SS Peter & Paul Ukrainian Catholic Church

SUNDAY OF ORTHODOXY

February 22, 2026

Saturday, February 21 FIRST SUNDAY OF THE GREAT FAST

            4:00 PM           God’s Blessings & Good Health for All Parishioners 

Sunday, February 22       FIRST SUNDAY OF THE GREAT FAST

            8:30 AM             UJoseph Kane- Udisky Family

Friday, February 27 LITURGY OF THE PRESANCTIFIED GIFTS

            4:00 PM            

Saturday, February 28 SECOND SUNDAY OF THE GREAT FAST

            4:00 PM           God’s Blessings & Good Health for All Parishioners 

Sunday, March 1       SECOND SUNDAY OF THE GREAT FAST

            8:30 AM             God’s Blessings for the Becker Family- Fragelli Family

Transfiguration of Our Lord Church

Saturday Liturgy is 6:00 PM

Sunday Liturgy is 10:30 AM

Pre-Sanctified Liturgy (Wednesday): 6:30PM

Saturday, February 28:    Sorokousty 8:00 AM

Saturday, March 7: Sorokousty 8:00 AM

Saturday, March 7:      First Saturday Liturgy:  9:00 AM

 MAKE PSANKY FOR FUN!

Sunday, March 15, 2026 

@ Noon (After Liturgy)

Transfiguration of Our Lord

Church Basement

Everyone is welcome! 

Come & experience the art of creating Ukrainian Easter Eggs just for FUN AND FELLOWSHIP!  A light lunch will be provided.

Provided through Parishioners from Transfiguration of Our Lord & Saints Peter & Paul Churches.

Class is free.  Please allocate about 2 hours to create an egg.  Children are most welcome- but must be supervised by an adult as decorating requires you to use a candle. 

EVERYONE IS WELCOME- Young & Old!

LENTEN FOOD (TAKE-OUT ONLY)

Transfiguration of Our Lord Church

240 Center Street, Nanticoke, PA , Church Basement

Friday, February 20, 2026 from 3PM-5PM

SOUP & PIEROGI SALE

Featuring home-made Pea Soup by the quart and church made potato pierogi $12 a dozen.

 THE FIVE SATURDAYS OF THE DECEASED (SOROKUSTY)

The Five Saturdays of the Deceased (Sorokousty) The Church Typikon designates the five Sorokousty/ Saturdays of the Deceased for 2026 as February 7th; February 28^th, March 7th and 14^th, and May 23^rd.  It is a tradition of our Holy Church to commemorate the memories of our beloved deceased at Matins of the Deceased (Parastas) on these five Saturdays of the year.  Sorokousty Services will be celebrated at 8:00am.

BOOK(S) OF THE MONTH FOR FEBRUARY:

St. John of Damascus; On the Divine Images

By St. John of Damascus/Translated by David Anderson

ISBN:  0-913836-62-1

FIRST SUNDAY OF LENT

SUNDAY OF ORTHODOXY

February 22, 2026

The Divine Liturgy of our Father among the Saints Basil the Great is celebrated ten times per year: January 1(Feast of Saint Basil); December 24(Christmas Eve);January 5 (Theophany Eve); First thru Fifth Sundays of Lent(not Palm Sunday); and Holy Thursday & the Virgil Liturgy of Easter Sunday.}

PRAYER TO SAINT MICHAEL:  Holy Michael, the Archangel, defend us in battle. Be our safeguard against the wickedness and snares of the devil. May God rebuke him, we humbly pray; and do you, O Prince of the heavenly host, by the power of God cast into hell Satan and all the evil spirits who wander through the world seeking the ruin of souls.   Amen.

DAYLIGHT SAVINGS TIME:  Please keep in mind that Daylight Savings time begins Sunday, March 8.  Please set your clocks ahead one hour on Saturday, March 7^th before you go to bed.  Clocks will “spring “ forward.

The Sanctuary Light is requested by Joe and Teresa Popowycz IMO Dennis Kachmarsky.

LENT:  All Fridays are always a day of fast.  Traditionally, Wednesdays are a day of fast during the Great Fast.  Anything you can do extra is also indicated.  Remember there are no weekday Liturgy during the Great Fast.

WOMEN’S SOCIETY RUMMAGE SALE< SOUP & HALUSKI:

The Women’s Society will be hosting a Rummage Sale, Soup, Haluski and Bake Sale on March 6th, 7th and 8th in the church hall. Your help and support is greatly needed, and many have asked how they can assist.

Here are several ways you can help:

1. Pick up a flyer from the back of the church and ask a local business or establishment if they would be willing to display it.  

2. Bake items to donate to the bake sale.

3. Donate gently used items for the rummage sale.

4. Volunteer your time-workers are needed throughout the sale.

5. Attend the sale and enjoy some delicious food while shopping for great items.

Your generosity and support will be greatly appreciated. Proceeds from the sale will help offset the cost of repairing the church’s heating system.

PSANKY CLASSES:  St. Cyril & Methodius are holding Psanky classes. These classes are artistically taught by TAMMY BUDNOVITCH on February 22 & March 1^st.  Pick either 12:00 or 3:00 for classes.  All supplies are provided.  Fee: $25.  All proceeds support SS. Cyril & Methodius, Ukrainian Catholic Church.  For reservations: Call Tammy 570-766-1919.

 HOAGIE & SOUP SALE:  St. Nicholas Ukrainian Catholic Church, 153 East Main Street, Glen Lyon is holding a vegetable soup & Hoagie Sale (Turkey, Cheese, & Italian Hoagie) and bake sale on Thursday, March 12^th from 11AM to 4PM in the church hall.  The cost of each hoagie is $8.00 and a quart of vegetable soup is $8.00.  Orders can be placed by calling Debbie at 570-736-6908 by Sunday, March 8^th.  A basket raffle will also be held at this time to benefit Ukraine and the church.

FIRST SATURDAY LITURGY:  Twelve Liturgies were given for the first Saturday of each month, the next liturgy is March 7 for any Families experiencing troubles in their lives and seeking God’s help from both Transfiguration of Our Lord & Saints Peter & Paul Churches.  If you have such a petition for a family  please feel free to share it with Fr. Walter to be included in the Saturday’s liturgy intention. The first Saturday Liturgies are celebrated at Tranfiguration of Our Lord Church at 8:00 AM.  No additional donations are required to submit a petition.  You can call Father to add a petition to the list at 570-406-5882.

ST. VLADIMIR”S CHURCH (SCRANTON) MOLEBEN:  St. Vladimir’s Ukrainian Catholic Church, 430 N. 7th Ave. in Scranton, will host a special Moleben Prayer Service for Ukraine this Tuesday, February 24th, beginning at 6:00pm.  This is the anniversary of the invasion of Ukraine by Russia.  Very Rev. Archpriest Teodor Czabala will be the Guest Speaker and there will be a short film about Ukraine in Church.  Please join us to commemorate this sad occasion and pray for our brothers and sisters still suffering in Ukraine.

 Petitions & Prayers for Our Parishioners:  John Ostrum,Donna Winsock, Sonia Dempsey, Catherine Halloway, Charles Hallaway, Louise Hubiack, Paul Hoover & James Bencho.  Keep them in your prayers.  If anyone would like to be included in the prayer list drop a note in the basket, email the church or text Michalene Ostrum at 570-704-7079.

Prayer For Peace in Ukraine

Heavenly Father, Your Son taught us “Blessed are the peacemakers for they shall be called the sons of God.”  We fervently pray in the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit, that you inspire men to become peacemakers.  May mankind seek reconciliation and peace in this world, as is Your Will.  May tranquility be restored to all nations, and especially Ukraine.  God, Our Father, we beseech You to comfort the suffering, heal the wounded, and accept the souls of the dearly departed into Your heavenly kingdom.  May the Most Holy Mother of God extend Her Mantle of Protection over Ukraine, and the whole world.  May each of us always live our lives as instruments of Your peace, in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit.  Amen.

 FEBRUARY 15, 2026

Saturday, February 14 SUNDAY OF CHEESEFARE

            4:00 PM           God’s Blessings & Good Health for All Parishioners 

Sunday, February 15       SUNDAY OF CHEESEFARE      

            8:30 AM             UJames Dalton- Udiski Family

Friday, February 20 LITURGY OF THE PRESANCTIFIED GIFTS

            4:00 PM            

Saturday, February 21 FIRST SUNDAY OF THE GREAT FAST

            4:00 PM           God’s Blessings & Good Health for All Parishioners 

Sunday, February 22       FIRST SUNDAY OF THE GREAT FAST

            8:30 AM             UJoseph Kane- Udisky Family

LENTEN FOOD (TAKE-OUT ONLY)

Transfiguration of Our Lord Church

240 Center Street, Nanticoke, PA , Church Basement

Friday, February 20, 2026 from 3PM-5PM

SOUP & PIEROGI SALE

Featuring home-made clam chowder $15 a quart and church made potato pierogi $12 a dozen.

 THE FIVE SATURDAYS OF THE DECEASED (SOROKUSTY)

The Five Saturdays of the Deceased (Sorokousty) The Church Typikon designates the five Sorokousty/ Saturdays of the Deceased for 2026 as February 7th; February 28^th, March 7th and 14^th, and May 23^rd.  It is a tradition of our Holy Church to commemorate the memories of our beloved deceased at Matins of the Deceased (Parastas) on these five Saturdays of the year.  Sorokousty Services will be celebrated at 8:00am.

BOOK(S) OF THE MONTH FOR FEBRUARY:

St. John of Damascus; On the Divine Images

By St. John of Damascus/Translated by David Anderson

ISBN:  0-913836-62-1

SUNDAY LITURGIES DURING LENT: WHY DO THEY SEEM LONGER?

Our Church prescribes that the Liturgy of St. Basil the Great is to be celebrated on all of the Sundays of Great Fast, instead of the Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom, which is usually celebrated throughout the rest of the church year.  St. Basil’s Liturgy is older and has longer priestly prayers at the Anaphora than the Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom (which was derived from the Liturgy of St. Basil the Great), and is celebrated ten times during the church year:  the five Sundays of Lent (not Palm Sunday), Holy Thursday, Holy Saturday, Christmas Eve, Epiphany Eve, and on the actual Feast of St. Basil which we celebrate January 1.

 PRAYER TO SAINT MICHAEL:  Holy Michael, the Archangel, defend us in battle. Be our safeguard against the wickedness and snares of the devil. May God rebuke him, we humbly pray; and do you, O Prince of the heavenly host, by the power of God cast into hell Satan and all the evil spirits who wander through the world seeking the ruin of souls.   Amen.

The Prayer of St. Ephraim the Syrian

O Lord and Master of my Life, keep from me the spirit of indifference and discouragement, lust of power and idle chatter.  Instead, grant to me your servant the spirit of wholeness of being, humble-mindedness, patience, and love.  O Lord and King, grant me the grace to be aware of my sins and not to judge my brothers; for You are Blessed now and forever and ever.  Amen.

Concupiscences:  def. Our choosing the easy way of sin.

