SS Peter & Paul Ukrainian Catholic Church

Saturday, November 2
4:00 PM ✞Sandra Elko – Kachinko Family

Sunday, November 3 TWENTY FIRST SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST
8:30 AM God’s Blessings and Good Health for all Parishioners

Friday, Nov. 8 ST. MICHAEL THE ARCHANGEL AND ALL SAINTS
9:00 AM ✞Michael Oherko – Oherko Family

Saturday, Nov. 9
4:00 PM ✞Priscilla Kowalick – Michael Kowalick

Sunday, Nov. 10 TWENTY SECOND SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST

St. Michael the Archangel
Feast Day November 8th
St. Michael (Michael means ‘Who is like God’) is the leader of the heavenly hosts and the greatest adversary of Satan. Under his leadership the faithful Angels defeated Lucifer and cast him in to Hell, the chieftain of the rebellious angels. This feast was instituted at the time of Emperor Constantine the Great in the fourth century.
St. Michael became patron of Kiev, capital of the Kievan-Rus Kingdom (now known as Ukraine) since the early days of Christianity in our country.
The Church honors all the angelic choirs on the same day, when it pays a tribute of honor to their leader, St. Michael.

PRAYER TO ST. MICCHAEL

‘Saint Michael the Archangel defend us in battle.
Be our protection against the wickedness and snares of the devil;
May God rebuke him, we humbly pray;
And do thou, O Prince of the Heavenly Host,
by the power of God,
thrust into hell Satan and all evil spirits
who wander through the world for the ruin of souls.
Amen.’

Continued from last week bulletin- The Divine Liturgy
The Consecration – The priest says silently the prayer before the elevation. The deacon makes the sign of the cross and a bow; then crossing his hands to remind the people that the Divine Liturgy is a mystical representation and renewal of Christ’s sacrifice upon the cross, he lifts up the body and blood of Jesus Christ.
The priest exhorts the people to give thanks to the Blessed Virgin for having born Christ, without Whom the Sacrifice of the Divine Liturgy would not be possible. The people thank the Mother of God for such a great sacrifice as Jesus Christ’s by singing the hymn in her honor. During the hymn the priest says silently the prayers for the living and the dead and recommends to God by name persons for whom he wishes to pray.
The Exclamation: The priest turns to the people and asks God to bless them. The people make the sign of the cross when blessed as a sign of their willingly taking up their own cross. The people sing the “Our Father”, whereby the people prepare their hearts to receive Jesus Christ in Holy Communion.
The priest asks God silently for the grace to receive worthily and to distribute Holy Communion to the faithful, that his personal sins do not stop God’s graces from reaching the people. The priest makes three small bows, saying each time: O God, have mercy on me, a sinner. The priest uncovers the chalice and takes the Great Host to break it, the priest says aloud: Holy things for the holy.
Elevation and breaking of the Ahnets (Lamb of God): The priest places the four divided parts of the Ahnets on the four sides of the paten. He takes the upper part and makes therewith the sign of the cross above the holy chalice and then puts it into the chalice. Thus the Body and the Blood of Jesus Christ are reunited again, recalling the Glorious Resurrection of Our Lord, when His soul re-entered His glorified Body on the day of the resurrection.
Holy Communion – The priest covers the chalice with the purifier, puts the spoon therein, makes a reverent bow, takes the chalice and descending to the Royal Doors exclaims: “Approach with the fear of God and with faith.” The faithful of the Ukrainian Catholic Church follow the original custom of receiving Holy Communion as the Risen Christ, His body re-united with His blood. Holy Communion takes us back in time to the “Last Supper.” After the Communion of the people, the priest places the spoon, in the chalice, covers the chalice with the purifier, and blesses the people. The blessing with the Blessed Sacrament is God blessing all his people, those who were properly disposed and not, as Christ gave to His disciples and apostles before Ascending into heaven.
The priest carries the Holy Gifts to the table of preparation, commemorating the Ascension of Our Lord Jesus Christ, incenses and then returns to the Altar. The people stand during the song of thanksgiving and remain standing up to the end of the Divine Liturgy remembering the Risen Christ. The priest gives the Dismissal Prayer.
SANCTUARY LIGHT: The Sanctuary Light is requested to burn the week of November 2 – 9 by Mary Ann Kachinko in memory of Bernard Kachinko.

ALTAR CANDLES: The Altar Candles will burn at all services for the month of November in memory of Dimitri Bencho requested by daughter Rebecca Molecavage.

WOMEN’S SOCIETY: The regular monthly meeting of the Women’s Society will be held in the church hall on Tuesday, November 12th. The time will be 10:30 AM because after the meeting the cleaning of the Hall will be acquired. All members, please be in attendance. On Wednesday, Nov. 6th 10:30 AM the men and women of the parish will be cleaning the church. If you can possibly come and help in any little way, please join in to accomplish this chore.

Baptism and Chrismation Announcement: On Saturday Nov. 9th Caroline Evans and David Evans will receive the Sacraments of Baptism and Chrismation.  Carline is the daughter of Joseph and Colleen Evans and David is the son of Kathryn and Zachary Evans.

SOBORCHYK: A Deanery Level Sobor will be held on Saturday, November 16 at Saints Peter & Paul Church in Plymouth. The Archeparchial Sobor theme of “Community and Unity” will continue on the Deanery Level.  Registration will be from 9:30-10:00AM followed by the “Introduction” and break-out into discussion groups. We will break at noon to celebrate the (Liturgy of) The Sixth Hour, followed by lunch. The plan is to close the Soborchyk at 1:00PM.

