; Halushky (noodles with cabbage and onions); and White Bread. All foods are homemade fresh and are meatless. Advance take-out orders only. No eat-in. Phone Kathleen at 346-2414 no later than Tuesday, February 9th. Pickup Orders at: St. Vladimir Parish Center, 428 North Seventh Avenue, Scranton.

SPAGHETTI DINNER – Saint Mary Byzantine Catholic Church, 695 North Main Street, Wilkes-Barre will hold a Spaghetti Dinner on Saturday, February 13th, 2010, in their Social Hall Cafeteria (522 Madison St.). 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM (Takeouts 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM). Adults $7.00 Children (under 12) $4.00. Includes: Spaghetti, homemade meatballs, salad, bread, dessert, & beverage. Free seconds on spaghetti.
FISH DINNER – The Social Concerns Committee of the Catholic Community of North Wilkes-Barre is sponsoring an Ash Wednesday Fish Dinner on February 17, 2010 in St. Stanislaus Church Hall North Main Street, Wilkes-Barre. Adults $8.00 (fish, baked potato, coleslaw/applesauce, relish tray, rolls & butter, beverage and dessert). Child’s Dinner $3.00 (homemade macaroni & cheese, rolls & butter, applesauce & dessert). Takeouts from 3:30 p.m., Dinners will be served from 4:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. For tickets, which must be purchased in advance, call Joyce at the rectory (570) 823-4988.

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 http://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 http://www.stbasilcollege.com.

125 YEARS – TRANSFIGURATION CHURCH SHAMOKIN – Transfiguration of Our Lord Ukrainian Catholic Church of Shamokin, is celebrating its 125th anniversary on April 25, 2010. To celebrate this historic event, they will be publishing a DVD. This DVD will detail the rich history of the parish and its founders. To be part of this DVD, please consider placing an ad, which could be a congratulatory or memorial wish for the parish. The deadline for ad submission is February 1, 2010. For further information please call; Mary Ann Charnosky, Adt Manager at (570) 648-7155.

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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January 31, 2010 · 4:02 pm

Sunday of the Prodigal Son

January 31, 2010

“He said to him, ‘My son, you are with me always; everything I have is yours. But now we must celebrate and rejoice, because your brother was dead and has come to life again; he was lost and has been found’.’’ (Luke 15: 31-32)

DIVINE LITURGY / SERVICES SCHEDULE
Sat. Jan. 30 – 4:00 p.m. †Catherine Stchur – Mr. & Mrs. Peter Morika
Sun. Jan. 31 – 8:30 a.m. Divine Liturgy – God’s Blessing for Parishioners
Encounter of Our Lord in the Temple – February 2nd – Solemn Holy Day
Mon. Feb. 1 – 6:30 p.m. Divine Liturgy, Myrovania
Tues. Feb. 2 – 9:15 a.m. Divine Liturgy, Myrovania (at St. Vladimir’s-Edwardsville)
Wed. Feb. 3 – NO SERVICES
Thurs. Feb. 4 – 9:15 a.m. Divine Liturgy – No Intention Offered
Fri. Feb. 5 – 9:15 a.m. †Margaret Sefcik Slacta – Mary Anne Mudrak
Sat. Feb. 6 – 4:00 p.m. †Basil Ratkoff – Helen Ratkoff
Sun. Feb. 7 – 8:30 a.m. Divine Liturgy – God’s Blessing for Parishioners
Divine Liturgies for St. Vladimir (Edwardsville)
Saturday 6:00 p.m. English – Sunday 10:30 a.m. Slavonic

The Prodigal Son
“The parable of the Prodigal Son has a deep symbolic meaning. When we ponder it, we spontaneously perceive that the Prodigal Son is none other than every person who through a sinful life has become estranged from God. For this reason, the parable is very real to us: it is the story of our lives. It is a symbol of our infidelity to God. But it is also the symbol of God’s unbounded mercy toward us. Today, as the world teems with prodigal sons and daughters this parable is dramatized in countless millions. Every person is either that older son who is ever faithful to his father or that younger son who only through hard and painful experience becomes convinced that outside the father’s house there is no happiness. The parable teaches us that God forgives and mercifully receives even the greatest sinners, if they repent and are sorry for their sins. The history of the human race is nothing but the history of God’s mercy. “The mercy of the Lord is from eternity to eternity upon them that fear them.” (Psalm 103,17)” Julian J. Katrij, OSBM, A Byzantine Rite Liturgical Year

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.
BLESSING OF HOMES – For the parishioners this will be taking place, weather permiting after the Feast of the Epiphany. Rev. Kunderevych will see those who are home-bound first, making a pastoral visit with the Holy Sacrament and blessing their homes. Please call Rev. Kunderevych at the rectory to make arrangements to have your home blessed as well.
HOLY DAY – Please note that Liturgy for the Solemn Holy Day, The Encounter of Our Lord in the Temple will be held in our church on Monday evening at 6:30 p.m. and in Edwardsville at 9:15 a.m. on Tuesday. As is our tradition candles will be blessed. These candles will be available for sale at $3.00 each. Please see Mr. Demko.
COLLECTION FOR CHURCH IN CENTRAL AND EASTERN EUROPE – Over he next few weeks our diocese will hold the Collection for the Church in Central and Eastern Europe. This collection supports essential pastoral work as well as scholarships for Catholic students, innovative Catholic communications, and Catholic social and humanitarian programs. The Church of this region remains in great need, and your assistance will give faith to the future. An envelope for this collection is included with this bulletin, additional envelopes are available in the vestibule. Please make your returns over the next few weeks to aid this worthy cause.
SOROKOUSTY MEMORIAL SERVICES – As we begin the preparation for Lent it is time also to start considering a remembrance for our beloved deceased. To have those persons remembered at Lenten Services this year, please fill out and submit the appropriate envelope provided in your envelope box and deposit it with the collection. Please make sure to print your names clearly.
APOSTLESHIP OF PRAYER MEETING – The February meeting of the Apostleship of Prayer will be held on Monday afternoon, February 1, 2010 starting with the recital of the Holy Rosary at 1:00 PM. New members welcome. Hostess for the meeting will be Marion Williams.
RUMMAGE SALE – Our Annual Rummage Sale will be held March 5-7, 2010. Items are now being accepted. Please bring your sellable items to the school hall before or after liturgies.
ANNUAL VOTIVE CANDLES – Donations are now being accepted for Annual Votive Candles. If you wish to donate to defray the cost for a votive candle for 2010 please contact the rectory.
IMPORTANT TAX INFORMATION – Your record of individual giving for 2009 is available. If you would like a letter listing your giving for 2009, Please contact the Parish Office. The Parish Financial Report will be available in March.
ADDRESS FOR REV. & MRS. VOLODYMYR KLANICHKA – Those wishing to send notes of congratulations to our former priest and his wife on the birth of their twins are advised that their address is Saint Nicholas Ukrainian Catholic Church, 800-801 Lea Boulevard Wilmington, DE 19802. The babies, a boy and a girl (Mark and Deanna) were born on January 13, 2010.
PARISH COUNCILS NAMED – In accordance with Cannon 295, Rev. Orest Kunderevych, has chosen the following parishioners to serve on the Parish Finance and Pastoral Councils;
Parish Finance Council; Michael Demko Jr., Myron Feszchak, and Rita Katulka.
Parish Pastoral Council; Joseph Antonishak Jr., Janet Feszchak, Michael Labuda, Peter Morika, Maria Revak, Charles Waligun, Mary Ann Waslasky, Marion Williams, and George Yatison.
Rev. Kunderenych would like to once again like to thank those who had served on the committees which were dissolved by the formation of these new councils.
PARISH COUNCILS TO MEET – Members of the Parish Finance and Pastoral Councils will meet along with Rev. Kunderenych on Thursday, February 4, 2010 at 6:00 PM in the Church basement. All members are asked to attend.
2010 ENVELOPES – The church envelopes for 2010 are available in the lower level of the church. Please take a moment to pick-up your envelopes. We apologize for any errors that may have been made regarding the list for envelopes. If you were omitted please contact the parish office.
CALENDARS AVAILABLE – Calendars for 2010 are available in the lower level of the church. Please pick up your copy before or after liturgy. Our thanks to Simon S. Russin Funeral Home, Inc. for sponsoring the calendar again this year.
PARISH SIGN DONATIONS – Plans are being finalized for our new parish sign. The sign will be roughly 2 feet by 5 feet, double sided and installed in front of the church. Renderings of the sign are posted on the bulletin board in the back of the church. If you’d like to make a donation to help defray the cost, please place your donation with the collection using a Supplemental Envelope from the back of the Church and label it “Parish Sign”.
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.
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.
MYASOPUSNA SUNDAY AT TRANSFIGURATION – Transfiguration of Our Lord Ukrainian Catholic Church invites the public to its 2010 Myasopusna prelenten celebration. This cultural event takes place Sunday, February 7, from noon to 4 p.m. at the church hall, Center and Bliss Streets, in the Hanover Section of Nanticoke. Myasopusna Sunday (Meatfare Sunday) is traditionally the last day in the church year during which Eastern Catholics may consume meat, in preparation for the upcoming fast of lent. The parish of Transfiguration Church uses the occasion of Myasopusna Sunday as an opportunity to celebrate and share its Ukrainian heritage with the community, through food, crafts, music, and dance. Dinner (a platter of roast pork, kobasi, baked ham, varenyky/pierogies, homemade borscht, homemade blackbread and butter, rice pudding, and a beverage) will be served from 12:30 to 1:30. The cost for the dinner is $12 (additional donations are accepted). Please call Geri at 824-3880 or Helen at 735-4654, to purchase your dinner tickets in advance. Preferred dinner/entertainment seating will be reserved for those who call by February 1. Dinner will be followed by live Ukrainian music and dance performances, including the Holy Year Choir, Kazka, the St. Mary’s Ukrainian Dancers, a selection of Klezmer tunes, and more. Participation of Ukrainian crafters will include embroidery, woodcrafts, pysanky, and ceramics displays, with many items available for purchase. We hope to have a la carte items available for takeouts in the afternoon. This is a perfect way to spend your Superbowl Sunday afternoon, and perhaps take home something special to eat for your party as well!
PORK AND KAPUSTA-SAUERKRAUT DINNER – St. Vladimir Ukrainian Catholic Church, Scranton will hold a Pre-Lenten Pork & Kapusta Dinner, Sunday, February 7, 2010. There will be one seating at 12:00 noon at St. Vladimir Parish Center, 428 North Seventh Street, Scranton. Adults $11; Children $5.50 (age 6-12); Under 6 – free. Take outs will be available for pick-up between 11:00 and 11:45 a.m. Advance reservations please. Call Kathleen at 346-2414. Divine Liturgy will be celebrated at 10:00 a.m. Everyone welcome! For information, please call 346-2114 only.
CHILDREN / YOUTH PARTY & TALENT SHOW – A Children / Youth Party and Talent Show will be held on Friday, February 12, 2010, 6 to 8 pm at Transfiguration Church Hall, Bliss and Center Streets, Hanover Section. FREE party for children of all ages (tots through teens). The talent show is open to youths of all ages as well. RSVP is not necessary unless you would want to register for the talent show. If you have questions or if you would like to contribute something for the party (a bag of chips, soda, any items for our prize display) please call 735-1784. (This is a good opportunity to make use of your excess holiday gifts!) Call Front and Center Music at 740-2009 to register for the talent show.
DEANERY FORGIVENESS SUNDAY – The North Anthracite Protopresbytery (Deanery) will conduct Forgiveness Vespers on the Last Sunday before Lent, Cheesefare Sunday, February 14, 2010. The vesper service will begin at 4:00 PM at SS. Peter & Paul Church (Plymouth) and will be followed by covered-dish supper in the parish hall. All deanery parishes are invited to participate and asked to contribute food and donations to the covered-dish supper. Stephen Mykulyn (825-0902) will be coordinating donations from our parish.
FISH DINNER – The Social Concerns Committee of the Catholic Community of North Wilkes-Barre is sponsoring an Ash Wednesday Fish Dinner on February 17, 2010 in St. Stanislaus Churh Hall North Main Street, Wilkes-Barre. Adults $8.00 (fish, baked potato, coleslaw/applesauce, relish tray, rolls & butter, beverage and dessert). Child’s Dinner $3.00 (homemade macaroni & cheese, rolls & butter, applesauce & dessert). Takeouts from 3:30 p.m., Dinners will be served from 4:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. For tickets, which must be purchased in advance, call Joyce at the rectory (570) 823-4988.
125 YEARS – TRANSFIGURATION CHURCH SHAMOKIN – Transfiguration of Our Lord Ukrainian Catholic Church of Shamokin, is celebrating its 125th anniversary on April 25, 2010. To celebrate this historic event, they will be publishing a DVD. This DVD will detail the rich history of the parish and its founders. To be part of this DVD, please consider placing an ad, which could be a congratulatory or memorial wish for the parish. The deadline for ad submission is February 1, 2010. For further information please call; Mary Ann Charnosky, Adt Manager at (570) 648-7155.