LENTEN RETREAT:  SAVE THE DATE we will have a Lenten Retreat on Sunday, March 22 at 4:00PM, beginning with Lenten Vespers/Retreat given by Father Paul Makar at Transfiguration of Our Lord Church.  A light social will follow.

FROM FASTING TO FEASTING

Fast from judging others;
Feast on seeing the best in people.

Fast from emphasis on differences;
Feast on the unity of life.

Fast from despair;
Feast on hope.

Fast from thoughts of illness;
Feast on the healing power of God.

Fast from words that destroy;
Feast on phrases that are encouraging.

Fast from discontent;
Feast on gratitude.

Fast from anger;
Feast on patience.

Fast from being negative;
Feast on being positive.

Fast from worry;
Feast on trust.

Fast from complaining;
Feast on appreciation.

Fast from hostility;
Feast on peacemaking.

Fast from bitterness;
Feast on forgiveness.

Fast from constant activity;
Feast on slowing down.

Fast from disrespect;
Feast on recognizing the sacred in all life.

Fast from self-concern;

Feast on compassion for others.  ~Author Unknown

LENT:  Remember, the first day of Lent is a fast from Meat and Dairy Products.  Lent begins with Forgiveness Vespers, Sunday, February 15^th at 3:00PM at Transfiguration of Our Lord Church.  Confessions will be from at 2:15PM until 2:45PM.The first full day of Lent will begin on Monday, February 16 and is a day of abstinence from Meat and Dairy Products for everyone who is able to do so.  All Fridays are always a day of fast.  Traditionally, Wednesdays are a day of fast during the Great Fast.  Anything you can do extra is also indicated.  Remember there are no weekday Liturgy during the Great Fast.

PRE-SANCTIFIED LITURGY:  Pre-Sanctified Liturgies will be on Wednesdays at 6:30PM at Transfiguration of Our Lord Church in Nanticoke and on Fridays at 4:00PM at Saints Peter & Paul Church in Plymouth.

 Petitions & Prayers for Our Parishioners:  John Ostrum,Donna Winsock, Sonia Dempsey, Catherine Halloway, Charles Hallaway, Paul Hoover & James Bencho.  Keep them in your prayers.  If anyone would like to be included in the prayer list drop a note in the basket, email the church or text Michalene Ostrum at 570-704-7079.

DAYLIGHT SAVINGS TIME:  Please keep in mind that Daylight Savings time begins Sunday, March 8.  Please set your clocks ahead one hour on Saturday, March 7^th before you go to bed.  Clocks will “spring “ forward.

MYASOPUSNA:  Thank you to everyone who bought tickets and supported/helped out at  Transfiguration of Our Lord’s Meat-Fare Dinner!

PSANKY CLASSES:  St. Cyril & Methodius are holding Psanky classes. These classes are artistically taught by TAMMY BUDNOVITCH on February 22 & March 1^st.  Pick either 12:00 or 3:00 for classes.  All supplies are provided.  Fee: $25.  All proceeds support SS. Cyril & Methodius, Ukrainian Catholic Church.  For reservations: Call Tammy 570-766-1919.

 HOAGIE & SOUP SALE:  St. Nicholas Ukrainian Catholic Church, 153 East Main Street, Glen Lyon is holding a vegetable soup & Hoagie Sale (Turkey, Cheese, & Italian Hoagie) and bake sale on Thursday, March 12^th from 11AM to 4PM in the church hall.  The cost of each hoagie is $8.00 and a quart of vegetable soup is $8.00.  Orders can be placed by calling Debbie at 570-736-6908 by Sunday, March 8^th.  A basket raffle will also be held at this time to benefit Ukraine and the church.

FIRST SATURDAY LITURGY:  Twelve Liturgies were given for the first Saturday of each month, the next liturgy is March 7 for any Families experiencing troubles in their lives and seeking God’s help from both Transfiguration of Our Lord & Saints Peter & Paul Churches.  If you have such a petition for a family  please feel free to share it with Fr. Walter to be included in the Saturday’s liturgy intention. The first Saturday Liturgies are celebrated at Tranfiguration of Our Lord Church at 8:00 AM.  No additional donations are required to submit a petition.  You can call Father to add a petition to the list at 570-406-5882.

“If you forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you, but if you forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses…” (Mark 6:14-15)

Begin your examination with the time of your last confession. Try to recall whether you omitted anything from fear of embarrassment that needs to be confessed. With the help of the self-examination provided, call to mind all the sins you have committed since your last confession.

THE TEN COMMANDMENTS

1. Putting God First: I am the Lord your God; you shall not have other gods before me.

Has God been the source, center and hope of my life? Have I put myself, anyone or anything before God? Have I given to anyone or anything the love, honor and worship that belongs to God alone? Have I made an idol of any person, idea, occupation or thing? Have I failed to trust in God, His love and mercy? Have I failed to pray to God and to worship Him faithfully? Have I been thankful for God’s blessings? Have I doubted the Christian faith? Have I tried to serve God and keep His Commandments faithfully? Have I murmured or complained against God in adversities?  Do I give “respect” to gods of other of other religions?

2. Respect for God: You shall not take the Name of the Lord your God in vain.

Do I have a deep and sincere respect for God and His Holy Name? Have I shown disrespect to God, either in word or deed? Have I dishonored God’s Name in any way? Have I sworn a false oath? Have I broken any solemn promise or vow that was done before God? Have I cursed or used foul language?  Do I use God’s name uselessly to draw attention to myself or derivatives such as Jeez, Jesus, Gee, or Oh my goodness, etc.?

3. Respect for the Lord’s Day: Remember to keep holy the Sabbath day.

Have I worshiped God faithfully on Sundays and major holy days? Have I helped others to do the same, or have I discouraged them? Have I worked or shopped unnecessarily on Sundays or major holy days? Have I caused others to do so? Have I spent the Lord’s Day in wholesome and edifying ways? Have I made time for family and friends?

4. Respect for Parents and Authority: Honor your father and mother.

Have I loved and respected my parents as I should? Have I neglected them, or failed to help them? Have l disobeyed them, deceived them or caused them pain by my words and deeds? Have I treated my family members with patience and love? Have I respected my teachers, superiors, employers (those who are in authority) as I should? Have I disobeyed or deceived them by my words or deeds? Have I treated fairly all those who have worked for me?

5. Respect for Human Life: You shall not murder.  Have I caused the harm, injury or death of anyone? Have I wished my own or anyone’s harm or death? Have I caused others to sin? Have I abused my health or the health of others by evil and intemperate living (i.e. drugs, alcohol, over-eating, etc.)? Have l given way to vengeance or hatred? Have I failed to forgive anyone or harbored evil thoughts against them? Have I been cruel to anyone? Have I encouraged someone in procuring an abortion? Have I had an abortion?  Have I spread news about someone in order to damage their reputation?

6. & 9.  Respect for Marriage: You shall not commit adultery. You shall not covet your neighbor’s wife.  Have I committed any sin of lust, alone or with others (masturbation, fornication, pornography, adultery, cohabitation)? Have I caused others to commit impure acts? Have I sinned by giving way to impure thoughts, words or conversations? Have I read immoral books or magazines, romance novels, or delighted in obscenity of any kind? Have l associated with bad company or frequented placed of ill-repute? Do I maintain modesty and decency in dress? Have I practiced birth control/contraception?  Have I repeated obscene/impure jokes?

7. & 10. Respect for Private Property: You shall not steal. You shall not covet anything that belongs to your neighbor.  Have l taken or kept anything that was not mine? Have l cheated anyone? Have I caused others to steal or cheat? Have I tried to find the owners of lost things I have found? Have I damaged or destroyed anything that belonged to another? Have I defrauded anyone of their rightful wages? Have I paid my debts? Have I worked honesty and conscientiously for my wages? Did I spend beyond my means? Do I give alms according to my capacity? Have I looked with envy, jealousy or hatred toward the possessions, talents or achievements of others? Have I desired the downfall or loss of others out of evil intent that I might benefit? Have I grieved that God has bestowed greater blessing on others than on me?

FEBRUARY 8, 2026

Saturday, February 7 SUNDAY OF MEATFARE

            4:00 PM           UHelene Sirak – Donald & Donna Winsock

Sunday, February 8       SUNDAY OF MEATFARE      

            8:30 AM             God’s Blessings & Good Health for All Parishioners 

Saturday, February 14 SUNDAY OF CHEESEFARE

            4:00 PM           God’s Blessings & Good Health for All Parishioners 

Sunday, February 15       SUNDAY OF CHEESEFARE      

            8:30 AM             UJames Dalton- Udiski Family

Transfiguration of Our Lord Church

 Father, I was looking at the unique prayers for the Holy Days as you suggested and keep seeing the words “Menaion” and “Pentecostarion”, what is the difference between these and what are they?  The Menaion is the Annual Fixed Feastal Cycle of the Church AND the books with all the special prayers for each day.  There are actually 12 volumes in the complete set of books (one book for each month) but you may find only one in use at your parish which is called; the Feastal Menaion, which includes all the special prayers for the Major Holy Days, this way a parish, a person, doesn’t need to have 12 books.  The Pentecostarion, or Flowery Triodion, is the time of the Church Year from the Feast of Christ’s Resurrection through to the Feast of All Saints, (the Sunday after Pentecost) and the book with all the special prayers for the days in that period.  Okay; thank you Father, now then that reminds of the Triodion, what is the Triodion?  The Triodion, or Lenten Triodion, covers the time from the Sunday of the Publican and Pharisee through to Holy Week, Holy Saturday inclusive, and the book with all the prayers you need for this time.

Prayer to the Holy Archangel Michael

O Holy Archangel Michael, luminous and awesome captain of the heavenly King!  Before the fearsome Judgment, set me free, that I may repent of my sins; deliver my soul from the snares of the pursuers and lead it to God, Who created it, Who sitteth upon the cherubim, and do thou earnestly pray in its behalf, that by thy mediation He may send it to a place of rest.  O dread captain of the hosts of heaven, intercessor for all at the throne of Christ the Master, steadfast protector of all men and wise warrior, mighty general of the heavenly King, have mercy on me, a sinner, who am in need of thine assistance; protect me from all enemies, visible and invisible, and, still more, fortify me against the fear of death and the vexation of the devils; and make me worthy to stand unashamed before our Creator at the hour of His dread and righteous Judgment.  O most holy and great Michael, supreme commander, disdain me not, a sinner, who entreat thee for thy help and aid in this world and in that which is to come, but vouchsafe me there to glorify with thee the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit, unto the ages of ages.  Amen.

Prayer to the Holy Archangel Gabriel

O Holy Gabriel, great archangel, who standest before the throne of God, art illumined with splendor by divine light and enlightened by the knowledge of unapproachable mysteries of His eternal wisdom!  With full earnestness I beseech thee: Guide me to repentance, away from evil deeds, and to the confirmation in my faith; strengthen and preserve my soul against deluding temptations, and entreat our Creator for the remission of my sins.  O great and holy Archangel Gabriel, disdain me not, a sinner, who beg thee for help and aid in this age and that which is to come; but ever show thyself to be a helper for me, that I may unceasingly glorify the dominion of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit, and thine intercession, unto the age of ages.  Amen.