FOOD SALE: St. Nicholas Ukrainian Catholic Church, 153 E. Main St., Glen Lyon, PA is sponsoring a Vegetable Soup, Turkey and Italian Hoagie sale and a bake sale, Thursday, November 14, 2019 from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM in the church hall. The hoagies and a quart of soup are $6.00 each. The orders must be made by November 10, 2019.

Saturday, Oct. 19
4:00 PM ✞Victoria Rogozinska – Olympia Pasicznyk

Sunday, Oct. 20 NINETEENTH SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST
10:30 AM God’s Blessings and Good Health for all Parishioners

Thursday, Oct. 24
9:00 AM ✞Mary Toma – Catherine Dulski

Saturday, Oct. 26
4:00 PM ✞Bernard Kachinko – Mary Ann Kachinko & Family

Sunday, Oct. 27 TWENTIETH SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST
10:30 AM God’s Blessings and Good Health for all Parishioners

The Lord Told this Parable: Luke: 16, 19-31
“There was once a rich man, who was clothed in purple and fine linen, and feasted every day. And there was a beggar, called Lazarus, who lay at his gate, covered with sores. And he wished to be fed with the crumbs which fell from the rich man’s table. And dogs came to lick his sores.
Time went on; the beggar died, and
was carried by the angels into Abraham’s Bosom.
The rich man also died and was buried.
And suffering in hell, he lifted up his eyes, and
Saw Abraham far off, and Lazarus in his bosom.
He cried out, “Father Abraham, have
Mercy on me, and send Lazarus to dip the tip
Of his finger in water and cool my tongue, for
I am tormented in this flame!”
But Abraham said, “Child, remember
that you did receive your good fortune in your
life-time, just as Lazarus received ill fortune; so
now he is in the delights, and you in torment. And
besides all this, there is a great abyss fixed between
us and you, so that there is no passing from our
side of it to you, nor crossing over to us from yours.”
He said, “Father, I pray thee send him to my father’s house, for I have brother, to give them a warning, so that they may not come into this place of torment.”
Abraham said to him, “they have Moses and the prophets. Let them listen to them.” But he replied, “No. Father Abraham (they will not listen to Moses), but if a messenger comes to them from the dead, they will repent.”
But he answered him, “If they do not listen to Moses and the prophets, they will not believe, though one should rise from the dead!”

The Nail
As the story goes, they built a new church building and people came from far and wide to see it. They admired its beauty!
Up on the roof, a little nail heard the people praising everything about the lovely structure-except the nail! No one even knew he was there, and he became angry and jealous.
“If I am that insignificant, nobody will miss me if I quit!” So the nail then released its hold, slid down the roof, and fell in the mud.
That night it rained and rained. Soon, the shingle that had no nail blew away, and the roof began to leak. The water streaked the walls and the beautiful murals. The plaster began to fall, the carpet was stained, and the tetrapod was ruined by water. All this because a little nail decided to quit!
But what of the nail? While holding the shingle, it was obscure but it was also useful. Buried in the mud it was just as obscure, but now it was useless and would soon be corroded away to rust!
The moral of the story –
EVERY MEMBER IS IMPORTANT TO THE CHURCH!
You may, like the nail, feel obscure at times, but just like the nail, your absence is felt. When you are not present to praise God, the body of Christ hurts. We are ALL a part of the Lord’s ministry.

SANCTUARY LIGHT: The week of October 19- 26 is requested by Mr. & Mrs. Jack Huff for God’s Blessing of good health for their son Jackson Huff.

RUMMAGE SALE: The Women’s Society wishes to thank anyone who participated in the Rummage Sale last weekend. The Sale was a success with the bake sale, food and rummage. The profit is not totaled but will be reported at a future date. Thank you again for all those who did their share.

HARVEST DINNER: Sponsored by Scranton’s St. Vladimir Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church on Sunday, November 17, 2019 – 12:30pm at St. Vladimir Parish Center – 428 North Seventh Avenue.  Roast beef, mashed potatoes, gravy, hot vegetables, dinner rolls, dessert, coffee, tea and other beverages.  Adults $13.00; Students 6 to 12 years $8.00; no charge for children age 5 and under. Reservations close Monday, November 11 – no tickets sold at the door. Take-outs available only by advance order – must pick up promptly between 11:30am and 12:00 noon. Several door prizes will be awarded along with a Basket of Cheer and Ukrainian tablecloth raffles. For reservations contact Maria Black

LUC Meeting: Father Myron Myronyuk, pastor of Scranton’s St. Vladimir Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church, extends a cordial welcome to a beautiful Prayer Service – Moleben for the Canonization of Blessed Andrey Sheptytsky – on Sunday, November 10, 2019 at 2:30pm to be followed by a church sponsored meeting of the North Anthracite Council of the League of Ukrainian Catholics (LUC). Agenda items include: commemorating the 75th anniversary of Blessed Andrey’s passing (November 1, 1944), recent presentation by Rev. Dean Mark Morozowich, aid to the orphan children of Ukraine and fund raising plans including the May 2020 bus trip to New York City. A bountiful reception will follow the meeting. This is a public event to which all parishioners and friends are welcome.

Saturday, Oct. 12
4:00 PM ✞Metro & Amelia Pasicznyk – Olympia Pasicznyk

Sunday, October 13
8:30AM SUNDAY OF THE FATHERS OF THE 7TH ECUMENICAL COUNCIL
God’s Blessings and Good Health for all Parishioners
Saturday, Oct. 19
4:00 PM ✞Victoria Rogozinska – Olympia Pasicznyk

Sunday, Oct. 20 TWENTIETH SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST
8:30 AM God’s Blessings and Good Health for all Parishioners

The Parking lot blacktopping has been accomplished. The space that was repaired cost approximately $16,800. The Women’s Society donated $5,000 toward the expense and some of the proceeds from the sale of Lottery tickets in the Building and Improvement fund will cover another part. The balance will be announced next week and anyone who would like to make a contribution toward the expense would be greatly appreciated.