“I want to offer thanks on behalf of my family for your thoughtfulness and many kindnesses. You certainly are very caring people and your gifts , cards and Christmas “goodies” were all deeply appreciated. We have been blessed by your prayers and generosity. May 2010 bring all of you many graces and blessings. And I want to say thanks to everyone who invited me into their homes to bless them. It is important for people to have their home blessed and it is a time to talk with the priest about life. This year there were less people who invited me to bless their homes, my thanks to those who invited me to bless their homes for understanding spirituality and tradition.”
In Christ Rev. Orest Kunderevych

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January 22, 2010 · 5:05 pm

Sunday of the Publican and Pharisee

January 24, 2010

“I tell you, the latter went home justified, not the former; for everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and the one who humbles himself will be exalted.” (Luke 18:14)

Today we begin the Pre-Lenten Period that starts with the Sunday of the Publican and the Pharisee and ends with the Sunday of the Cheese Fare. It is the time that we should be preparing ourselves for the coming of the Great Fast, Lent. This Sunday has it’s main objective in portraying the need for all to be truly humble and recognize that we all are sinners and need to repent for those sins.
The Parable of the Publican and the Pharisee
“The Sunday of the Publican and the Pharisee received its name from the parable of the Publican and the Pharisee, recorded in the Gospel of St. Luke (18,10-14). In this parable, Jesus Christ gives us two contrasts: the proud Pharisee and the humble Publican. Using these two types of people, He points out the ugliness of pride and the significance of humility.
The parable portrays a typical Pharisee. Although he came to the temple to pray, he praised, not God but himself. He does not ask God to pardon his sins. On the contrary, being sure of his righteousness, he even thanks God that he is not a sinner. He brags about his fasting and the tithes he gives to the temple of God, while at the same time, he looks down upon the Publican as upon a great sinner.
The Publican, conscious of his own sinfulness, does not even dare raise his eyes to heaven, but prays humbly and strikes his breast, saying: “God, be merciful to me a sinner.” (Luke18,13) His short prayer, full of sorrow and humility, remains to this day, a most beautiful and sincere act of sorrow for our sins.
Jesus Christ ends this parable with the words: “ I tell you, this man went back to his home justified rather than the other; for everyone who exalts himself shall be humbled, and he who humbles himself shall be exalted.” (Luke 18)” Julian J. Katrij, OSBM, A Byzantine Rite Liturgical Year

DIVINE LITURGY / SERVICES SCHEDULE
Sat. Jan. 23 – 4:00 p.m. †John & †Mary Waslasky – Hall & Waslasky Families
Sun. Jan. 24 – 8:30 a.m. Divine Liturgy – God’s Blessing for Parishioners
Mon. Jan. 25 – NO SERVICES
Tues. Jan. 26 – NO SERVICES
Wed. Jan. 27 – 9:15 a.m. Health of Sister Anselm – Mary Anne Mudrak
Thurs. Jan. 28 – 9:15 a.m. Private Intention – Mary Anne Mudrak
Fri. Jan. 29 – NO SERVICES
Sat. Jan. 30 – 4:00 p.m. †Catherine Stchur – Mr. & Mrs. Peter Morika
Sun. Jan. 31 – 8:30 a.m. Divine Liturgy – God’s Blessing for Parishioners
Divine Liturgies for St. Vladimir (Edwardsville)
Saturday 6:00 p.m. English – Sunday 10:30 a.m. Slavonic

