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Announcements - April 9, 2010
Announcements - March 26, 2010
A Liturgical Explanation of Holy Week Lazarus Saturday - March 19, 2010
Charity Dinner for Vladimir - March 12, 2010
Garage Sale - March 12, 2010
Our Pianos - March 12, 2010
Parents of Youth Meeting - March 12, 2010
Council Meeting - March 12, 2010
Security - March 12, 2010
Sunday of the Cross - March 4, 2010
Bulletin Board - March 4, 2010
Parish Meeting - February 26, 2010
Church Hall Notice Board - February 26, 2010
Donations and Good Will - February 18, 2010
2010 Archdiocesan Assembly - February 12, 2010
Potato Dish Recipes - February 12, 2010
The Pre-Lent Period - January 24, 2010
Haiti Relief Effort - January 24, 2010
Movie Night at the Bookstore - January 24, 2010
Mexico Trip - January 24, 2010
Akathist Time Change - January 16, 2010
Bulletin Board - January 16, 2010
Many Years! - January 16, 2010
Vladyka’s Greetings - January 8, 2010
Christmas Bazaar Notice - December 31, 2009
Bulletin Board - December 31, 2009
Announcements - December 24, 2009
Blessing of Homes - December 24, 2009
Bulletin Board - December 19, 2009
In Memoriam - December 19, 2009
Bulletin Board - December 12, 2009
Christmas Bazaar 2010 - December 4, 2009
Bulletin Board - December 4, 2009
Bulletin Board - November 27, 2009
Announcements - November 19, 2009
Annual General Meeting Part II - November 14, 2009
Parish Council Nominations - November 14, 2009
Bulletin Board - November 14, 2009
In The News!! - November 6, 2009
Orthodox Faith Newspaper - November 6, 2009
Food Basket - October 31, 2009
Fr Alexander’s Return - October 31, 2009
Bookstore (new store hours) - October 31, 2009
Identifying the Hierarchs - October 24, 2009
Many Years - October 24, 2009
Birthday and Anniversary List - October 24, 2009
Brief Updates - October 18, 2009
Hidden Treasures Give Away Weekend - October 18, 2009
The Orthodox Christian Fellowship - October 18, 2009
Food Basket - October 18, 2009
Announcements - October 10, 2009
Bible For Missions Thrift Store, Grand Opening - October 10, 2009
Announcements - October 4, 2009
The Food Basket - October 4, 2009
From the Archbishop - September 27, 2009
Message from Fr John - September 27, 2009
Announcements - September 27, 2009
Consecration and Commemoration Information from the Warden - September 22, 2009
Itinerary of the Pochaiv Icon of The Mother of God - September 19, 2009
Akathist To the Icon of the Most Holy Theotokos “The Virgin of Pochaiv” - September 18, 2009
The Pochaiv Icon of The Mother of God Historical Notes - September 18, 2009
Archimandrite Irénée (Rochon) to be consecrated Bishop of Quebec City October 1, 2009 - September 18, 2009
Attention College and University Students - September 17, 2009
Thanks! - September 17, 2009
Reminders - September 10, 2009
Annual General Meeting, Part 2 - September 8, 2009
NOTICE OF ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING - September 4, 2009
Archpastoral Message of His Beatitude, Metropolitan Jonah at the Beginning of the Ecclesiastical Yea - September 4, 2009
Announcements - September 4, 2009
St.Anthony’s Hermitage Liturgy and Open House - August 27, 2009
From the Archbishop - August 27, 2009
Work Crews - August 27, 2009
Special Collection for Vestments for Bishop-elect Irinée - August 21, 2009
Annual General Meeting - August 20, 2009
Work Crews needed - August 20, 2009
Fr. John’s Anniversary - August 20, 2009
From the Parish Council - August 13, 2009
From Archbishop Seraphim - August 6, 2009
Photos! - August 6, 2009
Transfiguration Services - August 4, 2009
Welcome to Jonah Colin and Erik and Heather Young! - July 30, 2009
Kitchen Renovations Update - July 30, 2009
From Archbishop Seraphim - July 16, 2009
Announcements - July 10, 2009
Weekly Bulletin - July 3, 2009
Cathedral Clergy Developments - July 2, 2009
From the Dean - July 2, 2009
Kitchen Reno Update - July 1, 2009
Letter from Archbishop Seraphim - June 29, 2009
From our Archbishop - June 25, 2009
From our Dean - June 18, 2009
Church School for the summer and beyond. - June 18, 2009
Kursk icon of the Theotokos - June 17, 2009
Kitchen Renovations - June 11, 2009
Sharing our Space - June 4, 2009
Announcements - May 29, 2009
Anniversaries - May 29, 2009
Canadian Council of Churches - May 21, 2009
Parish Youth Bottle Drive - May 14, 2009
What’s new in the Parish Profile and Talent forms? - May 14, 2009
“Eastern Christian Spirituality” Conference - May 14, 2009
From our Archbishop - May 1, 2009
From our Dean - May 1, 2009
Announcements - May 1, 2009
Ministry Information - May 1, 2009
From our Archbishop - April 23, 2009
From our Dean - April 23, 2009
Announcements - April 23, 2009
Paschal Greeting in Many Languages - April 16, 2009
From our Metropolitan - April 16, 2009
From our Archbishop - April 16, 2009
From our Dean - April 16, 2009
How You Can Participate - April 16, 2009
Donations - April 16, 2009
Three Holy Days of Pascha - April 16, 2009
From the Archbishop - April 9, 2009
Our Library - April 9, 2009
Announcements - April 9, 2009
New Bishop of Quebec City - April 3, 2009
March Food Basket - April 2, 2009
Kitchen Table Needed - April 2, 2009
Come to a Work Bee! - April 2, 2009
The Priest Search Committee - April 2, 2009
Schedule Notes - April 2, 2009
Developing the Hall - March 26, 2009
Pilgrimage to the Ukraine - March 26, 2009
Montreal Colloquium - March 26, 2009
Announcements - March 26, 2009
Annunciation Parish Feast - March 25, 2009
Prairie Oak Quintet Annual Concert - March 19, 2009
The Concept of Energy in Orthodox Theology and Physics - March 19, 2009
Announcements - March 19, 2009
Ministry Assistant to Tanya Eyre - March 19, 2009
From Deacon Alexander - March 13, 2009
Announcements - March 13, 2009
From Deacon Alexander - March 5, 2009
From the Metropolitan - March 5, 2009
Announcements - March 5, 2009
Montreal Retreat: Khouria Maggie Hock Sessions - March 3, 2009
Reminder From Deacon Gregory - February 27, 2009
From Deacon Alexander - February 27, 2009
Forgiveness Sunday Events - February 27, 2009
Announcements - February 27, 2009
Annual Conference in Montreal - February 19, 2009
Announcements - February 19, 2009
From the Dean - February 13, 2009
From Deacon Alexander - February 13, 2009
Announcements - February 13, 2009
Seasonal Useful Link - February 13, 2009
St. Timothy’s Classical Academy - February 13, 2009
Archbishop LAZAR - February 5, 2009
From the Dean - February 5, 2009
From Deacon Gregory - February 5, 2009
Announcements - February 5, 2009
From the Archbishop - January 29, 2009
From the Dean - January 29, 2009
The Food Basket - January 29, 2009
Planning Ahead - January 29, 2009
Resource Handbook for Lay Ministries - January 29, 2009
Archbishop Seraphim - January 22, 2009
Church Library Temporarily Closed - January 22, 2009
From the Great Cloud of Witnesses - January 22, 2009
Another Voice From the Great Cloud of Witnesses - January 22, 2009
Mini-Townhall Meeting - January 22, 2009
UPDATED: Workshops: Spiritual Life for Christians - January 15, 2009
‘Sanctity of Life’ Sunday - January 15, 2009
Library Report from Deacon Alexander - January 15, 2009
St. Anthony Hermitage - January 15, 2009
House Blessings - January 15, 2009
From Deacon Greg - January 7, 2009
S.T.A.S. Winter Newsletter - January 7, 2009
From the Great Cloud of Witnesses - January 7, 2009
New in the Bookstore - January 7, 2009
Orthodox pilgrimage to Iona - January 7, 2009
Food Cupboard Presenation (Postponed) - January 7, 2009
From the Dean - January 1, 2009
From the Great Cloud of Witnesses - January 1, 2009
Christmas Assistance Program - December 24, 2008
From the Dean - December 24, 2008
From the Great Cloud of Witnesses - December 24, 2008
From the Dean - December 18, 2008
A Special Program For Families At Christmas (Dec 20th) - December 18, 2008
From the Great Cloud of Witnesses - December 18, 2008
Ottawa Holiday Spirit - December 11, 2008
From the Great Cloud of Witnesses - December 11, 2008
From the Archbiship - December 3, 2008
From The Dean - December 3, 2008
Parish Announcements - December 3, 2008
St Nicholas Presentation - December 3, 2008
Ongoing Security Issues - December 3, 2008
Gift Baskets for Women in Transition - December 3, 2008
Dalhousie Food Cupboard Volunteers - December 3, 2008
From the Great Cloud of Witnesses - December 3, 2008
From The Dean - November 25, 2008
From The Deacon - November 25, 2008
Salvation Army Volunteers - November 25, 2008
From the Great Cloud of Witnesses - November 25, 2008
HELP NEEDED: Ukranian Guests and Gospel Book - November 21, 2008
Security Alert - November 21, 2008
From the Parish Council - November 21, 2008
From the Great Cloud of Witnesses - November 21, 2008
Please Bring Poinsettas! - November 21, 2008
From the 15th All American Council - November 13, 2008
From the Parish Council - November 13, 2008
Updated: New Food Bank Basket - November 13, 2008
From the Great Cloud of Witnesses - November 13, 2008
Cathedral News Submissions - November 13, 2008
November 2nd Homily - November 8, 2008
From the Archbishop - November 7, 2008
From the Dean - November 7, 2008
From the Great Cloud of Witnesses - November 7, 2008
From the Archbishop - October 31, 2008
From the Parish Council - October 31, 2008
From the Dean - October 31, 2008
Holy Martyrs Acindynus, Pegasius, Aphthonius, Elpidephorus And Anempodistus - October 31, 2008
Ordering Supplies from the USA - October 31, 2008
Our Thanks - October 23, 2008
AGM Synopsis - October 23, 2008
From the Dean - October 23, 2008
New in the Cathedral Bookstore - October 23, 2008
The Holy And Great Martyr Demetrius Of Thessalonica - October 23, 2008
Annual General Meeting - October 19, 2008
Archbishop Seraphim’s Letter - October 9, 2008
OCF Carleton University - October 9, 2008
STAS Sunday pledge reminder - October 9, 2008
Fr John’s Bible Study - September 25, 2008
Message From Fr John - September 11, 2008
Message From Fr John - September 5, 2008
Message From Archbishop Seraphim - August 31, 2008
Message From Fr John - August 31, 2008
Message From Fr John - August 23, 2008
KIVA - August 23, 2008
Office Hours - August 23, 2008
The Human Icon - August 16, 2008
The Orthodox Church Newspaper - August 16, 2008
Transfiguration Icons - August 9, 2008
Archdiocesan Council Announces Appointment Of Episcopal Secretary - August 9, 2008
Final Word on the Akathist “In Praise of God’s Creation” - July 27, 2008
An Akathist in Praise of God’s Creation (Part 2) - July 19, 2008
Weekday Service Lebreton Entrance - July 19, 2008
An Akathist in Praise of God’s Creation (Part 1) - July 12, 2008
Hospitality Colour Cycle - July 12, 2008
The Orthodox Church and the Environmental Movement (Part 3) - July 6, 2008
Welcome Macrina Box - June 29, 2008
Message from Fr John (and Holiday Schedule) - June 29, 2008
The Orthodox Church and the Environmental Movement (Part 2) - June 29, 2008
The Orthodox Church and the Environmental Movement (Part 1) - June 21, 2008
Summary of Parish Ministries Retreat (May 31, 2008) - June 13, 2008
Two Sermons by Metropolitan Anthony of Sourozh - June 13, 2008
OCA Townhall Meeting - June 7, 2008
Jane Sminiske’s Niece - June 4, 2008
Message from Fr John - June 4, 2008
Newsletter Posting Deadline - May 25, 2008
Resurrection Victory - May 2, 2008
Mother Maryam Reclusion - May 2, 2008
Memory Eternal - May 2, 2008
UPDATED: Pascha Party Details and Help - April 27, 2008
Dalhousie Food Cupboard Thanks - April 24, 2008
Communications Update - April 24, 2008
Palm Sunday Food Bank Donations - April 18, 2008
Pascha and School - April 18, 2008
Message from the Myrrhbearers in New York State - April 13, 2008
Natalia Spirina’s Granddaughter - April 13, 2008
Lenten Outreach - April 13, 2008
Pan Orthodox Vesters at St Stefan - April 13, 2008
Panikhida for James Wurtele and his Wife Anna - April 6, 2008
Pan Orthodox Vesters at St. Mary’s - April 6, 2008
Pascal Flower Donations - April 6, 2008
Mid-point Message from Fr John - March 31, 2008
Mother Maryam Prayers - March 31, 2008
Pan-Orthodox Lenten Vespers at our Church - March 30, 2008
Orthodox Christian Steaming Radio - March 21, 2008
OCA Chancery Updates - March 21, 2008
Meditations on Stewardship - March 21, 2008
Welcome Fr James - March 9, 2008
Lenten Hospitality - March 8, 2008
Lent Booklet - March 6, 2008
Welcome to Fr. James - February 22, 2008
Hospitality - February 22, 2008
Pastoral Needs Survey - February 17, 2008
Outreach - February 10, 2008
Karen Rhys-Jones Funeral - February 6, 2008
Parish Life Survey - January 27, 2008
Parish Life Planning - January 25, 2008
Funeral for Nicholas Ben-Tchavtchavadze - January 5, 2008
Theophany & House Blessings - January 4, 2008
Christmas Carols After Vespers - December 22, 2007
Elizabeth Fry Gift Baskets - December 15, 2007
Snow Clearance - December 6, 2007
Public School Volunteers Needed - December 6, 2007
Christmas Visits - December 6, 2007
St. Nicholas Day Vespers - December 5, 2007
Dinner and Movie Night - November 30, 2007
Child-Friendly Christmas Carols - November 16, 2007
Christmas Gift Baskets - November 16, 2007
UPDATED: Shoes, Boots and Winter Gear - November 16, 2007
Resolution of the Archdiocese of Canada Council - November 3, 2007
Ten Thousand Villages Bazaar - November 2, 2007
Annual United Way Market Place - November 1, 2007
Next Women’s Book Study - October 23, 2007
Still Looking for Greeters - October 21, 2007
First Meeting of New Parish Council - October 21, 2007
Council Meetings 2007/2008 - October 21, 2007
Dr. Douglas James Wurtele Memorial - October 19, 2007
AGM Report - October 5, 2007
Women’s Book Study - October 2, 2007
Thanksgiving Meal Donations - September 30, 2007
Annual Parish Meeting - September 30, 2007
Church School Update - September 30, 2007
Parish Greeting Team - September 26, 2007
Can You Sew?? - September 26, 2007
Church School Wish List - September 23, 2007
Stewardship Sunday - September 23, 2007
Parish BBQ - September 9, 2007
Food Bank General Parish Meeting - August 31, 2007
Somerset Fire - August 31, 2007
Interesting - August 16, 2007
Fr John’s Theology Courses - August 8, 2007
Congratulations to Julia Proshina! - August 7, 2007
The $100,000 challenge: We did it! - August 3, 2007
Kudos to All - August 3, 2007
Archdiocese of Canada Assembly (Ottawa) - July 15, 2007
The Garden - July 7, 2007
We Need Your Help! - June 28, 2007
Dr. Tan’s Lectures Available - June 8, 2007
Parish Outreach Workshops - June 1, 2007
Our $100,000.00 Challenge - April 6, 2007
Cathedral News Change - March 10, 2007
Women’s Conference (Montreal) - February 17, 2007
Sunday Lunch Fellowship Meals - February 2, 2007
High-School Students Volunteer Hours - February 2, 2007
Vespers at Notre Dame Cathedral - January 21, 2007
Eve of Epiphany - January 5, 2007
Re-org of the Archdiocese of Canada - December 16, 2006
First Annual Parish Life Fair - September 10, 2006

Announcements - April 9, 2010

THE BLESSING OF THE GRAVES will take place after the Sunday potluck lunch.

If you have graves you would like blessed at cemeteries other than Pinecrest, please let the office know. Frs. James and Fr. Alexander will arrange to meet you at the cemetery. Be sure to leave your name ,phone number or email address so they can get back to you.

SECURITY On Sunday several people watched Vladyka lock all the church doors ; it came as a surprise therefore to discover on Tuesday that the main door and the door from the hall to church and choir we both open. Please note: The main church door has to be manhandled from the inside before it is locked and the side door next to it has to be heard click into the lock and tried before you can be sure it is locked. By choosing to use the side exits you not only divest yourself of any responsibility to check the doors, you also save time because the side doors are self locking.

Many thanks to the people who cleaned up on Sunday. Where would we be if we did not help each other?

Back by popular demand - GARAGE SALE.

Date: May 1,
RAINCHECK the following Saturday.

Volunteers please phone 613-230-2687 or send an e-mail. . WATCH YOUR E-MAIL and the notice boards for sign up sheets, but please don’t bring anything to the Cathedral until notified. Many thanks.

Announcements - March 26, 2010

Security
Last Sunday the main door to the church was left open again. We ask that you read the following carefully and to take it to heart!

Parishioners and visitors alike are asked to take all their belongings with them after services and to use the side entrance on Lebreton Street OR the side entrance on the Eccles side to exit the building. The doors to the church, including the main entrance from the street, are locked after the service and not opened again until the next service. Once the main door and side door is locked they both become off limit. Old habits are hard to break but please work on this one - this request was and is made for valid security reasons.

As a rider to the above, the metal donation box has been moved into the vicinity of the candle desk. Please use it for all cash money.

Capital Replacement Fund
The Dean is happy to announce that last week’s impromptu collection for the Capital Replacement Fund raised $1,800.00 or $100.00 above the monthly goal of $17,00.00. The next appeal will be on April 18th – the third Sunday of the month.

Funds for Haiti
The collection for this came to over $2K plus $72.00 the children raised for the children of Haiti. Well done everyone.

A Liturgical Explanation of Holy Week Lazarus Saturday - March 19, 2010

by The Very Rev. Alexander Schmemann

The Beginning of the Cross: Saturday of Lazarus

“Having fulfilled Forty Days… we ask to see the Holy Week of Thy Passion.” With these words sung at Vespers of Friday, Lent comes to its end and we enter into the annual commemoration of Christ’s suffering, death and Resurrection. It begins on the Saturday of Lazarus. The double feast of Lazarus’ resurrection and the Entrance of the Lord to Jerusalem (Palm Sunday) is described in liturgical texts as the “beginning of the Cross” and is to be understood therefore, within the context of the Holy Week. The common Troparion of these days explicitly affirms that by raising Lazarus from the dead Christ confirmed the truth of general resurrection. It is highly significant that we are led into the darkness of the Cross by one of the twelve major feasts of the Church. Light and joy shine not only at the end of Holy Week but also at its beginning; they illumine darkness itself, reveal its ultimate meaning.

All those familiar with Orthodox worship know the peculiar, almost paradoxical character of Lazarus Saturday services. It is a Sunday, i.e., a Resurrection, service on a Saturday, a day usually devoted to the liturgical commemoration of the dead. And the joy which permeates these services stresses one central theme: the forthcoming victory of Christ over Hades. Hades is the Biblical term for Death in its universal power, for that inescapable darkness and destruction that swallows all life and poisons with its shadow the whole world. But now—with Lazarus’ resurrection—“death begins to tremble.” For there the decisive duel between Life and Death begins and it gives us the key to the entire liturgical mystery of Pascha. In the early church Lazarus Saturday was called “announcement of Pascha”, it announces and anticipates, indeed, the wonderful light and peace of the next Saturday - the Great and Holy Saturday, the day of the Lifegiving Tomb.

Lazarus, the Friend of Jesus

Let us first of all understand that Lazarus, the friend of Jesus, personifies the whole mankind and also each man, and Bethany, the home of Lazarus the Man, is the symbol of the whole world as a home of man. For each man was created friend of God and called to this Divine friendship: the knowledge of God, the communion with Him, the sharing of life with Him. “In Him was life and the life was the light of men.” (John 1:4) And yet this Friend whom God loves, whom in love He has created, i.e. called to life, is destroyed and annihilated by a power which God has not created: death. God encounters in His own world a power which destroys His work and annihilates His design. The world is but lamentation and sorrow, tears and death. How is this possible? How did this happen? These are the questions implied in John’s slow and detailed narrative of Jesus’ coming to the grave of His friend. And once there, “Jesus wept.” (John 11:35) Why does He weep if He knows that in a moment He will call Lazarus back to life? Byzantine hymnographers fail to grasp the true meaning of these tears. They ascribe them to His human nature, whereas the power of resurrection belongs to God in Him. But the Orthodox Church teaches that all actions of Christ are “theandric,” i.e., both Divine and human, are actions of the one and same God-Man. But then His very tears are Divine. Jesus weeps because He contemplates the triumph of death and destruction in the world created by God.

Love, the Power of Life

“It stinketh.” say the Jews trying to prevent Jesus from approaching the corpse, and this awful warning applies to the whole world, to all life. God is Life and the Giver of Life. He called man into the Divine reality of Life and behold “it stinketh”…The world was created to reflect and proclaim the glory of God and “it stinketh.” At the grave of Lazarus God encounters Death, the reality of anti-life, of destruction and despair. He meets His Enemy, who has taken away from Him His World and become its prince. And we who follow Jesus as He approaches the grave, enter with Him into that hour of His, which He announced so often as the climax and the fulfillment of his whole work. The Cross, its necessity and universal meaning are announced in the shortest verse of the Gospel: “and Jesus wept”… We understand now that it is because He wept, i.e., loved His friend Lazarus, that Jesus had the power of calling him back to life. The Jesus had the power of calling him back to life. The power of Resurrection is not a divine “power in itself,” but power of love, or rather love as power. God is Love and Love is life, Love creates Life…It is Love that weeps at the grave and it is Love that restores life. This is the meaning of the Divine tears of Jesus. In them love is at work again – recreating, redeeming, restoring the darkened life of man: “Lazarus, come forth!...” And this is why Lazarus Saturday is the beginning of both: the Cross, as the Supreme sacrifice of love, the Resurrection, as the ultimate triumph of love.

Charity Dinner for Vladimir - March 12, 2010

Dear brothers and sisters in Christ, we kindly invite you to our charity dinner for Vladimir, who is in great need of our support. The dinner will take place on Sunday March 14 between 5-6 at 15 Le Breton downstairs at the cafeteria, some donations will be greatly appreciated, hope to see you there.

With love in Christ, Natalia Spirina, Mira Spirina, and Tatiana Vdovskikh.

Garage Sale - March 12, 2010

The weather is so nice that I think it might be safe to pick up where we left off two years ago – staging a garage sale. Tentatively speaking Saturday, May 1st strikes me as a date to aim for or any Saturday thereafter.

This is something you asked for, so please don’t be shy about volunteering. To begin with we need drivers willing to offer their time and the use their cars to pick up goods from the elderly and those who do not have cars. To this effect, there is a sign-up sheet on the hall board and another for people who will need this help.

There will be more about this as time goes on but please, in spite of all appearances we are short of convenient storage areas, so please, don’t bring any of your goods to church until we are more certain of a date.

Our Pianos - March 12, 2010

Periodically we speak of selling the three pianos we inherited with the Cathedral. We tried Craig’s List and we tried Kijiji without a result. We now have a chance to sell two of them and are looking for a special home for the third, an upright “Berlin”, Ontario born and bred as the following extract from a Canadian Encyclopedia article on Kitchener and Waterloo suggests.

“ Kitchener has been the location of several music businesses. In the late 1890s Frederick Schneider, J.M. Staebler, and others financed the Berlin Piano Co, which during its peak years turned out 20 instruments each week and employed 100 workers. Around 1906 the shareholders sold the firm to the Nordheimer Piano Co of Toronto, which, as representative of the US firm Foster-Armstrong, turned out pianos bearing this name at the Berlin plant. Other names used were Marshall & Wendell and Haines Bros. The Berlin Piano Co closed in 1929. Hallman Organs were built in Kitchener 1941-77. The Waterloo Music Co, besides manufacturing music stands, has imported and published music, imported and repaired instruments, and produced recordings.”

The keys are real ivory, needs lots of tender, loving care and would most likely interest a collector of local antiques with a musical bent and a love for restoring furniture. It can be seen on the stage.

Parents of Youth Meeting - March 12, 2010

Sebastian Scratch is calling all parents of children age 14 to 18 (Youth) to a short meeting immediately after the Liturgy on Sunday.

Council Meeting - March 12, 2010

The next meeting is scheduled for Monday, March 22nd, 2010 at 7pm.The Building & Development Committee will meet on March 15 a week before the Council meeting

Security - March 12, 2010

This should probably be last but not least not first and foremost BUT for security reasons please note effective immediately the doors to the church will be locked after the services. Please take all your belongings with you when you leave the church. After the meal you can use the hall side exit to Eccles or the Lebreton exit to leave the building.

Sunday of the Cross - March 4, 2010

Metropolitan Anthony of Sourozh
18 March 1990

In the Name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost.

As we progress deeper and deeper into the weeks of Lent, we can say with an ever-growing sense of gratitude and of joy, of a serene and exulting joy the words of a Psalm, ‘My soul shall live, and with gratitude I will give glory to the Lord’.

In the first week of Lent we have seen all the promises of salvation given in the Old Testament fulfilled: God became man, salvation has come, and all hopes are possible. And then, in the second week of Lent, we had the glorious proclamation of all the Saints of Christendom that not only did God come and dwell in our midst, but He has poured out upon us, into the Church, and into every human soul ready to receive Him the presence, the transforming gift of the Holy Spirit that makes us gradually commune ever deeper to the Living God until one day we become partakers of the Divine nature.

And today, if we ask ourselves, ‘But how that? How can we be forgiven, how can evil be undone?’ - one step brings us deeper into gratitude, deeper into joy, deeper into certainty when we consider, when we contemplate the Cross.

There is a passage of the Gospel in which we are told that when Christ spoke of salvation and of its conditions, Peter said to Him, ‘Who then can be saved?’ - and Christ answered, ‘What is not possible to men is possible for God!’. And He Himself came; the fullness of God abided in a human person, and He has power to forgive because He is the victim of all the evil, all the cruelty, all the destructiveness of human history. Because indeed, no one but the victim can forgive those who have brought evil, suffering, misery, corruption and death into their lives. And Christ does not only forgive His own murderers, when He says, ‘Father, forgive - they don’t know what they are doing’: He goes beyond this, because He had said, ‘Whatever you have done to one of My smaller brethren and sisters, you have done it to Me’ - not only in good, but indeed, the worst: because in compassion, in solidarity He identifies with every sufferer: the death, the pain, the agony of each of those who suffer is His. And so, when He prays, ‘Father, forgive! They do not know what they are doing, what they have been doing’, He prays for each of us not only in His own name, but in the name of all those upon whom evil has visited because of human sin.

But it is not only Christ who forgives; everyone who has suffered in soul, in body, in spirit, - everyone is called to grant freedom to those who have made him suffer.

And so, we can see why Christ says, ‘Forgive so that you may be forgiven’ because both the victim and the culprit are tied in one knot of solidarity and reciprocal responsibility. Only the victim can say, ‘Lord - forgive him, forgive her’, and only then can the Lord say, ‘I do!.

But do you realise what responsibility it puts on each of us with regard to all and everyone? But also the depth, the glorious depth of hope which opens up to us when we look at the Cross and see that in solidarity with all mankind Christ taking upon Himself all the suffering of the world, accepting to die an impossible death has said in the name of all the sufferers, ‘Yes, - we forgive!’

This is one more step towards freedom, this is one more step towards the moment when we will be faced with Christ’s resurrection that engulfs us also because the risen Christ is risen and is offering all and each of us the fullness of eternal life.

And so again, and again we can say that Lent is a spring of a new life, a new time, a time of renewal, not only in repentance, but in being taken by Christ Himself as the shepherd took the lost sheep, as the Lord took up His Cross, brought it to the place of death, and undid death, undid evil by forgiveness and giving His life. Once more we are confronted with another step of our freedom and of newness. Let us enter ever deeper into this mystery, into this wonder of salvation, and rejoice in the Lord, and rejoicing, step after step, more and more, let us also express our gratitude by newness of life. Amen!

Bulletin Board - March 4, 2010

PARISH UPDATE: At last week’s parish meeting, Fr. Alexander gave an update on Hall rentals, repeated that the Archdiocesan Offices are being moved to the Cathedral and spoke of the new structure of the former Buildings and Grounds Ministry renamed Buildings and Development Committee. Last but not least, Deacon Gregory was nominated and chosen to represent the parish as its lay representative at the Annual Archdiocesan Assembly in July.

HALL RENTALS: Members of The Ottawa, Chinese Table Tennis Club played their first game of ping pong on Tuesday, March 2. Judging by the happy noise coming from the basement they had a lot of fun doing so…

It is still unclear when St. Luke’s is moving in but when they do, please remember that the large notice board in the hall is for theirs for the duration of their stay. During the time they are with us, they will be using the old bookstore for their supplies.

Parish Meeting - February 26, 2010

There will be a short Parish Meeting following the service on Sunday, February 28th.

Please give your prayerful thought who to choose to attend the 2010 Archdiocesan Assembly. We can send one lay delegate only.

Church Hall Notice Board - February 26, 2010

Fr. Alexander has put a notice board in the Church hall in the bit of wall between the library and the old book store. Although this board is intended for our use during the 3 or so weeks St Luke’s is using the kitchen, it should be left empty for their use.

Speaking of Notice board and keeping informed. We have a notice board in each of the vestibules. They usually contain whatever is thought to be important or of interest and include the Minutes, Bulletin, and Calendar. The last three items can be found on the web and go to your email box. This gives those who want to be informed three sources of information to choose from, and …. there is a fourth source - our Council members.

For those who missed the last AGM, the names of the people you elected to serve on this year’s Council are Lydia Scratch, Warden, Matthew Culhane, Deputy Warden, Vera Theokritoff, Secretary, Karen Edmonds, Treasurer, and Fr. Alexander chairs the meetings.

Appointed members and members of the clergy are not required to attend Council meetings but can if they wish. This change to the ByLaws was approved at the last AGM. Tania Eyres continues to look after Hospitality and the huge Buildings & Grounds portfolio, renamed Buildings and Grounds at this week’s Council meeting, was divvied up between Fr. Alexander to look after Development, Jeremy Scratch after Maintenance, and Vera Theokritoff after Rentals. Others involved include Sasha Lopoukhine who chairs the meetings and Sebastian Scratch who reports on the meetings to Council. So, kudos to Mark Steski - we still don’t know how he managed to juggle all this, plus athletic young family and a full time job, single handily for all those years! Next week perhaps we may have permission from Council members and clergy to include their photos in the bulletin so those who are newer to the parish have a point of reference.

On a different note, Jane Szepesi sent the following note about the use of icons. “In a talk (podcast) for the Sunday of Orthodoxy, Fr Thomas Hopko begs us to be more careful in our use of the holy icons, including not using them on parish bulletins etc. which are thrown on car seats, left on coffee tables, and eventually thrown in the garbage. If we use them, the icons on them should be disposed of by burning, and the faithful should be so instructed.”

Donations and Good Will - February 18, 2010

Donations for Haiti will continue to received until the end of February. Cheques should be signed HaitiHaiti”.

Nearer home, the need for dry goods continues both inside and outside our parish. Please place whatever you can spare in the FOOD BASKET located near the Theotokos just before you leave the temple. Many thanks. Gently used clothing is best left in the foyer between two entrance doors to the temple. There is not enough space in the entrance at 15 Lebreton for them to be left there.

2010 Archdiocesan Assembly - February 12, 2010

THE 2010 ARCHDIOCESAN ASSEMBLY convenes in Victoria, BC 26-30 July. An information package containing a letter from Vladyka ,printable versions of the registration forms, delegate accreditation forms, and other important information can be found at the following link: http://www.orthodoxassembly.ca/index.php/printable-parish-package

Potato Dish Recipes - February 12, 2010

HARD TO BELIEVE that Victor’s request for potato dish recipes would net zero reply in a parish with Eastern European antecedents. It’s not too late though,if you have a potato dish you love, do share it with Victor. His email - or Many thanks.

The Pre-Lent Period - January 24, 2010

The Pre-Lent period in the church cycle started last Sunday. The following links are recommended in understanding this period, Great Lent and the services that begin half-way through next month. Included is a link on the essential aspects of prayer, fasting and alms-giving that characterize the season. All links are extracts from Fr. Tom Hopko’s book Orthodox Faith which is on the OCA website.

Haiti Relief Effort - January 24, 2010

The following is an abbreviated form of a directive that appeared on the Archdiocesan website last week.

Dear Brothers, and Sisters, of the Archdiocese of Canada,

Following the devastating earthquake in Haiti, His Beatitude, Metropolitan JONAH, asks us to pray for the suffering and departed, and directed $10,000.00 be given to the IOCC for relief in Haiti. In addition he asked that a special collection is taken in parishes on Sunday, 17 January 2010, and sent directly to the IOCC.

It is difficult to send funds directly to US based charities, therefore to comply with His Beatitude’s directive, I recommend that all parish and individual offerings taken on Sunday are sent to the Canadian Red Cross. I would further like to recommend that until the end of February, rather than waiting for a “crowd-pleasing” amount that what is collected each week is immediately remitted to the Red Cross. Also, appropriate petitions may be used during Divine Services at this time.

Thanking you for your Christian response to this situation, I remain in Christ yours,

The Archbishop of Ottawa and of Canada,
The unworthy † Seraphim

Note from the editor. Donation should be marked”Hait” .

Movie Night at the Bookstore - January 24, 2010

Movie “night” at the bookstore.The Youth have organized an “afternoon out” for the younger children in the parish. They will be showing The Prince from Egypt on Sunday, January 31 at 5:30 pm.

Location: Three Deacons Store.
Tickets: $1.50

Mexico Trip - January 24, 2010

Please consider offering one week of your time this spring to be part of a team of Orthodox adults from Canada who will be constructing a house for a family in exico. Dozens of youth from Canada have participated in this missionary work over the past ten years. Now, for the first time, a team of adults is being organized. No construction skills are needed, just a desire to help a needy family and a willingness to work hard in a hot, dusty environment. In addition to the missionary work of constructing a house, you will also have the opportunity to experience first hand, the important ministry of St. Innocent Orphanage, an Orthodox orphanage for boys.

During our week in Mexico we will be based at the orphanage south of Tijuana. Sleeping accommodations and meals will be provided at the orphanage. We will participate in daily services at St. Innocent Chapel, as well as the Divine Liturgy on Sunday. There will be a variety of activities, presentations and discussions offered in the evenings. This will be an opportunity for you to be challenged, inspired and encouraged in your life in Christ and the work of the Church!

Dates:
May 28 – June 3, 2010

Cost:
$525.00 US + flights to/from San Diego .

CONTACT:
Fr. Larry Reinheimer (403) 938- 6393

The Spring pilgrimage to the Holy Land is fully booked. Details of the pilgrimage to the Ukraine (aug 11-31) will be made available shortly.

Akathist Time Change - January 16, 2010

The Akathist on Sunday will be served at 1:30 pm not 5:00 pm as shown on the calendar. After the Akathist service Vladyka has made time to answer any question we may have.

Vladyka asks us to be patient during the process of finding the right time for the Akathist services. He would also like us to know that he has heard the requests that we serve other forms of the Akathist. The intention was to edit the text of the Akathist to the Mother of God of Pochaev but there was no time until now, therefore we used what we had.

Bulletin Board - January 16, 2010

TAX RECEIPTS: If you moved, changed phone numbers ,email address, had a baby, never registered - please email or phone the office (613-230-2687) with the relevant information. Failing to do so will slow down the whole tax receipt process.

The deadline for the annual Boys & Girls Club Scholarship program is March 31, 2010. Details http://www.bgottawa.org To apply you must be registered in a program at a University, College or Trade School. Be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident and have a minimum average of 70% .

VICTOR THEOKRITOFF is working on a fund raiser and is looking for recipes for potato dishes - ethnic or original.

BLESSING OF HOMES: Please make arrangements BY CALLING THE OFFICE for one of the priests to bless your home after Theophany. A priest will call you and set up a time to meet and pray with your family.

The 2010 Archdiocesan Assembly will be convened in Victoria, BC 26-30 July, more details are available on http://www.orthodoxassembly.ca as well as the letter on the bulletin boards.

Mark you agendas! Fr. Tom Hopko is conference speaker at the 19th Annual Conference sponsored by the Orthodox Christian Women of Montreal. The subject is The Lord’s Prayer, the date, Saturday, February 13th, 2010.

The $35.00 advanced registration fee should be received by February 6th ; tickets at the door are $40.00. Breakfast, lunch and refreshments are included in the cost of the tickets. Contact information and registration forms are available at the candle table in the temple.

Keeping The Food Basket in the entry of the Cathedral. filled makes a big difference to the clientele at the Dalhousie Food Cupboard and St Luke’s Lunch Club. Their clients are just as appreciative of the gently used clothing you pass on to them. Thank you very much. Please keep it up.

Prayer Basket: Requests for prayers can be placed in the small basket on the candle table.

Library Hours: Sunday after the Service or by appointment. Contacts: Deacon Alexander or Fr. James.

Vladyka’s next stop is Saskatoon but not until January 21st .

Fr. Alexander returns to Ottawa on January 20th.

Many Years! - January 16, 2010

Many years to Elijah Di Giacomo. Elijah became a fully fledged member of our parish on Saturday, January 9th, 2009.

Vladyka’s Greetings - January 8, 2010

Vladyka, who is presently in Montreal, sends greetings to all for a blessed, healthy, peaceful year. He will be with us at the weekend and expand on his wishes in person.

Christmas Bazaar Notice - December 31, 2009

We’ve talked about a Bazaar, decided that CHRISTMAS COOKIES (& CAKES) are our common thread and now we have to start organizing a Bazaar. It will be a fun project in which old and young alike can participate, no – have to participate in otherwise it won’t work.