THE DAILY ROSARY
The Rosary is the easiest form of prayer. At the same time the Rosary is a most excellent prayer because it is composed of the Our Father, the Hail Mary and the Glory be to the Father. Besides these beautiful and sublime prayers, which compose the Rosary, a short meditation – which constitutes the soul of the Rosary – is added before or during each decade. The Rosary unites in itself mental and oral prayer because we pray and meditate at the same time. The Rosary is the most beautiful flower that, in the course of the centuries, sprang forth from the devotion to the great Mother of Our Savior. This prayer is now the most popular among the Children of Mary. In the past it has proved a powerful weapon against heresies, as instrument of social reform, and a form of petition most acceptable to God.
The doctrinal content of the mysteries contemplated in the recital of the Rosary is very important. Jesus and Mary dominate the chain of events. They are central persons in each mystery. They were united in the Incarnation and Redemption, and now are together in eternal life.
By contemplating the mysteries of our faith, we are incited to imitate Jesus and Mary, and the Rosary becomes an important school of Christian perfection because it focuses our lives on the two who are most worthy of true imitation – the Son of God and His Immaculate Mother.
The Rosary is essentially a prayer to Our Lady. It is not Mariolatry because Jesus is not forgotten in its recital. Mary speaks to her Children when they say the Rosary. She speaks a language all can understand, for the Rosary is, outside the official Liturgy and other church services, the most widely used public prayer. It is not reserved to any class of people. Illiterate as well as learned men equally recite it. The Pope, Bishops, priests, religious and nuns say it.
Our Blessed Lady encouraged the recital of the Rosary on several occasions, especially during her apparitions at Lourdes and Fatima. The Rosary is a powerful means of salvation, a source of consolation, a guarantee of forgiveness of our sins, a powerful defense against temptations, a sign of eternal predestination, a spiritual mine of innumerable blessings and supernatural benefits and the best means of honoring the Mother of Perpetual Help. The Saints say that we place a beautiful crown on the forehead of our heavenly Queen when we recite the Rosary. It is, therefore, no wonder, that the Blessed Virgin Mary is so generous to those who honor her with the daily Rosary.
The Church granted five-year indulgence for the recitation of the Rosary; if said with others, ten years. The Church enriched the Rosary with so many indulgences to encourage the faithful to recite it and to make it their daily prayer in honor of the Mother of God.

SANCTUARY LIGHT: The week of October 12- 19 is requested by Mr. & Mrs. Jack Huff for God’s Blessing of good health for their son Jackson Huff.

RUMMAGE SALE: We thank all those who contributed to the Rummage Sale. Your items for the sale were greatly appreciated. And to those who donated the monetary gifts, baked goods, etc. that was a big help.

CRAFT SALE: SS Cyril & Methodius Ukrainian Catholic Church, Warren St., Berwick, PA is sponsoring a Craft Sale on Saturday, October 26th from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Food & baked goods will be available to either dine in or take out. Vendors are welcome – $15 per 8’ table, if interested please contact Janina Everett email tjeverett@verizon.net

PRAYERS: Please pray for all the sick of the parish, in nursing facilities, at home or in the hospital. May God bless them always.

Saturday, Oct. 5 SEVENTEENTH SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST
4:00 PM ✞Mary Ambrose – Rosemarie Kachinko

Sunday, Oct. 6 SEVENTEENTH SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST
8:30 AM God’s Blessings and Good Health for all Parishioner

Saturday, Oct. 12 EIGHTEENTH SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST
4:00 PM ✞Metro & Amelia Pasicznyk – Olympia Pasicznyk

Sunday, Oct. 13 EIGHTEENTH SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST
8:30 AM God’s Blessings and Good Health for all Parishioners

☸☸☸☸☸☸☸☸☸☸☸☸☸☸☸☸☸☸☸☸☸☸☸

Happy Belated Birthday greetings to Anna Magill who celebrated her day October 2nd. May god grant her many more Happy, Healthy Years.

The ABC’s of a Purposeful Life
A lways put God first in your life.
B e a true friend and you will have many friends.
C ount and thank God for your many blessings daily.
D iscipline yourself. Decide to make your life count.
E dify and encourage others consistently.
F ollow great leaders and then become one.
G ive liberally and joyfully of your time, talents 
     and means.
H ave an attitude of gratitude.
I nvert any negatives thrown your way. Turn them
   into positives.
J ourney through life one step and one day at a time.
K eep written goals set ahead. Make specific plans 
     to accomplish them.
L ove and forgive everybody.
M aximize your strengths and minimize your
      weaknesses.
N ever, never, never give up!
O pen the door wide when opportunity knocks.
P ractice patience. Promote peace.
Q uit bad habits by replacing them with good habits.
R ead God’s Word and other profitable material
     every chance you get.
S hare the Gospel whenever and wherever possible.
T ake time to appreciate everything and everyone
    God has given to you.
U se your God given common sense.
V isualize your dreams and stretch to reach for them.
W atch, listen and pray without ceasing.
X amine your motives on a regular basis.
Y ield to the Holy Spirit when He prompts you.
Z oom in on God’s real purpose for your life.
~Author Unknown~

The Month of October

Patron for October: The Blessed Virgin of the Pokrov. She is the loving Mother and protectress of mankind. She answers all good and fervent prayers of her children.