We Greet You with the Holy Birth of Christ, Wishing that you spend these holidays in Good Health, peace and happiness May God grant you life to the New Year; From the New Year to the Epiphany; From the Epiphany to the Resurrection; From the Resurrection to the Ascension; From the Ascension to the Pentecost; From the Pentecost to a hundred years Until God wills your life! Christ is Born! – Glorify Him!
BLESSING OF HOMES – For the parishioners this will be taking place, weather permiting after the Feast of the Epiphany. Rev. Kunderevych will see those who are home-bound first, making a pastoral visit with the Holy Sacrament and blessing their homes. Please call Rev. Kunderevych at the rectory to make arrangements to have your home blessed as well.
HOLY WATER – Holy Water blessed at Theophany services will remain available in the lower level of the church through the end of the month. Please remember to bring a container.
CONDOLENCES – Rev. Kunderevych, his family and the Parish community of Saints Peter & Paul extend our deepest sympathies to the family and friends of our former parishioner Margaret Sefcik Slacta who passed to her eternal reward last week. May God grant her eternal memory. VICHNAYA PAMYAT.
CONGRATULATIONS – We are very pleased to announce our former administrator, Rev. Volodymyr Klanichka and his wife Natalie have had their twins. The babies, a boy and a girl were born on January 13, 2010. The babies , Deanna and Mark, and Natalie are all doing very well and are home from the hospital. May God grant them long life, good health and happiness. MNOHAYA BLAHAYA LITA!
SOROKOUSTY MEMORIAL SERVICES – As we begin the preparation for Lent it is time also to start considering a remembrance for our beloved deceased. To have those persons remembered at Lenten Services this year, please fill out and submit the appropriate envelope provided in your envelope box and deposit it with the collection. Please make sure to print your names clearly.
BIRTHDAY GREETINGS – Birthday Greetings to Evelyn Antonishak (1/24) and Matilda Proch (1/30). May God grant them long life, good health and happiness. MNOHAYA BLAHAYA LITA!
APOSTLESHIP OF PRAYER MEETING – The February meeting of the Apostleship of Prayer will be held on Monday afternoon, February 1, 2010 starting with the recital of the Holy Rosary at 1:00 PM. New members welcome. Hostess for the meeting will be Marion Williams.
LAYMEN STATIONS MEETING – There will be a meeting on Thursday evening, January 28, 2010 starting at 7:30 PM, in the Lower Level of the Church, to discuss scheduling for this year’s Lenten Laymen Stations of the Cross. All are welcome to attend.
RELIGIOUS EDUCATION – Religious Education Classes will be on Winter Break. Classes will resume again in February 13, 2010.
RUMMAGE SALE – Our Annual Rummage Sale will be held March 5-7, 2010. Items are now being accepted. Please bring your sellable items to the school hall before or after liturgies.
ANNUAL VOTIVE CANDLES – Donations are now being accepted for Annual Votive Candles. If you wish to donate to defray the cost for a votive candle for 2010 please contact the rectory.
HAITI EMERGENCY APPEAL – In response to the earthquake in Haiti this past week, Metropolitan Stefan has asked that a special collection be taken this weekend to help the survivors. These funds will be forwarded through the Chancery to Catholic Relief Services in Baltimore, MD.
PARISH COUNCILS NAMED – In accordance with Cannon 295, Rev. Orest Kunderevych, has chosen the following parishioners to serve on the Parish Finance and Pastoral Councils;
Parish Finance Council
Michael Demko Jr.
Myron Feszchak
Rita Katulka
Parish Pastoral Council
Joseph Antonishak Jr.
Janet Feszchak
Michael Labuda
Peter Morika
Maria Revak
Charles Waligun
Mary Ann Waslasky
Marion Williams
George Yatison
Rev. Kunderenych would like to once again like to thank those who had served on the committees which were dissolved by the formation of these new councils.
PARISH PASTORAL COUNCIL TO MEET – Members of the Parish Pastoral Council will meet along with Rev. Kunderenych and a representative of the Parish Finance Council on Thursday, February 4, 2010 at 6:00 PM in the Church basement. All members are asked to attend.
2010 ENVELOPES – The church envelopes for 2010 are available in the lower level of the church. Please take a moment to pick-up your envelopes. We apologize for any errors that may have been made regarding the list for envelopes. If you were omitted please contact the parish office.
CALENDARS AVAILABLE – Calendars for 2010 are available in the lower level of the church. Please pick up your copy before or after liturgy. Our thanks to Simon S. Russin Funeral Home, Inc. for sponsoring the calendar again this year.
PARISH SIGN DONATIONS – Plans are being finalized for our new parish sign. The sign will be roughly 2 feet by 5 feet, double sided and installed in front of the church. Renderings of the sign are posted on the bulletin board in the back of the church. If you’d like to make a donation to help defray the cost, please place your donation with the collection using a Supplemental Envelope from the back of the Church and label it “Parish Sign”.
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.
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.
PRINTED COPIES OF ‘THE WAY’ ARE AVAILABLE IN THE CHURCH VESTIBULE
MYASOPUSNA SUNDAY AT TRANSFIGURATION – Transfiguration of Our Lord Ukrainian Catholic Church invites the public to its 2010 Myasopusna prelenten celebration. This cultural event takes place Sunday, February 7, from noon to 4 p.m. at the church hall, Center and Bliss Streets, in the Hanover Section of Nanticoke. Myasopusna Sunday (Meatfare Sunday) is traditionally the last day in the church year during which Eastern Catholics may consume meat, in preparation for the upcoming fast of lent. The parish of Transfiguration Church uses the occasion of Myasopusna Sunday as an opportunity to celebrate and share its Ukrainian heritage with the community, through food, crafts, music, and dance. Dinner (a platter of roast pork, kobasi, baked ham, varenyky/pierogies, homemade borscht, homemade blackbread and butter, rice pudding, and a beverage) will be served from 12:30 to 1:30. The cost for the dinner is $12 (additional donations are accepted). Please call Geri at 824-3880 or Helen at 735-4654, to purchase your dinner tickets in advance. Preferred dinner/entertainment seating will be reserved for those who call by February 1. Dinner will be followed by live Ukrainian music and dance performances, including the Holy Year Choir, Kazka, the St. Mary’s Ukrainian Dancers, a selection of Klezmer tunes, and more. Participation of Ukrainian crafters will include embroidery, woodcrafts, pysanky, and ceramics displays, with many items available for purchase. We hope to have a la carte items available for takeouts in the afternoon. This is a perfect way to spend your Superbowl Sunday afternoon, and perhaps take home something special to eat for your party as well!
DEANERY FORGIVENESS SUNDAY – The North Anthracite Protopresbytery (Deanery) will conduct Forgiveness Vespers on the Last Sunday before Lent, Cheesefare Sunday, February 14, 2010. The vesper service will begin at 4:00 PM at SS. Peter & Paul Church (Plymouth) and will be followed by covered-dish supper in the parish hall. All deanery parishes are invited to participate and asked to contribute food and donations to the covered-dish supper. Stephen Mykulyn (825-0902) will be coordinating donations from our parish.
ANNUAL ETHNIC FOOD FESTIVAL – Holy Resurrection Cathedral will host their Annual Ethnic Food Festival featuring Home Cooked Foods and Arts & Crafts on Saturday, January 30th, 2010 from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM at the Holy Resurrection Cathedral Parlors, 591 N. Main Street, Wilkes-Barre.
TAMBURITZANS – Holy Resurrection Cathedral, Wilkes-Barre will bring the Tamburitzans from Duquesne University to Northeastern, PA on Sunday, January 31st, 2010. The Tamburitzans are America’s Premier Folk Ensemble. Featuring singing, dancing and musical performance, these 34 talented performers (in elaborate costumes) bring Eastern European Folklore to the modern stage. Tickets on sale now for the performance at Hazleton Area High School, 23rd Street, Hazleton, PA. Curtain 3:00 PM. One performance only. All seats reserved $30-$12). Call (570) 822-5452 or toll free (877) 822-5452.
ICONOSTAS TO BE BLESSED – On Sunday, January 31, 2010, The Presentation of Our Lord Ukrainian Catholic Church community will mark the completion of extensive interior renovations to its church building located at 1564 Allentown Road, Lansdale, PA. The blessing and dedication will take place during a Pontifical Divine Liturgy that the spiritual leader of all Ukrainian Catholics in America, Archbishop Metropolitan Stefan Soroka, will celebrate at 11:00 A.M. in the church. Rev. Vasil Bunik, the pastor, and other priests of the Ukrainian Catholic Church, will concelebrate the services. Presentation Church’s pastor, Father Vasil Bunik, extends a cordial invitation to everyone to attend the Liturgy and the banquet. Tickets for the banquet are only $25 per adult and $10 for children under 12. The Church will be open during the time of the banquet for a view of the interior. For further information or to order tickets, call Mike at (215) 715 – 4871 (evenings), send an email to PresentationUCC@gmail.com.
125 YEARS – TRANSFIGURATION CHURCH SHAMOKIN – Transfiguration of Our Lord Ukrainian Catholic Church of Shamokin, is celebrating its 125th anniversary on April 25, 2010. To celebrate this historic event, they will be publishing a DVD. This DVD will detail the rich history of the parish and its founders. To be part of this DVD, please consider placing an ad, which could be a congratulatory or memorial wish for the parish. The deadline for ad submission is February 1, 2010. For further information please call; Mary Ann Charnosky, Adt Manager at (570) 648-7155.
SLOATSBURG JUBILEES – During the next two years the Sister Servants of Mary Immaculate will be celebrating two milestones in their history, the 50th anniversary of the establishment of the American Province, under the patronage of the Immaculate Conception and 75 years of ministry in the United States. As part of these celebrations the Sisters are embarking on a project to build a shrine to Blessed Josaphata (their foundress) on the grounds of their home in Sloatsburg. The small chapel will be a place of prayer, open year round, where people could come to light candles and pray to Blessed Josaphata for her intercession before God. Memorial Pavers for the walkway leading to the chapel will be sold to help defray the costs of the construction. Forms to sponsor those pavers are also available in the back of the church. Construction is well underway and paver space is limited, so get your form in soon.