Here then is Step 2 – Taste testing

A few weeks ago we asked you to monitor which of your cookies, cakes and preserves were the most popular over the holidays. Now we ask that you let us see if we agree. The weekly Parish lunches are a perfect testing ground and rating centre for your creations. It is important that the taste tests take place before everyone takes off for the summer. However Lent is early this year and we will have to wait until after Pascha before we can start ranking your creations for both taste and looks. The cookies with the highest score will be offered for sale at the Bazaar. In addition, people like to buy jams, chutneys and preserves as Christmas gifts we would therefore like to include these wonderful creations in the taste tests as well.

Bulletin Board - December 31, 2009

Blessing of Homes: Please make arrangements BY CALLING THE OFFICE for one of the priests to bless your home after Theophany. A priest will call you and set up a time to meet and pray with your family.

The 2010 Archdiocesan Assembly will be convened in Victoria, BC 26-30 July. Please find more details at www.orthodoxassembly.ca Please see letter on the bulletin boards at the main and side entrances.

The Food Basket (next to the icon of the Theotokos at the front entry to the church) provides an easy way to collect food for the Dalhousie Food Cupboard and/or St Luke’s Lunch Club. In addition, both establishments are perennially in need of gently used clothing to pass to their clients. Clothing can be left in the narthex.

Many thanks to the many people who contributed to the Food Basket and/or left clothing in the past year. Your thoughtfulness and kindness has helped a number of people to be less hungry and more comfortable. Thank you.

Prayer Basket: Requests for prayers can be placed in the small basket on the candle table.

Library Hours: Sunday after the Service or by appointment. Contacts: Deacon Alexander or Fr. James.

The 2010 is now available.

Fr. Alexander is in Edmonton until January 20, 2010.

Announcements - December 24, 2009

Monthly Herald for January 2010 is on our website. The service schedule for the month is on pg. 3. The schedule does not show that Vladyka is in Ottawa on January 10th nor that there may well be a hierarchical Divine Liturgy.

The Sunday luncheon schedule is as follows, the first Sunday is hosted by the yellow team, the second by the blue, the third by the green and the fourth by the pink. If there is a fifth Sunday, the whole parish helps with food, set up and clean up. The lunch reminder will no longer be shown on the schedule.

The Bookstore has asked to have the following sent to the readership - To coincide with the feast of the Nativity the following children’s book are now available at The Three Deacons Church Store. The books are beautifully illustrated with Orthodox themes that bring our faith and tradition alive. Some of the titles are:

The Life of St. Patrick: Enlightener of the Irish
by Zachary Lynch
The Wonderful Life of Russia’s Saint, Sergius of Radonezh
by Alvin Alexsi Currier Illustrated by Nadezda Glazunova
Prepare, O Bethlehem!
by Niko Chocheli
Daniel and the Lion
written & illustrated by Claire Brandenburg
Drita: An Albanian Girl Discovers Her Ancestors’ Faith.
by Renee Ritsi, illustrated by Cameron Thorp
Alyosha’s Apple: A Tale of Old Russia
by Alvin Alexsi Currier, illustrated by Nadezda Glazunova
The Monk Who Grew Prayer,
written & illustrated by Claire Brandenburg
The Praises
by Niko Chocheli
The Abbot and I: As Told by Josie the Cat
by Sarah Elizabeth Cowie, illustrated by Sarah Selby.

The store is open on the Wednesday and Thursday, December 23 and 24 from 3pm to 6pm. A 15% discount is offered on these and other books and all our regularly priced stock - icons, vestments, and liturgical hardware.

Blessing of Homes - December 24, 2009

Please call and make arrangements BY CALLING THE OFFICE for one of the priest to bless your home after Theophany. A priest will call you and set up a time to meet and pray with your family.

Bulletin Board - December 19, 2009

Christmas Donations: This is the last Sunday that anyone can make a donation for people in need and the Elizabeth Fry Society. -

Prayer Basket: Requests for prayers can be placed in the small basket on the candle table.

Library Hours: Sunday after the Service or by appointment.

In Memoriam - December 19, 2009

His Eminence, Archbishop Job of Chicago and the Midwest SYOSSET, NY [OCA Communications] – On Friday, December 18, 2009, His Eminence, Archbishop Job of Chicago and the Midwest unexpectedly fell asleep in the Lord. May His Eminence, Archbishop Job’s memory be eternal!

Bulletin Board - December 12, 2009

January: On the feast of Theophany on January 6th we will, as last year, gather to bless the Ottawa River at noon. The location will be determined by the accessibility of the water which depends on ice conditions. Mark the date and listen for the location as the feast draws nearer.

Christmas Donations: At this time of the year we collect money for people in need in our parish as well as the Elizabeth Fry Society - an establishment which cares for women in conflict with the law. Donations can be left with Karen after the Liturgy.

Prayer Basket: Requests for prayers can be placed in the small basket on the candle table.

Library Hours: Sunday after the Service or by appointment. Contacts: Deacon Alexander or Fr. James.

Don’t forget we are planning a Christmas Bazaar for 2010. Think COOKIES ..candies, cake, chutneys, preserves..

Christmas Bazaar 2010 - December 4, 2009

Most of the ethnic Orthodox parishes - Greek, Ukrainian, Antiochian, Serb - celebrate their national day by opening the doors to the public and selling their national pie and artefacts to raise extra cash for their parishes. It is a fun project, a good bonding exercise and everyone – young, old, middle aged – can lend a hand and see it happen.

Our parish is blessedly multi-ethnic and though we can’t hope to climb to fame on the merit of a national pie we do have something in COOKIES, luscious, mouth watering Christmas cookies[1] HENCE why would we not declare the Christmas Cookie to be the star, the “national pie” at our own annual event - a Christmas Bazaar starting in 2010?

To help bring this about, here is clue #1. Even if you know,

Take note which of your homemade cookies, cakes, candies, preserves, jams and pickles is the most popular with friends and family this Christmas.

To be continued!

Bulletin Board - December 4, 2009

Christmas Donations: At this time of the year we collect money for people in need in our parish as well as well as the Elizabeth Fry Society, an establishment which cares for women in conflict with the law. Donations can be left with Karen until December 20th .

The Food Basket (next to the icon of the Theotokos at the front entry to the church) provides an easy way to collect food for the Dalhousie Food Cupboard and/or St Luke’s Lunch Club. In addition, both establishments have an ongoing need for gently used clothing to pass to their clients. Clothing can be left in the narthex.

Prayer Basket: Requests for prayers can be placed in the small basket on the candle table. Pencil & paper are in the basket.

Library Hours: Sunday after the Service or by appointment. Contacts: Deacon Alexander, Fr. James, Vera.

Bulletin Board - November 27, 2009

BEST OF THE WEEK? On Monday, December 23 Young Nicolai – James Heard made his entry into the world and straight into everyone’s heart! He is healthy, good looking and has large hands! Alex and Nicolai are home and doing well. That satisfied purr you just heard came from Pat. Many, many years.

November 29th is rainbow lunch. In an effort to make clean-up as quick as possible, please bring fingerfood ( sandwiches )and plan on helping with set-up and later with stacking the tables and chairs, and clean up. Many thanks.

The Food Basket (next to the icon of the Theotokos at the front entry to the church) provides an easy way to collect food for the Dalhousie Food Cupboard and/or St Luke’s Lunch Club. The coordinator of the Dalhousie Food Cupboard mentioned that this year they are short of shaving paraphernalia to put into the Christmas baskets for the men.

In addition, both establishments have an ongoing need for gently used clothing to pass to their clients. Clothing can be left in the narthex.

Announcements - November 19, 2009

Coming in December: Archbishop Seraphim will serve the sacrament of Holy Unction at 2:00 in the afternoon of Saturday December 5th.

Coming in January: On the feast of Theophany on January 6th we will, as last year, gather to bless the Ottawa River at noon. The location will be determined by the accessibility of the water which depends on ice conditions. Mark the date and listen for the location as the feast draws nearer.

Annual General Meeting Part II - November 14, 2009

PART II OF THE AGM will take place on SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 29th , 2009 after the liturgy and lunch

In preparation for the AGM the membership list is back on the board in the Lebreton entrance. Please check if your name is on it. If not, please let Vera, Lydia or any other member of the council know so it can be added.

November 29th is a rainbow lunch. In an effort to cut down on washing-up, it would be helpful if people were to bring sandwiches and/or other finger food. Many thanks.

Parish Council Nominations - November 14, 2009

The Parish Council is accepting nominations for the elected positions on the Council. Please prayerfully consider whether you, or someone you know, could meaningfully contribute to this ministry in our Church.

Nominations will close on Wednesday, November 25th 2009. The elections for these positions will be on Sunday, November 29th 2009, during the Annual General Meeting Part II.

The Warden

Co-ordinates the Administrative Ministry,
Provides firm leadership to the Council, and
Represent the Council on all appropriate occasions.

The Deputy Warden

Substitutes for the Warden.
Is an ex officio member of each Parish Ministry and shall serve as a liaison between the coordinators of the Parish Ministries (other than the Communications Ministry and the Administrative Ministry itself) and the Administrative Ministry.
assumes the position of Warden should it become vacant.

The Treasurer

Manages the Parish finances
Maintains financial records
Provides financial statements to the Parish Council as requested, and
Prepares and files all financial reports and statements

The Secretary

Takes minutes at Parish Council meetings
Posts those minutes for the Parish
Sends copies of the Minutes to the Archdiocese, and
Performs other occasional secretarial duties

Bulletin Board - November 14, 2009

REQUEST: Father Daniel Matheson (and probably others) would like to have a tape or transcript of Metropolitan Jonah’s talk at the cathedral on October 1st. If you or someone you know taped the talk please contact Jane Szepesi. Thanks!

The Food Basket (now next to the icon of the Theotokos at the front entry to the church) provides an easy way to collect food for the Dalhousie Food Cupboard and/or St Luke’s Lunch Club. In addition gently used clothing for distribution by either concern is always welcome.

If you are unable to contribute to the food basket but have access to the internet, you might like to consider adding one or the other of the links below to your bookmarks. A click will provide someone with a meal, rice or that British cure it all, a (nice) cup of tea!

A few more word about hunger.

When hunger contractions start to occur in the stomach, they are informally referred to as hunger pangs. Hunger pangs usually do not begin until 12 to 24 hours after the last meal. A single hunger contraction lasts about 30 seconds, and pangs continue for around 30–45 minutes, then hunger subsides for around 30-150 minutes. Individual contractions are separated at first, but are almost continuous after a certain amount of time. Emotional states (anger, joy etc.) may inhibit hunger contractions. Levels of hunger are increased by lower blood sugar levels, and are higher in diabetics. They reach their greatest intensity in 3 to 4 days and may weaken in the succeeding days, though hunger never disappears. Hunger contractions are most intense in young, healthy people who have high degrees of gastrointestinal tonus. Periods between contractions increase with old age.

On June 19, 2009, it was reported that world hunger hit one billion people, about a sixth of the world’s total population.

There were 923 million hungry people in the world in 2007, an increase of 80 million since 1990. The world already produces enough food to feed everyone - 6 billion people - and could feed double - 12 billion people.

In The News!! - November 6, 2009

Young Elijah Di Giacomo arrived yesterday morning. He is healthy, gorgeous and looks like his Mum, says his Dad. Many years young man – we all look forward to meeting you. The mother is doing well too. Congratulations everyone!.

Orthodox Faith Newspaper - November 6, 2009

The following link has been added to our website:

Orthodox Faith Newspaper
www.orthopress.org

Orthodox Faith was started by Bruce (Boris Krieger in Toronto and comes out roughly once a month..

Food Basket - October 31, 2009

Filling the food basket took a little longer than usual (almost three months),but made a few people really happy. Thank you very much.

Fr Alexander’s Return - October 31, 2009

Father Alexander will return to Ottawa on Tuesday, November 3rd.

Bookstore (new store hours) - October 31, 2009

Thursday 12pm – 4 pm;
Friday & Saturday 11:30am – 4:30 pm;
Sundays from 2pm – 4 pm.

Identifying the Hierarchs - October 24, 2009

Many people would like to know how to identify the hierarchs who served and attended the consecration of Bishop Irénée. I hope this photo by Svetlana Melnik will help:

From right to left, they are:

Bishop Melchisedek of Pittsburgh and Western Pennsylvania.
Bishop Benjamin of San Francisco and the West
Bishop Iov of Kashira, Administrator of the Patriarchal Parishes in Canada and Acting Administrator of the Patriarchal Parishes in the USA
Archbishop Seraphim of Ottawa and Canada
Metropolitan Sotirios of the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of Toronto
His Beatitude, Metropolitan Jonah, who presided at the consecration
Bishop Alexander of the Antiochian Orthodox Diocese of Ottawa
Archbishop Nathaniel of Detroit and the Romanian Episcopate
Bishop Tikhon of Philadelphia and Eastern Pennsylvania
Bishop Meleti of Khotyn, Auxiliary Bishop of the Church of Ukraine’s Diocese of Chernivtsi

Many Years - October 24, 2009

Cyril and Anna Nadavallil and their daughter Taesia wanted to share that Jaidyn Mathew Thomas Nadavallil was born on Sunday, October 18th, 2009. All 19” of Baby Jaidyn weighed in at 6.7 lbs. Many years Baby Jaydyn.

Birthday and Anniversary List - October 24, 2009

Don’t forget to check the birthday and anniversary list for additions or omissions. The list is on the Lebreton bulletin board

Brief Updates - October 18, 2009

Fr. Alexander is in Edmonton until the end of October. He can be reached at 780-481-6534

Hidden Treasures Give Away Weekend - October 18, 2009

Date:
Saturday & Sunday, October 24 & 25

Time:
all day

Place:
throughout the city

Treasures include:
books, CDs and DVDs, old furniture, small appliances, construction materials (drywall, nails, bolts & screws), kitchen gadgets, dishes, cutlery, pots and pans, unwanted gifts & more.

Rules for setting out the treasures

Place items at the curb.
Things you want to keep shouldn’t be near the FREE items. Place stickers or signs on items with the word “FREE”.
Bring in unclaimed items at the end of the day

The Orthodox Christian Fellowship - October 18, 2009

The Orthodox Christian Fellowship group meets at Carleton University on Tuesdays from 5:30 pm until 7:00 pm in Loeb A204. Students from the University or from Algonquin college are all welcome to attend. For further information please contact Fr. James at the Church office at 613- 230-2687 or at home at 613- 221-9533.

Food Basket - October 18, 2009

A propos the food basket, I learnt this prayer recently.

Lord Jesus Christ our God,
Give food to the hungry
And grant that we who have much
Might hunger and thirst after righteousness . Amen

We relocated the food basket to the main entry, opposite the candle desk.

Announcements - October 10, 2009

Prayer Basket: Requests for prayers can be placed in the small basket on the candle table where Mother Maryam will pick them up. Pencil & paper are in the basket.

The Library is open on Sunday after the Divine Liturgy or by request. Donations of Orthodox books -any language - are gratefully received. Questions regarding the Library should be addressed to Deacon Alexander, Father James, Vera Theokritoff or Jane Szepesi.

Bible For Missions Thrift Store, Grand Opening - October 10, 2009

The Ottawa BFM Thrift Store recently opened its doors, at 1545 Merivale Road, to welcome donors and customers of quality goods. No longer needed, many items can become valued additions to the wardrobe or household of new owners. To introduce ourselves to the public we plan a Grand Opening celebration on Saturday 17 October at 11 a.m. This thrift store aims to benefit Ottawa’s low income community and distinguishes itself by being entirely staffed by volunteers and directing its profits to bring literacy and the gospel to some of the world’s poorest people.

We invite new volunteers to join us in this work. At present a core group of more than 50 cheerful volunteers staff the store, receive donations, sort , check and stock the items. They commit themselves for a shift of four hours per week, but many give more of their time. We have volunteers from many churches, who enjoy the social contact with each other as well as contribute their skills. To build a sense of community and common purpose, each shift begins with a period of devotions. Because volunteers have family and other responsibilities the store is open only from 10 a.m to 5 p.m., Monday through Saturday.

We sell a large variety of clothing, house wares, sports equipment, small appliances and furniture. Volunteers verify that all lights and electrical equipment is in working order and assemble furniture and toys. Some help to make deliveries. We welcome people with a variety of abilities and interests so that together we can rescue even more materials from going to the region’s landfill sites. For more information call the store at 613-288-1996 or see www.bfmthriftstores.ca

Announcements - October 4, 2009

Sue Gander retired from editing the weekly bulletin. The new editor, Fr. James joins Father Alexander and other members of the Council in thanking Sue for a year of hard work and patience and a job well done.

Communication is never easy and keeping the flow of communication alive can be a daunting task and you did it well.

Thank you Sue; may God’s grace look on you and your family.

For some weeks now we have talked about the launching of the Monthly News and the continuation of the Weekly Bulletin. To clarify matters, the Monthly News will contain articles of an educational nature, the monthly calendar as well as a synopsis of the services and events. It will also contain the latest financial report and news of importance to our community.

The Weekly bulletin is there to serve as a quick reminder of weekly events and to inform the parish of any schedule changes or fresh news not in the Monthly News. In the past every effort was made to have the bulletin in your mailbox by midnight on Thursdays; for a variety of reasons we have changed this to Saturday, at least for the time being. The Monthly on the other hand will be on the web during the third week of the month and available as a pamphlet that Sunday – at least that is the theory. Please direct any questions you may have about this to Fr. James or Vera.

For those who were unable to venerate the wonder working icon or take part in the very moving consecration of brand new bishop, Vladyka Irénée, the photos of these big events in our parish life are on our website. The photos of the arrival of the Theotokos at the Cathedral were taken by Emily.

The Food Basket - October 4, 2009

Summer is over and as in past years, the number of hungry and the need for warmer clothing will increase. Your gifts of non-perishable food and your cast-off clothing make it possible to meet both needs. Our Greek bread basket has moved to the main entrance. Bags with garments can be left on the landing in the stairwell at the main entrance. Thank you for your continued generosity and thoughtfulness. More?

From the Archbishop - September 27, 2009

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

I have been asked whether the Pochaiv Mother of God icon that is to visit the Cathedral is the very one described on our web site as having been given to the monks at the Pochaiv Monastery by Anna Goiskaya in 1597. In fact, it is an exact copy of that one, made when the original was first received at the monastery, and blessed upon the original. It normally resides in the Pochaiv monastery with the original and another copy. Near it, there are many canes & crutches left by those who no longer require them, giving silent testimony to the love and power of God to heal those who approach this icon to ask the Theotokos to pray, for them and with them to her son, our Lord Jesus Christ.

Love in Christ,
+Seraphim

Message from Fr John - September 27, 2009

Dear Friends,
It has been a few weeks since my last Sunday as dean and the celebration of my 25th anniversary of ordination to the priesthood. I was deeply touched by the Cathedral’s gift—presented by our Warden Lydia Scratch Holden—of a carved wooden cross. It is simple and beautiful and I will treasure it. Thank you all.

I am no longer dean, but the Cathedral is still my parish home. I will continue to be attached as a priest and normally expect to be present two Sundays each month. At other times I may be visiting other churches, both Orthodox and non-Orthodox, as part of my new roles as diocesan “Ecumenical officer” and vice-president of the Canadian Council of Churches. I would like to see for myself the state of Christian life “out there.” This also fits in well with my teaching and research interests at Saint Paul University.

Again, thank you for your kindness. May God bless you, your families and the life and mission of Annunciation Cathedral.

With love in Christ,
Fr John.

Announcements - September 27, 2009

We are trying to make the Cathedral looks festive for the arrival of the Pochaiv Mother of God icon as well as the consecration. If you had planned to bring flowers from your garden or potted plants to greet the Theotokos, you might like to know that we have chose burgundy and white mums. Mums because they are in season, cream because it glows in dimly lit areas and burgundy because it was as close as we could get to red, the colour for celebrations. Incidentally Loblaw has extremely healthy looking plants at a very reasonable price.

The work in the hall has not been completed so please check your mail box and bring work clothes to church on Sunday.
The Bookstore is moving to its spacious new location in the garage !!!! The grand opening will be on Sunday, October 4th, 2009.

Store hours:
Thursday & Friday 10am – 6pm
Saturday: 10 am – 4 pm and
Sundays from 2pm – 6 pm.

The Food Basket, (at the front of the church) provides an easy way to collect food for the neediest people in the neighbourhood. The Dalhousie Food Cupboard and St Luke’s Lunch Club also welcome gently used clothing for their clients. Information: Vera Theokritoff:

Prayer Basket: Requests for prayers can be placed in the small basket on the candle table where Mother Maryam will pick them up. Pencil & paper are in the basket.

The Library is open on Sunday after the Divine Liturgy or by request. Donations of Orthodox books -any language - are gratefully accepted. Questions regarding the Library should be addressed to Deacon Alexander, or Father James, Vera Theokritoff or Jane Szepesi.

Consecration and Commemoration Information from the Warden - September 22, 2009

Hello dear brothers and sisters in Christ,

I would like to remind everyone about the great things that will be happening in our Cathedral next week. Not only are we hosting the consecration of Bishop- Elect Irénée on Thursday, October 1st, we will have the wonderworking Icon of the Pochaev Mother of God in our temple for two days. It is such a blessing for us all to be able to experience these historical events “up close and personal”.

The liturgy and consecration will be on Thursday, October 1st, starting at 8:30 in the morning. This will be ther first time His Beatitude, Metropolitan Jonah will be serving liturgy in our Cathedral. Please consider taking the day off work and keeping your children out of school. It’s not every day the head of our church comes by. It was a blessing for me to be with Metropoliitan Jonah at his first liturgy as Metropolitan in Pittsburgh last year: now this is a blessing we can all share here in Ottawa.

Here’s the schedule of events:

Wednesday, September 30th
Noon – Moleben to the Icon of the Pochaev Mother of God (the Icon will be in the temple until midnight Thursday, October 1)

5:00 PM Election of the Bishop of Quebec City Irénée
6:00 PM Vigil
8:00 PM Reception in Cathedral Hall

Thursday October 1
8:30 AM Liturgy, and Luncheon (potluck)
6:30 PM Akathist to the Pochaiv Mother of God Icon
7:30 PM Public Lecture by His Beatitude Metropolitan Jonah Cathedral

We are nearing the final stages of preparation for these full two days. There are still plenty of oppotunities to contribute. Here’s who you can talk to if you can help out:

Fr. Alexander is overseeing the events.
Tanya Eyre and Shannon Goltz are organising the potluck dinner after the liturgy on Thursday, October 1st. The head table will be catered by John Scratch, but the many people who are coming to this liturgy will need refreshments.
Sasha Lopoukhine is working on the publicity and communication related to the events.
Deacon Gregory is coordinating the liturgics of the days, including making sure the temple looks its best.
I am working on general hospitality issues.

Please get in touch with any of these people to lend a helping hand. There is definitely something for everyone to do. And don’t forget the hall still needs some painting and cleaning!

I truly hope and pray that we can all pull together as our Cathedral family to offer the kindest welcome and best hospitality we can to all who will be visiting. It will be a joy to work on all of this with you.

With love in Christ,

Lydia Scratch Holden
Warden

Itinerary of the Pochaiv Icon of The Mother of God - September 19, 2009

You can download the PDF itinerary of the icon below:

Itinerary of the Pochaiv Icon of The Mother of God

You’ll need a program like Foxit Reader or Adobe Reader to view it:

Akathist To the Icon of the Most Holy Theotokos “The Virgin of Pochaiv” - September 18, 2009

You can download the Akathist To the Icon of the Most Holy Theotokos below. It’s a PDF, so you’ll need a program like Foxit Reader or Adobe Reader to view it:

Please note, there are links to two versions of the Akathist to the Icon of the Most Holy Theotokos “The Virgin of Pochaiv” – one with Moleben, the other without. The latter includes notes about the Icon.

The Pochaiv Icon of The Mother of God Historical Notes - September 18, 2009

By the Very Rev. Alexander Golubov Academic Dean, Saint Tikhon Orthodox Theological Seminary

The Pochaiv icon of the Mother of God is one of the most venerated by Orthodox Christians, especially in Ukraine, Belarus, Russia, and the Balkans. Permanently housed in the Pochaiv Monastery of the Dormition of the Theotokos in southwest Ukraine, the icon is widely renowned for healings of the sick and other miracles. The image, written in tempera in the Byzantine style and measuring approximately 13 inches by 10.5 inches, depicts the Mother of God tenderly inclining her head toward her Son, Whom she holds on her right hand. In her left hand, she holds a napkin, with which she covers the feet of the divine infant. Jesus is depicted imparting a blessing to those for whom He is “the Way, the Truth, and the Life.” On both sides and on the lower part of the icon are miniature images of seven saints. On the right, the Prophet Elias and, below him, the Martyr Menas, are depicted, while the Protomartyr Stephen and the Venerable Avraamius are featured on the left. Across the bottom of the icon one finds images of the Great Martyr Catherine and the martyrs Parasceve and Irene.

There are no written records of the establishment and early history of the Pochaiv Monastery. In accordance with local historical tradition, however, the beautiful sub-Carpathian wilderness where the monastery is situated was first settled by several disciples of Saint Methodius, Enlightener of the Slavs [+855 AD], towards the end of the ninth century. Several centuries later, during the Mongol invasion of Russia, two monks from the Kiev Caves Monastery settled in the area after the Mongols had sacked their city. The monks, it is said, named their new abode after the river Pochaina, which flowed near the Kiev Caves.

According to tradition, around the year 1340 AD, one of the monks ascended the summit of Mount Pochaiv to pray, when suddenly he beheld a pillar of fire burning in the wilderness. Calling out to the other monk to join him, he stood in prayer. The fire was seen also by some shepherds who were tending flocks in the area, among them Ivan Bosoi [“the barefoot”], who joined the monks in prayer. They beheld, surrounded by the flames and standing on a rock, the Most Holy Theotokos, the Mother of God. When the apparition finally disappeared, they saw that the place where the Theotokos had been standing had melted, leaving the imprint of her right foot embedded in the rock. Welling up over the footprint was a spring of clear water.

First written traces of monastic life on Mount Pochaiv are found in unofficial 16th century documents of Polish kings Sigismund I and Sigismund II Augustus, which refer to “a monastery of the Greek Rite at the Pochaiv mount,” already “very old and famous.” From the so-called “Fundushnaia Gramota” [“Writ of Endowment”] given to the monastery in 1597 AD by the Orthodox noblewoman Anna Goiskaya, the widow of a local public justice, Basil Goisky, as well as from the vita of the venerable Saint Job of Pochaiv [born 1571?], Abbot of the Pochaiv Monastery from 1596 until 1651, we learn other important details. In 1559, when on the behest of the Patriarch the Greek Metropolitan Neophyte came to Russia in search of financial support for the Church of Constantinople, he brought with him an ancient Byzantine icon of the Mother of God. On his way home from Moscow, Metropolitan Neophyte traveled to Volhyn, where he accepted the invitation of Anna Goiskaya to enjoy her hospitality in her castle in Orel, not far from Pochaiv. In gratitude for her generosity, as a blessing to Anna, Metropolitan Neophyte left with her the icon that he had brought from Constantinople.

Anna first placed the icon in her private chapel, where it remained for thirty-odd years. Over those years, however, the servants began to notice that at times the icon shone with a mysterious light, and had started to manifest miracles. Anna herself was prone to disbelieve the stories of her servants until she saw the icon emanating a bright radiant light. Among those who received healing from the icon was Anna’s own brother, Philip, who had been blind from birth. After praying before the icon on the advice of his sister, he miraculously recovered his sight.

In 1597, Anna Goiskaya gave the miraculous icon as a gift to the Pochaiv Monastery, now headed by the venerable Saint Job as Abbot, and richly endowed the monastery with lands and substantial material support. To house the holy icon, under Saint Job’s guidance a stone church in honor of the Dormition of the Theotokos was specially erected, which Goiskaya herself lavishly furnished with all necessary materials and appointments. After the death of Anna Goiskaya, her heir, a nephew who in the Reformation had converted to Lutheranism, plundered the Pochaiv Monastery and took the icon home. Expressing his disdain for the holy image, he engaged in travesties of Orthodox services, during which he dressed his wife in priestly vestments while she shrieked insults at the icon. For this she was severely chastised by demonic torment. The poor woman’s sufferings stopped only when she finally returned the sacred image to its rightful place in the monastery.

In 1675, Moslem Turks invaded the area and laid siege to the monastery. In response, the monks, together with the people who sought shelter in the monastery, began to sing the Akathistos Hymn before the Pochaiv icon, supplicating the assistance and protection of the Mother of God. To the astonishment of the Turks, a vision appeared above Pochaiv, in which they beheld the Most Holy Virgin, in brilliant and shining radiance, accompanied by Saint Job. The radiant Virgin was holding her protective veil over the monastery and was surrounded by a host of angels dressed for battle, with drawn swords. The invaders tried to repel the angelic host by shooting thousands of arrows into the air, but the arrows fell back, killing the men who had shot them. The Turks lifted the siege and fled in terror.
For almost 100 years in the 18th century and early 19th centuries [1721-1831], the Pochaiv Monastery was in the hands of the Greek Catholic Church. During that time, the majestic three-altar Cathedral of the Dormition was built [1771-1783] by count Nicholas Potocki, and the icon was transferred there in 1791. In 1831, the Pochaiv Monastery was once again returned to the Orthodox Church. Two years later, the Holy Synod of the Russian Orthodox Church elevated the monastery to the rank of a “Lavra,” equating it in religious stature with the Kievan Caves Lavra in Kiev, the Holy Trinity-Saint Sergius Lavra near Moscow, and notably, the Saint Alexander Nevsky Lavra in St. Petersburg, whose particular singing and reading traditions were adopted in Pochaiv. In 1869, the icon was covered with a metallic gilded “riza” studded with precious stones and encased in a star-shaped frame, the rays of which are inlaid with pearls and diamonds.

The flow of miracles from the icon continues to our own day. To accommodate the many thousands of pilgrims who arrive in Pochaiv to pray to the Mother of God before her miracle-working image, the Pochaiv icon is carried in festive processions for the feasts of the Dormition and the Nativity of the Mother of God, as well as in commemoration of the Most Holy Virgin’s protection of the monastery from the Turks in 1675. There are approximately 300 extant miracle working copies of the icon of the Pochaiv Mother of God.

Archimandrite Irénée (Rochon) to be consecrated Bishop of Quebec City October 1, 2009 - September 18, 2009

QUEBEC CITY, QC [OCA Communications]—On Thursday, October 1, 2009, His Beatitude, Metropolitan Jonah and the members of the Holy Synod of Bishops of the Orthodox Church in America will consecrate Archimandrite Irénée (Rochon) Bishop of Quebec City and Auxiliary to His Eminence, Archbishop Seraphim of Ottawa and Canada.

The Rite of Consecration will take place at a Hierarchical Divine Liturgy at
Annunciation Cathedral, Ottawa, ON, beginning at 8:30 AM.

On Wednesday evening, September 30, the Rite of Nomination, Proclamation, and
Acceptance by Archimandrite Irénée will take place at the cathedral at 5:00 PM,
immediately before the Vigil.

Archimandrite Irénée was born into a large French Canadian Roman Catholic family
on December 25, 1948, in Montréal, QC.

In 1961 he had his first contact with the Orthodox Church in Rawdon, QC, at the
summer church of Saint Seraphim of Sarov, under the Cathedral of Saints Peter
and Paul, Montréal.

On January 20, 1967, he was received into the Orthdoox Church by His Eminence,
Archbishop Vitaly of the Russian orthdoox Church Outside of Russia [ROCOR], and
until 1971, he participated in the parish life at Saint Nicholas Cathedral
[ROCOR] in Montréal. During this time, he also took part in the activities of
the McGill University Orthodox Christian Fellowship.

In 1971, he completed his B.A. in Slavic Studies at the University of Ottawa,
and then joined Holy Trinity Monastery in Jordanville, NY.
In March 1974, after three years of study at Holy Trinity Russian Orthodox
Seminary, he was tonsured a rassophore monk. A year later, in March 1975, he was
tonsured a stavrophore monk, and received the name of the Hieromartyr Irénée of Lyons.

In February 1978, he was blessed by Bishop Laurus, then Abbot of Holy Trinity
Monastery, to serve in France, in the French-speaking parishes there. He was
ordained Hierodeacon on May 19, 1978, in Brussels, Belgium and Hieromonk on
August 20 of the same year in Geneva, Switzerland by His Eminence, Archbishop Antony of Geneva.

After serving for four years in Lyons, Father Irénée returned to Montréal to
serve the French Mission there.

After the election in 1986, of Bishop Seraphim as Auxiliary Bishop for the
Archdiocese of Canada, Hieromonk Irénée, Hierodeacon Marc (Pierre), and members of the French Mission in Montreal petitioned to be received into the OCA’s Archdiocese of Canada.

Father Irénée was elevated to the rank of Igumen in 1992, to care for the French
speaking monastics in Québec. In 1993, he was assigned priest-in-charge of the
Saint Benoît French-speaking parish in Montréal. He served also as supply priest
in many parishes in Montréal, Ottawa, Toronto, and Québec City. In 1996, Father Irénée was assigned as Administrator of the Russian Cemetery and
Saint Seraphim parish, Rawdon, QC, an obedience which he fulfilled until 2007.

In addition to his pastoral duties in parishes of the Orthodox Church in
America, he worked full-time in a local Montréal hospital until December 2008.

On April 2, 2009, the Holy Synod of Bishops of the Orthodox Church in America,
elevated Igumen Irénée to the rank of Archimandrite, and elected him Auxiliary
Bishop for His Eminence, Archbishop Seraphim of Ottawa and Canada, with the
title of Bishop of Québec City.

The Archdiocese of Canada has announced that, in conjunction with the
consecration of Archmandritre Irénée, the wonder-working Pochaiv Mother of God icon will be visiting Ottawa as part of a Canada-wide tour.

The Pochaiv Mother of God icon will be available for veneration at Annunciation
Cathedral from 12:00 noon September 30, until midnight. On the evening of
October 1, the Akathist to the Pochaiv Mother of God will be served at 6:30 PM
at Annunciation Cathedral, followed at 7:30 PM by a public talk by Metropolitan
Jonah.

Attention College and University Students - September 17, 2009

The Orthodox Christian Fellowship (OCF) at Carleton University will be hosting a display table in the atrium of the University Centre on Monday, September 21 from 10:30 am until 4:00 pm as part of the University’s club day activities. The group will be determining a day and time for weekly meetings and encourages any student from either of the Universities or College to stop in on Monday to leave contact information so as to be able to receive news and updates about OCF activities at Carleton. If you can not make the time to stop by on the 21st, please e-mail Fr James at with information.

Thanks! - September 17, 2009

Many thanks to all who helped purchase the Cathedral’s gift - beautiful blue vestments- for Archimandrite Irénée (Rochon) Bishop - Elect to wear after his consecration.

Reminders - September 10, 2009

Remember that Church School will begin this Sunday downstairs right after Communion. Generally, we welcome children from the ages of 4 to 12, but if any are interested in joining us from outside that age breakdown, please do! Parents are most welcome as well.

The Food Basket, (at the front of the church) provides a way to collect food for the poorest of poor. In addition gently used clothing for distribution by St Luke’s Lunch Club is welcomed. For information please contact Vera Theokritoff.

Annual General Meeting, Part 2 - September 8, 2009

Part 1 of the AGM was held this past Sunday, September 6th. Part 2 will be held Sunday, November 15, 2009.

NOTICE OF ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING - September 4, 2009

This Sunday, September 6th, 2009 In the temple after liturgy and a brief potluck lunch

NOTE: Annual General Meeting Part 1
Everyone is urged to attend the meeting after church this Sunday - The Agenda and a draft of the proposed bylaw amendments will be sent to all members by email and available at church on the weekend. Note, all communicants, 18 years of age who have donated time, treasure or talent may vote, and all others are welcome to attend and participate in discussion. Part 2 of the AGM will be held in November.

Archpastoral Message of His Beatitude, Metropolitan Jonah at the Beginning of the Ecclesiastical Yea - September 4, 2009

To the Venerable Hierarchs, Reverend Clergy, Monastics and Faithful of the Orthodox Church in America

The Lord said: The Spirit of the LORD is upon Me, Because He has anointed Me To preach the gospel to the poor; He has sent Me to heal the brokenhearted, To proclaim liberty to the captives And recovery of sight to the blind, To set at liberty those who are oppressed; To proclaim the acceptable year of the LORD.” Luke 4:18f.

Dearly Beloved in Christ:

The Blessing of the Lord be upon you!

As we celebrate the Church’s New Year, we meditate on the Gospel for this day, where the Lord went to Nazareth and was handed the Scriptures, and read the above. He then said, “Today this Scripture is fulfilled in your hearing.”

The question we have to ask ourselves is, How is this fulfilled in my life? How have I entered into the Lord’s ministry, preaching the good news to the poor, healing the brokenhearted, giving liberty to captives, and so forth? Am I even paying attention to this?

Our Church has many challenges before it, financial, legal, organizational. But we must remember that, as important as these things are, as critical as they may be the life of our Church at this time, they can quickly become distractions from the one thing needful: to keep focused on Jesus Christ and the ministries which He has given us as a means of participation in His own ministry. While we might have budget challenges, there is nothing that can prevent us from preaching the Gospel, consoling those alone and abandoned, and setting at liberty those held captive by their sins.

We have been “recreated in Christ for good works.” Let us do that work, not because we expect a paycheck or recognition for doing it, but because it is the very nature of who we are as Christians: to manifest the Kingdom by showing love for our neighbor. Let us recover our spiritual sight, in Christ by the Spirit, so that we may know that the Spirit of the Lord is upon us, and has anointed us to do the Lord’s will.

Each one of us has been anointed by the Lord do the works of God—in chrismation. We don’t have to wait for a program or a department to do them. In whatever walk of life, no matter who we are, we are called to enter into the Lord’s labors. So let us put aside all distraction, keeping all things in their proper perspective, with our attention and focus firmly on Jesus Christ. We then might just find that our distractions and crises are not so big as we thought they were and that we have been given everything that we need to resolve them, if we indeed can maintain our awareness of Christ, striving for the fulfillment of His will.

With love in Christ,
+JONAH

Archbishop of Washington
Metropolitan of All America and Canada

Announcements - September 4, 2009

This Sunday we welcome Father Alexander Pihach
as our Interim Dean. Father Alexander is scheduled to serve liturgy and join us afterward for lunch and our Annual General Meeting.