FEBRUARY BOOK OF THE MONTH

St. John of Damascus; On the Divine Images

By St. John of Damascus/Translated by David Anderson

ISBN:  0-913836-62-1

 ASK FATHER A QUESTION?  Father, why should I fast for Lent?  Why not eat?  What purpose does that serve?  Can’t I just pray?  I am a good person, why is fasting needed?  The reason we fast during Lent and indeed and not just fast, but to pray more and to give alms to the poor, is because we are not good unless we do these things.  If I love the God who created me and I desire to be with Him eternally, then I need to grow spiritually in strength and in virtue.  I need to do more than merely avoid sin, but also need to do good works in the world.  The appetite of food is the most basic human appetite.  If I cannot control my appetite for food and drink, then I will have even greater difficulty being in control of my other human appetites.  I will be easy prey to fall into the seven deadly sins:  Gluttony, Sloth, Avarice (Anger), Lust, Greed, Despair, & Pride.  The Seven Virtues are:  Temperence, Prudence, Fortitude, Courage, Faith, Hope, & Charity.  If you desire to be spiritually strong; fast, pray and give alms.

Now, forgiveness stands at the very center of Christian faith and of Christian life because Christianity itself is, above all, the religion of forgiveness. God forgives us, and His forgiveness is in Christ, His Son, Whom He sends to us, so that by sharing in His humanity we may share in His love and be truly reconciled with God. Indeed, Christianity has no other content but love. And it is primarily the renewal of that love, a return to it, a growth in it, that we seek in Great Lent, in fasting and prayer, in the entire spirit and the entire effort of that season. Thus, truly forgiveness is both the beginning of, and the proper condition for the Lenten season.  One may ask, however: Why should I perform this rite when I have no “enemies”? Why should I ask forgiveness from people who have done nothing to me, and whom I hardly know? To ask these questions, is to misunderstand the Orthodox teaching concerning forgiveness. It is true, that open enmity, personal hatred, real animosity may be absent from our life, though if we experience them, it may be easier for us to repent, for these feelings openly contradict Divine commandments. But, the Church reveals to us that there are much subtler ways of offending Divine Love. These are indifference, selfishness, lack of interest in other people, of any real concern for them — in short, that wall which we usually erect around ourselves, thinking that by being “polite” and “friendly” we fulfill God’s commandments. The rite of forgiveness is so important precisely because it makes us realize – be it only for one minute – that our entire relationship to other men is wrong, makes us experience that encounter of one child of God with another, of one person created by God with another, makes us feel that mutual “recognition” which is so terribly lacking in our cold and dehumanized world.  – Father Alexander Schmemann

THE FIVE SATURDAYS OF THE DECEASED (SOROKUSTY)

The Five Saturdays of the Deceased (Sorokousty) The Church Typikon designates the five Sorokousty/ Saturdays of the Deceased for 2026 as February 7th; February 28^th, March 7th and 14^th, and May 23^rd. It is a tradition of our Holy Church to commemorate the memories of our beloved deceased at Matins of the Deceased (Parastas) on these five Saturdays of the year. Sorokousty Services will be celebrated at 8:00am.

The Sanctuary Light  is given by Michalene Sirak IMO Fred Uhas.

LENT:  Remember, the first day of Lent is a fast from Meat and Dairy Products.  Lent begins with Forgiveness Vespers, Sunday, February 15^th at 3:00PM at Transfiguration of Our Lord Church.  Confessions will be from at 2:15PM until 2:45PM.The first full day of Lent will begin on Monday, February 16 and is a day of abstinence from Meat and Dairy Products for everyone who is able to do so.  All Fridays are always a day of fast.  Traditionally, Wednesdays are a day of fast during the Great Fast.  Anything you can do extra is also indicated.  Remember there are no weekday Liturgy during the Great Fast.

 Petitions & Prayers for Our Parishioners:  John Ostrum,Donna Winsock, Sonia Dempsey, Catherine Halloway, Charles Hallaway, Paul Hoover & James Bencho.  Keep them in your prayers.  If anyone would like to be included in the prayer list drop a note in the basket, email the church or text Michalene Ostrum at 570-704-7079.

FIRST SATURDAY LITURGY:  Twelve Liturgies were given for the first Saturday of each month, the next liturgy is March 7 for any Families experiencing troubles in their lives and seeking God’s help from both Transfiguration of Our Lord & Saints Peter & Paul Churches.  If you have such a petition for a family  please feel free to share it with Fr. Walter to be included in the Saturday’s liturgy intention. The first Saturday Liturgies are celebrated at Tranfiguration of Our Lord Church at 8:00 AM.  No additional donations are required to submit a petition.  You can call Father to add a petition to the list at 570-406-5882.

MYASOPUSNA:  The Myasopusna Celebration is scheduled for this Sunday, February 8^th, 2026.  This year will feature the St. Mary’s Ukrainian Dancers.  Ukrainian Beer and wine will be available. Doors open at noon. Cocktail 1/2 hour is noon-12:30. Serving starts at 12:30PM and stops at 2:00PM.  Program will start approximately 1:30PM.  No Tickets Will Be Sold at the Door.  Take-outs are available.

PSANKY CLASSES:  St. Cyril & Methodius are holding Psanky classes. These classes are artistically taught by TAMMY BUDNOVITCH on February 22 & March 1^st.  Pick either 12:00 or 3:00 for classes.  All supplies are provided.  Fee: $25.  All proceeds support SS. Cyril & Methodius, Ukrainian Catholic Church.  For reservations: Call Tammy 570-766-1919.

A Spiritual Psalter or Reflections on God

from the writings of Saint Ephraim the Syrian

140
There is no hiding — God sees all. Hurry to cleanse yourself while there is still time.

I sin and hide so that no man will see me; but the Lord sees me when I do evil.  If a man sees me I am ashamed; but I feel no shame before God.  Have compassion and mercy on us, O Judge and Master of judges!  If a man be converted, whether sooner or later, Thou wilt accept him.  What shall I do with my sins?  I do not know.  My mind cannot imagine what I might use to wash and cleanse myself.  If I took it into my head to wash with water, then the seas and the rivers would not be sufficient to cleanse me.  Yet if I wash myself with the blood and water that flowed from the rib of the Son of God, then will I be cleansed, and compassion will be showered upon me.  Tremble, O sinner, at the coming judgment; with tears and sorrow run to repent.  While prayer is still accepted, pray here, that you might be accepted there.  Pray, while death has not yet come and carried away your soul, for then all prayer and supplication will be in vain, then even tears will be of no avail.

Prayer to the Twelve Holy Apostles of the Lord

O holy, glorious and all-laudable apostles, ye chosen disciples and confessors of the great High Priest, our Lord Jesus Christ, and initiates of His mysteries: Peter and Andrew, James and John, Philip and Bartholomew, Thomas Matthew, James and Jude, Simon and Matthias!  Entreat Christ God, that He vouchsafe that we may pass from our vain sojourn in this world to stand at His right hand in His kingdom, that He may transform us from children of disobedience to children of obedience, and that, having put off the old man, we may clothe ourselves in the new man, fashioned after God in righteousness and the sanctity of truth: that, walking in rightness of faith, we may approach the heavenly Father in the inheritance of everlasting dignity, may contemplate heavenly things, and may most clearly behold the Holy Trinity in glory, unto endless ages.  Amen.

FEBRUARY 1, 2026

Saturday, January 31 SUNDAY OF THE PRODIGAL SON

            4:00 PM           God’s Blessings & Good Health for All Parishioners

Sunday, February 1      SUNDAY OF THE PRODIGAL SON        

            8:30 AM             UMaryAnn Youells-Paul & Dolores Hoover

Monday, February 2 ENCOUNTER OF OUR LORD WITH SIMEON

Blessing of Candles (Myrovania)

             8:30 AM             UWasyl Laczkoskie- Becker Family

Saturday, February 7 SUNDAY OF MEATFARE

            4:00 PM           UHelene Sirak – Donald & Donna Winsock

Sunday, February 8       SUNDAY OF MEATFARE      

            8:30 AM             God’s Blessings & Good Health for All Parishioners 

Transfiguration of Our Lord Church

Saturday Liturgy is 6:00 PM

Sunday Liturgy is 10:30 AM

Saturday, February 7:    Sorokousty 8:00 AM

Saturday, February 7:    First Saturday Liturgy:  9:00 AM

 ASK FATHER A QUESTION?  Father, why should I go to the Forgiveness Vespers?  After all, I did go to the Divine Liturgy this morning, why do I have to go again today?  Everything a person does has a beginning, a middle and an end.  Liturgically (liturgy, meaning a public work of the people) speaking the beginning of the day is at sundown.  Every holy day, and every Sunday (which is a little Pascha), begins when the sun sets. Sunday begins at the singing of “O Joyful Light” Saturday evening during vespers.  Every Catholic, if possible, should attend the three main liturgical services of every Holy Day and Sunday, which are Vespers (Evening Prayer), Matins (Morning Prayer) and the Liturgy.  Vespers begins the day, Matins is at the middle and public works finish with the Liturgy and the reception of the Body and Blood of Jesus Christ, Holy Communion.  So, just as you should attend every Great Vespers each Sunday morning (in secular time, Saturday evening) so too should to attend the Forgiveness Vespers which begins The Great Fast.  Also, when you attend all three of the services of a Holy Day, all the unique prayers for that day will tell what is happening and teach you about Salvation.  The Great Fast is focused on preparing us for the Holiest of Holy Days, Pascha, and Forgiveness Vespers begins that account and prayer orders us toward the center of our salvation.  We should do our best to make an honest effort toward spiritual healing of our entire body and the entire body of Christ, His Church.  The focus of Forgiveness Vespers is us looking at ourselves honestly and trying to grow in love for one another.  This is because we are all created in the image and likeness of God and we will succeed together and need one another to conquer sin.  So, Forgiveness Vespers is a very important and critical first step in beginning The Great Fast.  These services could also be considered to be working in us for healing (beginning), working (middle) and succeeding (end) when we receive the Risen Christ in Holy Communion, we are in Heaven on Earth, and the first step on this path is The Forgiveness Vespers.  The call to love one another as God loves us often first entails forgiving one another for wrongs we have done to others, or forgiveness we have not granted to those who ask us.  If we cannot forgive or accept forgiveness, we cannot be like God, for as St. John tells us, “God is love” (agape, 1 John 4:8).  If we begin with forgiving others and accepting their offers of apology for hurting us, our offerings of prayer, fasting, and almsgiving will be more authentic and meaningful.  One last comment that is always true, every Holy Day, and every day, all the services are an opportunity to be with God.  Take advantage of this opportunity to turn to God and be with God.

THE FIVE SATURDAYS OF THE DECEASED (SOROKUSTY)

The Five Saturdays of the Deceased (Sorokousty) The Church Typikon designates the five Sorokousty/ Saturdays of the Deceased for 2026 as February 7th; February 28^th, March 7th and 14^th, and May 23^rd. It is a tradition of our Holy Church to commemorate the memories of our beloved deceased at Matins of the Deceased (Parastas) on these five Saturdays of the year. Sorokousty Services will be celebrated at 8:00am.