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January 22, 2010 · 4:56 pm

Sunday of Zacchaeus

January 17, 2010

And Jesus said to him, “Today salvation has come to this house because this man too is a descendant of Abraham. For the Son of Man has come to seek and to save what was lost.” (Luke 19:9-10)

DIVINE LITURGY / SERVICES SCHEDULE
Sat. Jan. 16 – 4:00 p.m. Health of Pauline Zurek – Dr.& Mrs. Michael Labuda
Sun. Jan. 17 – 8:30 a.m. Divine Liturgy – God’s Blessing for Parishioners
Mon. Jan. 18 – NO SERVICES
Tues. Jan. 19 – NO SERVICES
Wed. Jan. 20 – NO SERVICES
Thurs. Jan. 21 – 9:15 a.m. Divine Liturgy – No Intention Offered
Fri. Jan. 22 – 9:15 a.m. †Sr. M. Stephanie – Mary Anne Mudrak
Sat. Jan. 23 – 4:00 p.m. †John & †Mary Waslasky – Hall & Waslasky Families
Sun. Jan. 24 – 8:30 a.m. Divine Liturgy – God’s Blessing for Parishioners
Divine Liturgies for St. Vladimir (Edwardsville)
Saturday 6:00 p.m. English – Sunday 10:30 a.m. Slavonic

We Greet You with the Holy Birth of Christ, Wishing that you spend these holidays in Good Health, peace and happiness May God grant you life to the New Year; From the New Year to the Epiphany; From the Epiphany to the Resurrection; From the Resurrection to the Ascension; From the Ascension to the Pentecost; From the Pentecost to a hundred years Until God wills your life! Christ is Born! – Glorify Him!
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.
BLESSING OF HOMES – For the parishioners this will be taking place, weather permitting after the Feast of the Epiphany. Father Orest will see those who are home-bound first, making a pastoral visit with the Holy Sacrament and blessing their homes. Please call Father Orest at the rectory to make arrangements to have your home blessed as well.
HOLY WATER – Holy Water blessed at Theophany services will remain available in the lower level of the church through the end of the month. Please remember to bring a container.
BIRTHDAY GREETINGS – Birthday Greetings to Christopher Kolativa (1/22). May God grant him long life, good health and happiness. MNOHAYA BLAHAYA LITA!
ACTIVITIES COMMITTEE MEETING – The January meeting of the Activities Committee will be held on Thursday, January 21, 2010 at 6:30 p.m. in the Lower Level of the Church. All welcome.
RELIGIOUS EDUCATION – Religious Education Classes will be on Winter Break. Classes will resume again in February 13, 2010.
PARISH SIGN DONATIONS – Plans are being finalized for our new parish sign. The sign will be roughly 2 feet by 5 feet, double sided and installed in front of the church. Renderings of the sign are posted on the bulletin board in the back of the church. Our thanks to Alice & Bob Parker for their $200 donation and to Basil Dynistransky for his $100 donation toward the cost of the sign. If you’d like to make a donation to help defray the cost, please place your donation with the collection using a Supplemental Envelope from the back of the Church and label it “Parish Sign”.
RUMMAGE SALE – Our Annual Rummage Sale will be held March 5-7, 2010. Items are now being accepted. Please bring your sellable items to the school hall before or after liturgies.
ANNUAL VOTIVE CANDLES – Our thanks to Marion Williams for Her Donation for and Annual Votive. Donations are now being accepted for Annual Votive Candles. If you wish to donate to defray the cost for a votive candle for 2010 please contact the rectory.
2010 ENVELOPES – The church envelopes for 2010 are available in the lower level of the church. Please take a moment to pick-up your envelopes. We apologize for any errors that may have been made regarding the list for envelopes. If you were omitted please contact the parish office.
CALENDARS AVAILABLE – Calendars for 2010 are available in the lower level of the church. Please pick up your copy before or after liturgy. Our thanks to Simon S. Russin Funeral Home, Inc. for sponsoring the calendar again this year.
HAITI EMERGENCY APPEAL – In response to the earthquake in Haiti this past week, Metropolitan Stefan has asked that a special collection be taken this weekend to help the survivors. These funds will be forwarded through the Chancery to Catholic Relief Services in Baltimore, MD.
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.
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.
MYASOPUSNA SUNDAY AT TRANSFIGURATION – Transfiguration of Our Lord Ukrainian Catholic Church invites the public to its 2010 Myasopusna prelenten celebration. This cultural event takes place Sunday, February 7, from noon to 4 p.m. at the church hall, Center and Bliss Streets, in the Hanover Section of Nanticoke. Myasopusna Sunday (Meatfare Sunday) is traditionally the last day in the church year during which Eastern Catholics may consume meat, in preparation for the upcoming fast of lent. The parish of Transfiguration Church uses the occasion of Myasopusna Sunday as an opportunity to celebrate and share its Ukrainian heritage with the community, through food, crafts, music, and dance. Dinner (a platter of roast pork, kobasi, baked ham, varenyky/pierogies, homemade borscht, homemade blackbread and butter, rice pudding, and a beverage) will be served from 12:30 to 1:30. The cost for the dinner is $12 (additional donations are accepted). Please call Geri at 824-3880 or Helen at 735-4654, to purchase your dinner tickets in advance. Preferred dinner/entertainment seating will be reserved for those who call by February 1. Dinner will be followed by live Ukrainian music and dance performances, including the Holy Year Choir, Kazka, the St. Mary’s Ukrainian Dancers, a selection of Klezmer tunes, and more. Participation of Ukrainian crafters will include embroidery, woodcrafts, pysanky, and ceramics displays, with many items available for purchase. We hope to have a la carte items available for takeouts in the afternoon. This is a perfect way to spend your Superbowl Sunday afternoon, and perhaps take home something special to eat for your party as well!
HOLUPKI DINNER – The annual Holupki Dinner sponsored by Holy Resurrection Orthodox Cathedral, 591 N. Main St., Wilkes-Barre, PA will be held on Sunday, January 17, 2010 in the Cathedral Parlors from 11:30 AM to 1:00 PM. Price is $8.00 for adults and $4.00 for children under 12. Reservations can be made by calling the rectory at 822-7725. A bake sale will be held in conjunction with the dinner.
ANNUAL ETHNIC FOOD FESTIVAL – Holy Resurrection Cathedral will host their Annual Ethnic Food Festival featuring Home Cooked Foods and Arts & Crafts on Saturday, January 30th, 2010 from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM at the Holy Resurrection Cathedral Parlors, 591 N. Main Street, Wilkes-Barre.
TAMBURITZANS – Holy Resurrection Cathedral, Wilkes-Barre will bring the Tamburitzans from Duquesne University to Northeastern, PA on Sunday, January 31st, 2010. The Tamburitzans are America’s Premier Folk Ensemble. Featuring singing, dancing and musical performance, these 34 talented performers (in elaborate costumes) bring Eastern European Folklore to the modern stage. Tickets on sale now for the performance at Hazleton Area High School, 23rd Street, Hazleton, PA. Curtain 3:00 PM. One performance only. All seats reserved $30-$12). Call (570) 822-5452 or toll free (877) 822-5452.
ICONOSTAS TO BE BLESSED – On Sunday, January 31, 2010, The Presentation of Our Lord Ukrainian Catholic Church community will mark the completion of extensive interior renovations to its church building located at 1564 Allentown Road, Lansdale, PA. The blessing and dedication will take place during a Pontifical Divine Liturgy that the spiritual leader of all Ukrainian Catholics in America, Archbishop Metropolitan Stefan Soroka, will celebrate at 11:00 A.M. in the church. Rev. Vasil Bunik, the pastor, and other priests of the Ukrainian Catholic Church, will concelebrate the services. Presentation Church’s pastor, Father Vasil Bunik, extends a cordial invitation to everyone to attend the Liturgy and the banquet. Tickets for the banquet are only $25 per adult and $10 for children under 12. The Church will be open during the time of the banquet for a view of the interior. For further information or to order tickets, call Mike at (215) 715 – 4871 (evenings), send an email to PresentationUCC@gmail.com.
125 YEARS – TRANSFIGURATION CHURCH SHAMOKIN – Transfiguration of Our Lord Ukrainian Catholic Church of Shamokin, is celebrating its 125th anniversary on Aapril 25, 2010. To celebrate this historic event, they will be publishing a DVD. This DVD will detail the rich history of the parish and its founders. To be part of this DVD, please consider placing an ad, which could be a congratulatory or memorial wish for the parish. The deadline for ad submission is February 1, 2010. For further information please call; Mary Ann Charnosky, Adt Manager at (570) 648-7155.
SLOATSBURG JUBILEES – During the next two years the Sister Servants of Mary Immaculate will be celebrating two milestones in their history, the 50th anniversary of the establishment of the American Province, under the patronage of the Immaculate Conception and 75 years of ministry in the United States. As part of these celebrations the Sisters are embarking on a project to build a shrine to Blessed Josaphata (their foundress) on the grounds of their home in Sloatsburg. The small chapel will be a place of prayer, open year round, where people could come to light candles and pray to Blessed Josaphata for her intercession before God. Memorial Pavers for the walkway leading to the chapel will be sold to help defray the costs of the construction. Forms to sponsor those pavers are also available in the back of the church. Construction is well underway and paver space is limited, so get your form in soon.