Church School
will begin again next Sunday, on the September 13th. The Sunday School Teachers hope all their lovely students will join them downstairs right after Communion. Generally, we welcome children from the ages of 4 to 12, but if any are interested in joining us from outside that age breakdown, please do! Parents are most welcome on the 13th as well.

Special Collection for Vestments
for Bishop-elect Irinée: The Cathedral has purchased a beautiful set of blue vestments for the soon-to-be-consecrated Bishop Irinée which he will wear at his consecration. We are accepting donations from parishioners: please mark your envelopes or cheques with “Vestments for Bishop”. It is quite usual for hierarchs to be given vestments.Vladyka’s vestments are almost all gifts received on his travels.

St.Anthony’s Hermitage Liturgy and Open House - August 27, 2009

St.Anthony’s Hermitage Liturgy and Open House is planned for Saturday September 5th. The 10am Liturgy is to be followed by a pot-luck picnic. For directions: email or call 613-273-5745.

From the Archbishop - August 27, 2009

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

As things continue to develop, and mature in our Cathedral family’s life, it is important that we include in this the factor of pilgrimage. This is, and always has been, a prominent element in the lives of Christians. As you are also aware, I myself often lead groups to holy places abroad. Therefore, I am asking our clergy to begin organising regular pilgrimages to our near-neighbour monastery in Brownsburg. This would be offered four times a year as a day-trip. Be prepared for the announcements, and try yourselves to participate in one, or more per year.

Love in Christ,

+Seraphim

Work Crews - August 27, 2009

Work crews are still needed: Jeremy still needs help with the completion of the kitchen renovations, consecration related work, and the garage transformation. High School Students are reminded that such work can community work credits!

For more information please contact Jeremy:

or 613-565-2724

Special Collection for Vestments for Bishop-elect Irinée - August 21, 2009

The Cathedral has purchased a beautiful set of blue vestments for the soon-to-be-consecrated Bishop Irinée which will be worn at his consecration. We are accepting donations from parishioners: please mark your envelopes or cheques with “Vestments for Bishop”.

Annual General Meeting - August 20, 2009

Part I is on 6 September. Everyone is urged to attend. In order to vote you must be a communicant, 18 years of age and have donated either time, treasure or talent. Part 2 of the AGM will be held in November.

In preparation for the AGM, Membership lists are posted on the notice boards. Please look for them and make sure your name is on the list. This is also a good chance to let us know if you recently moved, changed your phone number or email address. If there is a question please speak to a council member or one of the priests.

Work Crews needed - August 20, 2009

On Wednesday after vespers Jeremy would like a hand installing the stove in the kitchen. Please read on on how to contact him.

Jeremy needs help with three projects, a. the completion of the kitchen renovations b. consecration related work, and a hand with the garage transformation. Helping Jeremy provides a chance for our high school students to earn community work credits. For more information please contact Jeremy by email or phone 613-565-2724

Fr. John’s Anniversary - August 20, 2009

The Jillions celebrate their 30th wedding anniversary on September 30th NOT August 30th as previously circulated. Do however remember that we are celebrating Fr. John’s 25th year as a priest on August 30th, with a “rainbow” lunch. Fr. John is rumoured to like curries and known to speak very highly of chocolate..

From the Parish Council - August 13, 2009

1) Annual General Meeting - Part I on 6 September. To be included in the agenda: Welcome Interim Dean, proposed changes to Parish Council Structure, present preliminary financial data and preliminary budget. Part 2 of the Annual General Meeting will be held in November.

2) Membership lists are posted on the notice boards. In preparation for the AGM, please look for them and verify that your name is on the list. This is a good chance to let us know if you recently moved, changed your phone number or email address. If there is a question please speak to a council member or one of the priests. Thank you.

3) Look out for a new monthly newsletter! Starting in September, a new Monthly Newsletter will be distributed and posted on our website. This newsletter will contain a short essay or two on the month’s feasts or saints, a calendar of events and services, commemoration lists, financial information and announcements. A weekly email will still be available and it will include the week’s liturgical texts. We ask for your patience as we make the transition to a new system of communication. Please talk to Lydia or Vera if you have any questions or suggestions for the new Newsletter.

4) A discussion of the latest Parish Council meeting will be held this Sunday, August 16th after the liturgy.

5) Fr. John celebrated his 25th anniversary of ordination early in August. To mark this wonderful anniversary, the Parish Council would like to have a special lunch after liturgy on 30 August. This happens to be a “Rainbow” lunch, so all are welcome to bring something. Rumour has it that Fr. John is quite fond of curries. Please keep posted for more details.

6) Work Crews needed: Jeremy is looking for help with consecration related work, the completion of the kitchen renovations as well as work in the garage. Work in the kitchen will recommence as soon as the counters arrive.

Parents of youngsters looking for credits might want to pass on that by helping Jeremy they can easily accumulate the credits for doing community work. For detailed information please contact Jeremy via e-mail ( ( ) or phone 613-565-2724

From Archbishop Seraphim - August 6, 2009

Dear Brothers, and Sisters in Christ,

As the summer is passing quickly, and as we are in the midst of the Theotokos Lent, I thought to take a moment to address our life together in Christ. It is quite a challenge for us all, as a growing family, to keep in balance our increasing numbers, and remember that we all are still a family. It is tempting, as a large Cathedral community, to think that we are so many that each person or small family is not important, or has nothing much to do. But this is misguided. We are all needed, we are all important, just as the Apostle tells us, along with the Corinthians. And our large facilites, and numerous persons offer us all opportunities to serve, and to pray for “the other”.

It has been good for me to see the fruits of the faithful working together in the renovating of the kitchen. It has shown how you all care about your spiritual home. How useful this new kitchen will be this autumn, as we host at the same time a dozen bishops for the Ordination of Vladyka Irenee, and the Meeting of the Archdiocesan Council. But its real usefulness will be shown in its week-by-week support of our family life.

Glory to God that we are able together to care for the House of the Lord. Glory to God for the oppoortunities He gives us to serve Him in so many ways. Glory to God for the support and protection of the Theotokos, and of the Forerunner.

As we face all the changes that are coming, let us never lose our focus on Christ, and the fact that everything we are, and do, is for and about Him. May the Lord enable the light of His Love to shine brightly and warmly amongst us. May all those who arrive in our midst be able to see Christ in our midst.

Love in Christ,
+Seraphim

Photos! - August 6, 2009

Many thanks to all who have shared photos of summer events, including the renovations, some after liturgy shots of fun-in-the-sun with bubbles(!) and some of our own church family atending Metropolitan Jonah at the Consecration of the Sign of the Theotokos in Montreal.

And many thanks to Pat Heard for his continued behind the scenes work to keep our web site up-to-date and visitor friendly.

Transfiguration Services - August 4, 2009

Please Note these Transfiguration Services, Father James serving:

Vigil - Wednesday Aug 5th at 7:00pm
Liturgy - Thursday Aug 6th at 9:30am

The transfiguration of Christ is one of the central events recorded in the gospels. Immediately after the Lord was recognized by his apostles as “the Christ [Messiah], the Son of the Living God,” he told them that “he must go up to Jerusalem and suffer many things … and be killed and on the third day be raised” (Mt 16). The announcement of Christ’s approaching passion and death was met with indignation by the disciples. And then, after rebuking them, the Lord took Peter, James, and John “up to a high mountain”—by tradition Mount Tabor—and was “transfigured before them.”

… and his face shone like the sun, and his garments became white as snow and behold, there appeared to them Moses and Elijah, talking with him. And Peter said to Jesus, “Lord, it is well that we are here; if you wish I will make three booths here, one for you and one for Moses and one for Elijah.” He was still speaking when lo, a bright cloud overshadowed them, and a voice from the cloud said, “This is my Beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased; listen to him.” When the disciples heard this, they fell on their faces with awe. But Jesus came and touched them, saying, “Rise, and have no fear.” And when they lifted up their eyes, they saw no one but Jesus only. And as they were coming down the mountain, Jesus commanded them, “Tell no one the vision, until the Son of Man is raised from the dead” (Mt 17:1-92, see also Mk 9:1-9; Lk 9:28-36; 2 Peter 1:16-18).

from Fr. Thomas Hopko’s book, The Othodox Faith, Volume II: Worship:
http://www.oca.org/OCchapter.asp?SID=2&ID=83

Welcome to Jonah Colin and Erik and Heather Young! - July 30, 2009

Jonah Colin
The newest member of our parish, Jonah Colin was born Saturday, July 26th to Cheryl and Reader Matthew Zacharias, and big brother John Samuel.

Erik and Heather Young
Erik and Heather Young and their children are moving from Portland, Oregon this week (where they were active in Fr George Gray’s parish), to join our parish, (Erik will be studying at Saint Paul University). Heather will be arriving first to look for work and meet the moving truck. Are there folks who might be able to help her unload? She will need help unloading on Monday, August 10.

Erik writes “I know it’s a weekday and normal people have to work but anyone who can help will be greatly appreciated. The truck will be unloading at A1 Mini U Store. It is on Catherine Street. Heather will be there at church on the 9th and will have a better idea about exactly when the truck will be at the storage facility to be unloaded. It will be afternoon/ evening. Hope that’s enough info to get some willing and able folks to help us out. We have very little stuff so it shouldn’t take too long.”

Kitchen Renovations Update - July 30, 2009

Those of you who ventured into the basement the past Sunday noted that the kitchen is beginning to look like a kitchen. The floor, sink, lights, base and wall cabinets have been installed. A microwave oven is ready to be installed. We are now waiting for the counter tops to be delivered (ten days?). In the meantime there is still work to be done. An oven is on order as well as a freezer.

Jeremy Scratch is in charge of finishing up the work that includes screwing on the doors of each cabinet, installing the fan, painting the old door, re painting the entry to the kitchen wall, adjusting the height of the pass-through and finishing around the windows. We will then also need to trim the doorways and windows and install baseboards. Please, if you have a moment to spare volunteer your time and contact Jeremy: 613-292-7086.

We will also need help to fill up the cabinets with the dishes. (Rinsing them in the new sink first should be easy and fun with the new faucet). There are three rolls of liners for the drawers that need to be cut up and placed in the many drawers we now have. If some one has ideas about organizers for drawers or the tall cabinet, we need help there as well. A trip to IKEA to look around is fun!

Nik

From Archbishop Seraphim - July 16, 2009

These words are to inform you that Saturday evening, 11 July, at St Herman’s Sobor, I tonsured Archpriest Dennis Pihach as a Stavrophor Monk, and a Preistmonk Member of the Monastic Community of St Silouan. This tonsure does not affect his pastoral or administrative responsibilities, or assignments. He has the name Alexander (for St Alexander Nevsky).

On Sunday, 12 July, at the Liturgy at Sts Peter & Paul’s Church, Dickie Bush, Alberta (their 100th anniversary), I elevated the Priestmonk Alexander (Pihach) and installed him to be Igumen of the Hermitage of the Prophet Elias, in Dickie Bush, Alberta. This is in addition to all his other responsibilities. And, of course, he is now known as Igumen Alexander (Pihach).

Announcements - July 10, 2009

Father Dennis Pihach will be tonsured a monk of the Holy Orthodox Church this Saturday, July 11, at St.Herman Sobor in Edmonton at 5pm with His Eminence Archbishop Seraphim tonsuring. All are invited to attend and experience this Order of the Small Schema, and although most of us cannot be there in body, we can pray with and for Father Dennis at this time.

Welcome to St. Mary’s Last Sunday morning we were blessed to have two bishops serving liturgies under our roof! While Vladyka was serving our liturgy, Bishop
Matthias of Toronto was serving the first Liturgy for St. Mary’s Ethiopian Orthodox Church in their new home in the meeting room behind our stage. Following the
liturgies our church hall was a happy, busy place as both parishes set up lunch tables in the midst of the renovation chaos and enjoyed fellowship indoors and out.

Welcome to Catherine (Janice) who was chrismated and welcomed into our parish on St. Peter & St. Paul’s day.

The Parish Council Update Meeting announced for last Sunday was postponed and will instead be held this coming Sunday.

Many Thanks to the anonymous doner of 30 litres of olive oil for the lampadas.

Parish Life Opportunities: Remember to share your bounty through the Food Basket, and to pray for and support those on the Intercessions List.

Weekly Bulletin - July 3, 2009

Summer Clergy Availability: Father James is away for July, which means that Father John is the main pastoral contact in July. Father John is away in August, which means that Father James will be the main pastoral contact. Secondary pastoral contact at all times is through the three deacons. Father Nazari returns to Canada 16 July.

Schedule of services for the coming week: Saturday Resurrection Vespers will be served as usual at 5pm. Regarding other possible services, listen for announcements at church this weekend, or ask the Divas by phone (613) 230-2687 (Tues.-Fri. mornings) or email:

Many thanks to the Parish Council for their efforts to keep two-way communication lines open by regularly publishing the minutes and holding Post-Council Meetings, where questions and input are both welcomed and further details are available. As noted with the distribution of the minutes - the next meeting will be held this Sunday after liturgy.

Cathedral Clergy Developments - July 2, 2009

This past Monday Archbishop Seraphim sent a letter outlining the plan for Father Dennis Pihach to become interim dean of Annunciation Cathedral in September of this year. In Father Dennis’ announcement to St. Herman Sobor, Edmonton, he outlined the plans with the following comments, to be included in our bulletin as well as theirs.

“The Cathedral council is thankful for your co-operation and they want to remind us that in St. Herman’s time of change, the Cathedral sent Fr. John Scratch to pastor here on an interim basis.

Further to all of this, with the Blessing of His Eminence, and by my free will I have asked to be tonsured a monk of the Holy Orthodox Church. This will take place on July 11 at St. Herman Sobor in Edmonton at 5pm with His Eminence Archbishop Seraphim tonsuring. All are invited to attend and experience this Order of the Small Schema.

I ask for your prayers as I take up these new responsibilities that the Lord has placed before me. And all I can say is “Lord help me,” and my prayer is “Thy will be done.” “

Archpriest Dennis Pihach

From the Dean - July 2, 2009

Dear friends,

I would like to offer a few thank-yous. First, I am grateful for your thoughts and prayers these past weeks. My father’s last days and death and the events surrounding his funeral have left a deep impression on me and filled me with gratitude, not least because the family was there to experience and witness it all. Many moments of tears, inspiration and joy intertwined. So again, thank you for your prayers and kindness.

Secondly, many thanks to everyone who has been engaged in renovating the kitchen. What a tremendous amount of work has been done.

Finally, I would especially like to thank Archbishop Seraphim and Fr Dennis Pihach for making some bold decisions that will greatly assist the Cathedral in making a healthy transition to the next stage of its life.

With love in Christ,
Fr John

Kitchen Reno Update - July 1, 2009

Through a lead from Ioana Theodorescu, we were able to have a very competent electrician spend the past weekend wiring up the new kitchen. Thank you Ioana.

With a positive inspection of the electrical work expected before the coming weekend, we hope to finish putting up the gyprock on the remaining walls, finalize the plumbing, hang the remaining door, do the venting, put up the ceiling, and do the painting. The floor will be put in after painting is finished and then the cabinets will be installed.

Suggestions as to colours from our interior decorator specialists will be taken on Sunday.

A dumpster will be in place on the weekend, so if you can, do come and help carry out the trash to fill the dumpster.

Letter from Archbishop Seraphim - June 29, 2009

Parishioners of the Cathedral of the Annunciation
Dear Brothers, and Sisters in Christ,
Christ is in our midst

As you are aware, the period of the service as Dean of the Cathedral by our Archpriest John Jillions will come to an end on 30 August, 2009. Father John will be remaining with us, attached to the Cathedral, having already taken up his responsibility as Ecumenical Officer of the Archdiocese. It is in this capacity that he will be serving as a Vice-president of the Canadian Council of Churches, and he will hopefully be able to continue writing for the Ottawa Citizen. He will continue to serve with us at the Cathedral, but without a sense of its being an obligation. We all have a great gratitude to Father John, with Denise, for the strong leadership shown in bringing this Cathedral Family into its present building, and helping us get organised. We are also grateful for his trying to do what is practically impossible : doing two more-than-full-time jobs at once.

At the recent Clergy Synaxis in Calgary, Father John approached the Chancellor, Archpriest Dennis Pihach, and pressed him on the question of who could or would be coming to Ottawa to serve the Cathedral as Dean.

The result of this questioning was that the Chancellor himself agreed to take up this responsibility on an interim basis. Rapid conversations have already determined that this means that for a year-to-three, he will be serving the Cathedral family, being resident in Ottawa on a 75% time basis, and in Edmonton on a 25% time basis. In principle, he will be present in Ottawa for 6 weeks, and away for 2 weeks. He cannot give up completely his responsibilities in Edmonton and its vicinity, and we will be sending him back there. He will begin his service with us on 1 September, after having driven across the country for this purpose. The Cathedral Council has met, and has begun the preparations for this change. Father James Griggs will remain serving the Cathedral as he presently does serve.

Let us continue to pray for all the clergy who lovingly care for our Cathedral Family, and let us ask that the Lord will protect and direct them, and save us all together. And let us continue also to pray that the Lord will show us who it is who will become our long-term Dean on a permanent basis.

With archpastoral blessings, and love in Christ, I remain yours,
the unworthy
+SERAPHIM

From our Archbishop - June 25, 2009

Dear Cathedralites,

What gratitude we can show to our hospitality teams! They always make sure we have some refreshment after a pre-communion fast. But now, with renovations, and despite fears of starvation or coffee only, our teams make sure we still are refreshed, and still in the usual space. We don’t have to “rough it” at all. Thanks to their dedication, and thanks to that of all who are working so well on the re-construction and expansion of our kitchen. God bless you all !

Not everyone will be aware that Father John’s father replosed last Saturday, around midday. It was a wonder of God that he lived through his initial illness, and a continuation of it that he regained consciousness for a long time. All this, howver, has to cause much family stress. And, as we are aware, Alla, Father John’s sister, continues to be ill. Let us pray for the newly-reposed John, and for Father John and his family.

Love in Christ,
+Seraphim

From our Dean - June 18, 2009

Dear friends,

This weekend Archbishop Seraphim will be here for the feast of All Saints of North America. It’s also Fathers’ Day on Sunday and I will be in New Jersey again seeing my father (John). As most of you know, he has been seriously ill for the past three months. He made some remarkable progress and beyond initial expectations recovered his ability to speak (and even joke), but in the last few days has taken a turn for the worse. He will be transferred to a hospice tomorrow to be made as comfortable as possible, but our family now knows that these are his last days. What sadness and blessings are mixed up together in all this.

Flying home from Edmonton last Sunday after the clergy synaxis and diocesan council meeting (both very fruitful) I was on a plane with lots of infantry troops from CFB Petawawa training for deployment to Afghanistan. The massive corporal sitting next to me looked every inch a soldier in his green fatigues and with tattoos covering both arms. He was on his way to his third tour of combat duty. But there was an amazing kindness about him as we talked. He had seen so much suffering and death, he said, including witnessing comrades torn apart by roadside bombs, that at first he had become filled with hardness, anger and violence. But gradually he had learned to live every moment to the full. Carpe Diem, make the most of every day, forgive one another, let go of resentments and be grateful for everything and everyone because life is precious and so short. That’s a lesson I hope to keep learning.

With love in Christ,
Fr John

Church School for the summer and beyond. - June 18, 2009

Our regular church school is breaking for the summer, but the children seem to want to continue the routine of coming downstairs after communion.

So our compromise is that as long as there is a supervising adult who is willing to gather the children in the library (we’ve lost the back room and use of the stage), they can help themselves to the bottom shelf where our storybooks and icon books are, and carry on. Julia Proshina as well as the regular church school teachers are willing to accompany the children and supervise if they are in church, and Julia may have some arts and crafts and games prepared. We will resume regular teaching in early September.

We are reviewing our program in the next few weeks, realigning classes based on age, thinking about our curriculum and recruiting some new teachers. If parents have any suggestions please email me ( ) and I will forward on to the team. Thank you for your support of the church school.

I will be passing the leadership of the church school to others next year. We seem to have established a workable model for the younger kids with plenty of room for development, but still need to address the educational needs of junior and senior high in a more creative way. Needs some fresh blood, new ideas and we’re building a great team of teachers. We will have clergy input into the plans for next year and beyond, and I will stay in touch with development of the program and will lend a hand or step in to substitute as I am able.

Finally, if any parents would like to organize an end-of-year or summer event (picnic, BBQ, swim party, hike, strawberry picking?), please take the initiative. I’m sure the kids would enjoy an outing after a year of hard work using their “theological brains”!

Denise

Kursk icon of the Theotokos - June 17, 2009

Please note that the Kursk icon of the Theotokos is in the parish of the Protection of the Holy Virgin Memorial Church (again) this week. A molieben and akathist will be served Friday, June 19th at 6:30pm.

Address:
99 Stonehurst Avenue,
OTTAWA, Ontario,
K1Y 4R6

http://www.memorialchurch.ca/en/node/247

Kitchen Renovations - June 11, 2009

Good Times! Come and share the joy of renovating the Kitchen during the week starting with a blitz after lunch on Sunday to clear out the kitchen and continuing day and night all week.

Come if you have building skills & tools and if you can safely lift and carry, feed hungry workers, clean, encourage, etc - even if just for a wee while. If you can’t come – support the workers in prayer! Your help is needed, and the blessings will be abundant as many-hands lighten the load!

What we’ll need for the week of June 15th, 2009

Here are the needs and tasks that we will need help with during the days and the course of the evenings of the week of the 15th.

Please note these jobs are not for men only. Indeed there is an opportunity here for children, young and old women and men. We will absorb all who come and we will appreciate all volunteers. It is a Parish Party!

We will need:

electric drills, table and mitre saws, air hammers, hand hammers and crowbars.
strong young people to carry heavy boxes of cabinets, lumber, gyprock and other stuff into basement.
help to move and install appliances
carpentry wise folks to build window boxes, new walls and put up gyprock.
plumbing wise folks to hook up new sink, reposition dish washer, and install new faucets
people to lay down new flooring after leveling the floor and filling in gaps.
people to assemble over 20 new cabinets - lots and lots of screws to drill.
electricity wise folks to string wires to have better amp service (both microwave and coffee can work at the same time), relocate hall switches and install a whole bunch of new plugs.
suspend ceiling tiles and new fixtures.
people to clean up and paint
install new counter top

As you can see the jobs are many and the work will be fun. If you cannot see your way clear to working - brings food and drink to feed the masses working and join in the fun.

Sharing our Space - June 4, 2009

The Parish Council has agreed to rent the room behind the stage to St. Mary’s Ethiopian Church. This Sunday will be the first in their new home. St. Mary’s services will begin early Sunday morning and end around 11:30. They will hold their post-service fellowship in their space behind the stage. We will be sharing our washrooms and our kitchen with them. Please help us welcome the St. Mary’s parish to their new home! If you have any questions about the arrangement, please contact Lydia Scratch Holden or Matthew Culhane.

Announcements - May 29, 2009

Our Neighbours The latest statistics for the homeless show a 15% increase of homeless and prolonged stays in shelters for 2008. Many of them are now clients at the St. Luke Lunch Club and the Dalhousie Food Cupboard where your monthly contributions to the Food Basket help to feed growing children and desperate people. Thank you for continued care. Vera.

Welcome Catechumens On Saturday, May 23, Archbishop Seraphim received three catechumens into our parish family: Janice, Nathan and Mark. Please help welcome them into our parish family and keep them in your prayers as they continue on their path.

Rainbow Lunch Question: How much should I bring for lunch? Answer: Each regular Sunday one of 4 teams works together to provide for everyone, so the simple math is that each team member needs to bring 4 times a normal pot luck protion, and sacrifice visiting time to serve and clean up. Then they get to relax and enjoy the other 3 weeks of the month!

On the occasional fifth ‘Rainbow’ Sunday, everyone participates, so portions can be of ‘normal’ potluck size and the work load lighter as everyone pitches in. Thanks to everyone who does their part and makes it work!

Love in Action Please be mindful of distributing wine during our Sunday lunches. We know that there are people who come to be fed after liturgy who have problems with alcohol abuse. When wine is offered after liturgy on Sunday, it must be handed out personally to people and not left unattended. Thank you for your patience and cooperation with this.

Church School Picnic/BBQ Is there any interest in having a summer feast to finish off the year?! Looking for parent volunteers who would like to organize something fun in the sun for a Sat or Sun in June for families with kids. Contact Denise Jillions if you would be willing to help.

Mark Your Calendar: The ordination of Bishop-Elect Irinée will take place on Thursday, October 1, 2009 in our Cathedral. I would as well add that the Archdiocesan Council will be coming to the Cathedral the weekend after the consecration of the new Bishop.

Anniversaries - May 29, 2009

At the end of Liturgy we have prayer for those celebrating special anniversaries in the coming week. To add an anniversary contact Dn Alexander or call the church office.

To add non-parish family or friends on a particular Sunday please speak to one of the priests or deacons so that they can be remembered both in the proskomedia commemorations, and during the litany of fervent supplication, as well as following ‘Many Years’.

To suggest particular events (eg. births, graduations, mile-stone anniversaries, etc.) that should be marked by the parish in a special way, please contact Ioanna Martin 613-523-5383 or .

Canadian Council of Churches - May 21, 2009

Dear friends,

Last week, as part of my new involvement with the Canadian Council of Churches (blessed, by the way, by Archbishop Seraphim), I was asked to take part in a discussion involving MPs, theologians, church leaders, economists and environmentalists on what the churches might contribute toward building up a “sustainable economy” that addresses the global crises of poverty, finances and the environment. Here are some much abbreviated thoughts that might be of interest. It’s a little longer than usual, but I missed last week!

With love in Christ,
Father John

————————————

If we are asked, as Christian churches participating in this conversation, what is the particular vision that drives our own understanding of “sustainable economy” what would we say?

Communion with God, with each other, with creation

I would reply that how we answer this question depends on being able to answer a prior question: what kind of a human household (oikonomia) do we want? This in turn depends on a still more fundamental question: what does it mean to be human? I can only speak out of my own Orthodox Christian experience, but the human vocation is to be in freely chosen communion with God, with each other and with all creation. A good human society, a good economy in this broadest sense is therefore one that permits these three levels of communion to flourish.

Three ministries: charitable, prophetic, eschatological

I think there are three areas of ministry to which churches can and must contribute to help these three forms of communion prosper in our society: charitable, prophetic and eschatological (or “not of this world”). Some churches are better at some of these than others, but together we need to be sure all three are covered if we are to contribute meaningfully as churches to the building up of the society we share.

1. Charitable. Churches need to keep doing the sorts of charitable projects for which they have been historically well-known on local, regional, national and international levels. They can train local congregations and communities, especially on an ecumenical basis, to do more of this and to be at home in social service and social justice. They can continue to create a culture of service and sacrifice among Christians in the name of Christ. Elder Paisios of Mount Athos (+1994) said “ Sublime joy emanates from sacrifice. Only when we sacrifice ourselves can we be related to Christ, for Christ is sacrifice”.

2. Prophetic. Churches can keep on top of government initiatives and other interest groups to be part of shaping the direction, raising the alarm as needed but also helping to make those transformations that will produce a better society. Prophets are watchmen who keep an eye on authorities, challenge them when necessary and speak up for those who have no voice. They also keep the people focused on worship of the One God and not other pretenders. But prophets are not just the party of “no”. The influential Old Testament scholar Walter Brueggemann speaks of the “prophetic imagination”. To paraphrase him, the work of prophetic imagination is to entertain the thought that the world could be different, to imagine the world as different from the one in front of us. The church has lost its edge and its nerve and its courage because it is too accommodating to our own culture. It needs to revive its vocation of being counter-cultural. The task is to create some daylight between the assumptions of our society and the claims of the Christian gospel. As Bruegemann says, “You cannot contain the promise of the gospel within the dominant system.”

3. Eschatological (“not of this world”). This brings me to what is most particular about what we as churches can bring, in my view. What is most distinctive about churches is our common faith in Jesus Christ and the kingdom he initiated, a kingdom that is ultimately not of this world. As the Nicene Creed confesses, “I look for—I look forward to, I long for, I thirst for—the resurrection of the dead and the life of the world to come.” We are looking forward to the “day that has no evening,” the eschaton. As St Paul said, if for this life alone we have put our hope in Christ, then we are of all human beings the most to be pitied. Our best charitable and prophetic efforts often have uncertain results, leaving external circumstances unchanged and crises still raging. But a people inwardly transformed by such hope can withstand anything a crisis throws at them. Indeed it was this peace that sustained Jesus in his own crisis and which he promised to give his disciples in their hour of need. “The hour is coming, indeed it has come, when you will be scattered, every one to his home, and will leave me alone; yet I am not alone, for the Father is with me. I have said this to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world” (John 16:32-33).

A sustainable inner economy

Without neglecting charitable and prophetic action to make a better world I would like to see the churches use and emphasize the resources they all have in their own ways for giving this kind of hope, to help transform people in their inward being and sustain them spiritually through tough times. One could call this emphasis on prayer and inner transformation a sustainable inner economy. The Orthodox have a particularly long and rich tradition here but all our churches have such resources to help cultivate inner strength, peace and joy in Christ. This, more than anything else, is the particular way churches will be able to sustain people even when better external circumstances still seem a long way off.

Parish Youth Bottle Drive - May 14, 2009

Our parish youth, looking forward to next year’s conference, are collecting bottles as a fundraiser. Empty bottles can be brought to church until the end of the month.

What’s new in the Parish Profile and Talent forms? - May 14, 2009

The request for donation details were removed to create spots for an emergency contact, name day data and to let us know if you or a family member has allergies or a special need we should be aware of. The Talent form was pared down by removing similar questions.

If you do not know the date of your name day, you may as Father John said, find the answer on the oca.org website under Lives of the Saints, by asking a family member what your parents had in mind when they named you or in true community spirit, asking one of the deacons for help.

Completed forms can be handed in to the office, via email: or directly to Vera at church or at

Many thanks.

“Eastern Christian Spirituality” Conference - May 14, 2009

Thursday July 2 to Saturday July 4, 2009

sponsored by the Sheptytsky Institute of Eastern Christian Studies at Saint Paul University. For information on speakers, workshops, youth program, university credits, registration etc. go to

http://www.ustpaul.ca/Sheptytsky/programs/documents/SheptytskyStudyDaysposter.pdf

From our Archbishop - May 1, 2009

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
Christ is risen

I want to take a moment to continue to consider the important concern of the ways of serving the Divine Liturgy:

Did you know that the Hierarchical (Bishop) Liturgy is not actually an “extra-special” form of the Divine Liturgy, but instead the “regular” form of it? From the earliest times, serving with the bishop was understood to be the standard, and the pattern for our worship. In the earliest of all times, it was the only form. Even now, it is still considered the standard.

In later centuries, when priests were assigned to look after many communities, they could not serve as fully as a bishop in charge of one community, and also because they were not bishops. Hence, over time, what the faithful have become used to is the shorter, “parish” format. Because bishops are not seen often enough in many places, people naturally come to think that the priestly/parish format is the foundation, when it is really a shortening of the “full meal deal”. Let’s remember, again, that the bishop-form of the Liturgy is all about our giving of our respect, with joy, to Christ, and never to the bishop himself. The bishop is Christ’s “stand-in”, as it were.

Part of the nature being a cathedral parish is that we are blessed more often to be able to partake of the serving of the full liturgy. For those for whom health concerns, or small children, distract from the entering into the timelessness of deeply involved worship, we have the Orthodox way of freedom to come and go as needed. For those who want to take advantage of Sunday for family activity time, our early starting time means we usually have the full afternoon left for this. Let’s try to keep things in perspective. In the end, it’s really not that much time every week, not even a tithe of our time, that we give in worship of Him who gives us everything. We owe Him everything, and we are always short on our side in returning gratitude.

Let us all move on with hearts open to partake ever more fully of this gift of the Liturgy, “the expression and experience of the eternal life of the Kingdom of the Blessed Trinity.” (Fr. Thomas Hopko, The Orthodox Faith: Worship)

Love in Christ,
+Seraphim

From our Dean - May 1, 2009

Dear friends,
Christ is risen!

This week we celebrate the Myrhhbearing women—Mary Magdalene and the others—who first found the empty tomb of Jesus and were the first to announce the Resurrection. They became in this way the first Christian missionaries (indeed, Mary Magdelene is known as “Equal to the Apostles”). If you would like to read more about missionaries, please see my response to this weeks Citizen Column.

Also note that this Sunday after liturgy and lunch I’ll be continuing the Bible study on St Paul that was started in Lent.

With love in the risen Christ,
Fr John

Announcements - May 1, 2009

Only 3 weeks left until the Pairie Oak Quintet concert! To procrastinate is human, but to encourage is divine! Do talk to Tanya Prochina, or Mary Ann or Sasha Lopouhine to buy tickets for yourself, your friends, or just to support the cause! Volunteer to help in some way! In these ways we can particiapte in making this a great event musically, and in terms of raising much needed funds for our Cathedral.

Road detours are springing up in our area. Please see the following link for more information.

Pilgrimage to the Ukraine with Archbishop Seraphim and Fr. Dennis Pihach, June 25 - July 10 2009. Anyone interested may contact Deacon Nazari - cell 697-0889 or email:

Ministry Information - May 1, 2009

The Food Basket, (at the front of the church) provides a way for us to help the poorest of the poor in our neighbhbourhood. Food collected goes month about to the Dalhousie Food Cupboard and St. Luke’s Lunch Club. Also, used clothing is welcomed for distrbution by both organizations (see Vera Theokritoff). Olive oil or canola oil for our lampadas is also much appreciated, (see one of the deacons or subdeacons). In all these ways we Orthodox Christians give thanks to God, and tangibly contribute to our parish ministries of worship and serving the poor.

The Library is open every Sunday after the Divine Liturgy or any other day of the week by request.

We are actively looking for Orthodox book donations in any language. Questions regarding the Library should be addressed to Deacon Alexander, or Father James, Vera Theokritoff or Jane Szepesi, whoever happens to be present at that time.

Bookstore: Our Bookstore is open after services or by appointment. Contact Jane Szepesi 613 728-9780.

Mother Maryam’s Prayer Basket: Your requests for prayers can be placed in the small wicker basket on the candle table by the Eccles St. door where Mother Maryam will pick them up. Pencil & paper are in the basket.

From our Archbishop - April 23, 2009

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
Christ is risen

I want to take this opportunity to give thanks to God for enabling us to worship him this last week or so with such beauty, and focus together. Many of our faithful worked long to prepare the Temple for this annual pilgrimage. Many worked long to help us enjoy the times of eating together. Many worked hard to help us in the worship, both in singing, and in serving. It was a bright, joyful, peaceful Pascha.

I want to congratulate Father John again on his receiving the Jewelled Cross. And I want to thank God again for the work he, and Matushka Denise have been doing in our midst these last years. As I noted in the Gramota, many of their good works are not necessarily visible.

I had some persons approach me after the main Paschal Service, and ask me what might have been different this year that we came to an end rather later than usual. My first heart-response was that I did not notice that it had been long. But the clock said it did take longer. I received a number of theories about what might have taken longer. None could add up to this amount of time.

With some help, I did some reflecting on what might have contributed to extra time in a substantial amount. Here are some likely causes : first, there was a large attendance, particularly at the time of the Procession. The beginning of this Procession was rather slower than usual because of matches that would not light properly, and some last-minute forgetting of necessary details. The Procession itself took longer than usual, with more participants than previously. At the beginning of the Divine Liturgy, I gave out various awards and certificates. To me, it felt like five minutes, but I was told that because of the quantity it took more like twenty-five. It is these details that seem more likely than anything else to have added up to the extra time we took.

Regardless of any extra time, the Feast was, and is radiant. And the times of eating together, and playing together as we did after the Midnight service, and after the Vespers were invigorating. May the Lord grant that this joy, this energy, this love be perpetuated in us, strengthened in us, and increased in us, so that we may serve Him in that love and joy, always, now and ever, and unto the ages of ages. Amen.

Christ is risen

Love in Christ,
+Seraphim
Archbishop of Ottawa, and of Canada

From our Dean - April 23, 2009

Dear friends,
Christ is risen!

This weekend we celebrate St Thomas Sunday, which will include for some of you a visit to the cemetery to pray at the graves of your departed loved ones. The blessing of the parish section in Pinecrest Cemetery will take place at 2:00 pm.T his is an especially vivid way to celebrate faith in the resurrection, whether or not you have relatives there. For many in this world cemeteries are places to be avoided. They bring back memories of suffering, death, grief, tears, the loss of being wrenched apart. They symbolize Satan’s victory and mockery of the living. We have sanitized everything so that the full stench of death is lost on us these days. As Fr Alexander Schmemann said, Jesus came to the grave of his dead friend Lazarus and wept because the world was not created for this. It literally stinks. We as Christians come to the graves, not without our griefs, but knowing that they are being borne by the crucified and risen Lord. “Surely he has borne our griefs and carried our sorrows” (Isaiah 53:4). We come to this place of grief with our Easter eggs and our flowers, symbols of new life, and we come with our singing: “Christ is risen from the dead, trampling down death by death, and upon those in the tombs bestowing life.” Is there any more powerful way to confront death and say we don’t accept this temporary defeat? In Pascha, we have had a glimpse of something better that awaits all of us, “where there is no sickness, nor sorrow nor sighing, but life everlasting.”

With love in the risen Lord,
Fr John

Announcements - April 23, 2009

Further Note from Vladyka:
Have you bought your ticket yet for the Pairie Oak Quintet concert? This is a special parish event to raise funds for our Cathedral. The music is top quality, the tickets are a great deal, and it is Saturday Evening, 23 May, at St Andrew’s Church on Kent Street. Please support your Cathedral.

These musicians are making a sacrifice of their time, and talent on our behalf, and some drive all the way from Chicago to help us. As well, the organizers are working hard to make this happen. Let us help as we can, if only to provide the encouragement of early ticket sales! Please see Tatiana Prochina, or Mary Ann, or Sasha Lopoukhine for the tickets, or to offer other help.

Many Thanks! to all who made donations in response to the special Paschal Appeal letter from our warden. If you were too busy last week, it’s not too late to bring it in to Warden Lydia or Treasurer Karen.

Many Thanks also to all who helped provide Flowers for Pascha, as well as all the other ways people contributed generously to the richness of worship and fellowship throughout Holy Week and Pascha!

Remember that donations to the Food Basket, (at the front of the church); of used clothing, (to Vera Theocritoff); and of olive oil or canola oil for our lampadas (to a deacon or subdeacon) are much appreciated. In all these ways we Orthodox Christians give thanks to God, and tangibly contribute to our parish ministries of worship and serving the poor.