FEBRUARY 1, 2026 Petitions & Prayers for Our Parishioners:  John Ostrum,Donna Winsock, Sonia Dempsey, Catherine Halloway, Charles Hallaway, Paul Hoover & James Bencho.  Keep them in your prayers.  If anyone would like to be included in the prayer list drop a note in the basket, email the church or text Michalene Ostrum at 570-704-7079.

 ASK FATHER A QUESTION?  Father, I have always been perplexed by the Parable of the Prodigal Son…..  it really seems like the older son got “cheated” because the younger son had a good time and then came back and said “I’m sorry.”  I know there is a lesson to be taught but I do not fully understand it.  Can you help me?  The word prodigal means “sinful.”  You are in error thinking the younger son was off having fun.  He was deceiving himself that he was having fun.  His so called friends were no friends at all.  The people he was spending time with did not love him one bit at all.  They took advantage of his father’s money, living a sinful, frivilous life.  The proof of this comes when he runs out of money and famine hits the area.  Would a friend abandon another friend?  You know the answer to that question is:  “No.”  Friends never abandon each other.  Yet all of these people who had a non-stop party provided for them by the prodigal son’s Father, who is clearly God, even in their sinfulness and had been receiving blessings from the Father, whether they recognize it or not, they only begin to learn their lesson when famine hits and the sinful son is forced to consider the future, perhaps for the first time.  In his contemplation of the future,  he starts to think correctly and recognizes finally what he thought was “fun” was no fun at all.  In contemplating what might happen to him in the famine, and recognizing that the man he is slaving for, working much harder than he ever did for his father, he recognizes this man does not love or care for him even the tiniest bit.  That’s when he realizes the only way out of all this trouble is to go home to his father who he now realizes loves him and to beg for forgiveness.  The father because he truly loves him, forgives the son, and accepts him back,  The older son was always with the father and always had the pleasure to be with his father.  Every evening meal with older son is a little celebration, the son never suffered or sinned.  The younger son was actually miserable and didn’t realize it.  You take the parable at face value, but it is about God the Father and what it truly means to love and forgive.  The parable shows what an authentic love actually is, not a modernistic, heretical concept of love.  The sinful son has truly repented, that is to change how he lives, he is with the Father for all eternity, not just in the parable.  You will also notice that because he already spent his inheritance, it is gone.  I don’t understand Father, is the repentance complete for the younger son? Yes, the repentence is complete.  If the repentence is complete then why does it seem like the younger son is still being punished?  Are we still punished after repenting?  The younger son is not being punished.  But he only has one bedroom? The son inherited a great reward and frivilously threw it away in this life, because he did not value his father’s love.  To be blunt he was stupid.  He lived a stupid life because he chose to understand things only in his own way.  The older son, whether he understood what he ws doing or not, in being faithful to the father, was saving his inheritance for eternal life, the great reward you receive in heaven. This does not completely answer the parable, the question or both.  Come to the adult discussion group, if you still have trouble understanding this parable.

He who does not confess receives no forgiveness.– St. John Chrystostom.

Do not feel embarrassment when you confess, feel embarrassment when you sin.

–  St. John Chrystostom.

The Altar Candles for the month of January are given by Michaelene Ostrum IMO her brother, Michael B Sirak.

CHURCH CALENDARS:  The church calendars are here in the church vestibule.

LENT:  Remember, the first day of Lent is a fast from Meat and Dairy Products.  Lent begins with Forgiveness Vespers, Sunday, February 15^th at 3:00PM at Transfiguration of Our Lord Church.  Confessions will be from at 2:15PM until 2:45PM.The first full day of Lent will begin on Monday, February 16 and is a day of abstinence from Meat and Dairy Products for everyone who is able to do so.  All Fridays are always a day of fast.  Traditionally, Wednesdays are a day of fast during the Great Fast.  Anything you can do extra is also indicated.  Remember there are no weekday Liturgy during the Great Fast.

SOROKOUSTY SERVICES & FIRST SATURDAY LITURGY:  Twelve Liturgies were given for the first Saturday of each month starting February 7 for any Families experiencing troubles in their lives and seeking God’s help from both Transfiguration of Our Lord & Saints Peter & Paul Churches.  If you have such a petition for a family  please feel free to share it with Fr. Walter to be included in the Saturday’s liturgy intention. The first Saturday Liturgies are celebrated at Tranfiguration of Our Lord Church at 8:00 AM.  The first Saturday Liturgy is February 7 – it will start about 9:00 AM immediately following Sorokousty Services which will begin at 8:00AM.  No additional donations are required to submit a petition.  You also may call Lisa to submit a petition to add to the list, 570-574-1016.

MYASOPUSNA 2026

 Myasopusna Dinner Celebration is fast approaching!  The Myasopusna Celebration is scheduled for February 8^th, 2026, the date of our Meat-fare Sunday.  This event combines a delicious ethnic meal (Ham, kobasi, Halupki, pyrohy, kapusta, bosch, & dessert) with cultural dance, singing and art.  This year will feature the St. Mary’s Ukrainian Dancers.  Ukrainian Beer and wine will be available. Ticket price is $25 and kids are $12. Doors open at noon. Cocktail 1/2 hour is noon-12:30. Serving starts at 12:30PM and stops at 2:00PM.  Tables are not reserved ahead of time.  Program will start approximately 1:30PM.  For tickets call 570-735-4654 or 570-574-1016 (leave message) to order advance tickets.  No Tickets Will Be Sold At the Door.  Take-outs are available.  

PSANKY CLASSES:  St. Cyril & Methodius are holding Psanky classes. These classes are artistically taught by TAMMY BUDNOVITCH on February 22 & March 1^st.  Pick either 12:00 or 3:00 for classes.  All supplies are provided.  Fee: $25.  All proceeds support SS. Cyril & Methodius, Ukrainian Catholic Church.  For reservations: Call Tammy 570-766-1919.

VISITING THE SICK:  Do you know a homebound Parishioner who can’t make it to church and would like a visit?  Please contact Father Walter at the rectory at 570-735-2262.

LITURGY INTENTIONS:  If you are offering a Divine Liturgy for a specific day for your beloved or other intentions for 2026, please make sure you turn it into the rectory in order to make sure that you get the exact time that you would like.

PRAYER TO ST. MICHAEL

St. Michael the Archangel, defend us in battle; be our defense against the wickedness and snares of the devil.  May God rebuke him, we humbly pray; and do you, O prince of the heavenly host, by the power of God, thrust into hell Satan and the other evil spirits who prowl about the world for the ruin of souls.  Amen.

SUNDAY OF THE PUBLICAN AND PHARISEE

Saturday, January 17 SUNDAY OF THE PUBLICAN AND PHARISEE

            4:00 PM           God’s Blessings & Good Health for All Parishioners

Sunday, January 18       SUNDAY OF THE PUBLICAN AND PHARISEE          

            8:30 AM             UYaroslava Piyonzko – Mariya Palashchuk

Saturday, January 24 SUNDAY OF THE PRODIGAL SON

            4:00 PM           God’s Blessings & Good Health for All Parishioners

Sunday, January 25      SUNDAY OF THE PRODIGAL SON        

            8:30 AM             UMaryAnn Youells-Paul & Dolore Hoover

“Whosoever shall not receive the Kingdom of God as a little child shall in no wise enter therein.” (Luke 18:17).  How is one to receive it as a little child?  Here is how:  in simplicity, with a full heart, without a moment’s thought.  A rational analysis is not applicable in the realm of faith.  It can have a place only on it’s threshold.  As an anatomist divides the whole body into it’s parts but does not see life, so also reason, no matter how much it deliberates, does not comprehend the power of faith.  Fath itself provides contemplations which on the whole, show that faith completely satisfies all the requirements of our nature, and obliges our consciousness, conscience and heart to receive faith.  They receive it, and having received it, do not want to break from it.  The same thing happens here as with someone who has tasted pleasant and healthy food.  Having tasted it once, he knows that it is suitable, and he accepts it among the substances that nourish him.  Chemistry is not help to him in the conviction, either before or after he tastes it.  His conviction is based on personal, direct experience.  In the same way a believer knows the truth of the Faith directly.  Faith itself instills in him the unshakeable conviction that it is faith.  How, then, could faith be rational faith?  The rationality of faith is to directly know that faith is faith.  The intellect only ruins things.  Cooling faith and weakening life according to faith; but the main thing is that it is arrogant, and chases away God’s grace—and in Christianity this is an evil of the first degree.  -St. Theophan the Recluse

“When a strong man armed keepeth his palace, his goods are in peace:  But when a stronger than he shall come upon him, and overcome him, he taketh from him all his armor wherein he trusted, and divideth his spoils (Luke 11:21-22).”   This allegory explains how demonic power over souls is destroyed by the Lord.  While a soul is in sin, its evil spirit possesses it, although it may not always be clearly demonstrated.  The evil spirit is stronger than the soul, and this is why it does not fear an uprising on the soul’s part.  It rules and tyrannizes it without resistance.  But when the Lord comes to a soul, attracted by faith and repentance, He tears apart all of Satan’s bonds, casts out the demon and deprives it of all the power over this person’s soul.  While this soul serves the Lord, the demons cannot prevail over it, for the soul is strong through the Lord, Who is stronger than they are.  When the soul takes a false step and roams away from the Lord, the demon again attacks and overcomes it, and for the soul, the poor thing, the last state is worse than before.  This is the general, unseen order of phenomena in the spiritual world.  If only the eyes of our mind were opened, we would see the worldwide battle of spirits against souls:  First one side, then the other overcomes, depending upon whether the soul communes with the Lord through faith, repentance, and zeal for good works, or falls back from Him through carelessness, lack of concern, and coolness toward doing good.  -St. Theophan the Recluse

THIRTY THIRD SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST

SUNDAY OF THE PUBLICAN AND PHARISEE

 LENT:  Remember, the first day of Lent is a fast from Meat and Dairy Products.  Lent begins with Forgiveness Vespers, Sunday, February 15^th at 3:00PM at Transfiguration of Our Lord Church.  The first full day of Lent will begin on Monday, February 16 and is a day of abstinence from Meat and Dairy Products for everyone who is able to do so.  All Fridays are always a day of fast.  Traditionally, Wednesdays are a day of fast during the Great Fast.  Anything you can do extra is also indicated.  Remember there are no weekday Liturgy during the Great Fast.

The Altar Candles for the month of January are given by Michaelene Ostrum IMO her brother, Michael B Sirak.

 SYMPATHY:  It is with deep sorrow that we remember in our prayers Jewel Johnstone who fell asleep in the Lord on Thursday, January 22^nd.  May Our Lord grant her rest in the bosom of Abraham, may she be numbered among the saints, and may her memory be eternal.  Jewel was very active in the Women’s group and Church activities, she will be sorely missed.  Vichnaya Pamyat.  May Her Memory Be Eternal.  The funeral will be Thursday January 29^th at 11 am from the church.

CHURCH CALENDARS:  The church calendars are here in the church vestibule.

