Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America Announces Formation of Department of Development

Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America Announces Formation of Department of Development

Date: March 15, 2005

Contact:

Sean Buscay, Department of Communications and Information (717-687-9087)

Email: sbuscay@antiochian.org

Download the PDF Version

The Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America (AOCA) announced it has established a Department of Development (fundraising) effective January 2005.

After a wide search, Ruth Ann Skaff was appointed Director of Development. Notified of her selection, she said,

“To serve our Holy Orthodox faith and faithful professionally is a dream come true. It’s definitely time to enhance our fundraising efforts and realize our capacity as an Orthodox Christian community so we can better evangelize and ‘do unto the least of these’. I’m grateful, humbled and excited.”

The Archdiocese’s newest department will raise funds in support of the all the Archdiocese’s numerous programs, with special emphasis this year on Youth Ministry, Mission and Evangelism, and Christian Education, as identified by His Eminence Metropolitan Philip. Board of Trustees member Dr. Joseph Samra of Cumberland, Rhode Island chairs the newly formed Development Committee.

The goal is to increase both the amount of operational and endowed funds raised for approved Archdiocesan programs as well as the sources of revenue. The department is soliciting unrestricted and restricted donations. In 2005 the department will focus on three programs:

a) major gift solicitations;

b) launching a planned giving bequest campaign to be called “Leave a Lasting Legacy – Remember the Church in Your Will”;

c) and further research regarding potential foundation grants.

Ms. Skaff is a seasoned fundraiser. She spent ten years in Memphis, Tennessee, with the fundraising arm of world-renowned St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, America’s largest childhood cancer research center. She had a range of national and international responsibilities, and remains an active volunteer for this noble charity. While in Memphis she attended St. John the Evangelist Orthodox Church.

Most recently Ms. Skaff raised funds and collected artifacts for the first-ever Arab American National Museum, spearheaded by the Arab Community Center for Economic and Social Services (ACCESS). The 34-year old nonprofit is headquartered in Dearborn (metro Detroit), Michigan. Construction and the initial $16,000,000 capital campaign were both completed on time; the grand opening is slated for May 5, 2005.

Ms. Skaff graduated with honors from the University of Texas at Austin and immediately joined the Peace Corps as a Volunteer in Marrakech, Morocco. Teaching and later directing a charity for handicapped children in Marrakech led her to a career in the non-profit sector. Ms. Skaff has served as staff and as a volunteer board member for large and small charitable and advocacy organizations. Her first grassroots organizational training came as Texas coordinator for the newly formed American Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee (ADC) upon returning to her hometown of Houston after Peace Corps.

A “priest’s kid”, she grew up in the heart of the Antiochian Orthodox church community. Her parents served several Midwestern parishes and two in Texas - Beaumont and Houston. Ms. Skaff has a life-long commitment to pan-Orthodox cooperation, instilled from her parents. A Dame in The Order of St. Ignatius, Ms. Skaff resides in metro Washington, DC. She serves on the parish council of Ss. Peter & Paul Antiochian Orthodox Church.

Ms. Skaff is working full time and can be reached at:

Ruth Ann Skaff, Director

AOCA Department of Development

c/o Ss. Peter & Paul Antiochian Orthodox Church

10620 River Road

Potomac, MD 20854

Phone: 301 765-7001

Toll free: 866 765-7001

Fax: 301-765-6267

Email: development@antiochian.org

###

Important Message Regarding Our Constitution -January 27, 2005

The Self-Ruled Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese

OF NORTH AMERICA

358 Mountain Road, P.O. Box 5238 , Englewood, NJ 07631-5238

Telephone (201) 871-1355 * Fax (201) 871-7954

Website: www.antiochian.org * Email: archdiocese@antiochian.org

The Most Reverend
Metropolitan PHILIP

Archbishop of New York and
Metropolitan of All North America

 

 PDF Version

January 27, 2005

IMPORTANT MESSAGE REGARDING OUR CONSTITUTION

TO BE PUBLISHED IN THE PARISH BULLETIN

Beloved Hierarchs, Clergy, Members of the Board of Trustees and Faithful of this God-Protected and Self-Ruled Archdiocese:

It has come to our attention that many of you may have received an email from Tarek Mitri dated January 25, 2005, with the subject “The North American Constitution.” Please be advised that this email is considered a serious intrusion into the affairs of this Archdiocese by Tarek Mitri, who has no ecclesiastical capacity to send such a communication to our clergy under his own signature.