Road detours are springing up in our area. Please see the following link for more information.

Paschal Greeting in Many Languages - April 16, 2009

Arabic: Al Maseeh Qam! Haqqan Qam!
English: Christ is Risen! Indeed, He is Risen!
Finnish: Kristus nousi Kuolleista! Totisesti Nousi!
French: Christ est Ressuscité! En Vérité, Il est Ressuscité!
Gaelic: Erid Krist! G’deya! n erid she!
Georgian: Kriste aghsdga! Cheshmaritad aghsdga!
German: Christus ist auferstanden! Er ist wahrhaftig auferstanden!
Greek: Christos Anesti! Alithos Anesti!
Italian: Cristo è risorto! È veramente risorto!
Latin: Christus resurrexit! Vere resurrexit!
Norwegian: Kristus er oppstanden! Han er sannelig opstanden!
Rumanian: Hristos a Inviat! Adeverat a Inviat!
Russian: Khristos voskres! Voistinu voskres!
Serbian: Hristos Vaskrese! Vaistinu Vaskrese!
Slavonic: Christos Voskrese! Voistinu Voskrese!
Spanish: Cristo ha resucitado! Verdaderamente ha resucitado!

From our Metropolitan - April 16, 2009

Christ is Risen! Indeed He is Risen!

To the Very Reverend and Reverend Clergy, Monastics, and Faithful
of The Orthodox Church in America

Dearly Beloved in Christ,

Beloved, let us greet one another with Paschal Joy, and exchange the kiss of peace.

Let us feast soberly, that our joy may be full. Let us not stuff ourselves to satiety with feasting, nor indulge our passions to insensibility. Most of all, let us not give ourselves over to the darkness of the fallen world from which we have sought to purify ourselves, lack of forgiveness, anger and judgment, bitterness and hatred.

Rather, let us allow our old selves to remain crucified and buried, that the New Man may live, resurrected in and with Christ. Let us live according to the Kingdom, in communion with the Holy Spirit, so that we may be renewed by the Resurrection.

Our Pascha is not simply the beautiful services and the good food. It is not just family and Easter bunnies. It is not just the fellowship and familiar old customs.

Pascha is the dawn of the Age to Come, the Kingdom of God radiating into our souls and minds and hearts. Pascha is the experience of salvation itself, the foretaste of the Messianic Banquet, and the transformation of our lives. In Pascha we behold Christ, Risen from the dead, the revelation of the Second Coming.

We have gone with Christ to His Passion, but have we been crucified with Him?

We have held vigil at His Tomb, but were we asleep, and missed Him? Did our minds betray us and we doubt His Resurrection?

Let the fruit of our Lenten efforts be the enlightenment of our minds and the renewal of our hearts that our repentance not be in vain.

Let us sing with joy together with the Angels and Archangels, and all creation which has groaned awaiting the revelation of the Son of Man. With all creation, the living and dead, the spiritual and material, and with all the saints, let us cry:

Christ is Risen from the dead, trampling down death by death, and upon those in the tombs bestowing life!

With love and joy in the Risen Christ,
+Jonah
Primate of the Orthodox Church in America

From our Archbishop - April 16, 2009

Dear Brothers, and Sisters in Christ,

I am greeting you all in the Glorious Resurrection of our Lord, God, and Saviour, Jesus Christ.
Christ is risen.

It is my prayer that you all may know deeply in your hearts, that you may encounter, and participate in the Love of our God, in our Saviour. May you all shine brightly with the joy, and the light of the Life-giving Resurrection. May this joy never fade in your hearts. May this light of Christ, which illumines all, dispel all darkness, and evil that may try to attack you. May you live in Him, who is the Truth. May the weaknesses of human beings never distract you from the True Way of Christ.

May the Risen Christ bring you all into His Kingdom.
Christ is risen.

The unworthy
+Seraphim
Archbishop of Ottawa, and of Canada

From our Dean - April 16, 2009

Lydia Scratch, our parish Warden, has taken the trouble to put together a good introduction to the services of Holy Friday, Holy Saturday and Pascha (the Feast of the Resurrection, Easter). It is based on Fr Thomas Hopko’s well-known Handbook of the Orthodox Faith but also includes specifics about our parish practice. Thank you Lydia, and may all of you enjoy these coming days of the “feast of faith”.

With love in Christ,
Fr John

How You Can Participate - April 16, 2009

1. Great and Holy Friday - April 17 Matins Service: 7 p.m.

READERS for ALL-NIGHT VIGIL over the Shroud of Our Lord Sign-up sheet on bulletin board in LeBreton St. Entrance

2. Great and Holy Saturday- April 18 Vesperal Liturgy: 9:30 a.m.

Bring dried fruits, nuts, buns, and wine for breaking the fast
Red-dyed hard-boiled eggs: 14 dozen needed
Sign-up on sheet on basement bulletin board to bring 1 dozen
Please bring eggs to church kitchen on Saturday by 9:30 a.m.

3. PASCHA - April 18 (19) at 11:30 p.m.

Nocturnes, Matins and Hierarchical Liturgy
COMMON Break-Fast in the wee hours after service: Please bring some festal food to share

4. PASCHA -Sunday, April 19 Paschal Vespers: 2:00 p.m.

Sign-up on sheet located in stairwell for your food offering and to set up & clean up
BYOB - Bring cold drinks, wine, beer, juice, water – if you can, bring ice in cooler
BRING ALL SERVING UTENSILS your food item needs – such as platters, carving knives, large spoons, forks, etc.
PLEASE: take home your UNWASHED serving bowls and utensils
Collection will be made to help cover expenses for supplies.
PARENTS may want to bring toys for outdoor yard activities.

Donations - April 16, 2009

Donations to the Food Basket, (at the front of the church); to the fund for Flowers for Pascha (see Karen Edmonds); of olive oil or canola oil for our lampadas (see a deacon or subdeacon) are all both welcomed and appreciated as thank offerings to our risen Lord.

Three Holy Days of Pascha - April 16, 2009

The three days of Great and Holy Friday, Great and Holy Saturday, and Pascha on Sunday, are the days when this journey or passage “from death to life and from earth to heaven” is revealed in Christ’s death, descent into Hades, and resurrection from the dead. It also foretells our resurrection from the dead and our ascension into heaven to be with Christ forever. As we participate in these services, we are conscious that this is not just a matter of remembering these events in Jesus’ life, but of being mystically present with our Lord and his followers as he trod the path from life, through death, and back to Life!

Whether you are visiting or a long time parish member, welcome! Please feel free to participate in the services as you wish, but do not hesitate to be relaxed about watching what others are doing. If you have questions, please ask them! We will endeavour to find answers as best we can.

Participate: Watch for the ways that you can participate in particular ways. These are pulled out and highlighted.

Great and Holy Friday

The Vespers on Great and Holy Friday is at 2:00 in the afternoon. Vespers begins as usual with hymns about the suffering and death of Christ. After the entrance with the Gospel Book and the singing of Gladsome Light, selections from Exodus, Job, and Isaiah 52 are read. An epistle reading from First Corinthians (1:18-31) is added, and the Gospel is read once more with selections from each of the four accounts of Christ’s crucifixion and burial.

After more hymns glorifying the death of Christ, while the choir sings the dismissal song of St Simeon, the priest vests fully in his dark-coloured robes and censes the burial shroud, also known as the plaschenitsa, which lies upon the altar table. Then, after the Our Father, while the people sing the troparion of the day, the priest circles the altar table with the plaschenitsa carried above his head and places it into the tomb for veneration by the faithful.

At the end of this service, we come forward to venerate the plaschenitsa. We make two prostrations, kiss the Gospel Book and the feet of Christ, and make a third prostration. In our church, more than one person usually venerates the plaschenitsa at the same time: we are all brothers and sisters in Christ, families, friends, and strangers alike, and we all share in the sorrow of the crucified Christ.

The Lamentations service (officially the Great and Holy Saturday Matins) is served at 7:00 pm. In place of the regular Matins psalm reading, the entire Psalm 119 is read with verses praising the dead Saviour chanted between each of its lines. This particular psalm is the verbal icon of Jesus, the righteous man whose life is in the hands of God and who, therefore, cannot remain dead. The Lamentations, as the verses are called, glorify God as “the Resurrection and the Life,” and marvel at his humble condescension into death.

As more verses of praise are sung, the priest again vests fully in his sombre vestments and, as the great doxology is chanted, he once more censes the tomb of the Saviour. Then, while the congregation with lighted candles continually sings Holy God, the faithful—led by the Archbishop carrying the Gospel Book with the burial shroud of Christ held over his head—go in procession around the outside of the church building. This procession bears witness to the total victory of Christ over the powers of darkness and death. The whole universe is cleansed, redeemed and restored by the entrance of the Life of the World into death.

Following the Lamentations on Friday night, parishioners keep vigil over the tomb of our Lord. This vigil lasts until the Paschal services the following night. The church remains open during this time for visitors to come and worship before the tomb. Psalms are read during this time.

Participate: There is a sign-up sheet for those who wish to read over the tomb on the bulletin board at the LeBreton Street entrance. Anyone who wishes can participate in this vigil.

Great and Holy Saturday

Great and Holy Saturday links Christ’s death and Resurrection. It is on Great and Holy Saturday that we commemorate Christ’s conquest of death, which is sealed through the Resurrection. There is a Vesperal Liturgy at 9:30 on Saturday morning. Holy Saturday is the pivotal day in the Paschal celebration. It is on this day that sorrow begins to transform into joy. The path from death to life is being laid. This is an event not to be missed. There would be no victorious Resurrection without Christ’s descent into and defeat of Hades, and for that reason there can be no true celebration of Pascha without the celebration of that victory in Hades, which is Great and Holy Saturday.

On Great and Holy Saturday itself, Vespers are served with the Divine Liturgy of St Basil the Great. It begins in the normal way with the evening psalm, the litany, the hymns following the evening Psalm 141 and the entrance with the singing of the vesperal hymn, Gladsome Light. The clergy stand at the tomb in which lies the burial shroud with the image of the Saviour in the sleep of death. Therefore, the service takes place in the middle of the church: the tomb lies outside the altar after the burial services of Great and Holy Friday.

Following the evening entrance which is made with the Book of the Gospels, fifteen readings from the Old Testament scriptures are read, all of which relate to God’s work of creation and salvation which has been summed up and fulfilled in the coming of the predicted Messiah.

Participate: If you are interested in reading one of the Old Testament prophesies, please talk to our choir director, Mike Holden.

After the Epistle reading, the most joyous moment of the liturgy of Great and Holy Saturday takes place when the Prokeimenon announces: “Arise, O God, judge the earth, for to Thee belong all the nations.” At this point, all the vestments of the clergy and servers, and the cloths on the Altar and icon stands are changed from black to white, for the resurrection has already begun in Hades and will soon be announced to us.

After the Liturgy, we break our fast together with breads, fruits, nuts, juice and wine in the church itself. In contemporary practice, these foods and drinks are blessed at the end of this Liturgy “for the sustenance of the faithful”.

Participate: All are encouraged to bread, fruits, nuts, juice or wine to share.

Pascha Sunday

At 11:30 Saturday night, the Nocturne service is chanted. The priest goes to the tomb and removes the burial shroud. He carries it through the Royal Doors and places it on the altar table where it remains for forty days until the day of Ascension.

The Midnight Service and Paschal Liturgy starts in a darkened church. The church is in full darkness representing the darkness of the Tomb and the Hades. Precisely at midnight, a single light emerges from the altar representing the victory of Christ over death, the defeat of the Prince of Darkness by Jesus, the Light of the World. As the light is passed from person to person, it pushes back the darkness of the church and defeats it completely.

At midnight the procession begins. The people leave the church building singing:

Thy resurrection, O Christ our Saviour, the angels in heaven sing: enable us on Earth, to glorify thee in purity heart.

The procession circles the church building and returns to the closed doors of the front of the church. Before the closed doors of the church, the resurrection of Christ is announced. The Gospel is read which tells of the empty tomb. The Easter troparion is sung for the first time

Christ is risen from the dead, trampling down death by death, and upon those in the tombs bestowing life.

The people re-enter the church building and continue the service of Pascha Matins.

Before the beginning of the Divine Liturgy, the Archbishop proclaims the famous Paschal Sermon of St. John Chrysostom. This sermon is an invitation to all of the faithful to forget their sins and to join fully in the feast of the resurrection of Christ. Taken literally, the sermon is the formal invitation offered to all members of the Church to come and to receive Holy Communion, partaking of Christ, the Passover Lamb, whose table is now being set in the midst of the Church. In our parish the sermon is literally obeyed and all of the faithful are encouraged to receive the eucharistic gifts of the Passover Supper of Easter night. There are no special rules of preparation or fasting for this midnight communion.

At the end of the Liturgy, a special bread, called the Artos, is consecrated in memory of the Risen Christ, Who is “the Bread of Life Eternal descended from Heaven and nourishing us with the food of His divine mercies.” The Artos is broken and distributed at the end of the Divine Liturgy on Thomas Sunday.

Red eggs are distributed to all as they receive a blessing at the end of the Liturgy. There are many legends about why red eggs are distributed, including one about Mary Magdalene offering a red egg to the Emperor of Rome, and another that says that red eggs serve to remind us of the precious blood of God the Redeemer, which was shed on the cross for the salvation of all men. However, explanations that eggs symbolize new life, or that the cracking of eggs symbolizes the shattering of Hades by the victorious Christ, are pious explanations, but are not theological statements or actions.

Following the service in the church, we all go down to the church hall to have our Pascha baskets blessed and to break our Lenten fast together as a church family. Pascha baskets are filled with certain foods that we have abstained from during Lent. There is also a common table of foods that we prepare as a way to break our fast together as a community right after the celebration of the midnight services that glorify Christ’s resurrection.

At 2:00 in the afternoon of Pascha Sunday, we serve the Paschal Vespers (also known as the Agape Vespers). This glorious service includes the reading of the Gospel account of the empty tomb (John 20:19-25). It is customary to read this Gospel in many different languages, demonstrating the universal nature of the Good News of Christ’s victory over sin and death.

Participate: If you are able to read the Gospel in a different language, please see Fr. John.

After the Paschal Vespers, we hold a Paschal feast in the church hall. This is a pot-luck meal that befits the beauty and fullness of the Feast of Feasts. All are encouraged to bring a dish to celebrate Christ’s resurrection with their brothers and sisters in Christ.

Participate: There is a sign-up sheet for the pot-luck in the stairwell leading to the church hall. Please contribute to our celebration of Christ’s Resurrection!

Whether you are visiting for just one service, or attending many or all of them, we trust that you will be blessed by walking with our Lord along this path from life through death to New Life!

CHRIST IS RISEN!

From the Archbishop - April 9, 2009

Dear Brothers, and Sisters,

As you are aware, Father John has faced many challenges this year. This week he had to spend over twelve hours in a hospital with an elderly parishioner, who was ill. His father, who is now becoming more conscious, needs more active presence from his family. The result is that he will weekly drive to NY/NJ for an over-night to visit his father, and for Denise to see her mother, too. All this makes for a lot of stress. Please pray for Father John, Denise, and their family, not only for strength and their own health, but also for their protection in so much travel.

Love in Christ,
+Seraphim

Our Library - April 9, 2009

Our newly reorganized library is open every Sunday after the Divine Liturgy or any other day of the week by request. Questions regarding the Library should be addressed to Deacon Alexander or one of his helpers: Father James, Vera Theokritoff or Jane Szepesi, whoever happens to be present at that time.

Before signing out books, please read, familiarize yourself and follow the easy steps of the “AOCL Operating Rules”, which are posted on the Library table. Please DO NOT borrow any book that does NOT have an ID or is missing the inside “Book Tag”. Also, do NOT borrow from the “Donations” and “Share a Book” sections, yet. In these kinds of situations please talk to the Library keepers and ask for help.

We are actively looking for book donations. If you happen to have Orthodox books, in any language, to give out, please consider the Library as your first choice. When making a donation just drop the books on the shelf set aside for this purpose. Eventually, put a piece of paper with your name on top of the books pile.

Announcements - April 9, 2009

Potluck Sign Up Sheets To help get organized for our Parish Paschal Potluck Feast after Vespers Sunday afternoon, sign-up sheets will be posted in the church hall starting on Palm Sunday. If you are planning to come but can’t get to the list, just bring whatever you can. If you can’t bring anything, just come and join in!

Donations for Flowers for Pascha will be gratefully received by our treasurer, Karen Edmonds, at services between now and Pascha.

Donations of olive oil or canola oil for our lampadas are both welcomed and appreciated. This is a beautiful, traditional way for Orthodox Christians to give thanks to God, and to tangibly contribute to His worship in the Church. It may be given to a deacon or subdeacon.

Blessing of the Baskets & Break-Fast Those planning to stay after the Blessing of the Baskets (following the Paschal Vigil) are reminded to be thinking also about what you want to bring for the common Break-Fast table - where we, all together as part of this fasting community, also together joyfully break the fast.

Food Basket: Thank you for helping to fill the March basket so plentifully. It contained quite a bit of cereal and was just what was needed at the St. Luke’s Breakfast Club this week.

St. Luke and the Food Cupboard both received two large garbage bags of shoes each. A special thank you to Victor Theokritoff who helped bundle them and then mopped the classroom floor.

Parishioners into Spring cleaning might like to know that both St. Luke and the Dalhousie Food Cupboard pass on used clothing to their clients. More information is available at Men’s clothing is almost always at a premium.

Many thanks to Vera T. for her faithful labour and organizational efforts that enable us to minister to our neighbours in this way.

Church Hall Development Update Following the successful application for a kitchen renovation grant, we are exploring the possibility of a grant for an elevator. Thanks to all those who have worked so hard, we have pretty much de-junked the hall, (two roll off bins worth!) To avoid the challenges of residual fumes during Holy Week and Paschal Celebrations, our work bees are paused. Stand by for resumed efforts after Pascha.

Potential road detours are planned for our area starting this month. Please see the following for more information:

Prairie Oak Quintet Concert - May 23 Have you got your tickets yet? Or talked to Tatiana Proshina, Sasha or Mary Ann Lopoukhine about how you can help? They still need people to help with publicity, ticket sales and assisting at the event.

New Bishop of Quebec City - April 3, 2009

The Holy Synod of Bishops of The Orthodox Church in America, meeting at the OCA Chancery in Oyster Bay Cove, NY, April 2, 2009, has elected Archimandrite Irinee (Rochon), as Bishop of Quebec City, Auxiliary to His Eminence, Archbishop SERAPHIM.

God grant him many years!

March Food Basket - April 2, 2009

Thanks to all who helped fill the March basket! It has been delivered to St. Luke’s Lunch Club.The March basket will go to the The Dalhousie Food Cupboard.

Kitchen Table Needed - April 2, 2009

Kitchen table needed for a Somali family that Liana Gallant is in touch with through a program call HOST, a welcome-to-Canada organization for new immigrants and refugees. Also needed are children’s books to help teach English. Anyone with these urgently needed items, or other available basic household items, or who would like to help with this sort of program, may call Liana at 613-421-6229.

Come to a Work Bee! - April 2, 2009

Church Hall development is proceeding, thanks to the efforts of several people who have been working hard on this so far. It’s not too late for you to join in – there is still much to be done! Work will continue Friday evening and Saturday afternoon, and again next week. Just show up, or call the office weekday mornings for details.

The Priest Search Committee - April 2, 2009

The Priest Search Committee, early in Lent, arrived at a short list of two candidates for the position of Dean of the Cathedral, but in the end neither candidate felt able to take on the role at this time for a variety of reasons. Many things being considered, rather than actively continue the search, the Parish Council and Vladyka Seraphim have decided to wait upon God for the foreseeable future, during which time there will be no Dean. Instead Vladyka will plan to be a much more present shepherd among us from August onward.

Father John Jillions is to continue as Dean of the cathedral as planned until the end of August. Father James Griggs will continue in his same capacity, and although still also serving in Brockville, he plans to be present for all the Sundays in July.

Vladyka entreats us all to pray faithfully and fervently that God will prepare and show us the way for discovering the man that He intends to take this role among us.

Schedule Notes - April 2, 2009

This Sunday (April 5th) Panorthodox Vespers will be hosted by St. Elias Cathedral, startiing at 6:00p.m.), giving us opportunity to continue to strengthen relationships within the Orthodox community of our city.

Developing the Hall - March 26, 2009

Dear brothers and sisters.

As we develop our space step by step, we have been blessed with the help of so many in building, painting, cleaning, of our house, of the Lord’s house. This has been a source of joy and pride for me. The fact is that when people see our renovated temple, and I can say that we as a parish did this, is a wonder to them.

But as you know, we are only in initial stages of developing our space. The Building and Property Ministry has determined that developing our hall is the next step for our parish to provide a hospitable and esthetically pleasing environment for potential tenants and renters, as well for us and our fellowship together. This week we received the great news of obtaining a grant to replace our kitchen! As well, we are all aware of the need to work on the rest of the downstairs space.

In the same way we gave our time and energy to build the temple, and before we start on the kitchen, we are needed to develop the rest of the Church hall. Next week, on Monday (30th) and Tuesday (31st) at 7:00 we hope to have a crew to start working on the hall.

The work will be in three stages:

Cleaning up/ de-junking the back room
Prep work for painting. Scraping/ washing the walls, (including the bathrooms)
Painting.

This work will be spread out over the next two weeks before Holy week, with extra days being designated as needed. If we have a consistent crew of 8-12 people the work will be manageable.

I will be calling and asking for help in the next few days, but if you have any questions please contact me. Again, the work we have done in the past is a testimony to our faith and love of the Lord and His house.

May the Lord bless our work.
By your prayers.
FDG

Pilgrimage to the Ukraine - March 26, 2009

Pilgrimage to the Ukraine with Archbishop Seraphim and Fr. Dennis Pihach, June 25 - July 10 2009. Anyone interested may contact Deacon Nazari - cell 697-0889 or email .

More details can be seen in the brochure.

Montreal Colloquium - March 26, 2009

A Colloquium: “The Spiritual Legacy Of Fr. Alexander Schmemann…” Montreal Saturday April 4, 2009. For further information and registration forms see March 15th bulletin or pick up hard copy in the LeBreton St. entrance hall.

Announcements - March 26, 2009

Thanks be to God for the procuring of a New Horizons grant for updating the kitchen! Thanks also to his servant Nikita who persevered through the necessary bureaucratic process to make this happen.

“Saint Paul and the Life in Christ” Part 2 of the 3-part series of talks and Bible studies led by Father John Jillions is planned for next Sunday (March 29th) following the Divine Liturgy and lunch.

Annunciation Parish Feast - March 25, 2009

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

Today is the Annunciation, our parish feast. Archbishop Seraphim (and Fr Ghattas
Hajal, of St Elias Antiochian Cathedral) will be with us for the Vesperal Liturgy
(6:00 pm) and the potluck dinner afterwards. The Archbishop will also be with us
this weekend, although I will be in Saskatoon leading a retreat at Holy Resurrection
Church (where Fr Cyprian Hutcheon is the priest).

I look forward to seeing as many of you as possible this evening for the
celebration, and in the meantime hope you have a day of blessings.

With love in Christ,
Fr John

Prairie Oak Quintet Annual Concert - March 19, 2009

Update
Have you got your tickets yet?! Or talked to Tatiana Proshina, Sasha or Mary Ann Lopoukhine about how you can help?! They still need people to help with publicity, ticket sales and assisting at the event.

Annual Benefit Concert for Annunciation Orthodox Cathedral

When: May 23, 2009 7:00pm
Where: St. Andrew’s Church, 82 Kent St.

What can you do to help? Glad you asked! There are many ways:

Buy tickets for you & your family: Adults: $20, Students: $10
Sell tickets to friends.
Distribute posters and flyers in your place of work, to churches, stores, community centres, senior homes… \
Put up bright posters on the streets a week before the concert.
Offer your help at the event: taking tickets, getting programs ready and handed out, greeting guests, etc.
Prepare food for the reception that follows.

Please take a few minutes to ask Tatiana Proshina, Sasha or Mary Ann Lopoukhine for more details and to offer your help.

The Concept of Energy in Orthodox Theology and Physics - March 19, 2009

Presented by Stoyan Tanev (Phd. Physics, MA Orthodox Theology)

When: Tomorrow - Friday, March 20th, 11:30 am to 1:30 pm,
Where: Ottawa University, Room 387 Lamoureux pavillion (see map )

Announcements - March 19, 2009

Found - Nokia electronic gadget. To claim: call and describe to Deacon Nazari: cell 613-697-0889.

March 8,15, 22: “Saint Paul and the Life in Christ” This Sunday begins the three-part series of talks and bible studies (led by Father John Jillions) following the Divine Liturgy and lunch.

A Colloquium: “The Spiritual Legacy Of Fr. Alexander Schmemann : 25 Years After His Repose” Montreal Saturday April 4, 2009. There will be several speakers, both French and English & French include Metropolitan Jonah, and Father Alexander’s wife and son. For more info and registraion see March 15th bulletin attachment or pick up hard copies on the table in the LeBreton St. entrance hall.

Our Library will re-open March25th - Annunciation of the Theotokos feast day after the Vesperal Liturgy. Many Thanks! to Deacon Alexander and his helpers for all their dedication and hard work.

The Food Basket A gentle reminder to bring your offerings for the poorest of the poor among our neighbours. The March basket will go to the St. Luke’s Lunch Club

Memory Eternal Please find attached a note of thanks and a memorial for Adam Theokritoff from Victor & Vera Theokritoff .

Ministry Assistant to Tanya Eyre - March 19, 2009

The Hospitality and Parish Life Ministry is pleased to announce Ioanna Martin as Ministry Assistant to Tanya Eyre. Anyone knowing of particular events that should be celebrated, (eg. births, graduations, mile-stone anniversaries, etc.) that should be marked by the parish in a special way, please be in touch with Ioanna 613-523-5383 or .

From Deacon Alexander - March 13, 2009

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

Included in this bulletin is the third part of the selection from my paper on “The Presanctified Liturgy: Rites of Illumination and Censing.” and last from this cycle. Please keep me and my family in your prayers.

With love in Christ,
Dn. Alexander

The Presanctified Liturgy: Rites of Illumination and Censing – Part III
by Dn. Alexander (Moisa)

We have seen so far that the early Christians used to receive Holy Communion almost daily and now they were denied the strengths derived from it for about a week. The Church, knowing that Christ is our greatest strength and support during our journey to Pascha, allows us to celebrate a Communion Service on certain days of the Great Fast (e.g., it became a Canon of the Church at the Council of Trullo, which is a supplement to the Fifth and Sixth Ecumenical Councils, in 692 AD). Twice a week, on Wednesdays and Fridays, because these are days of strict fasting, the Church prescribes the reception of the Holy Communion but only from the Holy Gifts consecrated on the previous Sunday. The first and essential characteristic of the Presanctified Liturgy is that it is an evening service. The Eucharist, being always the end of preparation and the fulfillment of expectation, has the time of its celebration correlated to the length of the ‘total’ fast. And, since during Lent, Wednesdays and Fridays are days of ‘total’ fast, the Communion Service, which is the fulfillment of that fast, becomes an evening celebration.
In the Orthodox Church, the liturgical day begins in the evening with the setting of the sun (to be more precise, liturgically, we begin the next day around the Prokeimenon, but the observance of a fast begins on rising), following the Biblical account of creation (see Gen 1:5). One must note the Vesperal character of the Presanctified Liturgy. As we already mentioned, the serving in the evening is for the breaking of the day’s fast (i.e., we end the day breaking the ‘total’ fast with receiving the Lord). The Presanctified Liturgy begins, therefore, with Great Vespers, although the opening doxology is ‘Eucharistic’ (“Blessed is the Kingdom of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit…” however, all the Eucharistic prayers have been said at the previous Sunday Eucharist) and puts the entire celebration in the perspective of the Kingdom, which is the spiritual perspective of Lent and fasting.
One of the distinguishing features of the Vesperal Services is Lucernarium (the Service of Light or the Rite of Illumination). Lucernarium may be traced to the ritual of the blessing of the light by the Jews at the evening meal, which most likely was continued by the early Christians, becoming later on a part of the Christian worship in the Church. In the Presanctified Liturgy, it includes the Entrance of the ministers into the darkened church, the opening greeting, a short lesson of Scripture, a prayer for light, the lighting of the candles, and the singing of the “Phos Hilaron” (“O Gladsome Light”). The readings from the Old Testament are punctuated by the placing of the light on the Book of the Gospel on the altar and by the Priest’s blessing of the faithful with the censer and a lighted candle proclaiming “The Light of Christ illumines all!” The candle is the liturgical symbol of Christ who is the Light of the World, and is placed on the Gospel to signify that all prophecies are fulfilled in Christ who opened the minds of His disciples in order for them to understand the Scriptures. The blessing also symbolizes the light of Christ’s Resurrection, which illumines the Old Testament Scriptures and the entire life of mankind. This is the same Light that illumines Christians in the life of the Church through Baptism.

The prayer “O Gladsome Light” is one of the most ancient candle-lighting hymns of the Church. It was intended to coincide with the appearance of the soft light of the sunset, when the soul of the Christian should feel the touch of the Light from above. The evening hymn portrays in words the gentle Light of Christ, which appeared almost unnoticed in the world, and, at the same time, conveys an emerging Trinitarian theological awareness. Christ is praised as the Light which illumines man’s darkness, the Light of the world, and of the Kingdom of God. “O Gladsome Light” also contains one of the most important Orthodox dogmas, that is, the confession of Christ as the visible face of the Holy Trinity, a dogma which is the foundation for the practice of venerating the icons.
The ancient candle-lighting hymn has been associated with the use of incense. The use of incense was common in the ancient world and is rooted in the Scripture (e.g., the Lord instructed Moses to build a golden altar for the burning of incense - Ex 30:1-10). In Judaism, the incense was included in the thanksgiving offerings and it would be safe to conclude that the Christians would have adapted its usage for their own rituals. The primary purpose of incensing and the symbolic value of the smoke is that of purification and sanctification. The smoke symbolizes the prayers of the faithful ascending to Heaven as the Psalmist prays (see Psalm 141, “Let my prayer arise….”). The incense also creates the ambiance of Heaven. With the legalization of the Church by Emperor Constantine, incense found its way into the Eucharistic services and was soon regarded as an important sacramental in the public worship. The practice of censing the entire Church, for example, was introduced so that the faithful might be reminded of the movement of the Holy Spirit above God’s creation. Another example is the censing of the faithful that reminds us of the profound truth that the Church sees in each person a living icon of God, since man was made in the image and likeness of God.
The Presanctified Liturgy is generally attributed to St. Gregory Dialogos, but also to St. Epiphanios, St. Germanos, and even to St. James, St. Peter, St. Basil the Great and St. John Chrysostom. Most likely, its present Byzantine form is the work of more than one composer.
We can emphatically affirm that the Presanctified Liturgy is, perhaps, the most exquisite Orthodox liturgical creation. It takes us through Creation, sin, and Salvation, but most of all it sustains our Lenten effort and struggle in order for us to attain the constant and full communion with Christ.

Announcements - March 13, 2009

A Big Thank You to everyone from the Parish Life and Hospitality Ministry, for the outstanding help from so many people in organizing the PanOrthodox Vespers. It was great! We had many people and a lots of food. Thanks be to God!

March 8,15, 22: “Saint Paul and the Life in Christ” This Sunday begins the three-part series of talks and bible studies (led by Father John Jillions) following the Divine Liturgy and lunch

A Colloquium: “The Spiritual Legacy Of Fr. Alexander Schmemann : 25 Years After His Repose” will be offered by the Université de Sherbrooke, to be held in Montreal Saturday April 4, 2009. There will be several speakers, both French and English, including Metropolitan Jonah, and Father Alexander’s wife and

Information and registration forms are online and hard copies are available on the table in the LeBreton St. entrance hall.

Thanks to our Treasurer. Having received our 2008 income tax receipts from Karen provides us with the opportunity to thank Karen for her dedication and commitment. Next time you see Karen, do thank her. The functions of a treasurer are an ongoing and at times trying commitment.

With tax receipts in hand it is also a time to reflect on your donations to the Cathedral. You will recall that at the Annual General Meeting we agreed to balance our budget by increasing our donations. As the statement sent out recently points out we are falling short of that commitment. To meet our budgeted expenses we need each Parishioner to consider whether last year’s contribution can be increased with the objective of meeting a ten percent tithe. Also, if you have as yet not signed up for an automatic withdrawal of your donation. please ask Karen when you are thanking her for the appropriate forms to fill out.

Thank you for your consideration of this vital request.
Nikita Lopoukhine
Stewardship and Development

The Food Basket A gentle reminder to bring your offerings for the poorest of the poor among our neighbours. The March basket will go to the St. Luke’s Lunch Club.

Our Library remains closed for reorganization. There are still books missing. Please check and return any you may have overlooked!

From Deacon Alexander - March 5, 2009

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

Included in this bulletin is the second part of the selection from my paper on “The Presanctified Liturgy: Rites of Illumination and Censing.” Please, forgive me a sinner, and keep me and my family in your prayers.

With love in Christ,
Dn. Alexander

The Presanctified Liturgy: Rites of Illumination and Censing – Part II
by Dn. Alexander (Moisa)

Pascha was perceived from the very beginning as our entrance into the “new life of the Kingdom.” But according to St Paul who says, “Therefore we are buried with Him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life” (see Rom. 6:4), the “new life” was given to us at our Baptism. Baptism was also comprehended in connection with the remission of sins and a filling with the Holy Spirit. Later on, the emphasis was put on Baptism as a personal participation in Christ’s death and resurrection. Therefore, each and every year, Easter was and still is regarded as our return to our own Baptism. As a result, Pascha turned into the preferred time for Baptism. While the numbers of catechumens diminished over time, Lent and Holy Week became a celebration of Christ’s Passion events and a time of repentance. By the second century, the early Church included instruction in preparation for Baptism. The length of this preparation varied and included regular prayer, fasting, and repentance necessary for the forgiveness of sins. For one or two days, a fast without any food or drink was also required from the catechumens, together with the faithful. By the third century the rites of Christian initiation began to be associated with the Paschal Vigil, during which those who wanted to be admitted into the Body of the Church were baptized and confirmed. It was the culmination both of the Vigil and their own initiation. The origin of the Lenten fast, therefore, can be traced back to this period of instruction and fasting, which varied in length from three to six weeks, and was often combined with regular exorcism. It began to be observed as a fast by other Christians out of devotion. The early Christians realized that the “old life” can be overcome and changed only by a considerable effort, taken to the limit, just as the Gospel requires from every man. Christ Himself tells us about the “narrow path” that we have to choose and asks us to fight and suffer because this is the only way to the true “new life.” The Church understood to provide Christians the help they need and seek, calling us all to a long and sustained spiritual effort. This is where Great Lent comes in as the school of repentance which will make it possible to receive Easter as the end of the ‘old’ in us and as our entrance into the ‘new.’ The beginning and the right condition of an authentic Christian life is Repentance.

When Jesus Christ began to preach His first word was: “Repent!” (see Matt. 4:17) and He also said, “Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand” (see Matthew 3:2). Certainly, Great Lent is a school of repentance and, above all, a spiritual journey having Easter as its destination. In order to fight those who seek to alter his spirit and confiscate his freedom, the Christian must be well trained and armed. The only gate through which we can enter into the Kingdom is that of Repentance.

As we have seen so far, the Paschal fast of Holy Week is the most ancient part of the Great Fast. It was only during the fourth century, with the conversion of Constantine, that the six days immediately before Easter developed into Holy Week as we know it. From Jerusalem came innovation by correlating the Passion events with the services for each day. A sequence of liturgical observances for the week seems to have been made first in Jerusalem, in the episcopate of Cyril, bishop of the holy city from about 349 to 386 AD. A full description of them was made by Egeria (a Spanish nun who was in Jerusalem for Lent, Holy Week and Easter, in 384 AD, and wrote a letter to her sister). The observances of Jerusalem spread throughout the Church, and the Byzantine Holy Week services reflect many of the features described by Egeria. But away from Jerusalem, during the next centuries, the special services were slowly combined with the regular daily services (this is one of the distinctive features of Orthodox Holy Week, which developed even more until the end of the Middle Ages).

Christ said, “For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them.” (see Matthew 18:20) In the course of time, the Eucharistic gathering became more developed. By Constantine’s edict of toleration in 313 AD, the Church was legalized and forced to meet the needs of a public worship. Therefore, in the next century we can begin identifying the different liturgical rites. Three Liturgies are usually celebrated by the Orthodox Church: the Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom, the Liturgy of St. Basil the Great, and the Presanctified Liturgy. They reflect the work of the Cappadocian Fathers to fight heresy and clarify the Trinitarian theology for the Christian Church. Because the battle against the major heresies was primarily fought in the East, many of the liturgical modifications that occurred in the fourth and fifth centuries were firstly introduced in the Eastern rites, and only later adopted by the Western Church (for example, the “Trisagion Hymn,” one of the most ancient hymns of the Church, was added to the Liturgy because it is deeply Trinitarian and thus anti-Arian in character; we find a similar example in the incorporation of the hymn ‘Monogenes’ or ‘Only-Begotten,’ as a response to the Monophysite heresy).

Under the reign of the Emperor Justinian, the two liturgical rites of St. John Chrysostom (the Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom reflects both a highly refined aesthetic of beauty and majesty, tradition and mystery, and a highly developed theology) and St. Basil the Great became the most celebrated in the Eastern Church. The Presanctified Liturgy is not truly a Eucharistic Liturgy but rather a special service consisting in a combination of Vespers service, the first part of the Divine Liturgy beginning with “Blessed be the kingdom…” and ending just before the Cherubic hymn, and the distribution of Holy Communion. The main characteristic of the Presanctified Liturgy is that it does not include any Consecration, but the faithful can receive Holy Communion reserved from the Liturgy of the previous Sunday.

Some scholars place the origin of the Presanctified Liturgy in the custom of the private self-communion with the Holy bread brought home from the Eucharistic assembly. They traced back the emergence of this custom to the time of the Apostles. According to St. Basil the Great, it took place mostly during the persecutions. Tertullian conveyed that the self-communion was customarily a daily event. Clement of Alexandria revealed that after the breaking of the Eucharistic bread, the faithful was permitted to take a piece of it at home. It seems that St. Basil the Great approved this practice of self-communion and provided it a theological foundation (see St. Basil the Great, To the Patrician Caesaria). St. Gregory the Theologian spoke about a miraculous healing of his sister when she partook of the Holy Communion from her own hand (see St. Gregory the Theologian, Funeral Oration onGorgonia). From other documented sources (please see the account of St. Mary of Egypt), it seems that the self-communion was performed privately by hermits.