BLESSING OF HOUSES:   If you would like your house blessed, please put a note in the basket or contact the rectory.

CHRISTMAS DECORATIONS:  Thank you to everyone who helped take down the decorations.  Your help is greatly appreciated.

FIRST SATURDAY LITURGY:  Twelve Liturgies were given for the first Saturday of each month starting February 7 for any Families experiencing troubles in their lives and seeking God’s help from both Transfiguration of Our Lord & Saints Peter & Paulk Churches.  If you have such a petition for a family  please feel free to share it with Fr. Walter to be included in the Saturday’s liturgy intention. The first Saturday Liturgies are celebrated at Tranfiguration of Our Lord Church at 8:00 AM.  No additional donations are required to submit a petition.  You also may call Lisa to submit a petition to add to the list, 570-574-1016.

MYASOPUSNA 2026

 Myasopusna Dinner Celebration is fast approaching!  The Myasopusna Celebration is scheduled for February 8^th, 2026, the date of our Meat-fare Sunday.  This event combines a delicious ethnic meal (Ham, kobasi, Halupki, pyrohy, kapusta, bosch, & dessert) with cultural dance, singing and art.  This year will feature the St. Mary’s Ukrainian Dancers.  Ukrainian Beer and wine will be available. Ticket price is $25 and kids are $12. Doors open at noon. Cocktail 1/2 hour is noon-12:30. Serving starts at 12:30PM and stops at 2:00PM.  Tables are not reserved ahead of time.  Program will start approximately 1:30PM.  For tickets call 570-735-4654 or 570-574-1016 (leave message) to order advance tickets.  No Tickets Will Be Sold At the Door.  Take-outs are available.  Lisa will be selling tickets prior to Saturday & Sunday Liturgies at Transfiguration of Our Lord Church and Saints Peter & Paul Church.

PIGGIE DINNER:  “Saints Peter & Paul Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church, Wilkes- Barre will hold a take-out Piggie / Holubtsi Dinner on Saturday, January 31^st, 2026.  Dinners may be picked up between 12:00 (noon) and 4:00 pm in our school hall, corner of North River and West Chestnut Streets, Wilkes-Barre.  Dinners include; Piggies (meat & rice stuffed cabbage), mashed potatoes, vegetable, bread and butter and dessert.  Dinners will be $15.00 for adults and $9.00 for children (12 and under).  Walk-in customers will be welcomed, but reservations are Strongly Encouraged, (570) 829-3051.”

PSANKY CLASSES:  St. Cyril & Methodius are holding Psanky classes. These classes are artistically taught by TAMMY BUDNOVITCH on February 22 & March 1^st.  Pick either 12:00 or 3:00 for classes.  All supplies are provided.  Fee: $25.  All proceeds support SS. Cyril & Methodius, Ukrainian Catholic Church.  For reservations: Call Tammy 570-766-1919.

VISITING THE SICK:  Do you know a homebound Parishioner who can’t make it to church and would like a visit?  Please contact Father Walter at the rectory at 570-735-2262.

LITURGY INTENTIONS:  If you are offering a Divine Liturgy for a specific day for your beloved or other intentions for 2026, please make sure you turn it into the rectory in order to make sure that you get the exact time that you would like

Slava Isusu Christu!  Slava Na Viki!

Glory to Jesus Christ! Glory Forever!

Prayer For Peace in Ukraine

Heavenly Father, Your Son taught us “Blessed are the peacemakers for they shall be called the sons of God.”  We fervently pray in the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit, that you inspire men to become peacemakers.  May mankind seek reconciliation and peace in this world, as is Your Will.  May tranquility be restored to all nations, and especially Ukraine.  God, Our Father, we beseech You to comfort the suffering, heal the wounded, and accept the souls of the dearly departed into Your heavenly kingdom.  May the Most Holy Mother of God extend Her Mantle of Protection over Ukraine, and the whole world.  May each of us always live our lives as instruments of Your peace, in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit.  Amen.

SUNDAY OF ZACCHAEUS

January 18, 2026 A. D. 

Saturday, January 17 SUNDAY OF ZACCHEUS

            4:00 PM           God’s Blessings & Good Health for All Parishioners

Sunday, January 18       SUNDAY OF ZACCHEUS

            8:30 AM             UFrank Udiski Sr.- Udiski Family

Saturday, January 17 SUNDAY OF THE PUBLICAN AND PHARISEE

            4:00 PM           God’s Blessings & Good Health for All Parishioners

Sunday, January 18       SUNDAY OF THE PUBLICAN AND PHARISEE          

            8:30 AM             UYaroslava Piyonakjo – Mariya Palashchuk

FIVE SATURDAYS OF THE DECEASED (SOROKUSTY)

The Five Saturdays of the Deceased (Sorokousty) The Church Typikon designates the five Sorokousty/ Saturdays of the Deceased for 2026 as February 21st; February 28^th, March 7th and 14^th, and May 23^rd.. It is a tradition of our Holy Church to commemorate the memories of our beloved deceased at Matins of the Deceased (Parastas) on these five Saturdays of the year.  Sorokousty Services will be celebrated at 8:00am at Transfiguration of Our Lord.

ANSWERS TO PRAYER:  If God is slow to grant your request and you do not receive what you ask for promptly, do not be grieved, for you are not wiser than God.  When this happens to you, it is either because your way of life does not accord with your request, or because the pathways of your heart are at odds with the intention of your prayer.  Or it may be because you inner state is too childish by comparison with the magnitude of the thing you have asked for.  It is not appropriate that great things should fall easily into our hands, otherwise God’s gift will be held in dishonour, because of the ease with which we obtain it.  For anything that is readily obtained is also easily lost, whereas everything which is found with toil is preserved with care.- St. Isaac of Syria

Woe to those who are rich, who are full, who laugh, and who are praised. But good shall come to those who endure every wrongful accusation, beating, robbery, or compulsory difficulty. This is completely opposite to what people usually think and feel! The thoughts of God are as far from human thoughts as heaven is from the earth. How else could it be? We are in exile; and it is not remarkable for those in exile to be offended and insulted. We are under a penance; the penance consists of deprivations and labors. We are sick; and most useful for the sick are bitter medicines. The Savior Himself all of His life did not have a place to lay His head, and He finished his life on the cross — why should his followers have a better lot? The Spirit of Christ is the spirit of preparedness to suffer and bear good-naturedly all that is sorrowful. Comfort, arrogance, splendor, and ease are all foreign to its searching and tastes. Its path lies in the fruitless, dreary desert. The model is the forty-year wandering of the Israelites in the desert. Who follows this path? Everyone who sees Canaan beyond the desert, boiling over with milk and honey. During his wandering he too receives manna, however not from the earth, but from heaven; not bodily, but spiritually. All the glory is within. – St. Theophan the Recluse

PRAYER TO ST. MICHAEL

St. Michael the Archangel, defend us in battle; be our defense against the wickedness and snares of the devil.  May God rebuke him, we humbly pray; and do you, O prince of the heavenly host, by the power of God, thrust into hell Satan and the other evil spirits who prowl about the world for the ruin of souls.  Amen.

THIRTY SECOND SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST

SUNDAY OF ZACCHAEUS

LENT:  Remember, the first day of Lent is a fast from Meat and Dairy Products.  Lent begins with Forgiveness Vespers, Sunday, February 15^th at 3:00PM at Transfiguration of Our Lord Church.  The first full day of Lent will begin on Monday, February 16 and is a day of abstinence from Meat and Dairy Products for everyone who is able to do so.  All Fridays are always a day of fast.  Traditionally, Wednesdays are a day of fast during the Great Fast.  Anything you can do extra is also indicated.  Remember there are no weekday Liturgy during the Great Fast.

The Altar Candles for the month of January are given by Michaelene Ostrum IMO her brother, Michael B Sir

CHURCH CALENDARS:  The church calendars are here and in the church vestibule.

BLESSING OF HOUSES:   If you would like your house blessed, please put a note in the basket or contact the rectory.

CHRISTMAS DECORATIONS:  The Christmas decorations will be taken down on Saturday, January 24th at 10AM.  Help is needed to complete this task.

FIRST SATURDAY LITURGY:  Twelve Liturgies were given for the first Saturday of each month starting February 7 for any Families experiencing troubles in their lives and seeking God’s help from both Transfiguration of Our Lord & Saints Peter & Paulk Churches.  If you have such a petition for a family  please feel free to share it with Fr. Walter to be included in the Saturday’s liturgy intention. The first Saturday Liturgies are celebrated at Tranfiguration of Our Lord Church at 8:00 AM.  No additional donations are required to submit a petition.

MYASOPUSNA 2026

 Myasopusna Dinner Celebration is fast approaching!  The Myasopusna Celebration is scheduled for February 8^th, 2026, the date of our Meat-fare Sunday.  This event combines a delicious ethnic meal (Ham, kobasi, Halupki, pyrohy, kapusta, bosch, & dessert) with cultural dance, singing and art.  This year will feature the St. Mary’s Ukrainian Dancers.  Ukrainian Beer and wine will be available. Ticket price is $25 and kids are $12. Doors open at noon. Cocktail 1/2 hour is noon-12:30. Serving starts at 12:30PM and stops at 2:00PM.  Tables are not reserved ahead of time.  Program will start approximately 1:30PM.  For tickets call 570-735-4654 or 570-574-1016 (leave message) to order advance tickets.  No Tickets Will Be Sold At the Door.  Take-outs are available.  Lisa will be selling tickets prior to Saturday & Sunday Liturgies at Transfiguration of Our Lord Church and Saints Peter & Paul Church.

PIGGIE DINNER:  “Saints Peter & Paul Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church, Wilkes- Barre will hold a take-out Piggie / Holubtsi Dinner on Saturday, January 31^st, 2026.  Dinners may be picked up between 12:00 (noon) and 4:00 pm in our school hall, corner of North River and West Chestnut Streets, Wilkes-Barre.  Dinners include; Piggies (meat & rice stuffed cabbage), mashed potatoes, vegetable, bread and butter and dessert.  Dinners will be $15.00 for adults and $9.00 for children (12 and under).  Walk-in customers will be welcomed, but reservations are Strongly Encouraged, (570) 829-3051.”

VISITING THE SICK:  Do you know a homebound Parishioner who can’t make it to church and would like a visit?  Please contact Father Walter at the rectory at 570-735-2262.

ST.VLADIMIR’S CHURCH PRESENTATION:  The Ukrainian Catholic Archeparchy is hosting a screening of Making NEPA Home, an original documentary from WVIA Public Media, highlighting the immigrant communities of Northeastern PA on Sunday, January 18^th at 2pm at St. Vladimir Ukrainian Catholic Church, 430 N. 7th Avenue, Scranton, PA 18503.  The screening is followed by a question & answer period with Kara Washigton, Promotions Coordinator, WVIA.  All are welcome.

LITURGY INTENTIONS:  If you are offering a Divine Liturgy for a specific day for your beloved or other intentions for 2026, please make sure you turn it into the rectory in order to make sure that you get the exact time that you would like.

January 11, 2026 A. D.