Communications under the direct signature of His Beatitude Patriarch IGNATIUS IV to Metropolitan Philip and this Archdiocese are, of course, always welcome.

As you all know, the Archdiocese Constitution that was legally adopted by our Special Convention held in July 2004 in Pittsburgh is in harmony with the Synodal self-rule resolution of October 9, 2003 which was adopted unanimously by the Holy Synod, and signed by His Beatitude Patriarch IGNATIUS IV and all of the members of the Holy Synod. The Pittsburgh Constitution was submitted to the Holy Synod by Metropolitan PHILIP on October 13, 2004.

There is a very serious inaccuracy in the last sentence of the email from Tarek Mitri. In referring to our legally adopted Pittsburgh Constitution, he states that “It was discussed during the course of the meeting of the Holy Synod, October 13-15, 2004, and the attached revised constitution was unanimously approved.” Contrary to this statement, the proposed October 15, 2004 constitution (which was attached to Tarek Mitri’s email), although read by the Patriarch’s legal adviser in the meeting, was not even discussed in detail by the members of the Holy Synod nor was it unanimously approved.

Our Metropolitan PHILIP in not supporting such proposed constitution, pointed out to the members of the Holy Synod that our Constitution, by law, could only be amended by our General Assembly in the ways provided by our Constitution. Moreover, any amendments to our Constitution became effective immediately upon adoption at a General or Special Convention and the approval of our Metropolitan. Therefore the proposed constitution of October 15, 2004 could only be considered as suggested changes to our Constitution. These suggestions were submitted to the Department of Legal Affairs to avoid any inconsistencies with our existing Constitution and the Holy Synod’s self-rule Resolution of October 9, 2003.

The legal department in reviewing the suggestions of the legal advisor to the Patriarch in the proposed Constitution has noted that:

1. The proposed October 15, 2004 constitution violates the spirit and letter of the irrevocable Synodal self-rule resolution of October 9, 2003, which was itself immediately effective. Moreover it is not appropriate for any person to attempt to rewrite the Constitution of this self-ruling Archdiocese and to attempt to negate self-rule and give less authority to the Archdiocese than it had prior to the Synodal Resolution of October 9, 2003.

2. Under Section 8 of the October 9, 2003 self-rule resolution, the Holy Synod of Antioch was required to approve the Pittsburgh Constitution insofar as it was consistent with that resolution. Since the Pittsburgh Constitution is entirely consistent with the Synodal Resolution none of the suggested changes apply and any required approval has been given.

3. The proposed October 15, 2004 constitution did not receive enough scrutiny by the Holy Synod, nor was it discussed in detail in the Holy Synod meeting.

We will, at all times in this Archdiocese, be bound by our legally adopted constitution and the civil laws of this land in which we reside. Article VII of our constitution allows timely proposed amendments to be submitted for consideration only by any of the following procedures:

1. by a majority vote of the General Assembly of a Regular or Special Convention

2. by a recommendation from the Archdiocese Department of Legal Affairs

3. by a recommendation from the Archdiocese Board of Trustees

4. by a recommendation from any parish of this Archdiocese in good standing

Under all of the above procedures, any proposed amendments are “to be certified by the sponsor and submitted to the Metropolitan Archbishop and the Department of Legal Affairs for the purpose of studying and determining the legality of such proposed change.” As a courtesy, the proposed October 15, 2004 constitution was submitted to the Department of Legal Affairs for review.