The custom of self-communion, therefore, did not cease to exist immediately with the end of the persecutions, but eventually it came to be discontinued when the expansion of the Church, after Her legalization, required the introduction of some measures against a possible mishandling of the Holy Gifts. In the West, the end result of this was the appearance of the daily Eucharist as an integral part of the daily cycle. Thus, the Eucharist was denied its ‘festal’ character ceasing to be the feast of the Church. In the East, the daily self-communion was not replaced with the celebration of the Eucharist (the Orthodox Church has never made a general custom of celebrating the Liturgy daily), but a new form, that of Communion with the Gifts reserved from the Sunday celebration of the Eucharist, was instituted. The celebration of the Eucharist in the Orthodox Church never ceased to have a joyful understanding and to be Kingdom-centered (for this reason, the Synod in Laodicea, in 363 AD, forbade the performance of the Divine Liturgies during the Great Lent, except on Saturday, Sunday, the Feast of the Annunciation, and Holy Thursday). It is very likely that from the very beginning when it was instituted, the Presanctified Liturgy was common to all seasons of the Church not only to Great Lent. But, once the number of feasts increased, the Presanctified Liturgy became a distinguished characteristic of Great Lent, acquiring gradually the majestic beauty that makes it the pinnacle of the Lenten worship.

From the Metropolitan - March 5, 2009

[From the Dean: Dear friends, there is no better message for this first week of Lent than the one written by Metropolitan Jonah. I urge you to read it. With love in Christ, Fr John]

“Repent, for the Kingdom of Heaven is at hand!”

To the Very Reverend and Reverend Clergy, Monastics and Faithful of the Orthodox Church in America
Dearly Beloved in the Lord: Christ is in our midst!

Our Church has gone through a tragic and bitter episode in her history. Many souls suffered shipwreck, demoralized by the sins of a few. That is over. But the lingering bitterness and mistrust, resentment and desire for retribution, hang over us. We must heal this, both on an individual as well as corporate level. The only way to do this is repentance, using this season of repentance to make changes in our lives, cleanse our hearts and minds, and embrace the hope that can only be grasped by forgiveness. Unless we forgive others from our hearts, we cannot accept God’s forgiveness for our own sins.

Every time we criticize, judge, condemn or despise another person, no matter how gravely he or she may have sinned, we sin equally ourselves. All our self-righteous indignation is all hypocrisy that blinds us to our own sins. The resentment we allow to fester in our hearts gives us over to corruption and evil. We allow ourselves to gossip, and talk about other people, and forget that we condemn ourselves by doing so. It does not matter what another person has done; that is his or her sin. Why do I need to make his sin my own, by my judgment and criticism, and destroy my own life by resentment of someone else?

If I fast from foods, St John Chrysostom said, how can I devour my brother by gossip and slander? If we don’t eat things that have been slaughtered, why do I murder my brother by character assassination? If I abstain from wine, how can I allow myself to be drunk on my passions of resentment and bitterness? It is not what goes into the mouth that defiles a person, but rather what comes out of the mouth and the heart. It is these things, judgment and criticism, which reveal our piety to be a hypocritical sham. All our self-righteousness is as filthy rags before God, and we only condemn ourselves.

The only way of life for us, as Christians, is repentance and forgiveness. We must be “transformed in the renewal of our minds,” (the real meaning of “repentance”) and forgive those who have offended and sinned against us. Only then can we be free from our resentments, and our souls and lives—and our Church—can be healed. In short, we have to change our behavior, our words and our thoughts. Let our fasting be accompanied by the refusal to indulge in judgment and criticism of others: gossip, slander, suspicion and innuendo, all that is hateful to God. Let us fast from meat, as we fast from the carnality of hatred and resentment of others, which is the source of our passions, pain and addictions. Let us fast from cheese, as we cut out the bitterness that curdles the joy in our lives, the pure milk of love. Let us fast from eggs, so that the seeds of corruption do not hatch in our souls. Let us fast from oil, so that we do not grease our lips to slander and fry our neighbor. Let us fast from wine, that we might remain sober and watchful, to maintain the purity of our souls, minds and hearts.

Let us make this Lent a spiritual fast, so that purified in mind and heart, as well as in body, we might behold the radiant Resurrection of Christ in the reception of the Holy Mysteries at Pascha, but most especially, in the resurrection of our souls. Let corruption be abolished, and let us be loosed from the sins that keep us enslaved. The only place to start is in our own souls, mindful of our sins, and in a spirit of love and compassion towards our neighbor. Only by the purification of our souls, freed from the guilt of sin and pain of resentment, will we be able to feast with Christ at His Messianic Banquet, illumined by His grace, being made partakers of the eternal Joy of His Kingdom.

With love in Christ,
+JONAH
Archbishop of Washington and New York Metropolitan of All America and Canada

Announcements - March 5, 2009

At Pan-Orthodox Vespers this Sunday we will host fellow Orthodox from around the city. To help welcome them everyone is encouraged to attend and contribute a little food for the reception following. Your offerings will be thankfully received in the morning, even if you can’t make the evening service!

March 8,15, 22: “Saint Paul and the Life in Christ” This Sunday begins the three-part series of talks and bible studies (led by Father John Jillions) following the Divine Liturgy and lunch.

Information and registration forms are online and hard copies are available on the table in the LeBreton St. entrance hall.

The Food Basket Thanks to all who helped fill the February basket! It has been delivered to The Dalhousie Food Cupboard .The March basket will go to the St. Luke’s Lunch Club.

Anniversaries: To add names to the Parish Anniversary Commemoration list, please speak to Deacon Alexander . To add non-parish family or friends on a particular Sunday please speak to one of the priests or deacons so that they can be remembered both in the proskomedia

Our Library remains closed for reorganization. There are still books missing. Please check and return any you may have overlooked!

Montreal Retreat: Khouria Maggie Hock Sessions - March 3, 2009

Greetings All,

For all who missed the Montreal Retreat last Saturday but would like to listen to the talks given by Khouria Maggie Hock, they will be available online for free downloading or listening
– only from Monday March 2 to Friday March 6 !!

To listen, go to www.ukrainiantime.com/index.html#hock

Reminder From Deacon Gregory - February 27, 2009

As mentioned before, this is a very unique thing across the Archdiocese (let alone in most Cathedrals), and is such an important element in expressing our thanksgiving to God for his mercy. It is such a joy to participate by asking His blessing of “many years, health and salvation” for our families and friends, not only with the intoning of “Many years” to those who celebrate anniversaries, but then afterwards announcing the particulars of those birthdays, names-days, etc..

The issue of remembering family members and friends not part of our community is still a consideration and important! But instead of having to shout out (because of the size of our temple) the names of those remembered, these names should submitted to the Deacons, or clergy, preferably before the liturgy so that they can be remembered both in the proskomedia commemorations, and during the litany of fervent supplication.

If you are new to the parish, or unsure of whether your family is included on the current list of commemorations, please contact Deacon Alexander Mosia to update any missing anniversary dates.

From Deacon Alexander - February 27, 2009

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

Included in this bulletin is the first part of a selection from my paper on “The Presanctified Liturgy: Rites of Illumination and Censing.” I think it is very appropriate as we are preparing to enter the Great Lent.

With love in Christ,
Deacon Alexander

The Presanctified Liturgy: Rites of Illumination and Censing – Part I
by Deacon Alexander (Moisa)

The Resurrection of our Lord, Jesus Christ, represents the focal point of the Christian faith. At the heart of the Christian faith is the belief of Jesus Christ’s disciples that the One who died upon the Cross is God, the Lord, Who “on the third day, arose again”. St. Paul indubitably says that if Christ is not raised from the dead, then our preaching and faith are in vain (see 1 Cor. 15:14). The Epistle of St. Paul to the Corinthians (see 1 Cor. 5:7-8) might point to the existence of Easter (Pascha) as an established annual celebration. Therefore, it is logical to presume that Pascha was, from a very early time, at the heart of the Church and was seen as being the Passover from death to life. The Christian Passover was certainly celebrated by the second century. It was a unitary celebration of the Salvation brought about by the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Pascha was usually celebrated on the Sunday after Jewish Passover, based on the belief that Christ rose from the dead on a Sunday. However, there were some exceptions, for instance in Asia, where Pascha was celebrated on the same day as the Jewish Passover (on the 14th of the month Nisan). The First Ecumenical Council of Nicea (325 A.D.), decided for a Sunday observance and, consequently, the Christian Passover was celebrated beginning on Saturday evening until Sunday morning. On the Saturday before Easter, the participants of the Christian Passover held a day of fasting. Every year, the Orthodox Christians attempt to appropriate the Paschal Mystery. From the very beginning of Christianity, they believed that Easter is much more than just one of the feasts. Easter was and still is regarded as the ‘Feast of Feasts.’ Thus, on Easter, the Christians celebrate Christ’s Resurrection as something that happened and still happens to them. For each one of us receives the gift of the new life, which changes completely our approach to everything, including death. So we may joyfully declare: “Death is no more!” We can definitely assert that the whole Christian faith is included in the words “Christ is Risen!”

The fast before Easter was generally observed in the entire Church by the fourth century. It usually lasted for forty days, following the example of Christ Himself who fasted forty days in the desert after His Baptism. From the formal point of view, it was composed of the six days just before Easter (known as the Holy Week) and the additional weeks having their origins in the preparation of the catechumens (known as the Great Lent). Both East, represented by the Church of Constantinople, and West, represented by the Church of Rome, arrived at keeping a fast of forty days before Easter, but following different principles in calculating this period. Constantinople, whose practice was adopted gradually by all the Orthodox churches, as opposed to Rome, did not include Holy Week in the total, regarding it as being somehow distinct from Lent (in the Eastern tradition, the Saturday of Lazarus and the Palm Sunday stand as a bridge between Great Lent and Holy Week).

To understand the difference in traditions between East and West regarding Lent and its calculation, we have to make, first of all, a distinction between the two kinds of fasting, both rooted in Scripture and Tradition: the ‘total’ (or ‘strict’) fast and the ‘ascetical’ fast. We have to stress out that the Orthodox Christians take fasting very seriously. One of the universal precepts of the Orthodox Church is that of fasting, which requires a true effort and discipline. Fasting is, first of all, the effort to subdue the physical to the spiritual (limitations in food are instrumental; they are not ends in themselves). It constitutes the method by which the Christian achieves the spiritual aspirations like dependence on and obedience to God. For Orthodox Christians, apart from the assumed limitations in food and drink, fasting implies repentance, silence, and an internal disposition of mind. The main requirement, no matter the specifics, is that the fasting must be an absolute effort of our entire being toward God. It is also important to mention that, in the fourth century, a consensus was reached on the incompatibility between the Eucharist, which always remains a joyful event, and the austerity of the fast (total or strict fast as we will see further on). Moreover, there are false contradictions between the canons of the Church; some of them forbid fasting on Saturdays and Sundays of Lent when the Eucharist is celebrated, therefore, without breaking the fast, while some others forbid the breaking of the fast on any of the forty days.

The ‘total’ fast, by its very nature, is of short duration (it is usually limited to one day or even a part of one day) and consists of total abstinence from food and drink. In the liturgical tradition of the Church, it is understood as a state of preparation and expectation for the great feast which is the Eucharist (the ‘total’ fast constitutes the necessary condition for the Holy Communion). In contrast, the ‘ascetical’ fast consists in substantial reduction of and abstinence from certain foods, having as main purpose the liberation of man from the dominion of the flesh. The ‘ascetical’ fast has its roots in the application of Christ’s words that the demonic powers cannot be conquered but by “prayer and fasting” and, as we have seen already, in the example of Christ Himself, who fasted forty days in order to defeat the devil. By its very nature, it is a long and sustained effort, where the time factor is essential. In addition, Sunday (the day of the Lord) transcends time and thus transcends Lent, which means that the ‘ascetical’ fast remains in force on Lenten Sundays (for example, it does not mean that the monks fast on Easter even if they never eat meat). Moreover, on Saturdays and Sundays, because of the Resurrection, even the ‘ascetical’ fast is relaxed a little, usually with wine and oil. Having said all that, we may conclude that the Eucharist, which fulfills the expectation, indeed breaks the ‘total’ fast but does not break the ‘ascetical’ fast, which presupposes the continuity of effort. This is why the Orthodox Church, as opposed to the Church of Rome, includes Saturdays and Sundays in the total of forty days when determining the period of Lent. It kept therefore a fast of six weeks, beginning on a Monday and ending on the Friday before Holy Week. In addition, one must note the ‘ascetical’ fast’s character of Great Lent. According to some scholars, Jerusalem and Palestine (Palestinian Christians kept an eight-week fast, including Holy Week, with five fasting days each, to arrive at their forty days) may have influenced the liturgical tradition of Constantinople. An eight week of modified fasting started, under the Palestinian influence, to be observed gradually in the East (this refers probably to the Cheesefare Week).

It is worth mentioning that Lent, which is seen always as a preparation for Easter, got its own preparation. Four preparatory Sundays were added before Lent in Constantinople: the Sunday of the Last Judgment, the Sunday of the Prodigal Son, the Sunday of the Tax Collector and the Pharisee (this last one was added only in the eleventh century, completing the pattern of Bizantine Lent, which is still observed by the Orthodox churches), and the Sunday of Zacchaeus. During all these Sundays, the Church emphasizes the importance of the coming Lenten observances, by reminding us of our present state, which must be radically changed. Therefore, twelve weeks of preparation precede the ‘Feast of Feasts.’ This is a long journey which includes five pre-Lenten Sundays, six weeks of Great Lent and finally the Holy Week.

Forgiveness Sunday Events - February 27, 2009

1) Hierarchical Liturgy with Archbishop Seraphim

2) Blini Lunch The pink team will look after the basics – blini (traditional Russian pancakes) and fillings. Everyone is encouraged to invite family and friends to join us, to bring fruit and veggie salads/trays and beverages to add to the feast, and to help the Pink Team clean up so we can move on to…

3) Forgiveness Vespers immediately after lunch, (NOT in the evening). This will give us all - with Archbishop Seraphim being with us - the opportunity to ask and receive forgiveness from each other and to enter Lent together, without the difficulty (for many people) of going home and then coming back again.

Announcements - February 27, 2009

March 8, Sunday of Orthodoxy: in the evening (6 pm) the pan-Orthodox vespers with clergy and faithful from the various Orthodox parishes in Ottawa will be at our Cathedral. We will be hosting a lenten reception afterwards. Team leaders will be contacting people for help with the reception.

March 8,15, 22: “Saint Paul and the Life in Christ,” three-part series of talks and bible studies (led by Father John Jillions) after the Divine Liturgy on the first three Sundays of Lent.

Our Church Library continues to be temporarily closed for reorganization and revitalization. Please Return All Books! so they can be sorted, tagged and catalogued according to a new system.

The Food Basket A gentle reminder that we have a Greek bread basket to fill to help The Dalhousie Food Cupboard and St. Luke’s Lunch Club keep the poorest of the poor in our area in food. One more week to make a February donation!

Congratulations and welcome! Last Sunday in church the Khudyahova family presented their new daughter Maria, born December 28th.

The New Priest Search Team announces that the short list is being finalized and we should know more within the next week or two.

Annual Conference in Montreal - February 19, 2009

The Annual Conference for men and women offered by the Orthodox Christian Women of Montreal is being held a week this Saturday, Feb 28, 9:30 – 4:30 pm (followed by vespers), at St. George Antiochian Orthodox Church, 55 Jean Talon E, Montreal. The cost including refreshments is $40, or $35 if you register in advance: contact .

The topic this year is “Our Journey to the Kingdom: Action, Hope and Love”. The day is to be led by Khouriya Maggie Hock of Omaha, Nebraska, Director of the Antiochian Orthodox Archdiocese’s Department of Marriage and Parish Family Ministries, a trained counsellor/psychotherapist with an impressive track record of counselling individuals, families and people in crisis, and reputedly an excellent speaker.

We will attempt to organize carpooling. Please email Denise by February 22 if you would either like to offer a place in your car, or need transportation. Fuel costs will be shared. Please do register in advance if possible (see above), since it helps the organizers plan for food.

Announcements - February 19, 2009

March 1, Forgiveness Sunday: Hiearchical Divine Liturgy with Abp Seraphim; BLINI LUNCH (that’s traditional Russian pancakes for Cheesfare Week); followed by Forgiveness Vespers immediately afterwards, NOT in the evening. This will give us all—with Abp Seraphim being with us—the opportunity to ask and receive forgiveness from each other and to enter Lent together, without the difficulty (for many people) of going home and then coming back again.

March 8,15, 22: “Saint Paul and the Life in Christ,” three-part series of talks and bible studies (led by Fr John Jillions) after the Divine Liturgy on the first three Sundays of Lent.

March 14: The “town hall” on cathedral liturgical life has been postponed (at Fr John’s suggestion) until after the appointment of the new Dean.

Leaders of the Parish Life and Hospitality Ministry (Colour Teams) will meet after lunch on Sunday with the coordinator, Tanya Eyre.

Our Church Library continues to be temporarily closed for reorganization and revitalization. Please Return All Books! so they can be sorted, tagged and catalogued according to a new system. Dn Alexander can be found there after Liturgy most Sundays or contacted at 613-742-8814.

From the Dean - February 13, 2009

Archbishop Seraphim will be with us this weekend.

Also, the Eastern Orthodox Clergy Association agreed at its meeting on Monday that Pan-Orthodox Vespers for the Sunday of Orthodoxy (March 8, 6 pm) will be held at our parish. So please set this date aside.

From Deacon Alexander - February 13, 2009

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

This short article is a condensed form of an excerpt from a paper I wrote some time ago about Holy Mysteries (or Sacraments) of the Orthodox Church. I think it could be of some interest to you in anticipation of the service of Holy Unction, which will be served by our beloved Vladyka Seraphim this coming Saturday.

With love in Christ,
Dn. Alexander (Moisa)

Holy Unction, the Mystery of the Orthodox Church

Holy Unction is one of the earliest services of the Orthodox Church. It is a Mystery or Sacrament because through it God makes it possible for us to experience His presence in this life, to draw near Him, to commune with Him and to receive power from Him. It is a Mystery because God gives us His grace and works in a way that cannot be explained or defined. Through the Sacraments or Mysteries, a mystical relationship is created between God and us. The Mysteries of the Orthodox Church: Baptism, Chrismation, Eucharist, Confession, Holy Orders, Holy Matrimony and Holy Unction, are the seven ways that God is showing His love and compassion toward us.

Perhaps the most important passage from the Scripture, which makes reference directly to the Mystery of Holy Unction, can be found in the Epistle of the Apostle James: “14Is any sick among you? let him call for the elders of the church; and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord: 15And the prayer of faith shall save the sick, and the Lord shall raise him up; and if he have committed sins, they shall be forgiven him. 16Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.” (James 5:14-16, King James Version; please see also Mark 6:13)

According to the prescription of the Apostle James, the service of Holy Unction is based on two key elements, which are equally important: the healing of soul and body and the forgiveness of sins. The service of Holy Unction is considered to be a spiritual medicine for sickness, which has at its heart the biggest disease of the human nature as a consequence of the original sin. This is clearly an indication that Holy Unction is administered not only for the healing of our souls and bodies but also for the forgiveness of our sins. This duality makes Holy Unction very special and very powerful among the seven Sacraments. Moreover, this shows us that this Mystery has a salvific aspect too.

The Mystery of Holy Unction may be administered to a particular person or to a number of persons gathered together. Nonetheless, as one of the seven Sacraments of the Orthodox Church, Holy Unction may be administered only to Orthodox Christians (the same criterion applies as for Holy Communion). In the traditional Orthodox practice the service of Holy Unction has a communal characteristic. But this means that in order for the Sacrament to be most effective, as many of the faithful as possible are expected to partake in devotional prayers. If the faith and prayers of the people gathered together are strong enough and if there is God’s will, there is no reason to doubt His ability to heal all those who are diseased. However, in order to be healed one must repent and be in communion with God. Therefore, Confession is recommended to precede the healing.

Ideally, as the seventh Sacrament, Holy Unction is conducted by seven priests. It consists of seven readings from the epistles and gospels, seven prayers and seven anointings of the people. One must note the constant of the number seven, which has a very rich symbolistic in the Christian theology (e.g., one of the symbols is the completeness of the prayers of the Church). Although it is not always possible to perform the Sacrament in this way, a simplified version (also valid) is carried out, where the unction of the faithful takes place not after each Gospel but rather at the end of the service, when the body is anointed with oil, and the grace of God, which heals infirmities of soul and body, is called down upon each person. Also, because of the difficulty of assembling seven priests at one time, the Mystery of Holy Unction can be performed by a lesser number and even by a single priest. However, the usual practice still requires gathering together as many priests and people as possible.

One must understand that the Sacrament of Holy Unction is not reserved for the dying people; it is not an Extreme Unction (Last Rites) as it is thought by the Roman-Catholic Church. Dying people are usually given, as a preparation for death, Holy Communion. Moreover, for those in the final moments of the earthly life, the Orthodox Church has special prayers for the separation of soul and body. While especially appropriate for the sick, the Mystery of Holy Unction is intended for the living. According to the guidelines for clergy in the Orthodox Church in America, those who are already dead must not be anointed with Holy Unction. If the diseased person dies after receiving Holy Unction, the Mystery still remains effective because s/he was promised the remission of sins and the life in the Kingdom of God, and therefore the Salvation.

In this Mystery, through our prayers, we approach God in humility and faith, relying upon His overwhelming love for us, and He, in turn, brings us back to health in His presence and restores us to life once again. Holy Unction is indeed a Mystery of the Orthodox Church because God works through it and within us, healing, strengthening and bringing us to eternal life.

Announcements - February 13, 2009

Placement of The Cross
Dear Brothers and Sisters,
Recently, I wrote and suggested the move of the Cross to the west wall of the Church, and asked for comments. Since I heard only another complaint about its current placement, I have asked that it be moved as soon as possible.
Love in Christ,
+Seraphim

Town Hall Meeting Postponed After discussion with Fr John, Archbishop Seraphim agreed that the Town Hall meeting on Cathedral liturgical life tentatively scheduled for Sat., March 14, should be postponed until next Fall when the new Dean is able to be part of the proceedings.

Our Church Library Much progress has been made in the renovation of our library. You can help by returning any books that are still out or donating new books. Dn Alexander can be found there after Liturgy most Sundays or contacted at 613-742-8814.

Seasonal Useful Link - February 13, 2009

Vegan recipes & links – lots - some even appropriately simple! Now is the time to look for fresh ideas for ththe coming Lent.

http://www.vegweb.com”> http://www.vegweb.com

St. Timothy’s Classical Academy - February 13, 2009

St. Timothy’s Classical Academy is an interdenominational Christian classical school in Ottawa, now in its fifth year of operation. We are looking for faithful Christian families who want to provide excellent spiritual, intellectual and character formation for their children at an affordable cost.

Applications for Senior Kindergarten to grade 8 program for 2009-20010 are now being accepted. Come to our Information Evening on Thursday, February 26 from 7:30 – 9:30 pm at Bromley Road Baptist Church, 1900 Lauder Dr. (near Carling and Maitland).

For more information visit: www.st-timothys.ca.

Archbishop LAZAR - February 5, 2009

This weekend we welcome Archbishop LAZAR of All Saints of North America Monastery in BC, who is also bringing with him the monastery icon, “Theotokos, Joy of Canada”. On Saturday Feb 5 after Vespers there will be a special Akathist. On Sunday Vladyka Lazar will be presiding at the Divine Liturgy and giving the sermon. For more about Vladyka Lazar, the icon and the monastery see http://www.orthodoxcanada.org/.

From the Dean - February 5, 2009

Dear friends,

I came across a book recently that looks at Canadian values. By sociologist Michael Adams, it doesn’t have an especially spiritual title (Sex in the Snow, 1997, 2006) but it gives a thoughtful picture of the various social “tribes” in Canada. “As I see it,” he says, ” the new mental posture of Canadians has been shaped by three major quests: for personal autonomy, for pleasure and for spiritual fulfilment. In all three pursuits, the accent is on “personal”. It is this particular constellation of socio-cultural currents - among the most profound in Canada today - that gave rise to the title Sex in the Snow. The snow represents what is most enduring in Canadian values; the sex represents the hedonism and demand for immediate gratification that distinguishes the recent evolution of social values in the country. The stereotype of Canadians as respectful and reserved, and not that imaginative, is fast losing its validity” (p. 6). For more on Adams, and to take a survey of what values you hold, see http://3sc.environics.net/surveys/3sc/main/3sc.asp.

Why mention this? Because this weekend marks the start of preparation for the coming of Great Lent: it’s the Sunday of the Publican and the Pharisee, the first we hear from the Lenten Triodion. So we begin to think more intently about our lives and who we really are in relation to God and our neighbor. These early days leading to Lent are days of questions. How do all of the pieces of our life fit together? Or don’t they? To what extent are we shaped by Canadian society on the one hand (by no means all bad, by the way), and by the Gospel and Orthodox life on the other?
With love in Christ,
Fr John

From Deacon Gregory - February 5, 2009

Dearest all,

Many of you have noticed that for the last few weeks we have being going straight from the dismissal at the end of the liturgy, to the intoning of “Many years” to those who celebrate birthdays, names-days, etc., then announcing the particulars of who and what anniversary after wards. The reason for this change was to create a seamless transition between the liturgy and the commemoration of anniversaries, with out the pause of listing names and anniversaries. Those celebrating names days and birthdays etc. are still remembered, it is just in a different order.

Issues of remembering family members and friends not part of our community is still a consideration and important! But instead of having to shout (because of the size of our temple) out the names of those remembered these names should submitted to the Deacons, or clergy preferably before the liturgy so that they can be remembered both in the proskomedia commemorations, and during the litany of fervent supplication.

Our current list of commemorations, although not complete is comprehensive enough. If you are unsure of whether you family is included or new to the parish, please contact Fr. Dn. Alexander Mosia to update any missing anniversary dates.

Our commemoration of anniversaries is a very unique thing across the Archdiocese (let alone in most Cathedrals) but is an important element in expressing our thanksgiving to God for his mercy, by asking His blessing of “many years, health and salvation”, and as such is a joy to participate in.

In Christ FDG

Announcements - February 5, 2009

Well, we managed to fill The Food Basket after all. Thank you. Giving a tin or some dry goods is something most of us can do to help The Dalhousie Food Cupboard and St. Luke’s Lunch Club keep the poorest of the poor in our area in food. February is a short month but..we’ll make it.

The New Priest Search Committee has been at work. The plan is to invite candidates from the short-list to visit and be interviewed during Lent in anticipation of finding out shortly after Pascha who God has been preparing to be the new Dean of Annunciation Cathedral!

Our Church Library continues to be temporarily closed for reorganization and revitalization. To assist them. Please Return All Books! so they can be sorted, tagged and catalogued according to a new system.

From the Archbishop - January 29, 2009

My dear brothers, and sisters,

re: A Working-dog I apologise for lack of preparation and communication regarding the presence in the Temple of a working-dog in training. From time to time we meet a person who may be limited, visually or otherwise, who requires the assistance of a working-dog. The permission for such a presence is part of civil legislation, which we must obey. However, we also have canons regarding dogs to respect. In parishes where such working-dogs appear, such an animal is brought to a safe, discreet place, out of the way, often under a bench, or chair, where no one will step on it, and the animal will remain there. When the animal’s owner requires aid to approach an icon, the Chalice, the Cross, or some other movement, it is a parishioner that will help the person to do this.

This is the agreement I have made with Liana when she is in church with her working-dog-in-training. ‘Cyrus’ will remain at the very back of the Temple, and out of sight. On our part, however, we must all respect the fact that Cyrus is, indeed, a working-dog, and not a pet. We, and he, must understand that he is not there to play or be treated by us as a pet. Unless he is “off duty”, and not wearing his “uniform”, we have to resist any tendency to pet and admire him. Let’s all take his uniform seriously. It says “please do not pet me”.

Thank you all for your patience, and kind attention to this.

re: The Placement of the Cross I have heard about the difficulties associated with the current position of the Cross, and there are probably more than have been expressed. Having discussed some alternatives with some parishioners, I am proposing to place the Cross, and the candles, permanently on the side wall, in the middle of the Temple, where the Icon of the Protection is currently, facing the large Icon of the Saviour. In this position, we have easy access, and plenty of space to stand for panikhydas. The Icon of the Protection will take another place on the wall, with accessibility. I invite comments now.

With love in Christ,
+Seraphim

From the Dean - January 29, 2009

Dear friends, as most of you know, the Bible stories I’ve been telling the children since September all come from the Acts of the Apostles. This follows from the foundation of the previous two years when the stories came from the Old Testament and then the New Testament (mainly the life and teaching of Jesus in the Gospels).

As it happens, the story schedule for the next couple of weeks is devoted to the story of Peter and Cornelius, the Gentile army officer (Acts 10:1-11:18). This is one of the most prominent incidents in the book of Acts, because it touches on the most difficult issue that faced the early Church: can religious rules change?

Jesus, the apostles and all the members of the first Jerusalem church were practicing Jews. They kept the rules of Judaism, revealed by God to Moses, and in so doing, by necessity they also kept mostly away from Gentiles. The rules surrounding Kosher eating prevented integrated social life between Jews and Gentiles. But pious Jews did not view these rules as onerous. Keeping the rules was the central way of keeping a daily, and even minute by minute remembrance of the God of Israel who had revealed them on Mt Sinai. They were part of the divinely sanctioned tradition. To go against them was to go against God.

But the Jewish prophets had hinted that God had chosen Israel for a mission that one day would extend far beyond their own people. The promised Messiah would be part of this promise. And therefore, with the coming of Jesus, Jewish-Christians who accepted Him as the Messiah began to reflect on how their life and mission might change.

And this was a shock to the religious system. It required that they ask themselves if God might be acting in a new way through the Holy Spirit. Might he be opening up a different path for the Gentiles, one that did not require them to keep the Jewish Law? And might he be telling the Jewish followers of Jesus that it was time to open themselves to serve the wider Gentile world in the name of the risen Messiah? These questions shook the community and ultimately meant that Christians could no longer be recognized as Jews.

The story of how God spoke to Peter, telling him to set aside the kosher rules, to meet with Cornelius, to eat with him, to recognize that the Spirit of God was acting in the life of this Gentile, to baptize him and receive him as a brother in the Church was revolutionary. It meant overturning an approach to rules that had been going on for thousands of years and was fundamental to the Jewish tradition. Most Jews could not accept this, and we as Orthodox with the value we place on tradition and canons should be sympathetic to the difficulty this represented to them. This was not an easy decision. It took serious discernment by Peter and the early church. But in the end, Peter and the Church set aside the God-given rules of the past to open themselves to the new way God was showing them in the age of the Spirit.

With love in Christ,

Fr John

The Food Basket - January 29, 2009

It’s the end of the month and our Greek Basket at the front of the Church needs food! The Dalhousie Food Cupboard and the St. Luke’s Lunch Program are very grateful for our month-about support. This is our one outreach at present, so let’s see what we can do to minister to our neighbours this way.

Planning Ahead - January 29, 2009

The Service of Holy Unction (the Sacrament of healing and forgiveness of sins) will be served by Archbishop Seraphim Saturday, February 14th, at 2pm.

A Town Hall meeting on Cathedral liturgical life is tentatively scheduled for Sat., March 14, 3-5 pm.

Sheptytsky Institute Study Days Ottawa, July 2-4. Advance information at www.ustpaul.ca/sheptytsky .

Resource Handbook for Lay Ministries - January 29, 2009

New Resources Seven new articles have been posted on the ”Resource Handbook for Lay Ministries” page of the OCA.org website (see the 7 articles here). These articles come recommended by Mary Ann Lopoukhine for personal edification as well as building up our parish – especially article 2 regarding time.

Archbishop Seraphim - January 22, 2009

Archbishop Seraphim joins us this weekend for Vigil on Saturday, Jan 24th (5 pm) and Hierarchical Divine Liturgy on Sunday, Jan 25th (9:15 am)

Church Library Temporarily Closed - January 22, 2009

Our Church Library is temporarily closed for reorganization and revitalization. There is much to be done. Deacon Alexander is available for about 30 minutes each week after Liturgy in the Library to meet with anyone willing to help in any way. Many hands make light work. Much appreciation to every one helping with this worthy project!

From the Great Cloud of Witnesses - January 22, 2009

Saint Gregory the Theologian, was the son of St.Gregory and St. Nonna, brother of St Caesarius, and close friend of St. Basil the Great. He served God as priest, bishop and (briefly) Patriarch of Constantinople at the time of the 2nd Ecumenical council (381). During his ministry he valiantly defended Orthodox Faith against the ravages of heretics. He had a gift with words and sought to offer it to God, the Word. The compiled works of Saint Gregory, discourses, letters, and poetry, all show him as a worthy preacher of the truth of Christ. Thus, when he died in 389 he was honoured by the Church with the title “Theologian”, as was the holy Evangelist and Apostle John.

Troparion, Tone 1
The pastoral power of your theology /vanquished the vanity of the orators/for you have sounded the depths of the Spirit of God /and were granted the gift of eloquence as well. /Pray to Christ our God, Father Gregory,//that He will save our souls.

Kontakion, Tone 3
Glorious Father Gregory/your knowledge has overcome the pride of false wisdom. /The Church is clothed with your teaching as a robe of righteousness./We your children celebrate your memory crying out:// Rejoice, Father of unsurpassable wisdom!

Another Voice From the Great Cloud of Witnesses - January 22, 2009

The following quote from “Who is God?”, a homily by Metropolitan Anthony, (Cambridge Nov. 1979) was submitted by a parishioner as food for thought as we continue to make decisions concerning how we allocate resources for clergy and temple:

“I belong to a generation who was brought up in the First World War and in the Russian Revolution and later had to face hardships in the early years of an emigré‘s life. My parents and my older contemporaries had known a God in glory, installed in the cathedrals of Russia, worshipped in the magnificence of liturgical services. This God my generation has not known. We worshipped in backrooms, in old garages, in shacks. The icon screen was of plywood and the icons of paper, and the first thing we perceived was that a prophecy proclaimed by a Russian shepherd had come true: “The time is coming when the holy vessels will be of wood but priests will be of gold”.

Mini-Townhall Meeting - January 22, 2009

A Mini-Townhall Meeting will be held after lunch on Sunday Jan 25th for all those interested in an up-date following the Parish council meeting last Monday.

UPDATED: Workshops: Spiritual Life for Christians - January 15, 2009

Update:
You can view the brochure for the workshops here (page 1) and here (page 2).

The Christian Council of the Capital Area is hosting an afternoon of workshops on Spiritual Life for Christians from different traditions who share a yearning for an alive and vibrant relationship with God. Several one-hour workshops are offered (choose two), all aimed at discovering the spiritual practices that move us to unity with God and each other. Included are one on the Jesus Prayer by Father Symeon, and one on Devotional Life & the Use of Icons by Deacon Nazari.

Details:
Saturday, January 24th, 2009, 1-4:30pm
St Elias Antiochian Orthodox Church
2975 Riverside Drive.

There is no charge, but please register:
613-224-5318 ex 11, or (subject line jan 24 workshop.)

Questions:
Contact Fr. Symeon (613-523-0808 or )

‘Sanctity of Life’ Sunday - January 15, 2009

‘Sanctity of Life’ Sunday is designated by The Orthodox Church in America as this Sunday, the one before Jan. 22 which is the date of the 36th annual March for Life on Capitol Hill in Washington, DC. His Beatitude, Metropolitan Jonah, plans to join Orthodox Christian clergy and faithful from across America for special prayers and for this year’s march. Metropolitan Jonah’s message for the Sanctity of Life Sunday can be read here and special petitions to be included in the Divine Liturgy on that day can be found at www.oca.org.

Library Report from Deacon Alexander - January 15, 2009

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

The Cathedral Library should be a support and an important part of the Education Ministry. I have been asked by the Parish Council and I have accepted to re-organize the Library and eventually to run it.

I came up with some ideas, which I presented to the Parish Council in our last meeting. The work involves organizing the books on the shelves, sorting and adding tags to the books, creating the catalogue, implementing an easy filing system and keeping track of the books with easier mechanism for borrowings and returns, beautifying a little bit the library to be more welcoming and attractive (this includes getting rid of the musty smell), introduce new programs like “Donate a book” and “Share a book or paper/article”, add a permanent announcement to the Cathedral Bulletin about the Library similar to the Bookstore, ask Parish Council to have an item in the Budget for new books acquisition for the library, contact different resource people like Dr. John Hadjinicolaou and ask them if they could help with books and/or other ideas and suggestions based on their experience, etc. This is just a very brief list of things to do with the library.

I have already begun the work to organize the library: I continued to unpack, arrange the books on the shelves, clean up a bit and started beautifying the space, created an easy filing system and mechanism for borrowings and returns etc.. Of course, there is a lot more work left to do; this is why I need your help to continue with this task.

Some of you already helped and/or were instrumental to run the library: Tatiana Proshina is still looking after the Russian Books, Jane Sminiski was helping running the library, Olga Jurgens, Jane Szepesi and Vera Theokritoff were always eager to help and full of ideas. Thank you all for your time, hard work and dedication.

If you are available and still interested in helping with the library, please let me know. I think that all of us interested in this project could meet in the Library for about 30 minutes after the Divine Liturgy for the next few weeks. I will present you briefly my ideas and explain the work that is needed to be done in priority.
With love in Christ,
Dn. Alexander

P.S. Please Return Books! As the Library is going through this major re-organization, all those who borrowed books from the Library are kindly asked to return them as soon as possible. The books need to be sorted, tagged and catalogued according to a new system.

St. Anthony Hermitage - January 15, 2009

Father Pierre will be celebrating the Feast of St. Anthony the Great with a vigil. Anyone interested in joining him may call Ganders for details 613-273-5745.

House Blessings - January 15, 2009

Father James’ availability for house blessings is posted on calendar pages on the LeBreton entrance bulletin board. Especially with the present transportation challenges he would be grateful if people would sign up as soon as possible so that he can coordinate the blessings with the various scheduled services and his family taxi service! People can phone him at the Church office most mornings of the week and at home as well.