 Khrystos Razhdayetsia! Slavyte Yeho!

January 11, 2026 A. D. 

Saturday, January 10 SUNDAY AFTER THEOPHANY

            4:00 PM           God’s Blessings & Good Health for All Parishioners

Sunday, January 11       SUNDAY AFTER THEOPHANY

            8:30 AM             UBernard Sulzen & Family- Becker Family

Saturday, January 17 SUNDAY OF ZACCHEUS

            4:00 PM           God’s Blessings & Good Health for All Parishioners

Sunday, January 18       SUNDAY OF ZACCHEUS

            8:30 AM             UFrank Udiski Sr.- Udiski Family

 PRAYER TO ST. MICHAEL

St. Michael the Archangel, defend us in battle; be our defense against the wickedness and snares of the devil.  May God rebuke him, we humbly pray; and do you, O prince of the heavenly host, by the power of God, thrust into hell Satan and the other evil spirits who prowl about the world for the ruin of souls.  Amen.

ASK FATHER A QUESTION?  Father………… How do you pronounce and what is Sabboath?  Is that the Sabbath-OR different?  

Firstly, the “correct” spelling is Sabaoth.  It is pronounced  Greek “Saba’-oath” or “Sab’-a-oth” or “Sab’-a-yoth”.  The prayer we pray on page 30 of the little black book says “Lord of Sabaoth” and this is a name for God.  Sabaoth literally means heavenly hosts, the angels, and the angels are God’s Heavenly Army.    Yes, this is different from the Sabbath.  The Sabbath is the seventh and last day of the week, same as the seventh day of creation when the Lord rested.  This is the Holy Day of prayer that when God tells us to keep Holy the Lord’s day- this is the day.  Both words are transliterated from Hebrew.  Keeping the Sabbath Holy means to put first amongst all things- God.

ASK FATHER A QUESTION?  What is the Liturgy of the Hours?  Does it require a priest to lead in prayer?  Or can it be said like the Rosary before Liturgy or as a separate service?   Liturgy of the Hours is a prayer service primarily of the psalms recited at the 1^st(6AM), 3^rd(9AM), 6^th(noon), and 9^th(3PM) hour of the day.  

The Liturgy of the Hours is intended to be led by a priest, however it can be led by a Cantor in the absence of a priest, by not reciting the priestly prayers.

There are two kinds of prayer in the Church, Private Devotions and Liturgies.  Liturgy is from the Greek word meaning a “public work” which is recited by the whole Church, priest and people.  Liturgy of the Hours falls into the category of Liturgies- “public works.”  The Liturgical Cycle of daily prayers in the Church are all meant to be led by a priest; in the absence of a priest there are ways that all of the Liturgies of the Church can be said led by a deacon or a cantor.  The Rosary and Stations of the Cross are private devotions that do not require a priest and can be recited by the Parish.  Copies of the Hours are in the Blue Book; The Divine Liturgy, An Anthology for Worship.

If you want to know about God, there is only one way to do it; get down on your knees.  – Venerable Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen 1946

 Petitions & Prayers for Our Parishioners:  Jewel Johnstone, John Ostrum,Donna Winsock, Sonia Dempsey, Catherine Halloway, Charles Hallaway, Paul Hoover & James Bencho.  Keep them in your prayers.  If anyone would like to be included in the prayer list drop a note in the basket, email the church or text Michalene Ostrum at 570-704-7079.

FESTIVAL OF THE CAROLS:  Festival of Ukrainian Christmas Carols to be held at the Cathedral in Philadelphia on January 11, 2026, at 3:00pm.  

LITURGY INTENTIONS:  If you are offering a Divine Liturgy for a specific day for your beloved or other intentions for 2026, please make sure you turn it into the rectory in order to make sure that you get the exact time that you would like.

BOOK(S) OF THE MONTH FOR JANUARY:

As It Was In The Beginning Is Now And Ever Shall Be

By Bishop Roman Danylak, Titular Bishop of Nissa

ISBN:  978-0986534300

The Altar Candles for the month of January are given by Michaelene Ostrum IMO her brother, Michael B Sirak.

The Sanctuary Light for this week is requested by Michaelene Ostrum IMO her brother, Michael Sirak.

THANK YOU:   Thank You for all your prayers, cards and gifts during the Christmas Season.  They are deeply appreciated!  I also thank all of the Parishioners for their generous donations to the Parish during the year, and this Christmas Season.  I deeply appreciate  your sacrifice to St. Peter & Paul Parish in your time & efforts and monetary donations.    I am certain that all the Parishioners have a heartfelt “Thank You” to God as well for this past year.  Fr. Walter Pasicznyk

CHURCH CALENDARS:  The church calendars are on the way.   They should be here next week.  The company never received our order.  My apologies to you.

BLESSING OF HOUSES:   If you would like your house blessed, please put a note in the basket or contact the rectory.

CHRISTMAS DECORATIONS:  The Christmas decorations will be taken down on Saturday, January 24th at 10AM.  Help is needed to complete this task.

FIRST SATURDAY LITURGY:  Twelve Liturgies were given for the first Saturday of each month starting February 7 for any parishioner or family experiencing troubles in their lives and seeking God’s help.  If you have such a petition, please feel free to share it with Fr. Walter to be included in the Saturday’s liturgy intention. The first Saturday Liturgies are celebrated at Tranfiguration of Our Lord Church at 8:00 AM.  No additional donations are required to submit a petition.

 MYOSOPUSNA 2026

The Myasopusna Dinner Celebration at Transfiguration of Our Lord Church is scheduled for February 8, 2026, the date of our Meat-fare Sunday.  This event combines a delicious ethnic meal (Ham, kobasi, Halupki, pyrohy, kapusta, bosch, & dessert) with cultural dance, singing and art.  This year will feature the St. Mary’s Ukrainian Dancers.  Ukrainian Beer and wine will be available. Ticket price is $25 and kids are $12. Doors open at noon. Cocktail 1/2 hour is noon-12:30. Serving starts at 12:30PM and stops at 2:00PM.  Tables are not reserved ahead of time.  Program will start approximately 1:30PM.  For tickets call 570-735-4654 or 570-735-1901(leave message) to order advance tickets.  No Tickets Will Be Sold At the Door.

    Take-outs are available.

PIGGIE DINNER:  “Saints Peter & Paul Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church, Wilkes- Barre will hold a take-out Piggie / Holubtsi Dinner on Saturday, January 31^st, 2026.  Dinners may be picked up between 12:00 (noon) and 4:00 pm in our school hall, corner of North River and West Chestnut Streets, Wilkes-Barre.  Dinners include; Piggies (meat & rice stuffed cabbage), mashed potatoes, vegetable, bread and butter and dessert.  Dinners will be $15.00 for adults and $9.00 for children (12 and under).  Walk-in customers will be welcomed, but reservations are Strongly Encouraged, (570) 829-3051.”

VISITING THE SICK:  Do you know a homebound Parishioner who can’t make it to church and would like a visit?  Please contact Father Walter at the rectory at 570-735-2262.

“If you are discouraged it is a sign of pride, because it shows you trust in your own powers.

 – Mother Teresa

Slava Isusu Christu!  Slava Na Viki!

Glory to Jesus Christ! Glory Forever!

Prayer For Peace in Ukraine

Heavenly Father, Your Son taught us “Blessed are the peacemakers for they shall be called the sons of God.”  We fervently pray in the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit, that you inspire men to become peacemakers.  May mankind seek reconciliation and peace in this world, as is Your Will.  May tranquility be restored to all nations, and especially Ukraine.  God, Our Father, we beseech You to comfort the suffering, heal the wounded, and accept the souls of the dearly departed into Your heavenly kingdom.  May the Most Holy Mother of God extend Her Mantle of Protection over Ukraine, and the whole world.  May each of us always live our lives as instruments of Your peace, in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit.  Amen.

January 4, 2026 A. D.

 Saturday, January 3 SUNDAY BEFORE THEOPHANY

            4:00 PM           UElizabeth Suscavage – Joe & Rose Mazur

Sunday, January 4 SUNDAY BEFORE THEOPHANY

            8:30 AM             God’s Blessings & Good Health for All Parishioners

Monday, January 5 THEOPHANY EVE – (w/Myrovania)

    4:00 PM UHugh Hughes- Nancy Marshall

Tuesday, January 6 THEOPHANY – (w/Myrovania)

      8:30 AM God’s Blessings & Good Health for All Parishioners

Saturday, January 10 SUNDAY AFTER THEOPHANY

            4:00 PM           God’s Blessings & Good Health for All Parishioners

Sunday, January 11       SUNDAY AFTER THEOPHANY

            8:30 AM             UBernard Sulzen & Family- Becker Family

 ASK FATHER A QUESTION?  Father, is Epiphany and Theophany the same Feast Day?  Epiphany and Theophany are two different feasts that are celebrated on the same day.  One Holy Day and two events are remembered on that day.  The Western Church (Roman Catholic) emphasizes the manifestation of Jesus Christ to the Gentiles (Magi or Three Kings) and they do recognize the baptism of Jesus Christ on the same day- the Western Church calls it Epiphany from the Greek {to reveal}.  The Eastern Church (Ukrainian Church is one of the Eastern Churches) emphasizes the baptism of the “Adult” Jesus Christ in the Jordan River at the beginning of his ministry and the three kings are remembered –the Eastern Church calls this Feast Day Theophany, from the Greek {to show us God}.

 Father I have a question for you, how long is the “Christmas Season?” 

Like Easter, Christmas is the only other feast that has a 40 day long Preparation Period (Phillip’s Fast) and 40-day Festal Period.  Also, like Easter, Christmas is an eight day feast.  You might remember that on Easter Sunday and the entire week following, the Royal Doors and Deacon Doors are open because it is seven days of Sunday.  In our church, there are Feasts that are 1, 3, or 8 days long.  On the Feasts that last more than one day, the final day of the Feast is called the Leave-Taking.   The Leave-Taking of Christmas is December 31.  If you pay attention to the Liturgies, Daily and Sunday, throughout the course of the year, you will notice that for the Feast Day itself, there are multiple special prayers for the Feast, Old Testament Readings, Antiphons, Tropars, Kondaks, Prayers to the Theotokos (God Bearer, a.k.a. Mother of God), Communion Hymns and Ambvon (Priest’s) Prayers.  For the Feasts that last several days, you will notice that some of the special prayers will be included during this period.  Possibly, the Antiphons, Tropars, Kondaks, and Prayers to the Mother of God-(It is Truly Right…).  For the forty day Festal Period, we don’t include all of those prayers liturgically, but you know it is the forty day Festal Period because of the greeting Christ is Born! Glorify Him!  Part of the confusion with Christmas is that we have the Feast of Theophany, Synaxis of the Mother of God, Synaxis of St. John the Baptist, and the Feast of St. Stephen, in the middle of the Christmas Season, this does not negate the Christmas Festal Period that concludes with the Encounter of Our Lord with Simeon on February 2^nd.