As communicated in the press release of January 18^th, 2005, the Department of Legal Affairs rendered a decision that the “major appropriate suggested changes do not require amendments to the Pittsburgh Constitution” and the legally adopted Pittsburgh Constitution “stands as the Constitution of this Archdiocese, without the need for further revision.”

Yours in Christ,

The Department of Legal Affairs

Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America

 PDF Version

Orthodox Britain!

Join us on a holy pilgrimage to

Orthodox Britain!

May 16-28, 2005

led by

Archpriest Josiah Trenham, Ph.D.

St. Andrew

Antiochian Orthodox Church Riverside , California

Did you know that England is home to an abundance of the saints of our Church? Her holy sites, relics and holy wells can be found throughout the British Isles and England, in particular. England is an ideal place to make a pilgrimage since it is much closer than Greece, Russia, or the Holy Land, there are no linguistic barriers, it is much cheaper to access, and, for many of America’s Orthodox these days, England is their “old country.”

Over the last eight years Fr. Josiah has had the opportunity to travel each year to Great Britain in the course of doing theological research at the University of Durham under the Orthodox theologian, Rev. Dr. Andrew Louth. On these trips, he has made many trips to various holy sites of Great Britain, gathering up information on England’s Orthodox past. With the blessing of His Eminence, Metropolitan PHILIP , and of His Grace, Bishop JOSEPH , pilgrims will journey to sacred locations of Orthodox England from May 16th-28th, 2005. Setting out from Edinburgh (Scotland) on an executive coach, pilgrims will explore places in Edinburgh, Lindisfarne (the “holy island”), Durham, York, Colchester, Tolleshunt Knights, London, Oxford, St. Alban’s, Canterbury, Birmingham and Lichfield. Lectures will be provided by Fr. Josiah on the coach while en route to these sites, and also by different English Orthodox clergymen and scholars in the various areas. In order to keep the cost affordable for all persons a tour is being offered, but not a travel package . All participants, with the assistance of accommodation recommendations provided, are responsible for arranging their own flight and hotel accommodations. In order to secure a place on the tour, a fee of $650 (which covers the costs of the coach and tour guides) is due in full by March 31, 2005. Tour is limited to 48 persons. For more detailed information please visit www.saintandrew.net (see Orthodox Britain link) or call for the tour coordinators, Alan and Sheilagh Means @ 714-962-4819 for brochures and more information.  Download the brochure here

Orthodox Christians Celebrate the Great Blessing of Waters at Camp Victory in Baghdad

On Friday, January 7, 2005, the Post Feast of Theophany commemorating the baptism of Our Lord, Jesus Christ in the Jordan, the Very Rev. Jerome Cwiklinski, CDR, CHC, USN, a US Navy chaplain, celebrated the Great Blessing of Water at Camp Victory in Baghdad.  The Tigris River feeds the artificial lake that surrounds the palace.

Father Cwiklinski blesses soldiers from Ukraine, who joined Orthodox soldiers from the US, the Republic of Georgia, Macedonia, and Romania for Theophany services.  Holding the festal icon is the Reader Luke Christian Bell, a chaplain's assistant in the US Army and son of the Rev. Antony Bell, pastor of St. Mary Antiochian Orthodox Christian Church in Topeka, IN. 

Over 300 College Students Move Mountains!

Boston, MA - Mountains were moved through faith, fellowship and worship during the fantastic five day College Conference offered by Orthodox Christian Fellowship (OCF) focusing on the theme of "The Faith to Move Mountains". Over winter break, over 300 Orthodox Christian college students from across North America attended OCF's annual College Conference held on the East Coast at the Antiochian Village in Bolivar, PA and on the West Coast at St. Nicholas Ranch in Dunlap, CA.