From Deacon Greg - January 7, 2009

Brothers and Sisters. Glory to Jesus Christ! Glory forever!

Last year, at the Parish Ministries workshop, the recommendation was made to present as much liturgical text as possible. This has happen already with our liturgy books, the ordering of the little festal books (like Christmas etc.).But one area that we thought could enhance our worship was the distribution of the Saturday night vespers verses etc., and the Sunday troparia etc….

At first glance the thought was that printing off copies of these documents would be the best way. But with cost considerations in printing, and the waste it could well produce, it was decided that attaching a file to our weekly bulletin would be more efficient. This will present the information for all, and give opportunity for those wanting a copy in our services to print them out. (See attachment.)

It is a marvel of our faith that we have such hymnography and text. It is in these verses and hymns, that the spirit and momentum of our liturgical, scriptural life, and all our life, is articulated and coloured. To enter a feast, or the day of a saint, or event in the Church more intensely, is to read and sing these texts. It is in this engagement that our relationship with Christ, and His saints, is deepened.

By your prayers.
Deacon Gregory

S.T.A.S. Winter Newsletter - January 7, 2009

The winter newsletter of the St. Tikhon Archdiocesan Stewards can be seen on their website. It contains a report of the progress of the STAS fundraising as well as a descriptive report of Protodeacon Nazari’s role and activities as Episcopal Secretary to Archbishop Seraphim.

From the Great Cloud of Witnesses - January 7, 2009

Saint Theodosius the Great lived during the fifth-sixth centuries. He was the founder of cenobitic (community-style) monasticism, a worker of many miracles of compassion, and a defender of Orthodox Faith against the heretical Emperor Anastasius. For thirty years he lived in a cave in Palestine in great abstinence and unceasing prayer. Thereafter he founded the Lavra of St Theodosius in the Palestinian desert where up to 700 monks gathered. St Theodosius was extremely compassionate, and by his direction and prayers for repeated miraculous provision, the Lavra rendered aid to the poor, provided food for the hungry during times of famine, and shelter for wanderers. As well, through his prayers devastating locusts were stopped from destroying the fields in Palestine, and many were saved from death: soldiers, those perishing in shipwrecks and those lost in the desert. When he died at the age of 105, the saint’s body was buried with reverence in the cave in which he lived at the beginning of his ascetic deeds.

Troparion, Tone 8
By a flood of tears you made the desert fertile,/ and your longing for God brought forth fruits in abundance. /By the radiance of miracles you illumined the whole universe.// Our holy Father Theodosius, pray to Christ our God to save our souls!

Kontakion, Tone 8
You were planted in the courts of the Lord, and blossomed there, /bringing forth praiseworthy virtues, master of God’s holy sheepfold! /You multiplied your children in the wilderness, /giving them to drink from the abundance of your tears.// Therefore we cry out to you: Rejoice, Father Theodosius!

New in the Bookstore - January 7, 2009

If you heard Fr Meletius Webber preach at the recent AAC, you will want to read his book ”Bread and Water, Wine and Oil: an Orthodox Christian Experience of God,” now in the bookstore. We have two copies, price $17, and can get more if there is a demand.

Orthodox pilgrimage to Iona - January 7, 2009

Orthodox pilgrimage to Iona September 20-27, 2010. Jane Szepesi highly recommends this pilgrimage and is making plans to go again, God willing. Information on the web at www.orthodox-iona.co.uk/iona_2010.htm. Sign up soon if you want to go!

Food Cupboard Presenation (Postponed) - January 7, 2009

The Food Basket filled really nicely and went to the Dalhousie Food Cupboard in time for Christmas. Good thing too, for last month the D.F.C. distributed food to 156 neighbourhood children, 106 more than in March 2008. The next basket is almost full and with just a few more tins it can be delivered. Thank you for keeping this ongoing need in mind.

NB. Sunday’s presentation by the Food Cupboard’s coordinator, Sairah Aziz, has been postponed until next month.

From the Dean - January 1, 2009

Archbishop Seraphim will be with for the Vigil on Saturday (5 pm) and the Hierarchical Divine Liturgy on Sunday (9:15 am). I am currently in New York and New Jersey visiting family but hope to be back at least for Sunday (weather permitting). In the meantime, my prayer for you all is a healthy 2009 and “prosperity in all good things.” Happy New Year!

With love in Christ,
Fr John

From the Great Cloud of Witnesses - January 1, 2009

Synaxis of the Seventy Apostles. In addition to the Twelve Apostles, our Lord appointed seventy disciples* to go forth and bring the Good News to the world (see Luke Ch. 10). Others were later added to this company by the Holy Apostles, so that their number in fact exceeds seventy, though all are still referred to as “of the Seventy.” Besides the celebration of the Synaxix (Sobor, Assemblage, Congregation) of the Holy Disciples, the Church celebrates the memory of each of them during the course of the year.

On this day we also commemorate the company of those who have been sent forth by the Holy Spirit through the centuries to proclaim the joyous Gospel of Christ.

Troparion, Tone 3
O holy apostles,/ pray to the merciful God/ that He may grant to our souls// remission of our transgressions!
Kontakion, Tone 8
You have taken, O Lord, the firm and divinely inspired preachers, the holy apostles,/ into rest and the enjoyment of Your blessings./ For You have accepted their labors and death above every burnt offering,// for You alone know the secrets of our hearts.

Christmas Assistance Program - December 24, 2008

Many thanks to all who donated to a very successful Christmas assistance fund.

From the Dean - December 24, 2008

Dear friends,
Fr Alexander Schmemann wrote in his private journal at one point that he was besieged with people bringing to him their problems to solve. He felt totally inadequate in responding, but more than that he felt that

the only essential response he could he could give them was the Christian perspective that reframes every issue and every problem in light the eternal joy that has entered the world in the person of Jesus Christ. May that spirit reshape us all as we celebrate Christmas, end this year and prepare for 2009. Christ is born! Glorify Him!

From the Great Cloud of Witnesses - December 24, 2008

Sunday after Christmas: Joseph the Betrothed, David the King, and James the Brother of The Lord. The ‘Lord I Call…’ verses provide summarize the witness of these three well known Biblical characters:

Let us all praise King David the ancestor of God / for from him came the Virgin stem/ from this stem blossomed the flower Christ/ and being delivered from corruption Adam and Eve cry to Him// for He is compassionate!

In his old age Joseph the betrothed clearly saw the prophecies fulfilled!/ He was given a mysterious command/ but he received enlightenment from the angels who cried:// Glory to God, for He has granted peace to the world!

Let us all praise the brother of the Lord!/ He is a bishop but also a courageous martyr./ Therefore, Jesus God, wrapped in swaddling clothes in the cave and manger,// through his prayers save those who praise You!

Let us celebrate the memory of the God-fearing David and James!/ One was the king of the prophets;/ the other was an apostle and the first bishop;/ that being saved from error by their teachings,// we may glorify Christ Who shone forth incarnate from the Virgin to save our souls!

Troparion, Tone 2
Proclaim, holy Joseph, to David the ancestor of Christ our God the amazing wonders you have witnessed: You have seen a Virgin great with Child, you gave glory with the shepherds, you worshipped with the magi, and an angel of the Lord revealed the wonders to you!//Therefore pray to Christ our God that our souls may be saved!

Kontakion, Tone 3
Today David the holy one is filled with joy! Joseph and James offer hymns of worship: The glorious crown of their kinship with Christ fills them with great joy. They offer their hymns of praise to the One born ineffably on earth,// and they cry out: Merciful One, save those who honor You!

From the Dean - December 18, 2008

Dear friends,

It used to be a common to hear that religion was in decline. That continues to be true in some places, but in Canada and North America there is a resurgence of interest in religion and spirituality as more and more people become disillusioned with the merely material. That’s good news, but it should also make us wary because what we offer is not just spirituality, but Orthodox Christianity. Yes, we should rejoice when people who have neglected the spiritual dimension of life and the universe suddenly or gradually open their eyes (or have their eyes opened) and begin to see much more. Not unlike first looking through a microscope at a drop of pond water. We should be happy when for whatever reason people lead a good life, an ethical life, even if they can’t connect their desire for good with a desire for God. But beyond this, we make the claim that the force of life and goodness that keeps the universe on its course also reveals himself to our puny little world and that he even entered this world to share it joys and woes. “Veiled in flesh the Godhead see…” This claim makes “spiritual” people uncomfortable, it’s too much information. And yet that’s why we have Christmas. To proclaim that God loves this material world he created, he enters it to transform it by sharing life with it and with us. And the guarantee of that is the little child lying in the manger. Christ is born! Glorify Him!

As you know, Abp Seraphim appointed a committee to search for a new dean to be appointed next fall. The committee consists of Lydia Scratch-Holden (Warden), Liviu Ignat (Deputy Warden), Vera Theokritoff (Secretary), Karen Edmonds (Treasurer) and Fr Dennis Pihach (Chancellor of the Archdiocese of Canada). As they requested, many of you have sent in your ideas for what they should be looking for in a new priest. At the parish council meeting last Monday they presented the results of their conversations. This information will be forwarded to the membership, and the Clergy Search Committee will be happy to answer any questions you may have, on Sunday after lunch during the council’s regular Town-hall meeting (follow-up on last Monday’s Parish Council meeting), or any other time.

With love in Christ,
Fr John

A Special Program For Families At Christmas (Dec 20th) - December 18, 2008

On Saturday Dec 20, families with children, teens and grandchildren are welcome to come together for a special afternoon of getting the church and ourselves ready for Christmas with some teaching, refreshments, singing, cleaning, decorating and collating of our new vespers booklet for children. They will then use the booklet to actively participate in Great Vespers at 5 pm. followed by singing carols by candlelight in church. Do come out with your kids so we can all remember ‘the reason for the season’! 3:30pm sharp to around 6:30pm.

If you could print a copy of this Christmas Carol book and bring it along it would help considerably. We will definitely be singing # 1,2,3,4, 6, 8, 22 and the three church hymns if you wish to practice this week.

We continue to collect food for families in our congregation and beyond, and will be blessing the baskets with the children and signing cards for our shut-ins. On this occasion, fresh food (for Christmas) in addition to dry and canned food is appreciated, as well as any special treats for the season.

If anyone needs (or can provide) transportation for this event, please let Denise Jillion know. If you can help (but not necessary) with refreshments, wrapping paper/ribbons or a box of Christmas cards, also let Denise know (613-692-6278) or .

Finally, this is an opportunity for families on the periphery of our community to join us: Friends, Relatives, Neighbours…all are welcome!

From the Great Cloud of Witnesses - December 18, 2008

On the Sunday before the Nativity we commemorate the Genealogy of our Saviour Jesus Christ, in which we include not only His ancestors from Adam to Joseph the Betrothed of the Mother of God, but all the Righteous and the Prophets, who, by their words or deeds, announced the coming in the flesh of the Son of God. Since the Jews did not trace genealogies in the mother’s line, the Scriptures do not give us the lineage of Christ according to the flesh, which was through his mother Mary; but instead list the forebears of Joseph the Betrothed, who served according to the Law as husband of Mary and father of Jesus. According to the Fathers, the blessed Virgin was the daughter of Joachim, son of Bar-Panther, son of Panther, son of Levi, son of Nathan, son of King David. Thus as prophesied, the Messiah was of the house and lineage of David.

Troparion , Tone 2
Great are the accomplishments of faith, /for the three holy youths rejoiced in the flames as though at the waters of rest, /and the prophet Daniel appeared, /a shepherd to the lions as though they were sheep.// So by their prayers, O Christ God, save our souls!

Kontakion, Tone 1
Rejoice, Bethlehem! Prepare yourself, O Ephratha! /The lamb is on her way to give birth to the Chief Shepherd she carries in her womb. /The God-bearing forefathers will rejoice, beholding Him,//and with the shepherds, they will glorify the Virgin nursing Him.

Ottawa Holiday Spirit - December 11, 2008

Below are several holiday activities you can enjoy this December.

Muesum of Science & Technology, Winter Solstice Celebration:
December 21 between 7:30 pm and 9:30 pm, 1867 St. Laurent Blvd. Indoor and outdoor activities to celebrate the shortest day of the year. Sleigh rides, star gazing (weather permitting), cocoa. Admission is free with a donation for the Ottawa Food Bank.

Free Horse Carriage Rides:
The weekends of December 13 and 14 and 20 and 21.
Time 1 pm-4pm in front of le Moulin de Provence at the corner of York and Byward. Register early for a free ride through the market.

The Stairwell Carollers are an a cappella Ottawa choir, formed in 1977 by Pierre Massie, head of the Fine Arts Department at Glebe Collegiate and a music graduate of the University of Ottawa. Their repertoire encompasses both sacred and secular songs from the Renaissance period and traditional Christmas carols in various languages. This non-profit organization raises funds for local charities through concerts and CD sales. (sound byte is from their CD I Saw a Swete Semly Syght).

Dec. 10th St-Columba Anglican Church, 24 Sandridge Rd, Ottawa.
Dec. 12th St-Paul’s Eastern United Church, 473 Cumberland Street, Ottawa.
Dec. 20th Église Saint-Charles 135, rue Barette, Vanier.

Tickets are $15 at the door. All three concerts start at 7:30 pm.

From the Great Cloud of Witnesses - December 11, 2008

The Sunday of the Holy Forefathers is the always the Second Sunday before the Nativity. The ancestors of Christ according to the flesh, are remembered on this Sunday of the Nativity Fast. Lists of the main men and women who are our spiritual ancestors of the Old Testament can be found in the Hymns of this Sunday and include: Adam, Abel, Enoch, Noah, Melchizedek, Abraham & Sarah, Isaac & Rebecca, Jacob and Rachel, Joseph, Moses, Miriam, Aaron, Joshua, Esther, Ruth, Judith and Deborah, Hannah, Samuel, David, Isaiah, Jeremiah, Ezekiel, Daniel & the three youths, Elijah, Elisha, and all the prophets, Zachariah and John the Baptist.

For the Biblical details of the lives of these people you search on www.biblegateway.com by name.

Troparion (Tone 2)
Through faith You justified the Forefathers, / betrothing through them the Church of the gentiles. /
These saints exult in glory, / for from their seed came forth a glorious fruit: / She who bore You without seed. / So by their prayers, O Christ God, have mercy on us!

Kontakion (Tone 2)
You did not worship the graven image, / O thrice-blessed ones, / but armed with the immaterial Essence of God, / you were glorified in a trial by fire.
From the midst of unbearable flames you called on God, crying: / Hasten, O compassionate One! / Speedily come to our aid, / for You are merciful and able to do as You will.

From the Archbiship - December 3, 2008

I want to express deep gratitude to everyone who worked so hard to help continue our Temple’s finishing work, and at the same time to prepare the Temple for the services last week-end with our guests from Ukraine, to those who offered abundant hospitality, and also to all who served, and sang so well. Glory be to God. Our guests, and in particular Metropolitan Onuphry of Chrernivtsy and Bukovina, were glad to be with us, and to worship with us. We had the opportunity, also, to serve with Bishop Job, Vicar of the Patriarch of Moscow for their Canadian parishes.

Many will not have heard some words of Metropolitan Onuphry at the end of the Liturgy. He said, roughly: May your hearts grow in capacity to receive the Lord’s love to match this Temple’s capacity to receive people who wish to worship the Lord. To these words, I add my Amen.

Glory be to God for all things !

Love in Christ,
+Seraphim

From The Dean - December 3, 2008

Thank You ! Many thanks to everyone who contributed to or participated in any way in welcoming Met. Onuphry and the delegation from the Ukrainian Orthodox Church last weekend. The church was beautifully upgraded: the iconostasis, the cathedra, the painting of the sacristy. The choir was remarkable. The food was excellent and abundant. We had plenty of poinsettias. Deacons, subdeacons and servers were well-ordered and made the guests feel right at home. Transportation and hospitality for guests was given generously. It was a lot of work for some of you, but all of this is an important part of “widening our hearts” and being the OCA’s national Cathedral of Canada. God grant you many years!

With love in Christ,
Fr John

Parish Announcements - December 3, 2008

Thank You! On behalf on the Parish Life and Hospitality Ministry, I would like to thank everyone for outstanding help to prepare, organize and deliver such fine hospitality last weekend. We had great reports from our Ukranian guests and visitors. There was plenty of food for everyone and even left-overs.

Look ahead, our St. Nicholas Feast Luncheon this coming Sunday is hosted by The Yellow Team but it is a small team, so EVERYONE, PLEASE BRING a little something extra to celebrate the feast! Fish Oil & Wine welcome.
Thank you!
Tanya Eyre

St Nicholas Presentation - December 3, 2008

Dear Friends, I have developed a St Nicholas PowerPoint presentation for an audience of Hindu, Muslim, Athiest, Jewish, and Christian children and their teachers at my (public) school. It’s aimed at JK - Gr3, but older people can enjoy it too. I encourage you to share it in your childrens’ schools where Ramadan, Diwali, Channukah, and other celebrations are shared.

The presentation will be sent to the Newsletter email list with the subject line of Saint Nicholas PowerPoint or can be requested from or downloaded as a PDF .

With love in Christ,
Laurie

Ongoing Security Issues - December 3, 2008

SECURITY breaches are still a problem! People using the front door, on Eccles Street, have been forgetting to remove the wedge from the door giving easy access to the basement, forgetting to lock the front door and forgetting to check that the side entrance is securely shut. Please help protect our building – it would be too bad for it to take ‘an incident’ to make us mindful.

Gift Baskets for Women in Transition - December 3, 2008

Gift Baskets for Women in Transition are being coordinated by Emily Olding. She will be looking for bath items and chocolates which can be put in the labled box next to the Food Basket at the front of the Church, and/or donations of money which should be handed to our treasurer, Karen Edmonds.

Dalhousie Food Cupboard Volunteers - December 3, 2008

The Dalhousie Food Cupboard, 18 Louisa St., has asked that we announce that they is looking for VOLUNTEERS. If you are interested or know of someone who might be, please contact Sairah at 613-230-3982. Recycle your plastic containers! by sending them to the Food Cupboard where they are in constant demand for repackaging. You can drop them off at the above address or call them, 613-230-3982, and they will pick them up.

From the Great Cloud of Witnesses - December 3, 2008

Born in 340, son of the Roman prefect of Gaul, St. Ambrose of Milan became such a gifted orator and lawyer that the governor of northern Italy selected him to be his successor in the capital of Milan.

After the death of the Arian bishop of Milan in 374, Orthodox Christians and usurping Arians crowded into the cathedral to elect a new bishop. As their civic leader, Ambrose, although still a catachumen, attempted to mediate and keep peace. While he thus meekly addressed them, a voice cried out, “Ambrose for bishop!” and in this way he was chosen by acclamation, baptized, and a week later, on December 7, was consecrated bishop. Thereafter he gave himself up to a life of prayer, study, and ascetic striving converting many to Christ, including Blessed Augustine.

As a defender of the unity of the Church, Ambrose energetically opposed the spread of heresy. As a Pastor he combined strictness with an uncommon kindliness, boldly treating emperors and commoners alike. As well he wrote hymns and introduced the antiphonal Ambrosian Chant to the Western Church.

The saint’s holy death on Great Friday of 397 produced such an out-pouring of faith that five bishops were not enough to baptize the number of converts that appeared the next day desiring the waters of life. Renowned in his day as a bold and eloquent orator, St. Ambrose is now best remembered for his writings.

Troparion , Tone 4
You appeared to your flock as a rule of faith,/ an image of humility and a teacher of abstinence!/ Because of your lowliness, heaven was opened to you; /because of your poverty, riches were granted to you.// Holy Bishop Ambrose, pray to Christ our God to save our souls!

Kontakion, Tone 3
Ambrose, you were a pastor and teacher of the mysteries, /shining with the teachings of God, / darkening the deception of Arius! /You worked wonders through the power of the Spirit, /openly healing many passions, venerable Father!// Entreat Christ God that our souls may be saved! / Christ our God may be merciful and forgive our sins.

From The Dean - November 25, 2008

Dear friends,

This will be a special weekend for Archbishop Seraphim and I ask your support, on his behalf. He (and we with him) will be hosting a delegation of the Orthodox Church of Ukraine headed by Metropolitan Onuphry, who will be highlighting the importance of Ukraine’s historic gospel book, the Peresopnytsia Gospel (16th c). Archbishop Iov (head of the Canadian parishes of the Moscow Patriarchate) will also be with us. There will be a number of public events at Saint Paul University and Parliament Hill, but we as the Cathedral will be welcoming the delegation and many visitors to the Vigil on Saturday evening (5 pm) and the Hierarchical Divine Liturgy on Sunday (9:15 am) followed by a lunch. I hope you will be able to help with the lunch, and in bringing poinsettas to decorate the church, but your most important help will be in being present. Please plan on being there.

Christians from the beginning were great travelers, keeping connections between the churches around the world. These personal relationships need to be maintained and encouraged today, especially through our bishops, and we can do our part as the Cathedral to make this possible. Thank you in advance.

With love in Christ,
Fr John

From The Deacon - November 25, 2008

Help is still needed! - To welcome our Ukrainian Guests this coming weekend, work is under way to enhance our iconostasis and the ambon (where the Bishop stands) in the center of the temple. There is still lots to be done, so if you are able to assist, or would like to help out in any other way (like bring coffee for the workers!) please contact me at home, or on my cell 613-234-5883.

May the Lord bless our time together, in the building up of His house.

By your prayers,
Dcn. Gregory

Salvation Army Volunteers - November 25, 2008

The Salvation Army needs volunteers at their kettles during the Christmas season to help collect donations for the poor and homeless. If you can help,
please call Jeffrey Lee, 613-241-1573, x 314.

From the Great Cloud of Witnesses - November 25, 2008

The Holy Apostle Andrew the First-Called was the first of the Apostles to follow Christ, and he afterwards brought to Christ his brother, the holy Apostle Peter. From his youth he turned with all his soul to God. He did not marry but fished with his brother and became the closest disciple of St. John the Baptist until he left John to follow Christ.

After the Descent of the Holy Spirit upon the apostles, Saint Andrew took the Word of God to the Eastern lands, as far as the present location Kiev and the small village of Byzantium (which eventually became Constantinople), teaching, performing miracles, and establishing churches. On his journeys the Apostle Andrew endured many sufferings and torments from pagans who cast him from their cities and beat him but he persevered and remained unharmed for many years. Eventually he came to Patra where the power of God was manifest through him in many miracles and most of the population came to Christ. However, the governor resisted him and in the year 62 had him crucified. During the two days that he hung tied upon the cross the Apostle Andrew continued to teach the people until he was enveloped in a bright ray of light, and gave up his soul to the Lord Jesus Christ.

Troparion, Tone 4
Andrew, first-called of the apostles/ and brother of the foremost disciple,/ entreat the Master of all to grant peace to the world// and great mercy to our souls!

Kontakion, Tone 2
Let us praise for his courage the divinely inspired Andrew,/ the first apostle of the Savior and brother of Peter,/for as he drew his brother to Christ, he is crying out to us:// Come, for we have found the One Whom the world desires!

HELP NEEDED: Ukranian Guests and Gospel Book - November 21, 2008

At the end of the month (Nov 27th-Dec 2nd), we in Ottawa will be blessed with the presence of a copy of one of the most significant books in the history of Christianity in Ukraine. The Peresopnytsia Gospels is a first known translation of the canonical text of the Gospels into Ukrainian, originally copied between 1556-1561. This prominent record of the Ukrainian written culture and history, a national icon, is also a witness of the Orthodox faith, and a point of solidarity and unity.

In order to preserve the rarity of the 450 year old Gospel a limited print run of 1000 copies was published. The Most Reverend ONUPHRI, Metropolitan of Chernivtsi and Bykovyna and his entourage of eight will bring a copy of the Peresopnytsia Gospel to us on Nov. 30th, and will be taking it to parliament on December 1.

This is one of the first major events in the life of our parish as the national cathedral, much like our hosting of the Archdiocesan Assembly in 2007. Just as that event was blessed by the contributions and the labours of so many of our faithful, so we want to prepare in anticipation of this event. Our Archbishop has asked that for the occasion we erect a more permanent support for our Icons (built to the same dimensions of the Icons planned for the Iconostas by Heather McKean) and a larger Episcopal ambon (where the Bishop stands) in the center of the temple.

Our time is short, but I believe that we have the people with ability and the love of the Lord’s house to make this happen. If you are able to assist, or would like to help out in any other way (like bring coffee for the workers!) please contact me at home, or on my cell 613-234-5883.

May the Lord bless our time together, in the building up of His house.

By your prayers,
Dcn. Gregory

Security Alert - November 21, 2008

If you are the last to leave from the basement via the main entrance on Eccles, please do the following:

remove the wedge that keeps the door to the basement open in the staircase
make sure the main door is locked and lock it if it isn’t. This door cannot be locked from the outside.
use the side door to leave the building
try the door from the outside to check whether it shut properly.

If all this sounds too complicated, please use the side entrance on the Lebreton side.

Thank you for helping to look after the security of our Cathedral.

From the Parish Council - November 21, 2008

The 2nd mini “town-hall” meeting is scheduled to take place after the service, Sunday, November 23, four days after the Council meeting . Please note, prior to this meeting the Draft Minutes will be sent to members only and will not appear on the web. Anyone interested in coming to the Council meeting please note: the date of the next Council Meeting always appears at the bottom of the Draft Minutes, on the calendar and in the Cathedral News announcements.

At the Parish Meeting last Sunday the voting membership passed the revised budget and elected Liviu Ignat as Deputy Warden. Liviu will also be part of the Clergy Search Committee set up by Archbishop Seraphim.

From the Great Cloud of Witnesses - November 21, 2008

Saint Alexander Nevsky (1219-1263) was neither monk, ascetic, nor martyr but a Russian Prince and confessor of Christ who reigned in a time of heavy domination by neighbouring Tartars. He was a leader of such exceptional valour and surpassing virtue that he became a hero of both historic and spiritual dimensions. Protecting both his nation and the Orthodox Faith he led his people in fierce battles against invaders. As well, when the Tartar Khan summoned him and require him to perform the pagan rituals he refused on pain of death, but the Khan was so impressed by the courage and demeanor of the young prince that to everyone’s amazement he accepted his refusal and received him with due honour. Upon Alexander’s death his relics remained incorrupt and subsequently, numerous miracles occurred at his tomb.

Troparion, Tone 4
Christ revealed you, blessed Alexander,/as a new and glorious worker of wonders;/a man and a prince well pleasing to God/and a divine treasure of the Russian land./Today we assemble in faith and love/to glorify the Lord by joyously remembering you./He granted you the grace of healing,/therefore entreat Him to strengthen your spiritual children,/and to save all Orthodox Christians!

Kontakion, Tone 8
We honor you as a most radiant, spiritual star,/rising up from the east; going down in the west!/As you enriched the Russian people with good works and miracles,/so now enlighten us who remember you in faith, blessed Alexander!/Today as we celebrate your falling asleep, we ask you to beseech the Lord/that He may strengthen His servants and save all Orthodox Christians!

Please Bring Poinsettas! - November 21, 2008

For the past two years we have asked parishioners to help decorate the temple by bringing poinsetta plants to the temple in time for St. Nicholas. This year we ask that you start bringing them now in time for Metropolitan Onuphri’s visit at the end of November.

From the 15th All American Council - November 13, 2008

As of Wednesday, Nov. 12 we have a new Metropolitan, His Grace, Bishop Jonah of the Diocese of the South. Although consecrated as bishop only 11 days before his election as Metropolitan, there is much evidence that God has been preaparing him for this role at this time. For biographical details, see the OCA website: www.oca.org.

His Grace began his first address as Metropolitan by saying, “I am so grateful to God for this opportunity to serve you. To be a leader is to be a servant. As his Grace Bishop Benjamin likes to say, the episcopas is not the master of the house. He’s the head slave. And I am the head slave of the head slaves, but the buck stops here. We have a lot of work to do, and we need to resolve within ourselves that we make living out our Orthodox faith in our actions, and by our words, the first and foremost thing in our entire life. Everything is about our faith. and I think that if we can do that we will be transformed, transformed individually and as a community.”

Something about the way he speaks gives the sense that these words come straight from his heart. To listen to this address which goes on to outline his vision for the OCA in some concrete terms, or for a podcast of Bishop Jonah addressing the AAC on Tuesday in answer to questions about the past, go to oca.org, click on the news item announcing the election of Metropolitan Jonah, and then click on the links at the bottom of that page. They are well worth listening to.

From the Parish Council - November 13, 2008

The Search Committee would like parishioner input into the criteria for hiring our new priest. If possible, please convey your ideas to Lydia by November 23 - by phone 613-745-8407 (after 7:30 pm is best) or email .
Nominations are still open for the position of Deputy Warden. Please see Fr. John or any member of the Parish Council if you wish to nominate someone.

Updated: New Food Bank Basket - November 13, 2008

Update: A gentle reminder that we have a Greek bread basket to fill!

Once a year Canada’s Vital Signs looks at the 10 indicators shared by every Canadian community foundation that issued a report card. From it we know that in 2006, 23% of children(1.6 million )in Canada lived in poverty or at the same level as in 1989 when Canada pledged to eliminate child poverty by the year 2000. For more information visit http://www.vitalsignscanada.ca .

Nearer home we have the Dalhousie Food Cupboard which eventually found a home down the road on Louisa Street next to the Polish church. Their supplier, the Ottawa Food Bank, often runs out of food and many local children go to bed with less food than their growing bodies require. We can help by dropping tinned and dried goods into the basket placed near the side steps to the altar. This basket hails from Greece where it was used to store baked goods. I hope everyone agrees that it should be viewed like a perennial plant - rooted until it dies of exhaustion? Vera T

PS. Anyone with an over abundance of bread, buns or fresh produce might like to know that the Dalhousie Food Cupboard, 16 Louisa Street, is open on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

From the Great Cloud of Witnesses - November 13, 2008

The Holy Apostle and Evangelist Matthew, was one of the twelve Apostles of Christ, and the brother of the Apostle James Alphaeus. He was a tax-collector for Rome, in the Galileian city of Capernaum when he heard the voice of Jesus Christ: “Come, follow Me”. He immediately left his duties and followed the Saviour, acknowledging his sinfulness, recompensing fourfold anyone he had overcharged, and distributing his remaining possessions to the poor. After the Ressurection the Apostle Matthew preached in Palestine for 8 years. After writing his Gospel of the earthly life and teachings of Jesus Christ, (about 42 AD), he made the rounds taking the gospel to Syria, Media, Persia, Parthia, and finally AEthiopia where he died a martyr’s death.

Troparion of St Matthew Tone 3
O Apostle Matthew, Thou didst hear the Voice of the Word/ and receive the light of faith./ Thou didst abandon the office of publican/ and proclaim Christ God’s Self-emptying./ Ask that those who praise thee may receive forgiveness and great mercy.

Kontakion of St Matthew Tone 4
When thou didst cast away the publican’s balance/ thou didst take the yoke of righteousness/ and become a merchant rich in wisdom./ Thou didst preach the Word of truth/ and rouse the slothful by describing the Last Judgment.

Cathedral News Submissions - November 13, 2008

Please send Cathedral News SUBMISSIONS to by MIDNIGHT TUESDAY. Thanks

November 2nd Homily - November 8, 2008

This homily, delivered at the Cathedral on November 2, has also been requested, and it is therefore provided. But all may relax as I don’t intend to make such publication a habit.

View the November 2nd Homily

Love in Christ,
+Seraphim

From the Archbishop - November 7, 2008

Dear Brothers and Sisters,

At the suggestion of several parishioners, in response to the publication of Fr. Symeon’s homily (in the Cathedral News and elsewhere), the transcription of the following homily (Cathedral, October 19th) is offered, not as a rebuttal to Fr. Symeon’s homily, but along with it for the building up of the Body of Christ.

Love in Christ,
+Seraphim

From the Dean - November 7, 2008

Please keep the All-American Council in your prayers, especially as we nominate and elect a new Metropolitan. You can follow events on-line and by podcast by looking at www.oca.org and Ancient Faith Radio (www.ancientfaith.com).

From the Great Cloud of Witnesses - November 7, 2008

St. Nectarios (1846-1920), Metropolitan of Pentapolis and Wonderworker of Aegina served God in Egypt and Greece where he eventually founded a monastery on the Island of Aegina. Many people regarded St. Nectarios as a Saint during his lifetime because of his prayerful life, his humility, his purity and other virtues, his writings, as well as the miracles he performed. St. Nectarios also had the gift of prescience. Thousands of miracles have been attributed to his intercession since he fell asleep in the Lord. The Holy Martyrs Onesyphoros and Porphyrios suffered during the time of persecution against Christians by the emperor Diocletian (284-305). They were beaten and burned and dragged behind wild horses until they died. Believers gathered the lacerated remains of the saints and reverently buried them.

Troparion of St Nektarios Tone 1
Let us the faithful honour Nektarios,/ offspring of Silyvria and guardian of Aegina,/ who has appeared in latter years, a true friend of virtue, as a God-filled servant of Christ./ For he dispenses all manner of healing to those who with reverence cry out:/Glory to Christ Who has glorified thee; glory to Him Who has worked wonders in thee:/ glory to Him who through thee has wrought healing for all.

Troparion of S Onesiphorus and Porphyrius Tone 3
You sought the delights of heaven/ and became martyrs of the Lord,/ O renowned Onesiphorus and Porphyrius./ Wherefore you drove God’s golden chariot on the heavenly course./ O divine Martyrs, entreat Christ our God to grant us His great mercy.

From the Archbishop - October 31, 2008

Dear Brothers and Sisters,

As you are aware, there was a spectrum of reactions to Father Symeon Rodger’s homily three weeks ago. The next week, after hearing his explanation, I asked that he put it in print, and provide it to the parish, so that it will be clear what he was trying to say. He reworked it (it naturally could not be repeated as in a sermon), but he published it elsewhere instead.

I am directing the publishing of these words here, so that we are all “on the same page” about what Father Symeon is trying to say. This is not to suggest that I agree with everything, but it is important that things be as clear as possible.

Read Fr Symeon Roger’s Homily (PDF)

Love in Christ,
+Seraphim

From the Parish Council - October 31, 2008

Nominations are open for the position of Deputy Warden. Please see Fr. John or any member of the Parish Council if you wish to nominate someone. The description of the role of Deputy Warden is:
- substitutes for the Warden when required;
- is an ex officio member of each Parish Ministry, acting as a liaison between the coordinators of the Parish Ministries (with the exceptions of the Communications Ministry and the Administrative Ministry itself) and the Administrative Ministry; and
- assumes the position of Warden should it become vacant.
As was discussed at the Annual General Meeting, Father John is going to continue to provide leadership as Dean of the Cathedral until August 31, 2009. Archbishop Seraphim has stated that a search committee will be set up to look for a replacement for September 2009. This committee will consist of the Cathedral's warden, deputy warden, treasurer and secretary and Fr. Dennis Pihach (Chancellor of the Archdiocese of Canada) and it will report regularly to the Parish Council.

From the Dean - October 31, 2008

Dear friends,

This week (Thursday-Sunday) the Cathedral is hosting the Archdiocesan Council. Archbishop Seraphim will be with us and presiding at the Vigil on Saturday and Hierarchical Divine Liturgy on Sunday, when Dan Moisa will be ordained deacon (he has been preparing for this step over the last few years through the OCA’s Late Vocations Program). Please keep him in your prayers. After lunch on Sunday there will be an informal meeting for anyone who is interested in hearing about the Parish Council meeting that took place on October 29th. This is in keeping with the promise made at the AGM to keep communication flowing between the Council and the parish.

Now, on the timely issue of Halloween, The Ottawa Citizen asks the following question: “What does your faith group think of the Wiccan or pagan celebration of Samhain, known to most people as Hallowe’en?” Here’s my answer.

We have no specific position on this, but in general Orthodox Christians tend to view anything that is good, beautiful and true as a manifestation of God’s presence.

If there is anything in a pagan feast that reflects what we know of God through all the other ways we claim he has revealed himself-above all through the Christian Scriptures and in Jesus Christ-then we can say this is in some sense a reflection of the divine hand at work in the world. This is why 19th century Russian Orthodox missionaries took a respectful view of native spirituality in Siberia and Alaska. But this attitude goes back much further. Pagan astrologers (the three Wise Men) play a prominent role in the Christmas story (Matthew 2:1-12) as interpreters of natural signs who were taught by a star to adore Christ. Early Christians had no problem adapting the pagan Day of the Invincible Sun (December 25) to their own celebration because they pointed to Christ as the spiritual fulfillment of all worship of the physical sun.

Ancient Samhain was confined to the west, so Eastern Christians didn’t encounter it. But as a harvest festival and a day for remembering the dead and feasting in their honour this is a celebration the Orthodox can understand. We have many services for blessing the natural world, farms, vineyards, harvests. And we have many occasions in the year when the dead are remembered and special foods prepared in their honour. The most joyous of these is in the week after Easter. We gather at cemeteries, cleaning and repairing graves of loved ones, planting flowers, having picnics and leaving Easter eggs (pagan symbols of new life, now symbols of the risen Christ), and singing hymns of the resurrection.

There is room for recognizing good in a pagan celebration like Samhain, but personally-apart from the benefits of social bonding and the “Trick or Treat for Unicef” campaign-I can think of no bless-able features of secular Halloween.

With love in Christ,
Fr John

Holy Martyrs Acindynus, Pegasius, Aphthonius, Elpidephorus And Anempodistus - October 31, 2008

This Sunday we remember Holy Martyrs Acindynus, Pegasius, Aphthonius, Elpidephorus And Anempodistus

Troparion of the Martyrs, Tone 2
Blessed is the earth which drank your blood/ holy the abode which received your spirits./ You conquered the enemy in the stadium and preached Christ with boldness./ Beseech Him to save our souls,/ for He is good, O victorious Martyrs.

Kontakion of the Martyrs, Tone 4
Thou didst receive the God-bearing Martyrs Acindynus,/ Pegasius, Anempodistus, Aphthonius and Elpidephorus,/ into the enjoyment of Thy goodness and repose,/ for they abandoned all things on earth for Thee,/ O only Good One.