Virtue: “I shall pray my daily Rosary and spread its practice among my friends, relatives and acquaintances. I shall try to understand the riches and advantages of the Rosary.”

Prayer: I shall pray that all men may understand the importance of the Rosary in the daily life of a Christian.

PRAY THE ROSARY

The Chair
A man’s daughter had asked the local priest to come and pray with her father. When the priest arrived, he found the man lying in bed with his head propped up on two pillows and an empty chair beside his bed. The priest assumed that the old fellow had been informed of his visit.
“I guess you were expecting me,” he said.
“No, who are you?”
“I’m the new associate at your parish,” the priest replied. “When I saw the empty chair, I figured you knew I was going to show up.”
“Oh yeah, the chair,” said the bedridden man. “Would you mind closing the door?” Puzzled, the priest shut the door.
“I have never told anyone this, not even my daughter,” said the man. “But all of my life I have never know how to pray. At the Sunday Mass I used to hear the pastor talk about prayer, but it always went right over my head. I abandoned any attempt at prayer,” the old man continued, “until one day about four years ago my best friend said to me, ‘Joe, prayer is just a simple matter of having a conversation with Jesus. Here’s what I suggest. Sit down in a chair; place an empty chair in front of you, and in hope see Jesus on the chair. It’s not spooky because he promised; ‘I’ll be with you always.’ Then just speak to him and listen in the same way you’re doing with me right now.” So, Father, I tried it and I’ve liked it so much that I do it a couple of hours every day. I’m careful, though. If my daughter saw me talking to an empty chair, she’d either have a nervous breakdown or send me off to the funny farm.”
The priest was deeply moved by the story and encouraged the old guy to continue on the journey. Then he prayed with him, anointed him with oil, and returned to the rectory.
Two nights later the daughter called to tell the priest that her daddy had died that afternoon. “Did he seem to die in peace?” he asked.
“Yes, when I left the house around two o’clock, he called me over to his bedside, told me one of his corny jokes, and kissed me on the cheek. When I got back from the store an hour later, I found him dead. But there was something strange, Father. In fact, beyond strange – kinda weird. Apparently, just before Daddy died, he leaned over and rested his head on the chair beside the bed.”

SANCTUARY LIGHT: The Sanctuary light is requested to burn this week,
October 5 -12 by Albert Piston in memory of Margaret Dombroski.

WOMEN’S SOCIETY: The Parish Women’s Society will hold their monthly meeting this coming Tuesday, October 8 in the Church Hall at 11:00 AM. This meeting is moved to a different time because of preparations for the food to be served at the Rummage Sale. All members are urged to attend as help is needed for this affair.

RUMMAGE SALE: The Women’s Society Rummage Sale will be held Friday, October 11 from 9:00AM – 4:00PM, Saturday, October 12 from 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM and bag day on Sunday 1:00 – 3:00PM. A request for baked goods or desserts is needed for this sale, if you are able and kind enough to donate something, it will be greatly appreciated. Food will be available.

RUMMAGE SALE: SS Peter & Paul Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church, North River& West Chestnut Streets, Wilkes-Barre held their Rummage Sale this Saturday and will be held this Sunday, October 6th from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM. 

CRAFT SALE: SS Cyril & Methodius Ukrainian Catholic Church, Warren St., Berwick, PA is sponsoring a Craft Sale on Saturday, October 26th from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Food & baked goods will be available to either dine in or take out. Vendors are welcome – $15 per 8’ table, if interested please contact Janina Everett tjeverett@verizon.net

SS. Cyril’s and Methodius Ukrainian Catholic Church,  Olyphant, PA. is having a ONE DAY SPECIAL Rummage Sale (fundraiser), Saturday OCTOBER 19, 2019 from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at St. Cyril’s school gym, 133 River Street, Olyphant, PA. . Refreshments and 50/50 raffle. WEBSITE: stcyrils.weconnect.com

Saturday, September 28 – 4:00 PM
God blessings, many happy years, peace, health and salvation for
Michael & Ksenia Shaughnessy,given by Ulana Campbell

Sunday, September 29 – 8:30AM
SIXTEENTH SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST
God’s Blessing and Good Health on all parishioners.

Tuesday, October 1 – 9:00 AM
PROTECTION OF THE MOTHER OF GOD
Anointing with Holy Oil (Myrovania)
God’s Blessing and Good Health on all parishioners

Saturday, Oct. 5 – 4:00 PM
✞Mary Ambrose – Rosemarie Kachinko

Sunday, October 6 – 8:30AM
SEVENTEENTH SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST
God’s Blessing and Good Health on all parishioners

May God’s Blessings
Fall upon you
Like the leaves of Autumn

HAPPY FALL U ALL

Be Joyful always,
Pray continually,
Give thanks in all circumstances
for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.

Saturday, September 21– 4:00 PM
✞Mary Ambrrose – Parishioners

Sunday, September 22– 8:30AM
FIFTEENTH SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST
God’s Blessing and Good Health on all parishioners

Saturday, September 28 – 4:00 PM
God blessings, many happy years, peace, health and salvation for
Michael & Ksenia Shaughnessy,given by Ulana Campbell

Sunday, September 29 – 8:30AM
SIXTEENTH SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST
God’s Blessing and Good Health on all parishioners

This date changed again to the original Sunday,Sept. 22nd. The Divine Liturgy and You: Deepening our Understanding of Community and the Individual in Prayer” will be the topic of the afternoon presentation by Father Morozowich on Sunday, September 22, 2019 beginning at 3:00pm at Scranton’s St. Vladimir Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church, 430 North Seventh Avenue. Cosponsored by the nine Ukrainian Catholic parishes of Northeastern Pennsylvania’s Anthracite Deanery and the North Anthracite Council of the League of Ukrainian Catholics, the event is of special interest to the faithful of both the Catholic and Orthodox traditions. The educational event is open to the general public – everyone is welcome to attend. Light refreshments will be served following the presentation.