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January 14, 2010 · 3:00 pm

Sunday After Theophany

January 10, 2010

From that time on, Jesus began to preach and say, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” (Matthew 4:17)

DIVINE LITURGY / SERVICES SCHEDULE
Sat. Jan. 9 – 4:00 p.m. †Mary & †George Mudrak – Mary Anne Mudrak
Sun. Jan. 10 – 8:30 a.m. Divine Liturgy – God’s Blessing for Parishioners
Mon. Jan. 11 – NO SERVICES
Tues. Jan. 12 – NO SERVICES
Wed. Jan. 13 – NO SERVICES
Thurs. Jan. 14 – 9:15 a.m. †Michael, †Stella & †Carol Haliszik – Stella Williams
Fri. Jan. 15 – 9:15 a.m. Divine Liturgy – No Intention Offered
Sat. Jan. 16 – 4:00 p.m. Health of Pauline Zurek – Dr.& Mrs. Michael Labuda
Sun. Jan. 17 – 8:30 a.m. Divine Liturgy – God’s Blessing for Parishioners
Divine Liturgies for St. Vladimir (Edwardsville)
Saturday 6:00 p.m. English – Sunday 10:30 a.m. Slavonic

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.
BLESSING OF HOMES – For the parishioners this will be taking place, weather permiting after the Feast of the Epiphany. Father Orest will see those who are home-bound first, making a pastoral visit with the Holy Sacrament and blessing their homes. Please call Father Orest at the rectory to make arrangements to have your home blessed as well.
HOLY WATER – Holy Water blessed at Theophany services will remain available in the lower level of the church through the end of the month. Please remember to bring a container.
ACTIVITIES COMMITTEE MEETING – The January meeting of the Activities Committee will be held on Thursday, January 21, 2010 at 6:30 p.m. in the Lower Level of the Church. All are welcome.
RELIGIOUS EDUCATION – Religious Education Classes will be on Winter Break. Classes will resume again in February 13, 2010.
PARISH SIGN DONATIONS – Plans are being finalized for our new parish sign. The sign will be roughly 2 feet by 5 feet, double sided and installed in front of the church. Renderings of the sign are posted on the bulletin board in the back of the church. If you’d like to make a donation to help defray the cost, please place your donation with the collection using a Supplemental Envelope from the back of the Church and label it “Parish Sign”.
RUMMAGE SALE – Our Annual Rummage Sale will be held in March 2010. Items are now being accepted. Please bring your sellable items to the school hall before or after liturgies.
ANNUAL VOTIVE CANDLES – Donations are now being accepted for Annual Votive Candles. If you wish to donate to defray the cost for a votive candle for 2010 please contact the rectory.
2010 ENVELOPES – The church envelopes for 2010 are available in the lower level of the church. Please take a moment to pick-up your envelopes. We apologize for any errors that may have been made regarding the list for envelopes. If you were omitted please contact the parish office.
CALENDARS AVAILABLE – Calendars for 2010 are available in the lower level of the church. Please pick up your copy before or after liturgy. Our thanks to Simon S. Russin Funeral Home, Inc. for sponsoring the calendar again this year.
PRAYERS NEEDED – We are asked to keep in our prayers Metropolitan Stefan for his health and recovery of his prostate cancer.
GIVING FOR 2009 – Next week’s collection will be that last opportunity to make donations to be credited for 2009. Please make these contributions using your 2009 envelopes. After next week all donations received (regardless of envelope) will be credited for 2010.
RENOVATION FUND DONATIONS – Our thanks to the following for their generous donations for our ongoing renovations during the Month of December. John Kolavita ($500)Donations may be made with the regular collections at liturgy. Please use the “Special Collection for Renovations to the Church Complex” envelopes from the back of the church. More work is planned, your help is needed.
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.
CATHEDRAL CAROLS – Annual Festival of Christmas Carols will be held on Sunday, January 10, 2010 at 3 p.m. at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in Philadelphia. Choirs from different parishes will participate. Everyone is welcome.
MALANKA 2010 – The 6th Annual Ukrainian New Year Dinner Dance – MALANKA – will take place on Friday evening, January 15, 2010, 6:00pm to 1:00am at St. Vladimir Parish Center, 428 North Seventh Avenue, Scranton. Michael Trusz and Kathleen Izak are serving as chairman and cochairman respectively. Tickets are $40 and can be obtained by calling Dr. Michael Labuda at 820-7105. Dinner buffet will include borchsh, holubchi, chicken Kyiv, kobasa, pyrohy and more, along with a cash bar. Dancing to the internationally known orchestra Fata Morgana and a late night champagne toast are also included.
HOLUPKI DINNER – The annual Holupki Dinner sponsored by Holy Resurrection Orthodox Cathedral, 591 N. Main St., Wilkes-Barre, PA will be held on Sunday, January 17, 2010 in the Cathedral Parlors from 11:30 AM to 1:00 PM. Price is $8.00 for adults and $4.00 for children under 12. Reservations can be made by calling the rectory at 822-7725. A bake sale will be held in conjunction with the dinner.
ANNUAL ETHNIC FOOD FESTIVAL – Holy Resurrection Cathedral will host their Annual Ethnic Food Festival featuring Home Cooked Foods and Arts & Crafts on Saturday, January 30th, 2010 from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM at the Holy Resurrection Cathedral Parlors, 591 N. Main Street, Wilkes-Barre.
TAMBURITZANS – Holy Resurrection Cathedral, Wilkes-Barre will bring the Tamburitzans from Duquesne University to Northeastern, PA on Sunday, January 31st, 2010. The Tamburitzans are America’s Premier Folk Ensemble. Featuring singing, dancing and musical performance, these 34 talented performers (in elaborate costumes) bring Eastern European Folklore to the modern stage. Tickets on sale now for the performance at Hazleton Area High School, 23rd Street, Hazleton, PA. Curtain 3:00 PM. One performance only. All seats reserved $30-$12). Call (570) 822-5452 or toll free (877) 822-5452.
ICONOSTAS TO BE BLESSED – On Sunday, January 31, 2010, The Presentation of Our Lord Ukrainian Catholic Church community will mark the completion of extensive interior renovations to its church building located at 1564 Allentown Road, Lansdale, PA. The blessing and dedication will take place during a Pontifical Divine Liturgy that the spiritual leader of all Ukrainian Catholics in America, Archbishop Metropolitan Stefan Soroka, will celebrate at 11:00 A.M. in the church. Rev. Vasil Bunik, the pastor, and other priests of the Ukrainian Catholic Church, will concelebrate the services. Presentation Church’s pastor, Father Vasil Bunik, extends a cordial invitation to everyone to attend the Liturgy and the banquet. Tickets for the banquet are only $25 per adult and $10 for children under 12. The Church will be open during the time of the banquet for a view of the interior. For further information or to order tickets, call Mike at (215) 715 – 4871 (evenings), send an email to PresentationUCC@gmail.com.
125 YEARS – TRANSFIGURATION CHURCH SHAMOKIN – Transfiguration of Our Lord Ukrainian Catholic Church of Shamokin, is celebrating its 125th anniversary on Aapril 25, 2010. To celebrate this historic event, they will be publishing a DVD. This DVD will detail the rich history of the parish and its founders. To be part of this DVD, please consider placing an ad, which could be a congratulatory or memorial wish for the parish. The deadline for ad submission is February 1, 2010. For further information please call; Mary Ann Charnosky, Adt Manager at (570) 648-7155.
SLOATSBURG JUBILEES – During the next two years the Sister Servants of Mary Immaculate will be celebrating two milestones in their history, the 50th anniversary of the establishment of the American Province, under the patronage of the Immaculate Conception and 75 years of ministry in the United States. As part of these celebrations the Sisters are embarking on a project to build a shrine to Blessed Josaphata (their foundress) on the grounds of their home in Sloatsburg. The small chapel will be a place of prayer, open year round, where people could come to light candles and pray to Blessed Josaphata for her intercession before God. Memorial Pavers for the walkway leading to the chapel will be sold to help defray the costs of the construction. Forms to sponsor those pavers are also available in the back of the church. Construction is well underway and paver space is limited, so get your form in soon.

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January 5, 2010 · 11:11 am

Sunday Before Theophany

January 3, 2010

“… I have baptized you with water;
He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit.”
(Mark 1:8)

THE FEAST OF THE THEOPHANY – January 6th
And a voice came from the heavens, saying,
“This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased.”
(Matthew 3:17)

Before the feast of the Theophany, the Holy Church in her services exhorts her faithful: “Leaving the glorious miracle of Bethlehem, let us quickly hasten to the Jordan with an ardent spirit; there we shall witness an awesome mystery…” (Exapostilarion of Matins of the 3rd of January) .
That awesome mystery is the mystery of the Theophany of the Lord, the self-revelation of God at the baptism of our Lord Jesus Christ in the river Jordan. In this mystery Jesus Christ reveals himself as the Messiah and Saviour. As Christ is baptized, the voice of his heavenly Father bears witness to the divine mission of Jesus: “You are my beloved Son, in you I am well pleased.” (Mark 1, 11) The Holy Spirit bears witness to him by descending upon him in the form of a dove. St. John the Baptist also bears witness as he points to him, saying: “Behold the Lamb of God, who takes away the sins of the world.” (John 1, 29) (Julian J. Katrij, OSBM, A Byzantine Rite Liturgical Year)

Христос Раждається! – Славіте Його!
Christ is Born! – Glorify Him!