Holy Martyrs Acindynus, Pegasius, Aphthonius, Elpidephorus And Anempodistus were courtiers of the Persian emperor Sapor II (310-381). When the emperor began to persecute Christians, they fearlessly confessed their faith in the Holy Trinity and were repeatedly tortured. As God miraculously intervened to quench fires, strengthen and protect them, many were brought to faith in Christ, further enraging the emperor. In the end about 7,000 believers were massacred for supporting them. Akindinos, Pegasias, and Anempodist, together with the mother of the emperor himself, were burnt on the day following the killing of the others. Christians coming secretly by night to the place of the execution of the saints found the bodies of the holy martyrs unharmed by the fire and with reverence they buried them.

Ordering Supplies from the USA - October 31, 2008

When ordering supplies from the USA please note that packages mailed to the Cathedral are held in customs until a $25 brokerage fee is paid, along with the applicable taxes.

This fee can be saved by having the goods received by one of our American parishioners who will act as agent, in transit to the cathedral, thus saving the fee. Please speak to the divas for details.

Our Thanks - October 23, 2008

At the AGM great appreciation was expressed to Sasha Lopoukhine for her dedicated service to the Parish for many years, including her valiant perseverance in the role of Warden through all the transitioning challenges of the past few years.

Also due are our heartfelt thanks to Mark Stetski who has served on the Council with dedication and excellence for many years in many capacities, including warden and treasurer. Most recently he has done the monumental job of overseeing Building and Grounds through the time of our search, purchase and move from the labour intensive temple on Clarey Street to of the new Cathedral with its multitude of urgent challenges and necessary projects.

Mary Ann Lopoukhine has also given invaluable leadership in many roles over many years. We are grateful for all her efforts and abilities applied during her most recent stint on Parish Council to head up the area of Development and Stewardship along with Nik during a time when transition has magnified the importance of these two crucial areas.

Lawrence Purdy has more recently joined the ranks of the council, and we are so grateful for him being in the right place at the right time, acting as Deputy Warden and generously offering his quiet wisdom and legal knowledge throughout the growing pains of transition.

As our Parish began growing into our big new space, we needed help to find new ways of pulling together. We have been greatly blessed by Davina Dixon’s organizational skills and cheerful enthusiasm leading the Teams and organizing FEASTS! in the area Hospitality.

Last but certainly not least we extend our grateful thanks to Liana Crookall for all the heart, energy and hours she has poured into serving the parish in the areas of Administration and Pastoral Care over the past year, particularly in the area of outreach and getting the rectory tenants settled.

We have been blessed by the service for the Lord of each of these individuals and pray for you with thanksgiving as you go off the council and continue to serve Him in other ways, among us and beyond.

AGM Synopsis - October 23, 2008

Full minutes for the AGM held last Sunday will soon be published. In the interim there follows a brief synopsis to keep those unable to attend in the loop.

Vladyka Seraphim spoke of these hard times and exhorted us to actively renew our love for each other.
The newly established Parish Council will be inducted this Sunday, October 26th. Nominations are now open for the position of Deputy Warden. Other parish council members are listed at the end of the bulletin as usual.
After much hard work a deficit budget was presented. The parish, not willing to accept this, has sent it back for further efforts to bring it to a balance.
Vladyka Seraphim and Father John both spoke regarding proposed changes in our clergy situation. It seems clear that we need a full time priest as overseer for our parish. Father John firmly reiterated that this is not a role he can fulfill at this time. The plan is for Father John to continue to give leadership as dean of the Cathedral through this time of transition up until August 31st, 2009.
A short parish meeting to approve the revised budget and appoint a Deputy Warden will be announced after the Parish Council Meeting planned for this coming Wednesday.

From the Dean - October 23, 2008

Dear friends,

You must have all had the experience of facing misconceptions about Orthodoxy from friends and family. Many hear “Orthodox” and think “Jewish”. Others don’t know it’s Christian at all (and frankly, sometimes it isn’t judging by our behaviour). This is the Citizen question for this week. “What is the most common misconception about your faith?” Here’s my answer, constrained very much by the 300-or-so word limit.

There are quite a few misconceptions about Orthodox Christianity.

It’s a minority faith. In Canada it represents only 2% of the population, but worldwide there are 250 million, making it second in size among Christians, after the Roman Catholic Church).
It’s only for “foreigners”. In Canada the Orthodox Church has served mainly immigrant communities (Greek, Russian, Lebanese, Syrian, Romanian, Egyptian (Coptic), Bulgarian, Serbian, Ukrainian, Ethiopian, Armenian for example). But all these churches welcome others and some have services conducted in English and/or French and have a high proportion of converts with no ethnic Orthodox background. The Archdiocese of Canada of which I am a priest is part of the Orthodox Church in America which is multi-ethnic and governed by bishops who are mostly converts to the Orthodox Church.
It is hopelessly fragmented. Yes and no. Administratively we have quite a patchwork, especially in this country. But the Orthodox share the same historic Christian faith across these cultural and administrative divides. This is quite notable in a Christian world that is often at odds over fundamental issues of faith and ethics.
It’s old-fashioned. Yes, it’s old. I lived a year in Thessalonica, in Greece, where Orthodox Christians are quite conscious of their link to Saint Paul in the first century AD. Many places mentioned in the New Testament are still Orthodox Christian. But those who live the Orthodox Christian life from the inside can attest equally to its freshness as a way for communion with God.
It’s very conservative. We are careful about adapting to passing cultural fads. But that doesn’t mean everyone has one set of opinions. My own parish for example has supporters of the Conservative, Liberal, NDP and Green parties. And we have vigorous debates about the place and direction of this ancient faith in facing the challenges of the contemporary world. If you want to learn more about Orthodox Christianity and how it is lived out in North America, try listening to Ancient Faith Radio (www.ancientfaith.com).

With love in Christ,
Fr John

New in the Cathedral Bookstore - October 23, 2008

A Manual of Prayer and Praise to the Theotokos, from Holy Myrrhbearers Monastery ($7)
Liturgy of the Presanctified Gifts and Other Lenten Hymns, by SVS choir ($18.50)
The Wormwood File: email from Hell, by Jim Forest ($15)

Our Bookstore has a variety of books available for purchase. The store is open after services or by appointment. Contact Jane Szepesi 613 728-9780.

The Holy And Great Martyr Demetrius Of Thessalonica - October 23, 2008

This Sunday we are remembering The Holy And Great Martyr Demetrius Of Thessalonica

Troparion, Tone 3
O victorious Demetrius,/ you were a protection for the world and an invincible soldier of Christ./ You inspired Nestor to humble Lyaios./ Intercede with Christ our God to save us.

Kontakion, Tone 2
God has given you invincible strength, O Demetrius,/ and has dyed the Church with your blood and kept your city unharmed,/ for you are its foundation.

The Holy Great Martyr Demetrius of Thessalonica was raised in the Christian faith by his parents who were secret Christians under the rule of Emperor Galerius Maximian. Because of his family status and military-administrative abilities, he was appointed proconsul of the Thessalonika district, expected to protect the city and exterminate Christianity. Instead, he publicly confessed and glorified our Lord Jesus Christ, following in the steps of Apostle Paul who had founded the original Thessalonian church by influencing many Roman citizens to become believers. When Maximian challenged the Christians to combat in the arena, Demetrius encouraged and blessed Nestor for the combat, in which he was victorious. As a result, Maximian had Demitrios executed. After The death of Dimetrius God continued to heal and protect the people of Thessalonica through his relics.

Annual General Meeting - October 19, 2008

Sunday, October 19th, 2008 from 12pm to 2pm

An important part of being a member of the parish (and the Church generally) is to take an interest in the concrete details of its life and organization, so I hope that all of you will be there.

Below you can download a print the following 2 documents. Both require a program like Adobe Reader to view:

The Ministry Reflection handout outlines the priorities for next year. It was this outline that helped determine the budget for next year. The budget proposal will be presented at the AGM. We encourage you to print the two documents for the meeting; however, a few copies will be on hand in case you are not able to print.

Archbishop Seraphim’s Letter - October 9, 2008

A letter from Archbishop Seraphim addressing the recent challenges and anxiety the Archdiocese of Canada has faced. The letter is a PDF, so you will need a program like Acrobat Reader to read it.

Read the Letter

OCF Carleton University - October 9, 2008

OCF is back this year at Carleton University, with meetings scheduled to start on the 21st of October. These meetings are great to know fellow Orthodox Christians, to live in community together on campus and to learn more about the Orthodox faith.

If you are a Carleton University student or simply interested in OCF, please join the “OCF Carleton” facebook group for more information. You could also contact Bachir Tamer via e-mail at , or by phone at 613-286-0862. The meetings are to start in Room 219 of Tory Building at Carleton University @ 5:30. The Very Rev. Fr. Ghattas Hajal will be a the quiet room form 4:30 pm to 5:30pm for any consultation.

STAS Sunday pledge reminder - October 9, 2008

This past Sunday a brief presentation on behalf of the St. Tikhon Archdiocesan Stewards was made to the Cathedral. The response and interest was tremendous and genuinely inspiring.

A number of people wanted to consider and discuss their pledges with their families; as well a number of people had no cheques to void for the form.

This weekend I would gladly be able to pick up any completed forms, related information, and be glad to answer any further questions on STAS and its goals. As well further information is available on our website www.canadastas.ca

Thank you all again for your contributions in building up the Church here in Canada.

By the prayers of St. Tikhon,
Dn. Gregory Scratch (STAS Vision committee chair)

Fr John’s Bible Study - September 25, 2008

I will be starting a bible study on Ephesians this Sunday (September 28th) after Liturgy, as part of our parish preparation for the All American Council. The full text of the study can be found on the OCA website, www.oca.org, by clicking on the Council logo, which by the way, was designed by our own Deacon Gregory Scratch.

He, together with Lydia Scratch Holden and Matthew Culhane were elected last Sunday as delegates to the Council. Many thanks to everyone who agreed to have their names put in nomination. Everyone spoke thoughtfully and with conviction and would have been worthy representatives.

Message From Fr John - September 11, 2008

Dear friends,

As you know, the Orthodox Church in America has been going through a financial, management and leadership crisis for the last three years. Last week the Special Investigation Committee under Bishop Benjamin issued its long-awaited report (see www.oca.org). The report is remarkably thorough and makes hard-hitting recommendations, but the contents are deeply troubling and it will take some time to restore trust. Nevertheless, it is a sign of hope that as a church we have been able to finally face this openly. Our Cathedral parish is being directly affected by this, as you will see below from Abp Seraphim’s message. I hope that in due course we will be able to sit down together with the Archbishop and discuss our way forward as a community. My prayer is that all our discussions will be led less by a spirit of righteous indignation and more by a spirit of Christian listening, mercy and forgiveness.

With love in Christ,
Fr John

Message From Fr John - September 5, 2008

Dear friends,

It wasn’t so long ago that conventional wisdom held that materialism and secularism would eclipse all spiritual values in our western society. Instead we now see an explosion of interest in spirituality all around us. This week the Ottawa Citizen looks at this and asks, “What’s your opinion of television ‘spirituality’ like Oprah’s?” Here’s my answer.

I applaud anyone who can help people discover a spiritual dimension to their life. As a Christian I think there’s more to the universe than is offered by Oprah, but I’ll get to that later. While I can’t say I’ve watched even an entire program, it’s hard not to follow her phenomenon and to acknowledge the positive impact she’s had on the lives of millions, especially women. Many who go to churches find her much more inspiring than the sermons they hear. And what can we say when we compare the typical parish Bible study, with a handful of believers, to the hundreds of thousands who tuned in earlier this year to her ten week study with Eckart Tolle of A New Earth: Awakening to Your Life’s Purpose? People are thirsty to learn how to face pervasive unhappiness, to experience God for themselves, to cultivate an inner life, to move beyond the parochialism and exclusivism of religion and to sense the spiritual bonds that connect everyone and everything, to overcome the depressing guilt and sin-focused faith that many have grown up with and to know real joy. Pastors and church leaders can learn plenty from this.

So what’s missing? Oprah says she’s a Christian, and Tolle’s book quotes Jesus more than Buddha, but the version of Jesus they like doesn’t include his cross, death and resurrection. Yet that’s the unique claim of Christianity. It was that experience of the crucified and risen Jesus that propelled the first Christians to recognize him as Lord and follow him, even at the risk of their lives. That was foolishness then and it is foolishness now, but this is the central Christian message. God has entered this world, he has dirtied himself with its ugliness, suffering and death in order to transform it from within. And however foolish, it is still this image of the crucified Christ that persists in giving hope and joy to people everywhere - in numbers that not even Oprah can dream about - who themselves have experienced life’s ugliness, suffering and crucifixion.

Yours in Christ,
Fr John

PS We have a big weekend coming up with Archbishop Seraphim and the ordination of Daniel Boerio to the diaconate. There’s also the Saturday outdoor Divine Liturgy and open house (food and donations appreciated) at Fr Pierre’s and Fr Luke’s hermitage of St Anthony in Westport (for directions email Sue Gander, ) And note as the well the healing service led by Abp Seraphim on Saturday at 3 pm.

Message From Archbishop Seraphim - August 31, 2008

On 22 August, Protodeacon Nazari Polatailko, his wife, Tatiana (Renata), and two sons, Mikola, and Olexander left Winnipeg for Ottawa. They arrived Monday, 25 August;many thanks to all who agreed to help them settle.

Father Nazari has been employed as the Episcopal Secretary, and he will be working at the Diocesan Centre. On most Sundays, when not travelling with the Archbishop, Protodeacon Nazari will be serving in the Cathedral. You will recall he was assigned to the Cathedral in this context. Protodeacon Nazari, and Tatiana are both iconographers, and their web-site is http://www.mts.net/~aaicons/ Thank you for giving this family a warm wecome to our Cathedral family, and for helping them settle. Please pray for them as they make these big adjustments.

On 7 September, also, there will be, God willing, the ordination of Daniel Boerio to the Diaconate. Please pray for him, and for Jennifer.”

With love in Christ,
+Seraphim

Message From Fr John - August 31, 2008

Dear friends,

This Sunday we will have a visiting nun from St Elizabeth convent in Minsk (Belarus). You may recall the presentation last year. St Elizabeth’s does remarkable work with the poor, mentally ill, addicted, unemployed and disabled. Following the liturgy there will be an opportunity to hear about the current life of the monastery, to make a donation and/or and to buy some of their crafts and icons.

We will also be welcoming Protodeacon Nazarii, his wife Tatiana and his two sons Mykola and Alexander. They just moved to Ottawa from Winnipeg last Sunday. Fr Nazarii will be employed by the Archdiocese of Canada to assist Archbishop Seraphim with administration. He is assigned to the Cathedral and will also continue to pursue his vocation as an iconographer.

With love in Christ,
Fr John

Message From Fr John - August 23, 2008

Dear friends,

The summer is winding down and it's time to start thinking about parish life in the fall. I'm grateful to Fr James and Fr Symeon for their pastoral oversight at the Cathedral while I was away. I'll be in New York again this coming weekend but then will be back from August 25th.

On September 7th Abp Seraphim will be with us for a hierarchical Divine Liturgy and we will have a parish ministries fair to let everyone know opportunities for education and serving.

All the parishes in the OCA will be affected by the approaching All-American Council (November 11-13, Pittsburgh), so I would like to bring you up to date on plans. The parish council met on Monday night and this was one of the main items it addressed.

The theme of the All-American Council is "Members of One Another in Christ," taken from Ephesians 4:25-32. I've prepared a series of bible studies on this passage for the Pre-Conciliar Commission, for distribution to all the OCA's parishes, and will lead the study in our own parish on Sundays after Liturgy in September and October (September 14, 28, October 5, 12, 26, details to be announced).
There will be a special parish meeting on Sunday, September 21 to elect three lay delegates and an alternate to the AAC. The Cathedral is allowed one lay delegate for each of the assigned priests (three). Nominations for lay delegate should be given to the parish warden (Sasha Lopoukhine) by Saturday, September 13. The nomination should be in writing and agreed by the person nominated. The list of nominees will be distributed on September 14. At the parish meeting on September 21 each of the nominees will have an opportunity to say why they wish to represent the Cathedral and to answer questions.
The official requirements for a delegate are as follows (from the Statute of the OCA):
1. Be elected by a parish meeting;
2. Be a voting member of the parish in good standing, at least eighteen years of age, having received the Sacraments of Confession and Communion at least annually for the past three years at his home parish. (Like holders of all offices in the Church, he may not be a person under ecclesiastical interdict, who is in violation of moral standards, who is married outside the Church, who is a member of anti-Church and/or secret societies.) Note that deacons are considered lay persons and are eligible for nomination as lay delegates.
In addition, nominees should be familiar with the issues that will be discussed at this crucial AAC. As a minimum, they should commit to:
1. Reading the report of the Special Investigation Committee
2. Reading the reports of the Town Hall Meetings across North America
3. Participating in the Bible Studies and reading the preparation papers to be distributed by the Pre-Conciliar Commission.
4. Praying, listening and participating actively in the council sessions 11-13 November.
5. Making a report to the parish after the conclusion of the council.

On top of all this, the council is also preparing for the Annual General Meeting, October 19. But I'll save that and other announcements for another day.

May God bless you all with an enjoyable end to your summer.

With love in Christ,
Fr John

KIVA - August 23, 2008

For those who have never heard of KIVA, please let me share this email from Rebecca Dixon!

“I recently got sent a gift certificate for this organization as a birthday gift and I found it very interesting. You can check out the link for detailed information, but essentially it allows you to loan money to entrepreneurs in poor countries so that they can start or expand a business in their area.

For example, a woman asked for a loan for a fridge so that she could sell cold drinks at her snack booth - which would greatly increase her profits. Afterwards, they pay back the money from their profits and you can lend it out again to a new person seeking help.

This is a very powerful and important tool. As the saying goes ‘give a man a fish and he eats for a day, teach a man to fish and he is never hungry again’ (well, it’s something like that!) - this enables the people to set up their own businesses that (in order to succeed) provide goods and services at prices the community can actually afford. It builds infrastructure. It also gives these people a new level of independence and power and also a sense of pride in accomplishing something for themselves. This is especially important for women, who often have a lower status in these countries, forcing them into unhappy marriages, unsafe factory jobs or prostitution.

From my humble two years of economics courses I believe this is an effective way of relieving poverty and empowering individuals.

I encourage you all to take a peek at the website and consider donating - it’s actually a lot of fun to look through the people and their projects - like a monopoly game, only it improves real people’s lives!

For those of you who are always faced with that difficult question ‘what do I get a teenage girl?’ I must say that a gift certificate for this organization (order online) would be a perfect gift for me!

Here is the link: http://www.kiva.org/
Gift certificates: http://www.kiva.org/app.php?page=gift&action=home

Thank you very much for reading this through and I hope you find this an interesting cause.
Love,
Rebecca”

Office Hours - August 23, 2008

Father James is usually at the Cathedral Tuesday through Friday between 9:30 am and 1 pm. He can be contacted at (613) 221-9533 or 230-2687.

Fr. Symeon is available by appointment. He can be contacted at 613-523-0808.

Father John’s Available for appointments on Wednesday afternoons. Call 613-692-6278 or email: .

The Human Icon - August 16, 2008

This article by Fr. Hopko originally was published in One World in 1987. More recently it was the subject of discussion at one of Father James’ Thursday evenings.

The invisible God has become visible in the person of Jesus of Nazareth. This is the essence of Christian faith; and it was protected and defended at the Seventh Ecumenical Council in 787 AD.

Jesus Christ is “the icon of the invisible God” [Colossians 1:15; 2 Corinthians 4:4]. In Him, the God Who cannot be seen is now seen. The Lord Himself declared this when He told Philip that “the one who has seen Me has seen the Father” [John 14:9]. In Jesus Christ, God’s incarnate Son and Word, God has shown Himself in the most perfect, complete, and definitive way possible.

God has become man as Jesus. He has assumed human nature, so that human persons could be what they were made to be from the beginning: creatures made in God’s image and likeness for unending life in communion with God.

God’s plan for us, as the saints have said, is that we become by divine grace everything that God Himself is by nature. Human beings created, redeemed, and sanctified by God through Christ and the Holy Spirit are made “gods by grace,” holy as God is holy, citizens of paradise, co-rulers with Christ in God’s Kingdom.

In and through Christ, we not only know God; we also know ourselves in our true being and destiny as children of the Most High, creatures made in God’s image and likeness to live the divine life.

Created in God’s image, according to His likeness, we are made to be loved by God, and so ourselves to become lovers, loving with the very love with which God, Who is Love, loves us [1 John 4:8, 16]. This is our calling as creaturely icons of God.

Jesus Christ not only gives the commandment of love. He manifests what love is through the cross. He actualizes it perfectly in His human life. He gives the power of this love to His disciples in the gift of te Spirit. When Christ pours the love of His Father into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, we are empowered to love with God’s very own love [Romans 5:5].

Christ’s “new commandment” is not simply to love. To love is the “old commandment,” the central commandment in the law of Moses, which we have “from the beginning” [1 John 2:7]. To love is the teaching of every religion and philosophy born of purity and light.

What is radically new in Christ’s “new commandment” is that we are to love one another as He has loved us [John 13:34; 15:12]. We are to love everyone, including our worst enemies, as God in Christ loves us - completely, wholly, perfectly, absolutely, boundlessly, without reservation or condition.

According to the scriptures, human beings can find and fulfill themselves as icons of God only in loving union with others. We are persons in communion with other persons, just like the persons of the Holy Trinity: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.

The unique thing about God according to Christian belief is that He is Father by nature. God is not alone in His divinity. Indeed, He cannot be. God is Love, and therefore He has a divine Son according to His very being as God. He also has a personal Holy Spirit Who proceeds from Him as God and rests eternally in His uncreated Son.

The Godhead is a community of persons from all eternity. Divinity is three persons in an identity of being and life. This is what the Nicene Creed means when it says that the Son of God is begotten of the Father before all ages… begotten not created… of one essence with the Father, the divine Son and Word by Whom all things are made; and that the Holy Spirit is the Lord and Lifegiver, Who is worshipped and glorified with the Father and the Son.

We human beings express in creaturely form the very being of God. We too are persons of the same nature, “of one essence” with each other. We too are to forma perfect community of love. The Church of Christ in its sacramental being is just such a community - a community of truth and love, a plurality of persons in perfect unity: one mind, one heart, one soul, one body with each other and with God through the huanity of our Lord Jesus Christ.

In this light, it is critical to see that the modern “individual” is a total fiction, a product of the fallen mind. There is no such thing as an “individual.” There are only persons in communion with other persons in the likeness of God, for the Blessed Trinity is hardly a trio of “individuals” in “mutually fulfilling relationships.” The Godhead is rather three divine persons in a perfect unity of being and life, the content of which is Love. Human beings can be “individuals” if they choose, with all kinds of “relationships.” But if they do so choose, to use the language of the Bible, they choose death and not life, curse and not blessing [Deuteronomy 30:20].In an act of metaphysical suicide, they destroy themselves in their selfcontained,self-interested isolation, which is the very image of hell.

When we live in God’s way, we live in communion with others. We are members of one another [Ephesians 4:15]. We are not our own; we belong to one another [1 Corinthians 6:19]. We love our neighbor as our self because he or she is our very self. We find our self in the other through an act of self-emptying, self-denying love. This is our very nature, made this way by God, Who finds and fulfills His own divine self in this same way. We can doubt or deny this basic truth, but only to our destruction and death.

Human beings are icons of God not only as persons in communion with other persons, but also as persons created to be male and female, men and woman. Gender difference is part of our human nature as made in

God’s image and likeness. The does not mean that there is gender in God. God is not male or female. He is not a man or a woman. Indeed, God is not even a “being,” if we think of Him as being the way we are in our created existence. As Saint Gregory Palamas put it, “If God is being, I am not; if I am being, God is not.” By this, he meant that we cannot speak of the uncreated God and the created world in the same way, using the words in the same sense. But the Scriptures do say that God made us male and female in His own image and likeness, thus indicating that our sexuality is at the very heart of our being made for loving communion in imitation of the Godhead [Genesis 1:26-27].

The first “no good” from the mouth of God in the Bible is when He looks at Adam alone. All that God makes is very good. But man alone is no good: “It is not good for man to be alone” [Genesis 2:18].

So God puts Adam into a deep sleep and takes woman from his side as flesh of his flesh and bone of his bones, the completion of humanity and perfection of the icon - the prefiguration of Christ and the Church, the new Adam and Eve who are “one flesh” in the mystery of God’s Kingdom. There is nothing essential to human nature that does not belong equally to men and women. And there is nothing in the redeemed humanity of Christ and the Church that is not equally the possession of women and men. This is the meaning of Saint Paul’s famous statement that “in Christ there is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female,” but that we are “all one in Christ” [Galatians 3:28].

According to the old covenant law, there were radical differences between men and women in their relationship to the Lord, just as there were fundamental differences between Jews and Greeks, slaves and freemen. But as the Orthodox sing during the baptismal service and in the most festive eucharistic liturgies, “As many as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ” [Galatians 3:27].

In the new covenant in Christ, the age of the “new creation” in the Messiah, there is the same calling, the same mission, and the same judgment for all - even though there is not the same funciton and ministry in those aspects of life which are specifically masculine and feminine, such as fatherhood and motherhood in families and Church communities. In Christ and the Church, we know who we are as men and women. We know why we are made, and why we are made as we are in our masculine and feminine creaturely forms of existence. We know our task and our calling. We know our destiny as creatures. We know these things because in Christ and the Church, by the power of God’s Spirit, we know God Himself: the Source, Ground, and Goal of our being and life - the very Life of our life - in Whose image we are made as icons of God.

This is the message of the Seventh Ecumenical Council. It is the message we receive every time we see and venerate an icon of Christ, his Mother Mary, or any of God’s saints, who love and are loved with divine perfection.

The Orthodox Church Newspaper - August 16, 2008

The Orthodox Church is the official publication of the OCA. It is published bi-monthly and mailed free on request. Those who are concerned about the health of our environment will want to download it in PDF format by following this link:

http://www.oca.org/DOC-PUB-TOC.asp?SearchYear=2008&SID=34

Transfiguration Icons - August 9, 2008

These icons of the Transfguration are by Andrey Rublev and Theophane the Greek respectively. Metropolitan Anthony Bloom (June 17, 1914 - August 4, 2003 gave the following interpretation of them at the ordination of a deacon August 19, 1989 (Transfiguration, old calendar).

There are two icons of Transfiguration that bring us two mutually completing messages. The one, by the hand of Saint Andrew Rublev, and the other one by Theophane the Greek.

The icon of Rublev is all splendour; Christ appears to us in glory; the disciples are taken - as the Gospel tells us - with fear; they prostrate themselves, they loose awareness of where they are and what is happening.

The icon of Theophane is less brilliant, but it conveys us another message: not only of the fact that on the day of Transfiguration Christ appeared to His disciples all shining, all transfixed by the glory of His own Godhead; but it shows us how the rays of this light, the divine light, the very Divinity of God pouring itself out reaches His flesh, reaches His clothes, and beyond that touches all that is this mountain of the Transfiguration. And when a ray of light touches a stone or a rock, or a flower, they begin to shine in reply, as it were, to shine with eternal light; they commune to it but not passively; they receive it at the very heart of their being and become capable of shining themselves with eternal light; not to perfection yet, because perfection will be reached when God shall be all in all, at the end of time, but to the extent to which each creature of God can receive this grace, commune to God, and shine with the splendour of God Himself…(To follow the full text, please follow this link http://www.metropolit-anthony.orc.ru/eng/)

Archdiocesan Council Announces Appointment Of Episcopal Secretary - August 9, 2008

The Archdiocesan Council has employed Protodeacon Nazari Polataiko to be the Episcopal Secretary, effective 1 September. Protodeacon Nazari has bought a house in Ottawa, and will soon move here from Winnipeg with his wife Tatiana, and two sons. Protodeacon Nazari, and his wife are both iconographers.

Protodeacon Nazari is now assigned to the Cathedral, along with Deacon Gregory Scratch, whose status has also been raised to “assigned”. This reflects the seriousness of the ministry of each.

More news regarding this family’s arrival will be forthcoming for a more specific welcome.

Final Word on the Akathist “In Praise of God’s Creation” - July 27, 2008

The song of praise, the akathist “In Praise of God’s Creation” was composed in 1929 by Metropolitan Tryphon (Count Boris Petrovich Turkestanov, +1934). The title is from the last words of Saint John Chrysostom as he was dying in exile. There is not much known of how the Akathist came to be. The known fact is that for decades this hymn to the Creator was distributed in Russia by underground publishing Samizdat. It was first published outside of Russia in the 70-s. After its first publication the Akathist was frequently attributed to Father Gregory Petrov, who died in a Soviet prison camp. Later when publication of the Akathist was allowed in Russia, it grew in popularity within the Orthodox Church. Originally The Akathist was written in Russian instead of the traditional Slavonic. In the 90-s it was translated into English, while the music was written by renowned modern British composer; John Taverner. [in celebration of the millennium of the Russian Orthodox Church under the title of The Akathist of Thanksgiving].

An Akathist in Praise of God’s Creation (Part 2) - July 19, 2008

An Akathist in Praise of God’s Creation (continued)
Metropolitan Tryphon (Turkestanov)

Kontakion 5

The storms of life do not frighten those whose hearts are ablaze with the light of your flame. Outside is the darkness of the whirlwind, the terror and howling of the storm. But in their souls reign quiet and light. Christ is there, and the heart sings: Alleluia!

Ikos 5

I see your heaven glowing with stars. How rich you are, how much light is yours! Eternity watches me by the rays of the distant stars: I am small, insignificant, but the Lord is with me, his loving hand protects me wherever I go.

Glory to you for the trouble you take for me at all times,
Glory for the people your Providence gave me to meet,
Glory to you for the love of my dear ones, the faithfulness of friends,
Glory to you for the gentleness of the animals which serve me,
Glory to you for the light-filled moments of life,
Glory to you for the radiant joy in my heart,
Glory to you for the joy of living, moving and seeing,
Glory to you, O God, from age to age.

Kontakion 6

How great and how close you are in the powerful track of the storm; how mighty your right arm in the blinding flash of the lightning; how awesome is your greatness! The voice of the Lord is over the fields and amid the rustling forests, the voice of the Lord is in the birth of thunder and of rain, the vice of the Lord is over the many waters. Praise to you in the roar of mountains ablaze. You shake the earth like a garment. You pile up to the sky the waves of the sea. Praise to you, bringing low the pride of man, bring from his heart the cry of repentance: Alleluia!

Ikos 6

When the lightening flash has lit up the feasting-hall, how feeble seems the light of the lamps. Likewise, amidst the strongest joys of my existence, you suddenly flashed in my soul. After your blinding light, how drab, dull and unreal seemed all those joys! Passionately, my soul would run after you.

Glory to you, the Goal in whom mankind’s highest dreams come true,
Glory to you, for our unquenchable thirst for communion with god,
Glory to you, making us dissatisfied with earthly things,
Glory to you, clothing us with the finest rays of your light,
Glory to you, destroying the power of the spirits of darkness, dooming all evil to destruction,
Glory to you for the joy of hearing your voice, for the happiness of your presence and of living in your love,
Glory to you, O God, from age to age.

Kontakion 7

In the wondrous blending of sounds it is your call we hear. In the harmony of many voices, stirred by the musical tones, dazzled by art’s creativeness, we learn from you the splendour of melody and song, and receive a foretaste of the coming kingdom. All true beauty draws the soul towards you in powerful invocation, and makes it sing triumphantly: Alleluia!

Ikos 7

The outpouring of the Holy Spirit enlightens the thoughts of artists, poets, and scientists. Their great minds receive from you prophetic insights into your laws, and reveal to us the depth of your creative wisdom. Unwittingly, their works speak of you; how great you are in all you have created, how great you are in man!

Glory to you, showing your unfathomable might in the laws of the universe!
Glory to you, for all nature is permeated by your laws,
Glory to you for what you have revealed to us in your goodness,
Glory to you for all that remains hidden from us in your wisdom,
Glory to you for the inventiveness of the human mind,
Glory to you for the invigorating effort of work,
Glory to you for the tongues of fire which bring inspiration,
Glory to you, O God, from age to age.

Kontakion 8

How near you are in the days of sickness; you yourself visit the sick; you bend over the sufferer’s bed: his heart speaks to you. With your peace you enlighten the soul burdened with affliction and pain: you send unexpected help. You comfort, you are Love, brining trial and salvation, and to you we sing the hymn: Alleluia!

Ikos 8

When in childhood I called upon you consciously for the first time, you heard my prayer and sacred peace came down into my soul. Then I understood that you are good; blessed are those who turn to you. Unceasingly, I started to call upon you, and now I call upon your Name:

Glory to you, satisfying my desires with good things,
Glory to you, watching over me day and night,
Glory to you, calming tribulations and bereavement with the healing flow of time,
Glory to you, no loss is irreparable when you are there, to all you give eternal life,
Glory to you, making immortal all that is lofty and good, promising to welcome the dead,
Glory to you, O God, from age to age.

Kontakion 9

Why is it that on a feastday the whole of nature mysteriously smiles? Why does a marvelous lightness then fill our hearts, to which nothing earthly can be compared? The very air in the altar and in God’s house becomes luminous. It is the breath of grace, the reflection of the glory of Mount Tabor; heaven and earth then sing this praise: Alleluia!

Ikos 9

When you inspire me to serve my neighbor, and make humility shine in my soul, one of your deep-piercing rays of light falls into my heart: it then becomes glowing, like iron in the furnace. I have seen your Face, mysterious and elusive.

Glory to you, transfiguring our lives with deeds of love,
Glory to you, making wonderfully sweet each one of your commandments,
Glory to you, clearly present in fragrant compassion,
Glory to you, sending us failures and afflictions to make us sensitive to other people’s sufferings,
Glory to you, promising high rewards for precious good deeds,
Glory to you, welcoming the impulse of our heart’s love,
Glory to you, for raising love above everything on earth or in heaven,
Glory to you, O God, from age to age.

Kontakion 10

No one can put together what has crumbled into dust, but you can heal men whose conscience has become twisted; you give the soul its former beauty, which long ago it had lost without a hope of change. With you, nothing is hopeless. You are Love. You are the creator and the redeemer of all things. We praise you with this song: Alleluia!

Ikos 10

My God, you know the fall of proud Lucifer. Save me through the power of your grace; do not allow me to fall away from you, do not allow me to doubt you. Sharpen my ear, that at every minute of my life I may hear your mysterious voice; and I call upon you, who are everywhere present.

Glory to you for providential circumstances,
Glory to you for helpful forebodings,
Glory to you for the teaching of your secret voice,
Glory to you, for revelations you give us in dreams or awake,
Glory to you for scattering our vain imaginations,
Glory to you, freeing us from the fire of passions through suffering,
Glory to you, who for our salvation, brings down proudness of heart,
Glory to you, O God, from age to age

Kontakion 11

Beyond the icy sequence of the ages, I feel the warmth of your divine Breath, I hear the throbbing of your blood. You are already near: part of time has already gone by. I see your Cross: it is there for my sake. My spirit is but dust before your Cross: here is the triumph of love and redemption, here throughout the ages unceasingly rises the praise: Alleluia!

Ikos 11

Blessed is he who will share your mystical supper in your kingdom; but even here on earth you have granted me this blessedness. How many times, with your divine hand, you offered me your Body and your Blood; while I, a great sinner, received these sacred Gifts and felt your ineffable and supernatural love.

Glory to you for the inconceivable and life-giving power of grace,
Glory to you who established your Church as a haven of peace for a tormented world,
Glory to you for giving us new birth in the life-giving waters of baptism,
Glory to you, restoring to those who repent purity white as the unstained lily,
Glory to you, unfathomable abyss of forgiveness,
Glory to you for the cup of life, for the bread of eternal joy,
Glory to you who raise us to heaven,
Glory to you, O God, from age to age.

Kontakion 12

More than once have I seen the reflection of your glory in the faces of the dead. What beauty, what heavenly joy shown in them! How light their features, now made spiritual! This was the triumph of happiness and peace found once again; in their silence they were calling on you. At the hour of my death, illumine also my soul which calls to you: Alleluia!

Ikos 12

How poor is my praise before you! I have not heard the song of the Cherubim, a joy reserved to the souls on high, but I know the praises nature sings to you. In winter, I see how in the moonlit silence the whole earth offers you prayer, wrapped in its white mantle of snow, sparking like diamonds. I see the rising sun rejoice in you, and I hear the chorus of birds raise a hymn of glory. I hear the forest mysteriously rustling in your honour, the winds sing of your, the waters murmur and the processions of stars proclaim you as they move in harmony for ever in the depths of infinite space. What is my poor worship? All nature obeys you, I do not; yet while I live, I see your love. I long to thank you, pray to you and call upon your Name.

Glory to you, who has shown us the light,
Glory to you, who loved us with a deep unfathomable and divine love,
Glory to you, who blesses us with the light, with a host of angels and saints,
Glory to you, Father most holy, revealing us your kingdom in your commandments,
Glory to you, Holy Spirit, life-giving Sun of the world to come,
Glory to you for all things, divine and most merciful Trinity,
Glory to you, O God, from age to age.

Kontakion 13

Life-giving and most merciful Trinity, receive our thanksgiving for all your kindnesses; make us worthy of your blessings, so that, when we have brought a profit from the talents you have entrusted to us, we may enter into the eternal joy of our Lord, singing the triumphal hymn: Alleluia!

I have had the following comment about the origins of this Akathist. “The Akathist you included in the bulletin, supposedly by Metropolitan Tryphon, looks to me the same as the one entitled “Glory to God for All Things”, composed in prison camp by Fr George Petrov in 1940. Fr Andrew used to sing it each year at Thanksgiving ”.

If anyone would care to expand/add to this, please do, meanwhile here is my reply: “I compared the two versions and they seem to be the same. The original Akathists is said to have been written by Metropolitan Tryphon of Turkestan who died in 1934. The text was discovered in the effects left by Hieromartyr Grigori Petroff following his death under the communist persecution (+1942). No matter the author, I think this is a beautiful Akathist, and I’m glad to have come across it. Vera.

Weekday Service Lebreton Entrance - July 19, 2008

The main entrance to the Cathedralon Eccles is closed during the week. Please use the Lebreton entrance to come to services during the week.

An Akathist in Praise of God’s Creation (Part 1) - July 12, 2008

As a follow up to the article on Orthodoxy and the Environment, here is the first part of:

An Akathist in Praise of God’s Creation
Metropolitan Tryphon (Turkestanov)

Kontakion 1 Incorruptible Lord, your right hand controls the whole course of human life, according to the decrees of your Providence for our salvation.