 PRAYER TO ST. MICHAEL

St. Michael the Archangel, defend us in battle; be our defense against the wickedness and snares of the devil.  May God rebuke him, we humbly pray; and do you, O prince of the heavenly host, by the power of God, thrust into hell Satan and the other evil spirits who prowl about the world for the ruin of souls.  Amen.

BOOK(S) OF THE MONTH FOR DECEMBER:

ST. EPHREM THE SYRIAN

Hymns on Paradise  

ISBN:   978-0881410761

 Petitions & Prayers for Our Parishioners:  Jewel Johnstone, John Ostrum,Donna Winsock, Sonia Dempsey, Catherine Halloway, Charles Hallaway, Paul Hoover & James Bencho.  Keep them in your prayers.  If anyone would like to be included in the prayer list drop a note in the basket, email the church or text Michalene Ostrum at 570-704-7079.

The Jesus Prayer

Господи Ісусе Христе, Сину Божий, помилуй мене грішного.

Hospodi Isuse Khryste, Synu Bozhe, pomiluy mene, hrishnoho.

“Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me a sinner.”

This prayer is central in The Eastern Catholic and Orthodox hesychasm, a form of 

contemplative prayer focused on continual invocation of Jesus’ name.

FESTIVAL OF THE CAROLS:  Festival of Ukrainian Christmas Carols to be held at the Cathedral in Philadelphia on January 11, 2026, at 3:00pm.  

LITURGY INTENTIONS:  If you are offering a Divine Liturgy for a specific day for your beloved or other intentions for 2026, please make sure you turn it into the rectory in order to make sure that you get the exact time that you would like.

MYASOPUSNA 2026 at Transfiguration of our Lord Church is February 8^th, 2026.  Please SAVE the date.

The Altar Candles for the month of January are given by Michaelene Ostrum IMO her brother, Michael B Sirak.

The Sanctuary Light for this week is requested by Mariya Palashchuk IMO Evhen Slobodian.

NEW ALTAR SERVER:  God Bless Jude Michael Schappert, our new Altar Server.

 CHURCH ENVELOPES:  Church envelopes are in the vestibule to be picked up.  PLEASE do not use any until after January 1, 2026. There were a few envelopes used for the coming new year, they will be added to next week’s report. 

BLESSING OF WATER & HOMES:   On Monday, January 5 in the afternoon, we will have the Vesperal Liturgy with the Blessing of Water in celebration of Theophany.  Please remember to bring your containers in order to bring water home. Please note this is a Holy Day of Obligation.  If you would like your house blessed, please put a note in the basket or contact the rectory.

VISITING THE SICK:  Do you know a homebound Parishioner who can’t make it to church and would like a visit?  Please contact Father Walter at the rectory at 570-735-2262.

PRAYERS BEFORE SLEEP

O Lord our God, forgive all the sins I have committed this day in word, deed or thought, for thou art good and lovest mankind.  Grant me peaceful and untroubled sleep, and send thy guardian angel to protect and keep me from every evil; for thou art the guardian of our souls and bodies, and to thee we send up glory, to the Father and the Son and to the Holy Spirit, now and ever and unto ages of ages. Amen.

A Prayer to the Mother of God

For Someone who has Forsaken the Path of Salvation

By Saint Gabriel of Novgorod

All-Merciful Lady, Virgin Mistress and Theotokos, Heavenly Queen: by thy birth giving thou didst save mankind from the eternal torment of the devil, for Christ our Savior was born from thee.  In thy mercy look down even now upon N., Who is deprived of God’s mercy and grace, and intercede before they Son, Christ our God, by thy maternal boldness and thy prayers, that from on high He might send down His grace upon him[her], for he[she]is perishing.  O most Blessed Lady, thou hope of the hopeless and salvation of the despairing, may the enemy never rejoice over his[her] soul!  Amen.

For those who have died Unbaptized, and without Repentance or by Suicide

By Saint Leonid of Optina

O Lord, seek the soul of thy servant N.:  if it be possible, have mercy.  Thy judgements are unfathomable.  Do not count this prayer of mine as a sin, but rather may thy holy will be done.

On New’s Day

O Lord, God of all creation both visible and invisible, thou Maker and Creator who hast established the times and seasons:  do thou thyself bless the new year which beginneth today, (for January 1^st):  which we reckon according to thine Incarnation for the sake of our salvation.  Allow us to pass this year and many years afterward in peace and harmony with our neighbors.  Strengthen and propagate the Holy Catholic Church, which thou has established and sanctified through the saving sacrifice of thy Holy Body and most precious Blood.  Exalt our earthly homeland, keep it and glorify it.  Grant us long life, health, abundance of the fruits of the earth and seasonal weather.  As our true and chief Sheperd, save and guard us, thy sinful servants, together with all our relatives and friends, and all right-believing Christians, and confirm us on the path of salvation, so that by following it, we may lead a good and long life in this world and afterwards attain to thy heavenly kingdom and there partake of eternal blessing together with all thy saints.  Amen.

Slava Isusu Christu!  Slava Na Viki!

Glory to Jesus Christ! Glory Forever!

Prayer For Peace in Ukraine

Heavenly Father, Your Son taught us “Blessed are the peacemakers for they shall be called the sons of God.”  We fervently pray in the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit, that you inspire men to become peacemakers.  May mankind seek reconciliation and peace in this world, as is Your Will.  May tranquility be restored to all nations, and especially Ukraine.  God, Our Father, we beseech You to comfort the suffering, heal the wounded, and accept the souls of the dearly departed into Your heavenly kingdom.  May the Most Holy Mother of God extend Her Mantle of Protection over Ukraine, and the whole world.  May each of us always live our lives as instruments of Your peace, in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit.  Amen.

December 21, 2025

DIVINE LITURGY for PHILLIPS FAST(11/15-12/25)

Saturday, December 20 TWENTY EIGHTH SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST

            4:00 PM           Ed Schwartz- Ann Beshada

Sunday, December 21 TWENTY SEVENTH SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST

            8:30 AM             God’s Blessings & Good Health for All Parishioners

Wednesday, December 24 VIGIL OF CHRISTMAS- CHRISTMAS EVE

           4:00 PM John Phillips- brother, Peter Phillips

Thursday, December 25 CHRISTMAS DAY

             8:30 AM God’s Blessings & Good Health for All Parishioners

Friday, December 26 SYNAXIS OF THE MOTHER OF GOD

             8:30 AM Peter, Anna & John Phillips-Peter Phillips

Saturday, December 27 TWENTY EIGHTH SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST

            4:00 PM           UOlga Morgenfruh- June Meyers

Sunday, December 28 TWENTY EIGHTH SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST

            8:30 AM             God’s Blessings & Good Health for All Parishioners

The Altar Candles for the month of December are given by the Youells Family in loving  memory of Mary Ann Youells.

The Sanctuary Light for this week is requested by Rosemarie Kachinko IMO all the deceased Kachinko family members.

CHURCH ENVELOPES:  Church envelopes are in the vestibule to be picked up.  PLEASE do not use any until after January 1, 2026.

THANK YOU!:  Thank you to everyone who came last week and helped decorate and clean the church.

THE ENGLOT SISTERS CHRISTMAS CD:  You can now listen to the Englot Sisters CD  “An American Ukrainian Christmas “on YouTube and Spotify. [ CD’s are also still available for purchase- you can find them in the back of the church for a freewill donation.] To locate the account on You Tube search by “THE ENGLOT SISTERS” and it will bring up the account.  (Joanne & Christine are parishioners of Transfiguration of Our Lord Church.  They sing with their sister, Mary a selection of Ukrainian Christmas Carols.)

Petitions & Prayers for Our Parishioners:  Jewel Johnstone, John Ostrum,Donna Winsock, Sonia Dempsey, Catherine Halloway, Charles Hallaway, Paul Hoover & James Bencho.  Keep them in your prayers.  If anyone would like to be included in the prayer list drop a note in the basket, email the church or text Michalene Ostrum at 570-704-7079.

PYROHY SALE:  Transfiguration of Our Lord Church is having a potato pyrohy sale.  The cost is $12.00 per dozen.  Contact the church rectory or call Lisa at 570-574-1016.

 FATHER A QUESTION?  Father, is Epiphany and Theophany the same Feast Day?  Epiphany and Theophany are two different feasts that are celebrated on the same day.  One Holy Day and two events are remembered on that day.  The Western Church (Roman Catholic) emphasizes the manifestation of Jesus Christ to the Gentiles (Magi or Three Kings) and they do recognize the baptism of Jesus Christ on the same day- the Western Church calls it Epiphany from the Greek {to reveal}.  The Eastern Church (Ukrainian Church is one of the Eastern Churches) emphasizes the baptism of the “Adult” Jesus Christ in the Jordan River at the beginning of his ministry and the three kings are remembered –the Eastern Church calls this Feast Day Theophany, from the Greek {to show us God}.

Who are the Fore-Fathers and the Fathers of the church that we are remembering these two Sundays before Christmas?  In short, the Holy Fore-Fathers, also called Patriarchs, are the Saints of the first period of the Old Testament prior to the law being given to Moses.  These are Saints such as Abel, Noah, Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Joseph and Melchisedek who served God.  The Holy Fathers are those Saints of the Old Testament mostly after the law is given to Moses and who had an earthly relation to the origin of Christ’s birth.  These are the great Saints and Prophets who prophesied the coming of the Messiah.  Such as Joshua, King David and Isaiah.  We remember them because, by honoring them, Holy Church reminds us of their faithfulness to God who is always watching over them, and us, who keep his Law and serve Him.  

CHRISTMAS SING-ALONG:  “YOU ARE INVITED to join Saints Peter & Paul Ukrainian Greek Catholic Parish for their 31^st Annual Christmas Carol Sing Along in the church at 635 North River Street in Wilkes-Barre,  Sunday, December 28^th, 2025 starting at 2:00p.m.  Join in the singing of some very sacred, joyful and inspiring Christmas Carols.  Afterwards, please join us in the lower church hall for a Christmas Fellowship Social.  Please bring a friend or family member, and share the joy of Christmas with them, as we all welcome the Newborn Son of God into our hearts and homes.

BOOK(S) OF THE MONTH FOR DECEMBER:

ST. EPHREM THE SYRIAN

Hymns on Paradise  

ISBN:   978-0881410761

Christ is coming…Are you ready?

DID YOU GO TO CONFESSION?  SET ASIDE TIME TO PRAY…. PLAN TO ATTEND SERVICES?   TEACH YOUR CHILDREN & GRANDCHILDREN ABOUT CHRIST??  There’s still time.

Prayer For Peace in Ukraine

Heavenly Father, Your Son taught us “Blessed are the peacemakers for they shall be called the sons of God.”  We fervently pray in the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit, that you inspire men to become peacemakers.  May mankind seek reconciliation and peace in this world, as is Your Will.  May tranquility be restored to all nations, and especially Ukraine.  God, Our Father, we beseech You to comfort the suffering, heal the wounded, and accept the souls of the dearly departed into Your heavenly kingdom.  May the Most Holy Mother of God extend Her Mantle of Protection over Ukraine, and the whole world.  May each of us always live our lives as instruments of Your peace, in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit.  Amen.