These conferences, which are planned and run by members of local OCF groups, aim to promote unity among Orthodox Christian young adults and to rejuvenate their faith as they continue on their personal journey to salvation. This year's conferences featured two well-known and dynamic keynote speakers: at the West Coast Conference renowned author and speaker Fr. Thomas Hopko, Dean Emeritus of Saint Vladimir's Seminary; and at the East Coast Conference distinguished author Fr. John Chryssavgis, Theological Advisor to the Ecumenical Patriarch on Environmental Issues. In total the conferences showcased 15 enlightening and dynamic workshop speakers with topics including "Faith to Follow vs. Faith to Lead," "Faith in Today's Society,"

"The End of Times and Life After Death," and "Purity, Virginity, and Sanctity." In addition to these presentations the conferences held daily worship services and social events. Social activities included snow tubing, a trip to Sequoia National Forest and Pre-New Year's Eve Dances. The conferences also offered a focus on serving others with 120 participants registering for the National Bone Marrow Registry and 75 letters sent to Orthodox Missionaries and Prisoners.

This year's conferences were a tremendous success with 305 total participants and six out of nine SCOBA jurisdictions represented.

One participant declared,

"I felt that this conference was spiritually moving and a great way to meet others who share the common interest of Christ."

Another student stated,

"The conference was incredible. Small groups...those are the best, most inspiring and life-changing times."

Over the past ten years thousands of college students, high school graduates, and young adults have gathered for the 5-day events sponsored by OCF, the official campus ministry of the Standing Conference of Canonical Orthodox Bishops in the Americas (SCOBA). In reflecting on the growth and success of the College Conference, Program Coordinator for OCF, Joseph J.

Samra shared, "These conferences serve as a pivotal mid-year re-focusing point for so many of the participants. The fellowship seen in the social activities, the service accomplished by helping others and the worship witnessed when 220 students come to Compline at 1 AM attest to the positive impact 5 days can have in the life of a college student."

 

About OCF

Orthodox Christian Fellowship (OCF) is the official campus ministry effort of the Standing Conference of Canonical Orthodox Bishops in the Americas (SCOBA). It is a Pan-Orthodox effort, overseen by an Executive Committee and aided by a sixteen-person Student Advisory Board. The office is located in Boston, MA, where a full time staff develops OCF programs and resources.

The staff is available to guide and support local OCF chapters through communication with the larger Orthodox community, national programs, and development of resources for use by Orthodox college students. SCOBA designated the 3rd Sunday in September each year as "College Student Sunday" to raise awareness of our students on campus and OCF's activities.

 

A group of College students pause for a picture in between activities at the OCF East Coast College Conference. Daily activities included worship, workshops and social events.

OCF will continue to grow these conferences, which have become powerful influences in the spiritual lives of Orthodox Christian young adults. For more information, or to become a participant in future College Conferences or OCF programs, go to www.ocf.net or call 800-919-1OCF.

St Vladimir's Seminary Seeks to Fill Full-Time Position in Pastoral Theology

St Vladimir’s Orthodox Theological Seminary

 

575 Scarsdale Road

 

Crestwood, NY

10707                                  

 

Contact:  Julia Wickes, communications officer

 

Day Phone:  914-961-8313, ext. 363

 

Email: Julia@svots.edu

 

 

 

                                                                                    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

 

February 4, 2005

 

 

St Vladimir's Seminary Seeks to Fill Full-Time Position in Pastoral Theology

 

Crestwood, NY—St Vladimir's Orthodox Theological Seminary is seeking to fill a full-time, tenure-track position in the area of pastoral theology, beginning in the fall 2005 semester.

Qualifications

 

The successful candidate will normally have:

 

• An earned doctorate in the area of pastoral theology or a related field.

   

• A degree in Orthodox theology from an Orthodox institution of higher learning.

   

• A proven record of church service.

   

• Teaching experience or potential.

   

Job Description

 

The selected candidate will be expected to:

 

• Teach a full load of courses in the area of pastoral theology and homiletics, as determined by the Faculty Council. The normal load for full-time faculty is three courses a semester, but this can be adjusted for those assuming various administrative functions.

   

• Supervise and coordinate the Field Education program, including placement of students in pastoral training programs and parishes.

   

• Supervise the DMin program until its termination (projected for May 2009).