We give you thanks for all your blessings, known and unknown:
for our earthly life and for the heavenly joys of your kingdom which is to come.
Henceforth extend your mercies towards us as we sing:
Glory to you, O God, from age to age!

Ikos 1

I was born a weak, defenceless child, but your angel, spreading his radiant wings, guarded my cradle. From my birth, your love has illumined my paths, and has wondrously guided me towards the light of eternity. From my first day until now, the generous gifts of your providence have been wonderfully showered upon me. I give you thanks, and with all those who have come to know you, I exclaim:

Glory to you for calling me into being.
Glory to you for spreading out before me the beauty of the universe,
Glory to you for revealing to me through heaven and earth the eternal book of wisdom,
Glory to your eternity within this fleeting world,
Glory to you for your mercies, seen and unseen,
Glory to you for every sigh of my sorrow,
Glory to you for every step in my life’s journey, for every moment of joy,
Glory to you, O God, from age to age.

Kontakion 2

O Lord, how lovely it is to be your guest:
Breeze full of scent; mountains reaching to the skies;
Waters like a boundless mirror,
Reflecting the sun’s golden rays and the scudding clouds.
All nature murmurs mysteriously, breathing depths of tenderness,
Birds and beasts bear the imprint of your love,
Blessed are you, mother earth, in your fleeting loveliness,
Which wakens our yearning for happiness that will last for ever
In the land where, amid beauty that grows not old,
Rings out the cry: Alleluia!

Ikos 2

You brought me into this life as into an enchanted paradise. We have seen the sky, like a deep blue cup ringing with birds in the azure heights. We have listened to the soothing murmur of the forest and the sweet-sounding music of the waters. We have tasted fragrant fruit of fine flavour and sweet-scented honey. How pleasant is our stay with you on earth: it is a joy to be your guest.

Glory to you for the feast-day of life.
Glory to you for the perfume of lilies and roses,
Glory to you for each different taste of berry and fruit,
Glory to you for the sparkling silver of early morning dew,
Glory to you for each smiling, peaceful awakening,
Glory to you for eternal life in us, a messenger of heaven,
Glory to you, O God, from age to age.

Kontakion 3

In the strength of the Holy Spirit each flower gives out its scent - sweet perfume, delicate colour, beauty of the whole universe revealed in the tiniest thing. Glory and honour to God the Giver of life, who covers the fields with their carpet of flowers, crowns the plains with harvest of gold and the blue of corn-flowers, and our souls with the joy of contemplating him. O be joyful and sing to him: Alleluia!

Ikos 3

How glorious you are in the triumph of spring, when every creature awakes to new life and joyfully sings your praises with a thousand tongues: you are the source of life, the conqueror of death. By the light of the moon nightingales sing: the plains and the woods put on their wedding garment, white as snow. All the earth is your promised bride awaiting her bridegroom who does not know decay. If the grass of the field is clothed like this, how gloriously shall we be transfigured in the coming age of the resurrection: how radiant our bodies, how resplendent our souls!

Glory to you, bringing from the darkness of the earth an endless variety of colours, tastes and scents,
Glory to you for the warmth and tenderness of the world of nature,
Glory to you for surrounding us with thousands of your works,
Glory to you for the depth of your wisdom: the whole world is a living sign of it,
Glory to you: on my knees, I kiss the traces of your unseen hand,
Glory to you for setting before us the dazzling light of eternal life,
Glory to you for the hope of the unutterable, imperishable beauty of immortality,
Glory to you, O God, from age to age.

Kontakion 4

How filled with sweetness are those whose thoughts dwell on you: how life-giving your holy Word; to speak with you is more soothing than anointing with oil, sweeter than the honeycomb. Praying to you refreshes us and gives us wings: our hearts overflow with warmth; a majesty filled with wisdom permeates nature and all of life! Where you are not, there is only emptiness. Where you are, the soul is filled with abundance, and its song resounds like a torrent of life: Alleluia!

Ikos 4

When over the earth the light of the setting sun fades away, when the peace of eternal sleep, and the quiet of the declining day reign over all, I see your dwelling-place like tents filled with light, reflected in the shapes of the clouds at dusk: fiery and purple, gold and blue, they speak prophet-like of the ineffable beauty of your heavenly court, and solemnly call: let us go to the Father!

Glory to you in the quiet hour of evening,
Glory to you, covering the world with deep peace,
Glory to you for the last ray of the setting sun,
Glory to you for the rest of blissful sleep,
Glory to you for your mercy in the midst of darkness, when the whole world has parted company with us,
Glory to you for the tender emotion of a soul moved to prayer,
Glory to you for the pledge of our awakening on the day which has no evening,
Glory to you, O God, from age to age.

Kontakion 5

Ikos 5

Hospitality Colour Cycle - July 12, 2008

Just a reminder- the colour cycle of lunches goes as follows:

YELLOW on the first Sunday of the month;
BLUE on the second,
GREEN on the third,
PINK on the fourth,
RAINBOW (all colours) if the month has a fifth Sunday.

In order to keep within our cleaning budget, the cleaner requested that we wipe the tables and put up the chairs after our Sunday luncheons. For hygienic reasons we ask that the teams take out the garbage before leaving the hall. Most teams perform beautifully when they don’t it is left to the residents to pick up the slack.

The Orthodox Church and the Environmental Movement (Part 3) - July 6, 2008

The Orthodox Church and the Environmental Movement
Dr. Elizabeth Theokritoff
Part III.

3. In a global village, who is my neighbour?

Revelations in the recent years of the ways in which we have affected our environment have made us learn the hard way something that we should know as a basic truth of Christian anthropology: we are members one of another, part of the same body, and what each of us does affects the rest of mankind. Even if we have always tried to live according to this belief, the environmental movement is in large part responsible for giving us a whole range of new examples of what it means in practice. We can now see, not only ways in which our affluence deprives the poor of their basic needs, but ways in which it inflicts on them what they need least of all, such as a toxic landfill or a power station on their doorstep. We are also made increasingly aware of the links between environmental degradation and economic pressures. These may be pressures of poverty, where people have to clear irreplaceable forests in order to grow food for a year or two, or a country is forced into the environmentally devastating monoculture of cash crops to service crippling foreign debts. Or they may be pressures of affluence, where large numbers of people are employed in the manufacture of inessentials, which have to be made less durable and sold to more and more people who don’t need them in order to preserve jobs. Either way, we can no longer escape the realization that each of us plays some part in this complex economic network.

All this raises in a new and acute form the question, “Who is my neighbour?” Once we have the opportunity to learn how even our private choices of food, clothing and goods can benefit or harm people whom we shall never meet, we cannot shrug off our responsibility towards them simply because they live on the opposite side of the world. Avoiding harm to others by my choices can seem so complicated as to be hardly worth attempting, and we certainly cannot all become experts in the intricacies of international trade. But I believe that we can and should take advantage of the information available to us and act on it as best we can - not in a doctrinaire way, such as by boycotting certain products on principle whatever the awkwardness caused to our immediate neighbour, but as an expression of love and care for the neighbour whose life touches ours only indirectly. To dictate positions that should be taken in economic affairs is not the role of the Church - but to encourage awareness of the consequences of our actions is surely a legitimate exercise. When in many ways we are acutely conscious of living in a “global village”, it is not honest to dismiss this awareness of our place in a global economic network as “meddling in politics” and imagine that we can be responsible only towards those with whom we are in daily personal contact.

As we learn more about the effects of our actions on others, we must expect to be challenged to live out our faith in new ways. Perhaps the most striking example of this is the question of population. We can learn very little about the pressures on our environment before realizing that virtually every problem is exacerbated by the weight of human numbers. Activities, which have been largely sustainable for millennia, such as small-scale farming, become destructive when there is no longer enough suitable land to go round. Let it be quite clear: we are not talking about encouraging a materialistic outlook in which “quality of life” is measured in terms of modern conveniences and high-tech gadgets. We are talking about saving millions of people from abject misery. If this is materialistic, it is the same “materialism” as obliges us to feed the hungry and clothe the naked instead of giving them edifying tracts about the unimportance of material things. If we accept this reality, it is hard to avoid the conclusion that one way of furthering this basic work of charity is voluntarily to limit the size of one’s own family. Recognizing the effects on others of even so intimate a matter as how many children we have is just one instance of the profound change in thinking that the environmental movement is bringing about among many people in the industrialized world. Understanding the roots of the global crisis spells an end to individualism - a recognition that cooperation, not competition, is the way forward. Nothing of the earth’s bounty is “my own”:

“This cursed and abominable phrase comes from the devil”, as Chrysostom says with typical directness, “we cannot say ‘my own light, my own sun, my own water’”.

At the same time, environmental thinking takes us beyond an impersonal collectivism, with the recognition that “small is beautiful” and that problems need locally appropriate solutions that are on a human scale. Of course, I am not claiming for a moment that either of these aberrations - individualism or collectivism - is dead. On the contrary: the pressure to exploit whatever and whoever one can for profit, coupled with the terrifying power of a few multi-national companies to impose a uniform culture of consumerism on the entire world, has never been a greater threat. But in the environmental movement we find a powerful and articulate ally in the struggle against these tendencies. It provides a climate in which people may be receptive to a model of human society that is in the image of the Holy Trinity - a society of persons in relationship, neither isolated as individuals nor subsumed into a faceless collective. The historically close connection of the Orthodox Church with various national cultures puts the local Churches in a unique position to lead the quest for local solutions to environmental problems.

4. A way forward or a way back?

There is a wide measure of agreement on the problems the world faces, and on some of the practical steps necessary to alleviate them. But when it comes to principles for guiding a sustainable way of living for the future, the discussion can resemble that of a party of lost travellers at a crossroads: everyone knows they are going the wrong way, but no one can agree which road to take instead. Some environmentalists seem to hark back to a golden age when hunter-gatherers killed their prey with respect and had minimal environmental impact. (There were fewer of them, which helped). Of course, nobody imagines that we could all return to such a way of life; but it is seen as a model, along with the nature religions that such cultures often professed.

This “back to nature” argument is superficially attractive. There is no doubt that without our ability to manipulate nature, we should not have got ourselves or the world around us into the present mess. It is not simply that we have been motivated by greed or arrogance. Even our most benign interferences with the natural order, such as the eradication or control of childhood diseases, turn out to have some negative consequences for the environment and for its inhabitants. Technological advances at work and labour-saving devices around the house manage to leave us with less, not more, time for the important things of life. They make it even harder to appreciate the worth of the task in hand, whatever it may be: we are constantly encouraged to think only of results, and to want them as quickly and conveniently as possible. Yet we seem to be locked into a cycle of tinkering more and more with the natural order. Even conservationists trying to restore “natural” habitats discover that they cannot just leave everything to nature as if man had never interfered; the most they can do is intervene judiciously to simulate natural conditions. We have created a legacy of destruction that will not go away even if we stop adding to it from this moment; in many cases, it will get worse unless new technologies are devised to ameliorate it. This suggests that the only realistic way out is a way forward, by devising more and more sophisticated ways of counteracting our own influence on the earth.

Perhaps the most striking case of such development is the new technology which some people hail as the answer to many of our environmental problems. I am not talking about genetic engineering involving humans, where grave ethical problems are widely recognized, but about manipulation of crops and perhaps of livestock. I would offer the personal view that this is an example of an inadmissible “mastery over nature” precisely because it is anthropocentric - it suggests that we can relate to nature and use it for our benefit without reference to God. What we are taught about the consequences of Babel combines with what we know about the consequences of many previous scientific “breakthroughs” to suggest that we cannot disturb the natural order to this extent with impunity. And our creatureliness is every bit as important a part of the natural order as the food chain.

Does this mean that, after all, the only way out is back? That the attempt to solve environmental problems with more technology is not legitimate, and therefore not viable in the long term? The answer, I believe, is no. The inventive and adventurous use of nature by man is not an aberration, but something fundamental to his nature.

This brings me to my final point. Some of the statements of conservationists leave us with the impression that the problem is, quite simply, man - and that the only way to protect some part of the environment is to restrict all normal human activity there. Of course, restricting certain human activities may be very necessary. But we must bear in mind that the Lord put Adam in a garden “to till it and keep it” (Gen. 2:15). He did not put him in a wilderness park with strict instructions to picnic in designated areas only and to keep off the grass. Of course, there is a vast and fateful difference between the way we use the world in our fallen state, and what God intended. But this does not invalidate the basic point: man is a part of nature, not as just another animal, but precisely as man - a creature who makes ingenious and creative use of the world around him, - and in this way gives glory to God. The “dominion” that is given to him starts with the “beasts” within himself, as St. Gregory of Nyssa makes plain, it is no use ruling over the wild beasts outside while we give free rein to those within us. This defines the sense in which we must indeed find our way “back to nature” - to the true nature of man, who is creative but also created. Perhaps the greatest gift the Church can give to those who love God’s creation and are deeply ashamed of man’s part in its destruction is the witness of the Saints - that man can be the means of restoration for the world, not by trying to merge in with other animals and leaving no mark on the world, but by becoming more fully human. There are few better ways to express this truth than by pointing to the icon - that extraordinarily audacious use of elements of the material world combined by human artifice to become transparent to God. In the words of Bishop Basil (Osborne) of Sergievo:

”... the icon bears witness to the fact that there is a way back for man ... that he is not condemned to an ever-increasing estrangement from God or to the creation of an ever more opaque world. There is a corner that can be turned. Man can create forms that help God to be present in this world.”

It would be no exaggeration to say that the message of the environmental movement is a call to repentance. To be sure, this “repentance” begins as a change of heart for the sake of survival. But there is no reason why it should not prepare the way for us and others to heed the message to repent and believe in the Gospel. If I have spent time on aspects of the environmental movement which may be disturbing to some Orthodox, it is because these need to be confronted and dealt with openly, rather than left as excuse for some people to dismiss environmentalism as a New Age heresy. I do not believe that concern for God’s material creation should be confined to a small group of Orthodox who are already involved to some extent in the environmental movement. I believe it is one of the most vital ways in which we are called to bear witness today to our faith in the living Saviour of the world.

Copyright: Printed by Orthdruk Orthodox Printing House, Bialystok, Poland, 1996.
Source: The Orthodoxy and Ecology Resource Book is produced by SYNDESMOS, The World Fellowship of Orthodox Youth.
Editor: Alexander Belopopsky and Dimitri Oikonomou

Welcome Macrina Box - June 29, 2008

We’d like to send a box of baby gifts to welcome little Macrina Jordahl into the world, since we can’t give her a baby shower here. If you’d like to contribute something please pass it along to Emily Olding, Cheryl Zacharias, or Laurie Rodger, and we’ll put it all together and mail it to them in two weeks.

Message from Fr John (and Holiday Schedule) - June 29, 2008

Dear friends,

I was away at various times in the last two weeks and would like to bring you up do date about this and the coming summer months.

June 12-13 I was in Chicago presenting a paper at the annual meeting of the Orthodox Theological Society of America. OTSA was having a consultation on issues related to being an Orthodox teacher in a university (in contrast to a seminary) and I was there to speak about my experience in Cambridge and in Canada. On the whole, it was agreed that the university setting forces us and our students to deal with all the wide-open questions one would expect from a pluralistic environment where basic assumptions about Orthodox Christianity can't be assumed (as is at least more likely in a seminary). On the other hand, the spiritual nurturing and formation of the whole person, which is the aim of seminary education, is a tougher challenge in universities. But it's also a hopeful sign that more and more Orthodox university teachers (of all disciplines) are starting (and we're only at the earliest stages) to make Orthodox Christianity present on campuses around North America.

June 15 I went to the OCA headquarters in Long Island again for a meeting of the Pre-conciliar Commission that is organizing the All-American Council (Pittsburgh, Nov 10-13). More Town Hall meetings are planned (by popular demand) and the study papers are also in preparation. These will form the basis of our parish education program for September and October. The papers will include bible studies (focusing especially on Ephesians 4:25-32, the theme of the council), and short presentations on the role of bishops, primates and councils. There will also be a paper on dealing with conflict in church life.

While in Long Island I stayed with my sister Alla, her husband Protodeacon Eric, and their grown children Jack and Azure. Alla was just diagnosed with cancer, so please keep her in your prayers.

Turning now to the summer schedule. As you know, Fr James came to the Cathedral to assist with pastoral work , especially over the summer months. However, I won't be gone completely from Ottawa for all that time (and Fr Symeon is also available). The main period when I will be away is July 14-August 16, but here are the weekends, vespers and office hours (4-7pm) and I plan to be here for.

June

Office & Vespers: 24th
Sunday: 29th

July

Saturday: 5th
Saturday: 6th
Office & Vespers: 24th

August

Saturday: 16th
Saturday: 17th
Office & Vespers: 27th
Saturday: 30th
Saturday: 31st

August

Office & Vespers: 3rd
Sunday: 7th
Normal schedule will resume after September 7.

With love in Christ,
Fr John

The Orthodox Church and the Environmental Movement (Part 2) - June 29, 2008

The Orthodox Church and the Environmental Movement
Dr. Elizabeth Theokritoff
Part II.

2. Do we need to save the earth?

If we are looking for points of contact with the environmental movement, we may well start by noting the prevailing terminology. Today, instead of hearing about “developing” or improving our natural environment - or even “protecting” it - we increasingly hear about saving - the whale, or the rain forests, or the earth itself. Of course, “to save” means many things, not necessarily closely connected with salvation in a theological sense. But all senses of saving have one thing in common: the implication that the situation is desperate. Commenting on the meaning of salvation, Fr. Alexander Schmemann writes:

“A drowning man, a man whose home is engulfed in flames, a man falling over the edge of a cliff does not pray for comfort or comforting words, but for salvation.” And yet, he continues, ”... we have stopped viewing ourselves as beings who are truly perishing, beings whose life is rushing inexorably towards meaningless collapse ...”

The interesting thing to note is that this is probably rather less true today than when it was written a few decades ago. “Meaningless collapse” is a fate that we can very envisage for the whole of our civilization and for earth itself as a viable habitat for ourselves and many other creatures; and the fact that this will come about, if it does, through our own fault, raises the question of salvation from the power of death in acute form. This is the point at which the Church should be offering its own view of what we have to do to “save the earth”. Compared with the view of most secular environmentalists, the task as we see it will be at once more radical and less formidable.

For us, what the earth requires (along with all of creation) is indeed salvation in the fullest sense. It does not need simply to be relieved from the worst depredations of human poverty or greed and allowed to regulate its own climate and ecosystems without interference: it needs to be “set free from bondage to decay and obtain the glorious liberty of the sons of God” (Rom. 8:21). To address environmental problems on a purely functional level, without repentance, might if successful ensure the continued survival of humanity and many other species - but it would be doing no more than to control the symptoms of the malaise.

On the other hand, we can confidently affirm that, in a sense, we do not have to save the earth. This is where we can provide a desperately needed message of hope amidst the sense of doom and almost paralyzing pessimism that so often characterizes warnings about the state of the environment. It is not that these warnings are alarmist: often far from it. But they make us feel dwarfed by the enormity of the problems, the insignificance of any individual’s contribution, the weight of complacency and lack of political will - not to mention the agonizing conflicts of interest when people’s entire way of life is tied in with polluting industries, destructive patterns of agriculture or hunting of threatened species. In human terms, the task seems hopeless - until we realize that it is not up to us to save the earth. It is not up to us because the earth, along with all creation is saved in Christ. Of course this does not mean that we have no responsibility - because what I am talking about here is a matter of synergy. We are responsible for doing everything in our power to work out that salvation in all our dealings with the world - to work with God’s purpose and not contrary to it. But we should be in no doubt that God who made the world out of nothing is able to rescue our planet from the brink of destruction, even when our most careful scientific predictions suggest that the cause is hopeless. The clear understanding that we humans are reaping the consequences of our very own actions should in no way cause us to lose heart - that would be to deny the possibility of repentance and forgiveness. We may recall that in the prayers of the Litya, we implore the Lord “to turn away from us the righteous chastisement that impends against us, and have mercy upon us”. This basic confidence in God’s saving power will not diminish either our sense of urgency, or our dedication to finding ways of undoing human damage to the earth and its creatures. But it does enable us to do all these things, in the words of St. Isaac the Syrian:

”... humbling ourselves always, and giving the glory to Him who works with us in everything and is the cause of our victory; and placing ourselves in His hands in the struggle, saying to God, ‘Thou art mighty, Lord, and Thine is the struggle. Fight and conquer in it, Lord, on our behalf’. Because the power that works with us is never defeated.”

If we need to sound a note of alarm for those who are complacent, the note of hope for those who are acutely aware of the environmental crisis is no less timely. Indeed, the programmes prescribed even to keep greenhouse gasses and other forms of pollution at current levels can seem an austere and joyless list of prohibitions. But for a very different model, we need only to look at the way we use material things in our liturgical life. The fasts certainly give us an example of a frugal - though by no means joyless - use of resources, schooling us to accept even the simplest of foods with thankfulness. But fasting is only one aspect of liturgical life; we also feast. There are times when we also learn how to give thanks for the abundance of good things, earthly as well as heavenly, that God has bestowed on us - while the awareness that these are always gifts should prevent abundance from leading to contempt. And, yes, love does sometimes involve waste in material terms: we need only think of the of the mounds of flowers brought to church for Easter, or Holy Friday, or the Exaltation of the Cross. But this lavish use of the world has nothing in common with the waste of resources that accounts for so much of the environmental damage in more affluent societies. The latter sees resources as ours by right, guaranteed to remain freely available as long as we can pay for them. By contrast, when we use flowers and branches to adorn the church we are (or should be) offering something precious back to Him who “opens His hand, and all things are filled with good”. When we take first-fruits of the material world not for our own consumption, but to offer them back to God, it is an expression of our confidence that the “rich have become poor and gone hungry; but they that fear that the Lord shall not lack any good thing”.

Part 3 next week

The Orthodox Church and the Environmental Movement (Part 1) - June 21, 2008

Neglect and poor stewardship of our environment is something we can read about on a daily basis. What following is a twelve page paper originally written for the Syndesmos Orthodox Youth and Ecology Seminar, in Neamt, Romania, April 1994.

The Orthodox Church and the Environmental Movement
Dr. Elizabeth Theokritoff

Part I.

The engagement of the Orthodox Church with environmental issues must be one of the most positive things that has happened in the past few decades. It is something to be eagerly welcomed, not only because of the importance of these issues, but also because what we are seeing here is, potentially at least, very much a two-way process. Increased awareness of the crises facing our world challenges us to find new ways of living out our faith, and often reminds us painfully of how far our own example falls short of the faith we profess. It can take a voice from outside to jolt us into a fuller understanding of our own tradition, and we need to be open to such voices with great humility. But at the same time, the concerns of the environmental movement provide so many opportunities for a witness to our Orthodox faith, to the message of life and hope in the Saviour who so loved the world that He became part of His own creation. I want to look here at some of the areas in which, according to my limited experience, there seems potential for fruitful interaction between Orthodoxy and the environmental movement. These areas can be loosely gathered under four headings:

Man and his environment - a spiritual problem,
Do we need to save the earth?
In a global village, who is my neighbour?
A way forward - or a way back?

There is one point that must be made clear at the outset. The Church does not exist to serve secular ends, even the noblest of secular ends. It cannot serve as a vehicle for putting across the message of the environmental movement, or of any other movement. The Church will always have a different emphasis from any movement or pressure group in this world because it operates on a different scale - not just global, but cosmic. As citizens, many of us will agree that environmental concerns should be at the top of the social and political agenda. But we shall also understand that the Church can never make an issue such as protection of the environment, or social justice, central to its preaching: not because we can live according to the Gospel without these things, but because these are works which will be “added unto us” as we “seek first the Kingdom of Heaven”. The importance of these things is incalculable, but it is derivative. For this reason, attempts within the Church to look deeply into our own tradition and see what it entails for our use of the material world are absolutely crucial. They must never be seen as a theological distraction from the “real” task of cleaning up pollution, starting recycling schemes and lobbying politicians to stop building yet more roads.

The urgency of the environmental problems must never be allowed to obscure the Church’s cosmic perspective (correspondingly, it would be a cynical distortion to suggest that this cosmic perspective is trivialized when we worry about stopping air pollution from the local factory or using recycled paper). There is a potential danger in love and concern for the earth that we must guard against: even God’s creation - that creation he looked upon, and saw that it was very good - risks becoming an idol if we cherish it and value it apart from Him. To quote from Alexander Schmemann:

“Man has loved the world, but as an end in itself and not as transparent to God ... The natural dependence of man upon the world was intended to be transformed constantly into communication with God in whom is all life ... When we see the world as an end in itself, everything becomes itself a value and consequently loses all value, because only in God is found the meaning (value) of everything, and the world is meaningful only when it is a ‘sacrament’ of God’s presence ... The world of nature, cut off from the source of life, is a dying world.” (For the Life of the World, SVS Press, New York, 1973.)

Seen in this perspective, the struggle for the mere physical survival of this fallen world is a pointless exercise, a perpetuation of death. We save a species from extinction - but all the individuals of that species currently alive will be dead in a few years just the same, and the species itself may eventually become extinct anyway. For us, therefore, protection of the environment cannot be merely a desperate attempt to hang onto the status quo, to preserve at all costs a life which is by its nature transitory. No, our love for the frail things of God’s material creation makes sense only as a sign - a sign that God comes into His world to give life and not death, and that our appointed task is to preach this good news to all creation. This vitally important difference of perspective should not lead us to be dismissive or suspicious of others who care deeply for the created world. Rather, it reminds us that their care and reverence needs to be taken a step further. It is precisely the Three Children who would not worship the creation rather than the Creator who gives us our model, crying out to the earth and the mountains, the plants, the seas and rivers, sea creatures and birds and all beasts, “All ye works of the Lord, bless the Lord; sing and magnify Him forever”.

1. Man and his environment - a spiritual problem

One of the great breakthroughs made by the environmental movement is the recognition that the roots of human destruction of the environment are to be sought not just in actions, but in our most deep-seated attitudes. Certainly, it is possible to look at the environmental crisis largely in utilitarian terms. The ozone hole brings increased risks of skin cancer, polluted rivers and dying fish threaten people’s health and livelihood, the destruction of rain forests exacerbates the greenhouse effect as well as destroying many plant species that might prove to have medicinal value. But as one thinks seriously even just about man’s needs, the basic requirements for survival - breathable air, drinkable water, non-toxic food - keep shading off into other needs, harder to analyze but no less real - for beauty, for space, for contact with the living world around us. And this is already to recognize that man is more than a statistical unit: his welfare cannot be reduced to economics and technology. It is not enough for him to keep alive by consuming the world around him: he needs a relationship with it that is not purely utilitarian and consumptive. It is this relationship that has gone drastically wrong in what are ironically called “developed” societies. Increasing numbers of people are drawn to the conclusion that our destruction of the environment is merely one symptom of a whole set of human attitudes to the rest of nature which are necessarily unsustainable because they are profoundly misguided. (Examples of such attitudes are the ideas that we can alter entire ecosystems with impunity, that the world has value only as “raw material” to be exploited for economic gain, or that a catastrophe for other species will leave us unaffected). And many go a step further to see in these attitudes a serious spiritual problem.

The mess we have made of the world, then, has forced on many people a recognition that we are not the all-powerful masters of the laws of nature: we are creatures, part of the created world, and we cannot treat the rest of the world as if it is our property to use however we like. A belated recognition, to put it in theological terms, that the promise “You shall not surely die ... you shall be gods,” (Gen. 3:5) is a snare and a delusion. This would not have been a revelation to many people before the “Enlightenment” and the industrial revolution; but for the modern industrialized world, it is an amazing reversal. This is an opening which we must be prepared to seize, preaching the truth both of man’s creatureliness, and of his unique God-given responsibility for the whole of material creation. One way that other Christians are trying to do this is by inventing new forms of worship which “affirm” material creation. I do not believe that we have any need to do this; but we do need to make an effort to understand, and to show to others, the full implications of the way that our Church tradition already experiences the world as a vehicle for God’s grace, transparent to Him.

The quest for a new environment ethic, with its radical rethinking of man’s place in the world, has the potential to be truly providential opportunity for Orthodox witness to today’s world. But we shall not be able to make use of this opportunity unless we realize the obstacles that have to be tackled first.

To put it bluntly, many people concerned about the environment see the Christian tradition as the source, not of the solution, but of the problem. In its most extreme form, this line of argument actually sees the root of the present crisis in the supposed “license for exploitation” provided by the commandment to “Fill the earth and subdue it, and have dominion over every living thing” (Gen. 1:28). This suggestion has been refuted often enough, with profound and detailed explanations of what this mandate does and does not mean in the Christian understanding. Here, I want to underline only that there is a serious historical objection to this negative interpretation of the Christian tradition. If exploitation is built into the Christian understanding of man’s relationship with the rest of nature, it is very hard to explain why a Christian civilization with the expertise and sophistication to build Agia Sophia or invent Greek fire should have totally failed to develop exploitative technologies or policies as we know them today. Far from having its origins in the in the heyday of Christian civilization, the exploitative mentality seems to have gained currency only after the “Enlightenment”, which marks the decline of the Christian influence on the way people looked at themselves and their place in the world.

Another variant of this argument discounts Christianity as the possible source of an environmental ethic on the grounds that it is “anthropocentric”. The following summary of the views of an American lecturer in ethics is typical: “Judeo-Christian anthropocentrism must open up to a spiritual sense of our place in nature and of earth as the sacred work of the Creator,” and it continues, “at present, we find it nearly impossible to grasp that we live in a world that we did not create and cannot control”. But it is not easy to make a convincing link between this misconception, and faith in the God who challenges man, “Where were you when I laid the foundations to the Earth? Tell me, if you have understanding ... Have you commanded the morning since your days began ... do you give the horse his might ... is it by your wisdom that the hawk soars, and spreads his wings towards the south?” (Job 38:4, 12, 16; 39:19, 26). Obviously, from the Christian point of view, the idea that man is in ultimate control of the world is possible only if you leave God out of the picture. Central to the Christian understanding of the World is not man, but God. It is in Him, the Master and Creator of all, that we relate to each other and to all the other creatures that He has made. It is in His image that we have dominion over all other living creatures. Indeed, the ancient Syriac translation of the relevant verse in Genesis (1:26) makes the connection crystal clear by saying, “Let us make man in our image, after our likeness, in order that they may have authority…”.

Whatever “dominion” we have is in the image of God, the God “who is King forever and has wrought salvation in the midst of the earth” - which means on the Cross, in the ultimate humility of His death for the life of the world. Certainly, the teaching of the image of God in man gives man a high dignity, as well as commensurate responsibility. So that if one tries to distill from Christianity a ‘world view’ or theory of man’s place in nature without reference to God, the result is likely to look “anthropocentric”. But such a “world view” is no longer the Christian faith. The Christian faith is not actually designed, so to speak, to make sense apart from God.

Given the frequency with which the charge of anthropocentrism is made, it is hardly surprising that a number of Christians have accepted it and feel the need to apologize for it. I would suggest that, rather than apologize for the undoubted place of honour that we ascribe to man, we should be prepared to defend it and to explain why it is not to the detriment of the rest of creation.

Christianity certainly stresses the special position of man in relation to God and to the rest of creation. This contrasts with religious which are considered, in some quarters, more “environmentally sound” - such as those which identify certain animals with divine spirits, or which teach the reincarnation of the soul in various other creatures (though it is unclear to me how the dignity of an animal would be enhanced by regarding it as a potential human that failed to make the grade). There are two aspects of the Christian view of man that I want to comment on here.

Firstly, man is seen as uniquely placed to manifest and mediate the praise of God from the rest of the natural world. In the words of Leontius of Cyprus:

”... through all creation visible and invisible, I offer veneration to the Creator and Master and Maker of all things. For the creation does not venerate the Master directly and by itself, but it is through me that the heavens declare the glory of God ... through me the waters and showers of rain, the dews and all creation, venerate God and give Him glory.”

This is not to deny that there is a real link between God and His non-human creation. On the contrary: if the potential for praising God were not built into the very structure of created things, we should not be able to manifest it. In fact, what we have is a kind of synergy of created beings: all creation bears the stamp of God’s glory, but by His economy it is given to man to bring this potential to its fulfillment. Adherents of other religions - or none - may disagree with this evaluation of man’s place in creation: but a licence for exploitation it certainly is not. On the contrary, this understanding of man’s responsibility seriously circumscribes the ways in which he can legitimately use material creation. In its high assessment of man’s role, it embodies a realism which can best be understood from the negative side. What I mean is this: man’s crucial role as mediator becomes tragically clear when we see his unparalleled capacity to obscure the glory of God in nature, to drown God’s handiwork under the debris of his own greed and arrogance.

Secondly, the teaching about man in general has always been balanced in the tradition of the Church by teaching about man in particular - that is, our neighbour. This does not exclude showing neighbourliness also to other creatures - we may recall the story of St. Sergius of Radonezh giving his last piece of bread to a bear, because it could not be expected to understand the meaning of fasting. But it might well exclude, for instance, telling a famished traveller that there was nothing to eat because the bear had prior claim. This stress on the importance of man, not as an abstract entity but in the person of the brother or sister standing in front of us, is something that we must insist on. It may be able to serve as a much-needed bridge between the human suffering of people whose immediate basic needs - for food, fuel or livelihood - conflict with the interest of the environment, and an environmental agenda which often seems to put their welfare some way behind that of whales, tigers or rosy periwinkles. This perception of conservationist priorities is often less than fair, and sometimes due to deliberate misrepresentation - but it can cause great bitterness and polarization. We recognize, certainly, that radical disruption of the natural environment is in one’s ultimate interests. But any approach which sacrifices the person to the principle, seeing other human beings as inevitable casualties for the sake of a greater good, will be profoundly alien to us. Awareness of the spiritual dimension of the environment crisis, coupled with a reluctance in some quarters to take the Christian tradition as a basis for an environment ethic, creates a dangerous vacuum. This vacuum is filled all too often by eastern religions or by a “New Age” synthesis of religious and spiritual beliefs ranging from earth-mother worship to reincarnation to divination with crystals. Let me be perfectly clear: there are large numbers of environmentalists who have no sympathy whatsoever for this kind of spirituality. But the danger it poses is twofold. On the one hand, it leads some people to see any concern with the environment as neo�paganism and nature worship, and therefore a threat to our faith. On the other hand, New Age spirituality, with its very prominent emphasis on respect for the earth and all its creatures, can actually seem an obvious and attractive option for environmentally aware people looking for a spiritual home. The tragic irony of the situation is this: so many of the elements that people value in the New Age movements - harmony of man with nature, a sense of the sacred permeating creation, the dignity of the material world - are so richly represented in the authentic Christian tradition, if only they had ever really encountered it. This is all the more reason for us to recall that it was to a pagan world that St. Paul preached the identity of the Unknown God, and to take up his example.

“Love all God’s creation, the whole of it and every grain of sand. Love every leaf, every ray of God’s light! Love the animals, love the plants, love everything. If you love everything you will perceive the divine mystery in things. And once you have pereeived it you will begin to comprehend it ceaselessly, more and more every day. And you will at last come to love the whole world with an abiding universal love. Love the animals: God has given them the rudiments of thought and untroubled joy. Do not therefore, trouble it, do not torture them, do not deprive them of their joy, do not go against God’s intent. ” Starets Zosima in the novel The Brothers Karamazov, by Fyodor Dostoevsky

“Now the Lord God had planted a garden in the east, in Eden, and there he put the man he had formed And the Lord God made all kinds of trees grow out of the ground - trees that were pleasing to the eye and good for food. In the middle of the garden were the tree of life and the tree of the knowledge of good and evil.” From the book of Genesis .

Part 2 next week

Summary of Parish Ministries Retreat (May 31, 2008) - June 13, 2008

This retreat was organized by the Ministry of Parish Development and Stewardship for parish leaders to consider in a prayerful and relaxed way the progress of the parish in the last year and to discuss directions for the future.

We accomplished the following tasks through brainstorming or discussion:

Acknowledged the concept of 'stewardship' in regard to governance.
Reflected on the parish mission statement and core values as the framework for planning for the future.
Reviewed main parish accomplishments as the foundation to build upon.
Reviewed concerns ministry by ministry -- revealing at the same time concerns, gaps and overlaps that are more general to the functioning of all the ministries and therefore need to be considered by the Administrative Ministry in its coordinating role.
Considered the implications of our Cathedral Mission Statement -- 'welcoming people into the life of the church' -- as a parish focus for next year.
Discussed priorities and parish objectives for next year that will be finalized and presented in the Annual General Meeting this fall.

Intense brainstorming leads us to conclude that our objective4s for the next year should be as follows:

Research and proposal regarding accessibility and use of parish hall, including funding sources for renovation, potential uses and interim measures and cost. (PD and S, and Buildings & Grounds)
Enhance revenue base through continued focus on stewardship and other sources of revenue. (PD and Stewardship, Admin)
Focus on membership: integrate new members through parish team model, including stewardship commitment - time, talent, treasure. (Hospitality, Christian Witness and Mission)
Make liturgical life accessible - identify barriers and needs (language, acoustics, music, training, education, participation...) and address them. (Clergy, Liturgical Ministry, Education)
Improve communication - especially internal - needs leadership; clarify administrative communication strategy, role of office, bulletin, website, etc. (Admin)
Educational outreach - identify needs of underserved groups, within and outside our parish (especially youth) and address them - leadership role of the Cathedral (Education)

Two Sermons by Metropolitan Anthony of Sourozh - June 13, 2008

SUNDAY BEFORE PENTECOST
11 June 1989

In the name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Ghost

We have heard in the Acts of the Apostles how, as the Feast of Pentecost was approaching, Paul the Apostle had started on his journey to Jerusalem to be there together with all those who on that very day received the Holy Spirit. Of all of them he was the only one who had not been present in the High Room where the event took place. And yet, God had given him a true, a perfect conversion of heart, and of mind and of life, and had given him freely the gift of the Holy Spirit in response to his total, ultimate gift of self to Him, the God Whom he did not know but Whom he worshipped.

We also are on our way to the day of Pentecost, next week we will keep this event. When Paul was on his way, he thought of what had happened to himself in the solitude of his journey from Jerusalem to Damascus and in the gift of the Spirit mediated to him by Ananias. And we also, each of us singly and all of us together should reflect on all that God has given us. He has given us existence and breathed life into us, - not only the life of the body, but a life that makes us akin to Him, His life. He has given us to know Him, the Living God, and He has given us to meet, in the Gospel and in life, His Only Begotten Son, our Lord Jesus Christ. In Baptism, in the Anointment with Holy Chrism, in Communion to the Body and