Saturday, Sept. 14
4:00 PM ✞Leonard Karabon – Rosemarie Kachinko

Sunday, Sept.15 SUNDAY AFTER THE EXALTATION OF THE CROSS
8:30AM God’s Blessing and Good Health on all parishioners

Saturday, Sept. 21
4:00 PM ✞Mary Ambrose – Parishioners

Sunday, Sept. 22 FIFTEENTH SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST
8:30AM God’s Blessing and Good Health on all parishioners

Date Change – The Divine Liturgy and You: Deepening our Understanding of Community and the Individual in Prayer” will be the topic of the afternoon presentation by Father Morozowich on Sunday, September 29, 2019 beginning at 3:00pm at Scranton’s St. Vladimir Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church, 430 North Seventh Avenue. Cosponsored by the nine Ukrainian Catholic parishes of Northeastern Pennsylvania’s Anthracite Deanery and the North Anthracite Council of the League of Ukrainian Catholics, the event is of special interest to the faithful of both the Catholic and Orthodox traditions. The educational event is open to the general public – everyone is welcome to attend. Light refreshments will be served following the presentation.
When I Whine

THANK GOD FOR THIS DAY

I may never see tomorrow;
There’s no written guarantee
and things that happened yesterday
belong to history.

I cannot predict the future
I cannot change the past
I have just the present moments
I must treat them as my last.

I must use this moment wisely
For it soon will pass away
And be lost forever
As part of yesterday.

I must exercise compassion
Help the fallen to their feet
Be a friend unto the friendless
Make an empty life complete.

The unkind things I do today
May never be undone
And friendships that I fail to win
May nevermore be won.

I may not have another chance
On bended knee to pray
And I thank God with a humble heart
For giving me this day.





THE SIGN OF THE CROSS in the GREEK CATHOLIC CHURCH:
In case you don’t know what that title means, IC XC are abbreviations (in both Greek and Slavonic) for the name Jesus Christ. NIKA is a Greek verb that means “conquers” (perhaps “is victorious” is better, though not as grammatically accurate). Why am I giving you a lesson in Greek words and abbreviations? First of all, it will help you understand a few things you may see in the Eastern Christian tradition. On icons of Christ, you will always find somewhere the IC XC. If you look carefully when a Byzantine Catholic or Orthodox priest gives a blessing, you’ll see (if they’re doing it correctly) that they form the fingers of their right hand into the letters IC XC. So we always bless with the sign of the Cross and in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. In the Liturgy, the priest facing the people holds his hand so that the fingers make the letters IC XC and gives the cross to the faithful who then receive the cross. This is why from the priest’s perspective during the blessing his hand goes to his left first but to the people facing him, to their right first [actually the Priest is asking God to give the people a blessing]. Here is the meaning, the priest presents the cross to the person and the person picks up, or takes up, their cross willing. The cross is never imposed on a person, they take it up willingly.

THE CROSS

The Mystery of the Cross, is the Mystery of Mysteries. How can the Source of Life die, the Creator of all exclaim, “My God, My God, why have You forsaken Me?” This is the kenosis (self emptying) of the Son of God, who emptied Himself, took the form of a servant and became obedient unto death, even to death of the Cross. Mankind, who is accustomed to asking why, is completely lost. The Mystery of the Cross is the Mystery of Atonement and wonder: “Let every creature remain silent and adore.” For the message of the Cross is complete absurdity for those who are heading to ruin, but to those who are experiencing salvation, it is the Power of God.” (1 Cor. 1:18). If we ask why, the only answer we receive is that of St. John, “God so loved the world that He gave His only Son, so that whoever believes in Him may not perish, but have eternal life.” (Jn. 3:16). Up until the sixth century, Christians were forbidden to depict Christ on the Cross, because the Cross was the punish­ment of slaves. The first time it appeared was through some Syrian monks living in Narbonne, France, and from whence it spread.
No one is exempt from the cross; not even the Blessed Virgin, who carried her cross from Christ’s birth in Bethlehem to Golgotha, where she stood at her Son’s side, as He hung on the Cross. The closer we are to Christ, the heavier is our cross for, as St. Paul says, “Those whom He foreknew, He predestined to share the Image of His Son, so that the Son might be the first-born of many brothers.” (Rom. 8:29
Bows and Blessings: We venerate (bow in front of) and make the sign of the cross many times during the Liturgy as a sign of our faith and the willing taking up of our own cross and the accepting of God’s blessings. As a rule, we bow slightly and bless ourselves every time we mention the persons of the Trinity by name or the priest blesses the congregation. We also bow and sign ourselves whenever we enter or leave the church.
_ _ _
A reminder; Fr. Walter is away this week for the Archeparchial Priest’s Retreat in Longbranch, NJ. In case of an emergency contact any Catholic priest. If necessary I will return early, call the cell phone.

SANCTUARY LIGHT: The Sanctuary Light is requested to burn this week September 14-21 by M/M Jack Huff for God’s blessing for good health of their son Jackson Huff.