DIVINE LITURGY / SERVICES SCHEDULE
Sat. Jan. 2 – 4:00 p.m. †George Mudrak – Mary Anne Mudrak
Sun. Jan. 3 – 8:30 a.m. Divine Liturgy – God’s Blessing for Parishioners
Mon. Jan. 4 – NO SERVICES
Tues. Jan. 5 – Vigil of Theophany
FEAST OF THE THEOPHANY OF OUR LORD Obligation
6:30 p.m. Divine Liturgy, Water Blessing , Myrovania – Health of Archbishop Stefan
Wed. Jan. 6 – 9:00 a.m. Divine Liturgy, Water Blessing , Myrovania (ST. VLADIMIR – EDWARDSVILLE,PA)
Thurs. Jan. 7 – NO SERVICES
Fri. Jan. 8 – NO SERVICES
Sat. Jan. 9 – 4:00 p.m. †Mary & †George Mudrak – Mary Anne Mudrak
Sun. Jan. 10 – 8:30 a.m. Divine Liturgy – God’s Blessing for Parishioners
Divine Liturgies for St. Vladimir (Edwardsville)
Saturday 6:00 p.m. English – Sunday 10:30 a.m. Slavonic

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December 29, 2009 · 3:16 pm

Sunday After the Nativity of Our Lord

December 27, 2009

He went and dwelt in a town called Nazareth, so that what had been spoken through the prophets might be fulfilled, “He shall be called a Nazorean.” (Matthew 2:23)

Христос Раждається! –
Славіте Його!
Khri-stos razh da-yet-sya! –
Sla-vi-te Ye-ho!

THE FEAST OF THE NATIVITY OF OUR LORD – DECEMBER 25TH
On December 20, 386 or 388, St. John Chrysostom in a sermon on the anniversary of the death of the Martyr, Philogonius, Bishop of Antioch, announced to his faithful that in this year for the first time Antioch will be celebrating the feast of the Nativity of our Lord on the 25th of December, independently of the feast of the Theophany. He also added that this feast “can without mistake be called the mother of all the feasts”, for, “from it,” he goes on to say, “the Theophany, the holy Pasch, the Ascension and the Pentecost have their origin and foundation. If Christ had not been born in the flesh, neither could he have been baptized, and we would not have Theophany; had he not been crucified – we would not have the Pasch; had he not sent the Holy Spirit – we would not have the Pentecost. Thus, from the Nativity of Christ, all the other feasts flow like different streams from the same source. This feast justly occupies first place not only because of this, but also because the event which this day commemorates is, of all events, the most worthy of wonder.”
Truly, Christ’s Nativity is the most significant event in the history of the human race. This event inaugurated the Christian Era and became the point of reference from which we date the events of world history. (Julian J. Katrij, OSBM, A Byzantine Rite Liturgical Year)

Synaxis of the Blessed Virgin Mary – December 26th
Synaxis in the Easter Rite calendar is the name of certain feasts immediately following a major feast. It commemorates persons connected with the feast celebrated on the previous day.
The Synaxis of the Blessed Virgin Mary was introduced by the Eastern Church to draw the attention of the faithful to Christ’s Mother Mary and St. Joseph who were the Savior’s earthly mother and guardian.
According to some liturgists this feast reminds us of the escape of the Holy Family to Egypt whereby the Divine Infant was saved from the massacre of the innocent Children ordered by Herod after the departure of the wise men from Christ.

Feast of Saint Stephen – December 27th
Saint Stephen was one of the seven deacons ordained by the Apostles to take care of the material needs of the Christian widows and orphans. Besides, Stephen was a great preacher of Christ’s Gospel. He preached Christ to the very people who had crucified the Lord. His zeal aroused the anger and jealousy of the Jewish leaders. They led him outside the walls of Jerusalem and Stoned him to death.
Saint Stephen was the first to shed his blood for Christ, and hence he is known as the Protomartyr. In dying, he forgave his murderers and prayed for them. The feast of St. Stephen was introduced in the fourth century.

Circumcision of Our Lord – January 1st
The next important event in the life of Jesus Christ, following the feast of the Nativity of Christ, is the event of the circumcision and naming of the Lord. The Holy Gospel relates: “And when the eight days were fulfilled for his circumcision, his name was called Jesus, given Him by the angel before He was conceived in the womb.” (Luke 2,21) Jesus Christ, being God and the Lawgiver, was not obligated to observe the religious prescriptions of the Jews; nonetheless, he willingly submitted to and observed them. Hence, on the eighth day after his birth he submitted to the rite of circumcision. We celebrate this event on the first of January. (Julian J. Katrij, OSBM, A Byzantine Rite Liturgical Year)

Feast of Saint Basil the Great – January 1st
On the first of January, the beginning of the civil year, our church celebrates the memory of the death of one of the greatest and most outstanding Fathers of the Church and doctors of the faith and of monastic legislators – St. Basil the Great… His person is in every respect extraordinary, noble, illustrious and worthy of praise. He was not only an aristocrat by birth, but also an aristocrat in spirit, character, learning and holiness. The mark of his deep faith, heroic love of God and neighbor, learning and holiness is stamped on the entire Church of Christ, on the monastic life in the East and on our people. (Julian J. Katrij, OSBM, A Byzantine Rite Liturgical Year)

DIVINE LITURGY / SERVICES SCHEDULE
Synaxis of the Mother of God
Sat. Dec. 26 – 4:00 p.m. †Mary Endrich Mudrak – Mary Anne Mudrak
Feast of Saint Stephen
Sun. Dec. 27 – 8:30 a.m. Divine Liturgy – God’s Blessing for Parishioners
Mon. Dec. 28 – NO SERVICES
Tues. Dec. 29 – NO SERVICES
Wed. Dec. 30 – NO SERVICES
Circumcision of Our Lord / Feast of Saint Basil the Great (Solemn Feast)
Thurs. Dec. 31 – 6:30 p.m. Divine Liturgy, Myrovania, †David John Findora – Anna Findora
Fri. Jan. 1 – NO SERVICES
Sat. Jan. 2 – 4:00 p.m. †George Mudrak – Mary Anne Mudrak
Sun. Jan. 3 – 8:30 a.m. Divine Liturgy – God’s Blessing for Parishioners
Divine Liturgies for St. Vladimir (Edwardsville)
Saturday 6:00 p.m. English – Sunday 10:30 a.m. Slavonic