   

To apply, send a resume and cover letter by March 1, 2005, to:

 

Dr Paul Meyendorff
Associate Dean for Academic

Affairs
St Vladimir

’s Orthodox Theological Seminary

575 Scarsdale Rd
Crestwood, NY 10707

 

-END-

 

 

 

 

 

 

Three New Bishops Assume Duties For Dioceses Of The Self-Ruled Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese Of North America

Archbishop of New York and   Metropolitan of All North America

The Self-Ruled Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese

 

OF NORTH AMERICA

 

 

 

358 Mountain Road, P.O. Box 5238, Englewood, NJ  07631-5238

 

  Telephone (201) 871-1355 * Fax (201) 871-7954

 

Website:  www.antiochian.org  *  Email:  archdiocese@antiochian.org

 

 

 

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

January 18, 2005 – Englewood, New Jersey

 

 

 

THREE NEW BISHOPS ASSUME DUTIES FOR DIOCESES OF THE SELF-RULED ANTIOCHIAN ORTHODOX CHRISTIAN ARCHDIOCESE OF NORTH AMERICA

 

The following letter from the Department of Legal Affairs was sent to the faithful of the Archdiocese to be placed in each parish bulletin.

 

 

 

Venerable Hierarchs, Esteemed Members of the Board of Trustees, and Beloved Clergy and Faithful of this God-Protected Archdiocese:

 

 

 

We greet you with prayers for all good things in this New Year!

 

His Grace, Bishop THOMAS (Joseph), Bishop of Pittsburgh and the Diocese of the East, His Grace Bishop MARK (Maymon), Bishop of Toledo and the Diocese of the Midwest, and His Grace Bishop ALEXANDER (Mufarrij), Bishop of Ottawa and the Diocese of Eastern Canada and Upstate New York assumed their new duties on January 1, 2005.

 

 

 

Bishop THOMAS has moved into the chancery at the Antiochian Village in Ligonier, Pennsylvania, and Bishop MARK has moved into the chancery in Toledo, Ohio.  Bishop ALEXANDER will soon move to a temporary location in Canada until renovations are completed at the permanent chancery in Montreal.  They will later be formally enthroned at their diocesan cathedrals by the Metropolitan and members of the Local Synod. 

 

Formerly Fr. Thomas Joseph, Fr. Mark Maymon and Fr. Rafeek Mufarrij were included in the nominations made by the General Assembly of the Special Convention of July 2004 as candidates for the office of diocesan bishop. According to the Constitution of the self-ruled Antiochian Archdiocese of North America, adopted July 16, 2004 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, they were elected to the episcopacy by the Local Synod on October 29, 2004, in Naples, Florida. Subsequent to their election, and at the request of His Beatitude IGNATIUS IV, the new bishops-elect were sent to Damascus, where they were consecrated to the episcopacy at the hand of His Beatitude during the weekend of December 3 – 5, 2004. The Archdiocese, on behalf of the faithful, has expressed its heartfelt thanks to Our Father in Christ, Patriarch IGNATIUS IV and the members of the Holy Synod of Antioch for the continuing support of the North American Archdiocese. 

 

 

 

The Holy Synod of Antioch, at its meeting of October 14, 2004, in approving the basic implementation by the Pittsburgh Constitution of the self-rule granted on October 9, 2003, suggested some changes in the Pittsburgh Constitution.  Pursuant to our constitution, the suggested changes were submitted to the Archdiocese Department of Legal Affairs for review.  The Department of Legal Affairs has determined that the major appropriate suggested changes do not require amendments to the Pittsburgh Constitution.

 

 

 

Under the Pittsburgh Constitution, (as occurred in the case of the three new bishops), the Patriarch of Antioch may exercise his option to not send representatives of the Holy Synod of Antioch to participate, with the Local Synod, in the election of diocesan bishops.  It is also permissible under our constitution, where approved by the Metropolitan and Local Synod (as occurred in the case of the three new bishops), to send our bishops-elect to Damascus for consecration.

 

 

 

The Pittsburgh Constitution, therefore, as approved by the faithful on July 16, 2004, stands as the Constitution of this Archdiocese, without the need for further revision.