CRAFT SALE: SS Cyril & Methodius Ukrainian Catholic Church, Warren St., Berwick, PA is sponsoring a Craft Sale on Saturday, October 26th from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Food & baked goods will be available to either dine in or take out. Vendors are welcome – $15 per 8” table, if interested please contact Janina Everett 570-759-2824 or email tjeverett@verizon.net

RUMMAGE SALE – Just a reminder – The Parish Women’s Society will be sponsoring a Rummage Sale Friday & Saturday, October 11/12 and Bag Day, Sunday, Oct. 13. If you have any items to contribute to this sale please bring your articles to the Church. Baked goods will be sold at the sale and a variety of foods. Any donations you can make for this sale will be greatly appreciated especially your wonderful baked desserts.

LOTTERY TICKETS: The lottery tickets are available, please do your part and purchase a few.

aturday, Sept. 7 – 4:00 PM
SUNDAY BEFORE THE EXALTATION OF THE CROSS
✞Christine Youells – Father Walter

Sunday, Sept. 8 – 8:30AM
SUNDAY BEFORE THE EXALTATION OF THE CROSS
God’s Blessing and Good Health on all parishioners


Saturday, Sept. 14 – 9:00 AM
ExAltation of the HOLY Cross
Anointing with Oil – Myrovania
All Parishioners Living and Deceased

Saturday, Sept. 14 – 4:00 PM
SUNDAY AFTER THE EXALTATION OF THE CROSS
✞Leonard Karabon – Rosemarie Kachinko

Sunday, Sept. 15 – 8:30AM
SUNDAY AFTER THE EXALTATION OF THE CROSS
God’s Blessing and Good Health on all parishioners

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Transfiguration of Our Lord Weekend Liturgies:
Saturday 6:00 PM – Sunday 10:30 AM

THE NATIVITY OF THE MOST HOLY MOTHER OF GOD
One of the great feast days we celebrate at the beginning of the Liturgical Year is the fest of the Nativity of the most Holy Mother of God (Theotokos). This Feast is a joyful and significant feast day. It is joyful because it is the birthday of the Mother of God, the Queen of Heaven and earth. It is significant because it places before our eyes the great truth of our holy faith concerning the Divine Motherhood of the most Pure Virgin Mary, from whom “shone forth the Sun of Justice, Christ our God.”
The Gospel records very few incidents in the life of the most Pure Virgin Mary. It says nothing about her nativity, her parentage, her childhood or youth, or her holy assumption into heaven.
The chief source of information on the life of the most Holy Mother of God is the Apocryphal book written around the year 170-180 called Proto-evangelium of James. This book presented the basis for the institution of such feasts as the Conception of St. Anna, the Nativity of the most Holy Mother of God, the Presentation in the Temple, and the feasts honoring Joachim and Anna, the parents of Mary.
In the Proto-evangelium of James we learn that the most Pure Virgin Mary was descended on her father’s side from the royal house of David, and on her mother’s side from the priestly line of Aaron. Her parents lived in Nazareth and were fairly well off. They were also distinguished for the great holiness of their lives and their great love of God and neighbor. Joachim was accustomed to dividing the fruits of his labor into three parts; one part he gave to God as sacrifice, the second part he distributed among the poor, and the third part he kept for himself. Their one great sorrow was that they had no children. Among the Jews, childlessness was looked upon not only as an absence of God’s blessing, but as a punishment from God. Joachim and Anna had to suffer much. Therefore, it is not surprising that they should unceasingly implore God for a child. This was the main purpose of all their prayers, fasting, and alms. Finally, the Lord God blessed them in their old age with a child who was destined to become the Mother of God.
The birth of Mary was a singular source of joy for her parents – Joachim and Anna, for heaven, for earth, and for all creations. Various Fathers of the Church have stressed the spiritual joy occasioned by this feast of the Nativity of the Mother of God.

ST. PETER AT THE PEARLY GATES

Forrest Gump dies and goes to Heaven. St. Peter meets him at the Pearly Gates. The gates are closed, however, and Forrest approaches the gatekeeper.
St. Peter says, “Well, Forrest, it’s certainly good to see you. We have heard so many good things about you. I must inform you that the place is filling up fast, and we’ve been giving an entrance quiz for everyone. The tests are short, but you need to pass before you can get into Heaven. Forrest responds, “It sure is good to be here, St. Peter. I was looking forward to this. Nobody ever told me about any entrance exam. Sure hope the test ain’t too hard; Life was a big enough test as it was.
 St. Peter goes on, “I know, Forrest, but the test is only three questions: — What days of the week begin with the letter T?– How many seconds are there in a year?– What is God’s first name?”
Forrest goes away to think the questions over. He returns later and goes up to St. Peter to try to answer the exam questions. St. Peter waves him up and says, “Now that you have had a chance to think the questions over, tell me your answers.”
Forrest says, “Well, the first one how many days of the week begin with the letter ‘T?” “Shucks, that one’s easy. That’d be Today and Tomorrow.”
The Saint’s eyes open wide and he exclaims “Forrest! That’s not what I was thinking, but…you do have a point though, and I guess I didn’t specify, so I will give you credit for that answer.” “How about the next one?” “How many seconds in a year?”
“Now that one’s harder” says Forrest, “but I thought and thought about that and I guess the only answer can be twelve.”
Astounded, St. Peter says “Twelve! Twelve! Forrest, how in Heaven’s name could you come up with twelve seconds in a year?” Forest says “Aw, come on, St. Peter, there’s gotta be twelve, January second, February second, March second . . .”
“Hold it” interrupts St. Peter. “I see where you’re going with it, I guess I see your point, though that wasn’t quite what I had in mind, but I’ll give you credit for that one too. Let’s go on with the next and final question. Can you tell me God’s first name?”
Forrest replied, “Andy.”
When St. Peter asked how in the world he came up with the name Andy? Forrest replied, “You know, St. Peter, that song we sing in church: “Andy walks with me, Andy talks with me.”