We Greet You with the Holy Birth of Christ, Wishing that you spend these holidays in Good Health, peace and happiness May God grant you life to the New Year; From the New Year to the Epiphany; From the Epiphany to the Resurrection; From the Resurrection to the Ascension; From the Ascension to the Pentecost; From the Pentecost to a hundred years Until God wills your life! Christ is Born! – Glorify Him!
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.
BLESSING OF HOMES – For the parishioners this will be taking place, weather permitting after the Feast of the Epiphany. Father Orest will see those who are home-bound first, making a pastoral visit with the Holy Sacrament and blessing their homes. Please call Father Orest at the rectory to make arrangements to have your home blessed as well.
BIRTHDAY GREETINGS – Birthday Greetings to Maria Revak (1/2). May God grant her long life, good health and happiness. MNOHAYA BLAHAYA LITA!
OUR THANKS – Our thanks to those who made time in their busy schedules to help decorate and prepare our church for all to enjoy the celebration of the Nativity of Our Lord.
FLOWERS DECORATE OUR CHURCH – Our thanks to everyone who made donations for the flowers that adorn our Church this Christmas Season.
THANK YOU – The children and teachers of the religious education program wish to thank all those who helped with their pyrohy project and their Holy Supper last weekend
RELIGIOUS EDUCATION – Religious Education Classes will be on Winter Break. Classes will resume again in February 13, 2010.
PARISH SIGN DONATIONS – Plans are being finalized for our new parish sign. The sign will be roughly 2 feet by 5 feet, double sided and installed in front of the church. Renderings of the sign are posted on the bulletin board in the back of the church. Our thanks to Joe and Helen Thomas for their donation of $10 for the sign. If you’d like to make a donation to help defray the cost, please place your donation with the collection using a Supplemental Envelope from the back of the Church and label it “Parish Sign”.
RUMMAGE SALE – Our Annual Rummage Sale will be held in March 2010. Items are now being accepted. Please bring your sellable items to the school hall before or after liturgies.
ANNUAL VOTIVE CANDLES – Our thanks to Rita Katulka and Mike and Joan Labuda for their $100 donations for Annual Votive Candles for 2010. Donations are now being accepted for Annual Votive Candles. If you wish to donate to defray the cost for a votive candle for 2010 please contact the rectory.
2010 ENVELOPES – The church envelopes for 2010 are available in the lower level of the church. Please take a moment to pick-up your envelopes. We apologize for any errors that may have been made regarding the list for envelopes. If you were omitted please contact the parish office.
CALENDARS AVAILABLE – Calendars for 2010 are available in the lower level of the church. Please pick up your copy before or after liturgy. Our thanks to Simon S. Russin Funeral Home, Inc. for sponsoring the calendar again this year.
GIVING FOR 2009 – With only a few days left in 2009, there is limited time to make your donations for this fiscal year, and to make sure that your dues have been paid. Please take this opportunity to bring your dues and yearly giving up to date either by dropping an envelope in with the collection or by mailing them directly to the rectory office.
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.
PETITION ADDED – Have you noticed? One of the resolutions of the recently held Synod of Ukrainian Catholic Bishops was to add a petition of prayer for religious and consecrated life. The needs of religious and consecrated life of our Ukrainian Catholic Church will be the topic of the next Sobor of the entire Ukrainian Catholic Church to be held in Brazil in September, 2011. We are asked to pray for them in a special way in this time of preparation for that Sobor. Metropolitan Stefan Soroka has asked that the following petition be added to the celebration of the Divine Liturgy throughout 2010 and until the Sobor in September, 2011, as per instruction of our Patriarch Lubomyr Cardinal Husar issued on December 16th, 2009. “For our communities of consecrated life including monasteries and institutes of consecrated life, and for vocations to consecrated life, let us pray to the Lord”.
PRAYERS NEEDED – We are asked to keep in our prayers Metropolitan Stefan for his health and recovery of his prostate cancer. A decision will be made soon as to the course of action to be taken.
Also please keep in our prayers Metropolitan Basil Schott of Pittsburgh who has cancer in the lymph nodes. He has been taking treatments already and is awaiting a prognosis. And last, please keep in our prayers Fr. Leonard Sinatra, who has been in the hospital. He is failing and his family will be making decisions for him also.
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.
PRINTED COPIES OF ‘THE WAY’ ARE AVAILABLE IN THE VESTIBULE
CONCERT/SING-ALONG – The Holy Year Choir of the Transfiguration of Our Lord Ukrainian Catholic Church in the Hanover Section of Nanticoke will present it’s Christmas Concert and Sing-Along on Monday, December 28 at 7:00 PM, at the church on Center Street. The choir is directed by Dr. Richard Barno. A complimentary buffet will follow. Please plan on attending and bring a friend!
CATHEDRAL CAROLS – Annual Festival of Christmas Carols will be held on Sunday, January 10, 2010 at 3 p.m. at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in Philadelphia. Choirs from different parishes will participate. Everyone is welcome.
MALANKA 2010 – The 6th Annual Ukrainian New Year Dinner Dance – MALANKA – will take place on Friday evening, January 15, 2010, 6:00pm to 1:00am at St. Vladimir Parish Center, 428 North Seventh Avenue, Scranton. Michael Trusz and Kathleen Izak are serving as chairman and cochairman respectively. Tickets are $40 and can be obtained by calling Dr. Michael Labuda at 820-7105. Dinner buffet will include borchsh, holubchi, chicken Kyiv, kobasa, pyrohy and more, along with a cash bar. Dancing to the internationally known orchestra Fata Morgana and a late night champagne toast are also included.
ICONOSTAS TO BE BLESSED – On Sunday, January 31, 2010, The Presentation of Our Lord Ukrainian Catholic Church community will mark the completion of extensive interior renovations to its church building located at 1564 Allentown Road, Lansdale, PA. The blessing and dedication will take place during a Pontifical Divine Liturgy that the spiritual leader of all Ukrainian Catholics in America, Archbishop Metropolitan Stefan Soroka, will celebrate at 11:00 A.M. in the church. Rev. Vasil Bunik, the pastor, and other priests of the Ukrainian Catholic Church, will concelebrate the services. Presentation Church’s pastor, Father Vasil Bunik, extends a cordial invitation to everyone to attend the Liturgy and the banquet. Tickets for the banquet are only $25 per adult and $10 for children under 12. The Church will be open during the time of the banquet for a view of the interior. For further information or to order tickets, call Mike at (215) 715 – 4871 (evenings), send an email to PresentationUCC@gmail.com.
125 YEARS – TRANSFIGURATION CHURCH SHAMOKIN – Transfiguration of Our Lord Ukrainian Catholic Church of Shamokin, is celebrating its 125th anniversary on Aapril 25, 2010. To celebrate this historic event, they will be publishing a DVD. This DVD will detail the rich history of the parish and its founders. To be part of this DVD, please consider placing an ad, which could be a congratulatory or memorial wish for the parish. The deadline for ad submission is February 1, 2010. For further information please call; Mary Ann Charnosky, Adt Manager at (570) 648-7155.
SLOATSBURG JUBILEES – During the next two years the Sister Servants of Mary Immaculate will be celebrating two milestones in their history, the 50th anniversary of the establishment of the American Province, under the patronage of the Immaculate Conception and 75 years of ministry in the United States. As part of these celebrations the Sisters are embarking on a project to build a shrine to Blessed Josaphata (their foundress) on the grounds of their home in Sloatsburg. The small chapel will be a place of prayer, open year round, where people could come to light candles and pray to Blessed Josaphata for her intercession before God. Memorial Pavers for the walkway leading to the chapel will be sold to help defray the costs of the construction. Forms to sponsor those pavers are also available in the back of the church. Construction is well underway and paver space is limited, so get your form in soon.

Merry Christmas
Christ is Born! Glorify Him!
Christos Razhdajetsia! Slavite Jeho!
Thank You for your
thoughtfulness during the year.
Rev. Orest Kunderevych

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December 29, 2009 · 2:28 pm

Sunday Before Christmas – Sunday of the Holy Fathers

December 20, 2009

…Yet all these, though approved because of their faith, did not receive what had been promised. God had foreseen something better for us, so that without us they should not be made perfect. (Hebrews 11:39-40)
The Holy Fathers were eminent Saints of the Old Testament that had some relation to the earthly origin of Our Lord, Jesus Christ. They lived after the proclamation of the Decalogue by Moses. Some of them were great Saints, and some besides being Saints were also prophets. The Church honors Moses, Josue, King David, Susanna, and the great prophets who foretold the coming of the Messias. The feast presents some admirable models of faith and hope from the Old Testament that her faithful may follow them in loving and serving the Savior for Whom the Saints of the Old Testament were waiting. (My Divine Friend)

Philip’s Fast (Pylypivka)
From earliest times, the feast of Christmas was given equal rank with the feast of the Resurrection (Easter). For this reason the Typicon looks upon the Nativity of Christ as another Pasch (Easter). In old typicons and liturgical Psalters, under the 25th of December, there is this note: “The Pasch, a three day feast.” Thus, just as the faithful prepared themselves for the feast of the Pasch with prayer and fasting, so too, they prepared themselves for the coming of Christ the Savior with the Christmas fast. (Julian J. Katrij, OSBM, A Byzantine Rite Liturgical Year)
Philip’s Fast (Pylypivka), the pre-Christmas fast which begins with the feast of Saint Philip (November 14th), is a 40-day period of spiritual preparation for the celebration of the Nativity/Theophany cycle. At one time a period of strict fasting, it has now been abrogated in favor of voluntary fasting, works of penance and almsgiving. (Typikon)