December 14, 2025

DIVINE LITURGY for PHILLIPS FAST(11/15-12/25)

Saturday, December 13 TWENTY SEVENTH SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST

            4:00 PM           God’s Blessings & Good Health for All Parishioners

Sunday, December 14 TWENTY SEVENTH SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST

            8:30 AM             UMary Ann & Christine Youells-Youells Family

Saturday, December 20 TWENTY EIGHTH SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST

            4:00 PM           UEd Schwartz- Ann Beshada

Sunday, December 21 TWENTY SEVENTH SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST

            8:30 AM             God’s Blessings & Good Health for All Parishioners

Gospel of Luke 14:16-24

 The Lord told this parable: “A certain man gave a great supper, and he invited many.  And he sent his servant at supper time to tell those invited to come, for everything is now ready.  And they all with one accord began to excuse themselves.  The first said to him, ‘I have bought a farm, and I must go out and see it; I pray you hold me excused.’  And another said, ‘I have bought five yoke of oxen, and I am on my way to try them; I pray you hold be excused.’  And another said, ‘I have married a wife, and therefore I cannot come.’  And the servant returned, and reported these things to his master.  Then the master of the house was angry and said to his servant, ‘Go out quickly into the streets and lanes of the city, and bring in here the poor, and the crippled, and the blind, and the lame.’  And the servant said, ‘sir, your order has been carried out, and still there is room.’  Then the master said to the servant, ‘Go out into the highways and hedges, and make them come in, so that my house may be filled.  For I tell you that none of those who were invited shall taste of my supper.  ‘For many are called but few are chosen.”

Overcoming Evil Thoughts: The Battle of the Mind

One of the most significant challenges in spiritual combat is dealing with evil thoughts that constantly influence our minds. These thoughts can be either good or evil, impacting our spiritual lives in diverse ways. The account of Adam and Eve’s fall in the book of Genesis serves as a poignant reminder of the power of temptation. The devil deceived our ancestors by suggesting that they could become like God if they rejected His commandment.  This temptation resulted in personal responsibility for sin. Likewise, in our lives, we face continuous temptations to sin, but it is our response that defines the outcome.

The stages of dealing with evil thoughts are a progression: suggestion, internal conversation, struggle, assent, and passion. It begins with a suggestion, which can manifest through images, fantasies, or recollections, and if not dismissed, the evil thought proceeds to penetrate our hearts. The internal conversation with the thought presents us with a choice – to succumb or resist. The struggle to dismiss the thought requires effort, relying on the Word of God and prayer and fasting to achieve victory. If we give assent to the evil thought, accepting and intending to act on it, we have already sinned, even if the action is not realized. This sequence culminates in the state of passion, where a person becomes enslaved by their sinful desires if we do not constantly pray and fast.

The Altar Candles for the month of December are given by the Youells Family in loving  memory of Mary Ann Youells.

The Sanctuary Light for this week is requested by Anna Magill for her deceased parents and siblings.

SAINT NICHOLAS TEA:  Thank you to everyone who made the Saint Nicholas Tea a success.  We are grateful for Saint Nicholas making an appearance!

THE ENGLOT SISTERS CHRISTMAS CD:  You can now listen to the Englot Sisters CD  “An American Ukrainian Christmas “on YouTube and Spotify. [ CD’s are also still available for purchase- you can find them in the back of the church for a freewill donation.] To locate the account on You Tube search by “THE ENGLOT SISTERS” and it will bring up the account.  (Joanne & Christine are parishioners of Transfiguration of Our Lord Church.  They sing with their sister, Mary a selection of Ukrainian Christmas Carols.)

Petitions & Prayers for Our Parishioners:  Jewel Johnstone, John Ostrum,Donna Winsock, Sonia Dempsey, Kathrine Halloway, Charles Halloway, & James Bencho.  Keep them in your prayers.  If anyone would like to be included in the prayer list drop a note in the basket, email the church or text Michalene Ostrum at 570-704-7079.

PYROHY SALE:  Transfiguration of Our Lord Church is having a potato pyrohy sale.  The cost is $12.00 per dozen.  Contact the church rectory or call Lisa at 570-574-1016.

WYOMING VALLEY BAND COINCERT:  The Wyoming Valley Concert Band presents “The Most Wonderful Time of the Year”, a concert of Christmas music, on Tuesday, December 16 at 7:30 p.m. at St. Stephen’s Episcopal Pro Cathedral, Franklin Street in Wilkes Barre. Admission is free. A non-perishable food item for the food pantry is appreciated. This concert is a gift of the musicians to you to celebrate the holidays. Donations to the band are always welcome.

CHRISTMAS SING-ALONG:  “YOU ARE INVITED to join Saints Peter & Paul Ukrainian Greek Catholic Parish for their 31^st Annual Christmas Carol Sing Along in the church at 635 North River Street in Wilkes-Barre,  Sunday, December 28^th, 2025 starting at 2:00p.m.  Join in the singing of some very sacred, joyful and inspiring Christmas Carols.  Afterwards, please join us in the lower church hall for a Christmas Fellowship Social.  Please bring a friend or family member, and share the joy of Christmas with them, as we all welcome the Newborn Son of God into our hearts and homes.

BOOK(S) OF THE MONTH FOR DECEMBER:

ST. EPHREM THE SYRIAN

Hymns on Paradise  

ISBN:   978-0881410761

James 1:19-27; Mark 10:17-27

Someone turned to the Lord with a question:  Good Master, what shall I do that I may inherit eternal life?(Mark 10:17)  What neccessitated this question?  Was there no Scripture?  Was the law not read every Saturday for everyone?  There was everything—both the Scripture and its interpreters—but differences of opinion went around in society and muddled everyone.  The Pharisees said one thing, the Sadducees another, the Essenes had their own opinion, and the Samaritans theirs.  In Galilee, perhaps even pagan teachings were heard, and each side put forth its own teachings with a tone of conviction.  Anyone who was zealous for salvation naturally came to the question:  What should I do?  What should I follow, so as to not lose my soul?  Our situation now is very similar to that of those times.  How many teachings are circulating in our schools, in society, and in literature!  For the indifferent it is nothing, but those concerned over which teaching to follow cannot help but seek a resolution; “What should I do?”  And so what is the solution?  The one which the Savior gave:  Believe and live as God commanded,  and do not listen to people’s talk; let them talk.  The talk of scholars too is like rumors and fashion; today one thing, tomorrow another.  But you should heed only God’s Word, which abides onto the ages.  What Lord commanded, no philosophizing can revoke.  Everything must done, and cannot be put of.  The Judgement indeed will be according to the Word of the Lord, and not according to our philosophizing.

– St. Theophan the Recluse

-+—

TWENTY SEVENTH SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST

December 14, 2025 A. D.

Slava Isusu Christu!  Slava Na Viki!

Glory to Jesus Christ! Glory Forever!

Prayer For Peace in Ukraine

Heavenly Father, Your Son taught us “Blessed are the peacemakers for they shall be called the sons of God.”  We fervently pray in the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit, that you inspire men to become peacemakers.  May mankind seek reconciliation and peace in this world, as is Your Will.  May tranquility be restored to all nations, and especially Ukraine.  God, Our Father, we beseech You to comfort the suffering, heal the wounded, and accept the souls of the dearly departed into Your heavenly kingdom.  May the Most Holy Mother of God extend Her Mantle of Protection over Ukraine, and the whole world.  May each of us always live our lives as instruments of Your peace, in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit.  Amen.

 Liturgy Schedules

Transfiguration of Our Lord, Nanticoke

Wednesday, December 24 –  Christmas Eve

8:00 PM Great Compline and Divine Liturgy with Myrovania

Thursday, December 25 – Christmas

10:30 AM Liturgy with Myrovania

Friday, December 26 – Synaxis of the Holy Mother of God

10:30AM  Liturgy with Myrovania

Saturday, December 27 Feast of St. Stephen, Protomartyr

8:00 AM Liturgy with Myrovania

 Ss. Peter and Paul (Plymouth)

Wednesday, December 24 –  Christmas Eve

4:00 PM Great Compline and Divine Liturgy with Myrovania

Thursday, December 25 Christmas 

 8:30AM Liturgy with Myrovania

Friday, December 26  Synaxis of the Holy Mother of God 

8:30AM Liturgy with Myrovania

Saturday, December 27 Feast of St. Stephen, Protomartyr

8:00 AM At Transfiguration of Our Lord, Nanticoke.

Christ is coming…Are you ready?

DID YOU GO TO CONFESSION?  SET ASIDE TIME TO PRAY…. PLAN TO ATTEND SERVICES?   TEACH YOUR CHILDREN & GRANDCHILDREN ABOUT CHRIST??  There’s still time.

“You fool, this night your life will be demanded of you; and the things you have prepared, to whom will they belong?” (Luke 12:20)

The rich man in today’s Gospel was indeed “foolish”. He concentrated on the acquisition of temporal, earthly goods. No matter how good or needful it may be for our earthly sustenance or survival, our focus should remain on what lasts forever, on what is eternal. Our personal relationship with Our Lord. God and Savior. Jesus Christ is to be our first and primary concern. The final and eternal destination of one’s soul depends upon that.

        The rich man most definitely had his priorities all messed up. He wasn’t preparing himself for Heaven as his future destination, but was overly concerned and spent his time and effort on the acquisition of the temporal goods of this earthly life. He was looking to acquire a surplus of harvest so that he’d be able to take it easy and say to himself: “Now as for you, you have so many good things stored up for many years, rest, eat, drink, be merry!” (Luke 12:19) And in order to store that surplus of grain, the plan was to “tear down my barns and build larger ones. There I shall store all my grain and other goods.” (12:18)  St. Augustine comments on this selfish outlook of the rich man who gathered much material goods for only himself. He was planning for himself to eat, drink, and be merry. St. Augustine shares his insight: “At the same time, many (thousands of) people around him suffered from hunger. The rich man never understood that the bellies of the poor, the houses of the widows and the mouths of orphans were much more reliable granaries than those he planned to build.”

The rich man in today’s parable and the rich man in the parable of the rich man and the beggar Lazarus is presented to us as one who is totally centered on himself. There is no thought, no compassion, no plan of action to do something to alleviate the hunger, the suffering, of another. And if we recall another parable, that of the Last Judgment, we are instructed that if a person fails to help “the least of the brethren in need,” one fails to do it for Christ.

These parables are calling us to recognize that we all have a Heavenly Father. We all are children of God whom He created in His own image and likeness. We Christians are called to do the good deed in a timely manner. For none of us knows how many tomorrows remain before being called before Christ, the Just Judge.  Hopefully, we all have celebrated Thanksgiving Day with loved ones and given thanks to the Almighty Lord God for all the blessings and good things that we have thus far received this year and throughout one’s life. May we have the spirit of Christ within us as we continue to prepare to gloriously celebrate the Nativity of Our Lord, His Incarnation among us. May this same spirit of love, compassion, and a desire to make previous wrongs right guide and protect us. This we do so that we may all live in peace and harmony with one another, giving the Lord God continual thanks, glory, and praise.

– Father D. George Worschak