The lesson: THERE IS ALWAYS ANOTHER POINT OF VIEW, and just because another person doesn’t see things the same way or understand the same way that you do, does not mean that it’s wrong.

Glory to Jesus Christ! —- Glory Forever!
Slava Isusu Khrystu! —- Slava Na Viky!

Ultimate security does not come from relying on things or people,
but from relying on God.
Lord, I place my trust in You.
Bless me and keep me in Your loving care.

Hints for Participating in the Liturgy
The following are some comments that may be helpful in participating in today’s Liturgy.

Incense: We use incense as a sign of reverence for the sacred place and the sacredness of the people who are made in God’s image and as a sign of preparing for something important about to happen.  It is our prayer ascending like the smoke of incense before the throne of God. When the priest incenses, people simply bow their heads only. You do not bless yourself.

Gospel Book: A gold-covered Gospel Book is resting on the altar because it IS Jesus Christ, truly present, in His hearing we are His followers. This message is God With Us. We must to be attentive!

Bows and Blessings: We bow and make the sign of the cross many times during the Liturgy as a sign of our faith and we willing accept of God’s blessings and take up our cross and Jesus took up His.  As a rule we bow slightly and bless ourselves every time we mention the persons of the Trinity by name or the priest blesses the congregation.  We also bow and sign ourselves whenever we enter, cross the middle of the church or leave the Church.

Singing: One of the great beauties of the Liturgy as celebrated in the Eastern Churches is the congregational singing.  The melodies are not difficult and are easy to learn.  So, we encourage you to sing out to the Lord! He who sings, prays twice! !

Altar Bread: Our altar bread is made with yeast and therefore has a thickness to it.  At the beginning of the Liturgy, the priest will cut a loaf of specially baked altar bread and prepare cubed particular that will be used for the distribution of Holy Communion.

Holy Communion: The consecrated body of Christ is placed into the chalice just before Communion time.  A small particle of Christ is placed with the spoon and given to the communicant just as an infant is fed by a parent.  If you wish to receive Holy Communion, come forward to the priest and quietly state your first name.  Then open your mouth wide, tilt your head back slightly, and keep your tongue in your mouth.  Do NOT say “Amen” as the priest says the entire prayer for the communicant.  The priest will bring the spoon to your mouth and will gently place the Eucharist into it.  Wait for the priest to bring his hand away from your face.  Then close your mouth and return to your place.

Holy Anointing: On the Major Feast Days which include Litya, the blessing of the wheat, wine, oil and bread at the end of Vespers, the priest will anoint the congregation with the blessed oil as a sign of Jesus Christ’s cleansing us and our unity as His followers.

SANCTUARY LIGHT: The Sanctuary Light is requested to burn this week September 7-14 by Geri Kolotelo in memory of Louis Kolotelo.

WOMEN’S SOCIETY: The Women’s Society will hold their regular monthly meeting on Tuesday, September 10th in the Church Hall at 6:30 PM. All members are urged to please attend this meeting. New members are always welcome. Help will be needed to set up the October Rummage Sale and plan for the food and bake sale.

RUMMAGE SALE: The Women’s Society will sponsor the annual Rummage Sale Friday, October 11 and Saturday, October 12. Items are accepted for the sale that are in good condition and food and a bake sale will be on the agenda. Help is needed for the bake sale. All you good dessert makers are being asked to donate your fine produces.

HOLY DAY: The Exaltation of the Holy Cross is a solemn feast day. The Divine Liturgy will be celebrated on Saturday, Sept. 14th at AM. The regular Sunday Divine Liturgy will be celebrated at the usual time of 4:00 PM.

Saturday, August 31 – 4:00 PM
God’s Blessing and Good Health on all parishioners

Sunday, September 1 – 8:30AM
TWELFTH SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST
✞ Richard Ritts – Lisa Placek

Saturday, September 7 – 4:00 PM
BIRTH OF THE THEOTOKOS – Anointing with Holy Oil – Myrovania
✞ Christine Youells – Father Walter

Sunday, September 8 – 8:30AM
BIRTH OF THE THEOTOKOS – Anointing with Holy Oil – Myrovania
God’s Blessing and Good Health on all parishioners

The Gentle Whisper

The young man had lost his job and didn’t know which way to turn. So he went to see the old priest. Pacing about the priest’s study, the young man ranted about his problem. Finally he clenched his fist and shouted, “I’ve begged God to say something to help me. Tell me, Father, why doesn’t God answer?”
 The old priest, who sat with the young man from across the room, spoke something in reply — something so hushed it was indistinguishable. The young man stepped across the room. “What did you say?” he asked.
 The priest repeated himself, but again in a tone as soft as a whisper. So the young man moved closer until he was leaning on the priest’s chair.
”Sorry,” he said. “I still didn’t hear you.”
With their heads bent together, the old priest spoke once more. “God sometimes whispers,” he said, “so we will need to move closer to hear Him.”
This time the young man heard and he understood.
We all want God’s voice to thunder through the air with the answer to our problem. But God’s is the still small voice . . . the gentle whisper. Perhaps there’s a reason. Nothing draws human focus quite like a whisper. God’s whisper means I must stop my ranting and move close to Him, until my head is bent together with His. And then, as I listen, I will find my answer. Better still, I find myself closer to God.
 