DIVINE LITURGY / SERVICES SCHEDULE
Sat. Dec. 19 – 4:00 p.m. Divine Liturgy, Blessing of Prosfora Breads, Myrovania †John & †Mary Waslasky – Hall & Waslasky Families
Sun. Dec. 20 – 8:30 a.m. Divine Liturgy – God’s Blessing for Parishioners
Mon. Dec. 21 – NO SERVICES
Tues. Dec. 22 – NO SERVICES
Wed. Dec. 23 – NO SERVICES
Thurs. Dec. 24 – 10:15 p.m. Christmas Eve – NATIVITY OF OUR LORD Compline, God is with us, Blessing of Bread & Oil, Solemn Divine Liturgy, Myrovania with Holy Oil
Divine Liturgy – Deceased of the Mykulyn & Proch Families – Mykulyn Family
Fri. Dec. 25 – 9:00 a.m. Christmas Day – Divine Liturgy, Myrovania – God’s Blessing for Parishioners
Fri. Dec. 25 – 6:30 p.m. Synaxis of the Theotokos – Divine Liturgy, Myrovania – Health & Well Being of Nellie S. Golden’s Family
Sat. Dec. 26 – 4:00 p.m. †Mary Endrich Mudrak – Mary Anne Mudrak
Sun. Dec. 27 – 8:30 a.m. Divine Liturgy – 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!
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.
PROSFORA BREADS – These small loaves, meant to be divided and shared at your Holy Supper (Sviaty Vechir or Villia), will be blessed and distributed at liturgies this weekend.
ON FASTING – The Eve of the Nativity is traditionally a day of strict fasting, abstinence from meat and eggs and dairy products is encouraged.
BLESSING OF HOMES – For the parishioners this will be taking place, weather permiting after the Feast of the Epiphany. Father Orest will see those who are home-bound first, making a pastoral visit with the Holy Sacrament and blessing their homes. Please call Father Orest at the rectory to make arrangements to have your home blessed as well.
BIRTHDAY GREETINGS – Birthday Greetings to Michael Demko (12/20) and Ann Marie Lawzano (12/23). May God grant them long life, good health and happiness. MNOHAYA BLAHAYA LITA!
CHRISTMAS CAROL SING-ALONG – Our thanks to the Choir and to everyone who helped out with the Sing-Along last Sunday. Once again a most enjoyable time was had by all.
THANK YOU – The children and teachers of the religious education program wish to thank all those who helped with their pyrohy project last week.
CHRISTMAS DECORATING – Flowers will be arranged on Tuesday, December 22nd at 6:30 p.m. All are invited to participate.
CHILDREN’S PROCESSION – Children attending Christmas Eve Liturgy are invited to participate in the procession before the Divine Liturgy bringing the Christ Child to the Manger.
RELIGIOUS EDUCATION – Religious Education Classes will be on Winter Break. Classes will resume again in February 13, 2010.
PARISH SIGN DONATIONS – Plans are being finalized for our new parish sign. The sign will be roughly 2 feet by 5 feet, double sided and installed in front of the church. Renderings of the sign are posted on the bulletin board in the back of the church. Our thanks to Walter and Marian Melnyk for their contribution of $100. If you’d like to make a donation to help defray the cost, please place your donation with the collection using a Supplemental Envelope from the back of the Church and label it “Parish Sign”.
RUMMAGE SALE – Our Annual Rummage Sale will be held in March 2010. Items are now being accepted. Please bring your sellable items to the school hall before or after liturgies.
PROFITS REPORTED – At the Activities Committee meeting this week the follow were reported for recent events. Rummage Sale, Gross Income $4,119.73, Expenses $799.70 for a NET INCOME of $3,320.03. Turkey-Fest, Gross Income $4,698.08, Expenses $1,538.24 for a NET INCOME of $3,159.84. Fall Pyrohy Sale, Gross Income $2,625.25, Expenses $296.40 for a NET INCOME of $2,328.85. These proceeds will be transferred to the parish account to help with general expenses.
GIVING FOR 2009 – With only a few weeks left in 2009, there is limited time to make your donations for this fiscal year, and to make sure that your dues have been paid. Please take this opportunity to bring your dues and yearly giving up to date either by dropping an envelope in with the collection in the next few weeks or by mailing them directly to the rectory office.
ANNUAL VOTIVE CANDLES – Donations are now being accepted for Annual Votive Candles. If you wish to donate to defray the cost for a votive candle for 2010 please contact the rectory.
2010 ENVELOPES – The church envelopes for 2010 are available in the lower level of the church. Please take a moment to pick-up your envelopes. We apologize for any errors that may have been made regarding the list for envelopes. If you were omitted please contact the parish office.
CALENDARS AVAILABLE – Calendars for 2010 are available in the lower level of the church. Please pick up your copy before or after liturgy. Our thanks to Simon S. Russin Funeral Home, Inc. for sponsoring the calendar again this year.
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.
CONCERT/SING-ALONG – The Holy Year Choir of the Transfiguration of Our Lord Ukrainian Catholic Church in the Hanover Section of Nanticoke will present it’s Christmas Concert and Sing-Along on Monday, December 28 at 7:00 PM, at the church on Center Street. The choir is directed by Dr. Richard Barno. A complimentary buffet will follow. Please plan on attending and bring a friend!
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. Thank you.
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.
CATHEDRAL CAROLS – Annual Festival of Christmas Carols will be held on Sunday, January 10, 2010 at 3 p.m. at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in Philadelphia. Choirs from different parishes will participate. Everyone is welcome.
MALANKA 2010 – The 6th Annual Ukrainian New Year Dinner Dance – MALANKA – will take place on Friday evening, January 15, 2010, 6:00pm to 1:00am at St. Vladimir Parish Center, 428 North Seventh Avenue, Scranton. Michael Trusz and Kathleen Izak are serving as chairman and cochairman respectively. Tickets are $40 and can be obtained by calling Dr. Michael Labuda at 820-7105. Dinner buffet will include borchsh, holubchi, chicken Kyiv, kobasa, pyrohy and more, along with a cash bar. Dancing to the internationally known orchestra Fata Morgana and a late night champagne toast are also included.
125 YEARS – TRANSFIGURATION CHURCH SHAMOKIN – Transfiguration of Our Lord Ukrainian Catholic Church of Shamokin, is celebrating its 125th anniversary on Aapril 25, 2010. To celebrate this historic event, they will be publishing a DVD. This DVD will detail the rich history of the parish and its founders. To be part of this DVD, please consider placing an ad, which could be a congratulatory or memorial wish for the parish. The deadline for ad submission is February 1, 2010. For further information please call; Mary Ann Charnosky, Adt Manager at (570) 648-7155.
SLOATSBURG JUBILEES – During the next two years the Sister Servants of Mary Immaculate will be celebrating two milestones in their history, the 50th anniversary of the establishment of the American Province, under the patronage of the Immaculate Conception and 75 years of ministry in the United States. As part of these celebrations the Sisters are embarking on a project to build a shrine to Blessed Josaphata (their foundress) on the grounds of their home in Sloatsburg. The small chapel will be a place of prayer, open year round, where people could come to light candles and pray to Blessed Josaphata for her intercession before God. Memorial Pavers for the walkway leading to the chapel will be sold to help defray the costs of the construction. Forms to sponsor those pavers are also available in the back of the church. Construction is well underway and paver space is limited, so get your form in soon.
THE FEAST OF THE NATIVITY OF OUR LORD – DECEMBER 25TH
On December 20, 386 or 388, St. John Chrysostom in a sermon on the anniversary of the death of the Martyr, Philogonius, Bishop of Antioch, announced to his faithful that in this year for the first time Antioch will be celebrating the feast of the Nativity of our Lord on the 25th of December, independently of the feast of the Theophany. He also added that this feast “can without mistake be called the mother of all the feasts”, for, “from it,” he goes on to say, “the Theophany, the holy Pasch, the Ascension and the Pentecost have their origin and foundation. If Christ had not been born in the flesh, neither could he have been baptized, and we would not have Theophany; had he not been crucified – we would not have the Pasch; had he not sent the Holy Spirit – we would not have the Pentecost. Thus, from the Nativity of Christ, all the other feasts flow like different streams from the same source. This feast justly occupies first place not only because of this, but also because the event which this day commemorates is, of all events, the most worthy of wonder.”
Truly, Christ’s Nativity is the most significant event in the history of the human race. This event inaugurated the Christian Era and became the point of reference from which we date the events of world history. (Julian J. Katrij, OSBM, A Byzantine Rite Liturgical Year)

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December 29, 2009 · 12:58 pm

Sunday of the Holy Forefathers

December 13, 2009

The servant reported, ‘Sir, your orders have been carried out and still there is room.’ The master then ordered the servant, ‘Go out to the highways and hedgerows and make people come in that my home may be filled. For, I tell you, none of those men who were invited will taste my dinner.'” (Luke 14:22-24)

The Holy Forefathers were the Saints of the first period of the Old Testament, such as Abel, Enoch, Noe, Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Melchisedech, and Joseph, who served God before the proclamations of the written Law of Moses. These are also known as Patriarchs.
By honoring them our Church reminds its faithful that God is always watching over them who keep His law and serve Him. (My Divine Friend)

DIVINE LITURGY / SERVICES SCHEDULE
Sat. Dec. 12 – 4:00 p.m. †Nicholas Kozicki – Verna Kozicki
Sun. Dec. 13 – 8:30 a.m. Divine Liturgy – God’s Blessing for Parishioners
Mon. Dec. 14 – NO SERVICES
Tues. Dec. 15 – NO SERVICES
Wed. Dec. 16 – NO SERVICES
Thurs. Dec. 17 – 9:30 a.m. Divine Liturgy – No Intention Offered
Fri. Dec. 18 – 9:00 a.m. Divine Liturgy – No Intention Offered
Sat. Dec. 19 – 4:00 p.m. Divine Liturgy, Blessing of Prosfora Breads, Myrovania †John & †Mary Waslasky – Hall & Waslasky Families
Sun. Dec. 20 – 8:30 a.m. Divine Liturgy – God’s Blessing for Parishioners
Thurs. Dec. 24 – 10:15 p.m. Christmas Eve – NATIVITY OF OUR LORD Compline, God is with us, Blessing of Bread & Oil Solemn Divine Liturgy, Myrovania with Holy Oil Divine Liturgy – Deceased of the Mykulyn& Proch Families – Mykulyn Family
Fri. Dec. 25 – 9:00 a.m. Christmas Day – Divine Liturgy, Myrovania Divine Liturgy – God’s Blessing for Parishioners
Divine Liturgies for St. Vladimir (Edwardsville)
Saturday 6:00 p.m. English – Sunday 10:30 a.m. Slavonic

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