Prayer to Jesus Christ
Thou who at every season and every hour, in heaven and on earth, art worshipped and glorified; O Christ our God, who art long-suffering, merciful and compassionate; who loves the just and shows mercy upon the sinner; who calls all to salvation through the promise of blessings to come: O Lord, in this hour receive our supplications, and direct our lives according to Thy commandments. Sanctify our souls, hallow our bodies, correct our thoughts, cleanse our minds; deliver us from all tribulations, evil and distress. Compass us about with Thy holy Angels, that guided and guarded by them, we may attain to the unity of the faith and to the knowledge of

Our thanks to the anonymous donor of $60 to purchase the Altar Wine used for the Holy Communion during Divine Liturgy. God bless you and your generous gift.

Saturday, August 24
4:00 PM God’s Blessings and good health for John Dubik

Sunday, August 25 ELEVENTH SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST
8:30 AM God’s Blessings and Good Health for all Parishioners

Thursday, August 29 BEHEADING OF JOHN THE BAPTIST
9:00 AM Luiz and Sandra Fragelli – Fr. Walter

Saturday, August 31
4:00 PM ✞ Richard Ritts – Lisa Placek

Sunday, September 1 TWELFTH SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST
8:30 AM

BEAHEADING OF JOHN THE BAPTIST: Following the Baptism of the Lord, Saint John the Baptist was locked up in prison by Herod Antipas, the Tetrarch (ruler of one fourth of the Holy Land) and governor of Galilee. (After the death of king Herod the Great, the Romans divided the territory of Palestine into four parts, and put a governor in charge of each part. Herod Antipas received Galilee from the emperor Augustus).
The prophet of God John openly denounced Herod for having left his lawful wife, the daughter of the Arabian king Aretas, and then instead cohabiting with Herodias, the wife of his brother Philip On his birthday, Herod made a feast for dignitaries, the elders and a thousand chief citizens. Salome, the daughter of Herod, danced before the guests and charmed Herod. In gratitude to the girl, he swore to give her whatever she would ask, up to half his kingdom.
The vile girl on the advice of her wicked mother Herodias asked that she be given the head of John the Baptist on a platter. Herod became apprehensive, for he feared the wrath of God for the murder of a prophet, whom earlier he had heeded. He also feared the people, who loved the holy Forerunner. But because of the guests and his careless oath, he gave orders to cut off the head of Saint John and to give it to Salome.
According to Tradition, the mouth of the dead preacher of repentance once more opened and proclaimed: “Herod, you should not have the wife of your brother Philip.” Salome took the platter with the head of Saint John and gave it to her mother. The frenzied Herodias repeatedly stabbed the tongue of the prophet with a needle and buried his holy head in a unclean place. But the pious Joanna, wife of Herod’s steward Chuza, buried the head of John the Baptist in an earthen vessel on the Mount of Olives, where Herod had a parcel of land. (The Uncovering of the Venerable Head is celebrated (February 24). The holy body of John the Baptist was taken that night by his disciples and buried at Sebastia, there where the wicked deed had been done.
After the murder of Saint John the Baptist, Herod continued to govern for a certain time. Pontius Pilate, governor of Judea, later sent Jesus Christ to him, Whom he mocked
The judgment of God came upon Herod, Herodias and Salome, even during their earthly life. Salome, crossing the River Sikoris in winter, fell through the ice. The ice gave way in such a way that her body was in the water, but her head was trapped above the ice. It was similar to how she once had danced with her feet upon the ground, but now she flailed helplessly in the icy water. Thus she was trapped until that time when the sharp ice cut through her neck.
Her corpse was not found, but they brought the head to Herod and Herodias, as once they had brought them the head of Saint John the Baptist. The Arab king Aretas, in revenge for the disrespect shown his daughter, made war against Herod. The defeated Herod suffered the wrath of the Roman emperor Caius Caligua (37-41) and was exiled with Herodias first to Gaul, and then to Spain.

SANCTUARYLIGHT: The Sanctuary Light is requested to burn this week August 24 – 31 by Michael Kane in memory of Mary Kulyn.

FOOD FESTIVAL:  Transfiguration of Our Lord Church, 240 Center Street Nanticoke will hold a Food Festival, Flea Market and Bake Sale on Saturday, August 31 from 11am-4pm.  We will feature home-made pyrohy, potato pancakes, piggies, clam chowder, haluski, borsch, wimpies, hotdogs, kielbosi and beverages.  There also will be a Furniture Flea Market and Bake Sale.  Come out and enjoy the Labor Day Weekend with Us!

BIRTHDAY GREETINGS: Our best wishes to Dolores Sinko who will celebrate her birthday on August 29th. May God grant you many more happy, healthy years.

ST, NICHOLAS CHURCH: St. Nicholas Ukrainian Catholic Church is celebrating its 125th. A Hierarchical Divine Liturgy will be celebrated on Sunday, October 6, 2019 at 1:30 PM at St. Nicholas Church. A banquet will follow at 4:00 pm at Transfiguration of Our Lord Church Hall. The cost per adult is $45.00. Children ages 7-15 is $15.00 and under 7 are free. Beer, wine, & soda are included. No tickets will be available at the door & there are no refunds. Please make your check out to “St. Nicholas Ukrainian Catholic Church” along with number of tickets you are requesting and the names of the people attending to St. Nicholas Church, 153 East Main Street, Glen Lyon,PA 18617 by September 1, 2

RUMMAGE SALE: Items are being collected for the annual Rummage Sale sponsored by SS Peter & Paul Women’s Society in October. If you have any household item to be donated please call one of the members of the Society or bring them to the church on weekends or the Hall on certain day.