 

 

 

The faithful of the Archdiocese are hopeful that His Beatitude Patriarch IGNATIUS IV will be with us at the Archdiocesan General Convention in Detroit, which will be held from July 25-31, 2005.

 

 

 

The Archdiocese adds its Axios to Bishops THOMAS, MARK, and ALEXANDER as they assume their new duties. May God grant them many years!

 

 

Seminarian Dinner - November 14, 2005

On Monday, November 14, 2005 (The Feast Day of the Apostle Philip) His Eminence Metropolitan PHILIP hosted the annual dinner for the Antiochian seminarians and their spouses.  The dinner was held in the main dining room at the Archdiocese Headquarters in Englewood, New Jersey .  His Eminence addressed the group, encouraging them to surrender their lives to the will of God.  The dinner was preceded by the celebration of Great Vespers in the Chapel of St. John Chrysostom.  David Jacobs, a second year student at St. Vladimir, presented His Eminence with an icon of The Apostle PHILIP on behalf of all the seminarians.  The icon was written by David.  The entire group took a photo with the clergy who were also present for the dinner.

View photos of the event below.

Update on the health of His Eminence, Metropolitan PHILIP

Monday November 7, 2005

By the grace of God and through the prayers of many faithful people, His Eminence continues his recovery at home in Englewood. He is following a regular schedule of light exercise and remains under the care of an excellent medical team. It is well understood that many people desire to speak with him and to see him. However his doctors have ordered maximum rest and minimum contact in order to insure his continued recovery. Please understand this and continue to pray for the good health of our beloved Metropolitan.

 

 

 

If you would like to submit a prayer or message for His Eminence, please click here:

Katrina Relief Effort News & Resources

Antiochian Hierarchs Participate in the Opening of the 60th UN General Assembly

On September 16, 2005 His Eminence Metropolitan PHILIP and His Grace Bishop ANTOUN met with the Lebanese President Emile Lahoud who earlier had addressed the General Assembly.  Pictured below (l. to r.) are President Lahoud, Metropolitan PHILIP, and Bishop ANTOUN.  Earlier in the week, Bishop ANTOUN represented the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America at a service marking the opening of the 60th General Assembly of the United Nations held at the Church of the Holy Family in

New York City.  He was accompanied by Very Rev. Thomas Zain, Dean of St. Nicholas Cathedral in Brooklyn.

Archdiocese Board of Trustees Meeting

The Archdiocese Board of Trustees met on October 7 & 8, 2005.

47th Convention Highlights

The 47^th North American Convention of the Self-Ruled Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America was held in Dearborn, Michigan from July 25^th through July 31^st, 2005. The convention was hosted by St. George Antiochian Orthodox Church of Troy, Michigan and was attended by 2,500 faithful. It was the first regular convention held since the granting of self-rule status by the Holy Synod of Antioch by unanimous resolution in October, 2003. Highlights of the Convention included:

A. The organizational and departmental meetings held earlier in the week

B. The General Assembly held on Thursday and Friday

C. The North American Bible Bowl and Oratorical Festival

D. The Hierarchical Divine Liturgy on Sunday concelebrated by Metropolitan PHILIP, Archbishop of New York and All North America, the visiting Metropolitan PAUL, Archbishop of Australia and New Zealand, and the six diocesan bishops of the North American Antiochian Archdiocese

The General Assembly was attended by 1,000 delegates comprised of pastors, retired pastors, clergy who are full-time department heads, North American and diocesan presidents of organizations, and Members of the Archdiocese Board of Trustees. The General Assembly took specific action on the following items:

1. The delegates approved a voluntary contribution plan for clergy and full-time employees of the Archdiocese whereby the contributor may deposit up to 3% of his or her salary into the fund, and the parish (for pastors) or the Archdiocese (for full-time employees) may match this 3% contribution.
2. The delegates approved a new and significant system by which the parishes of the Archdiocese will contribute to the Archdiocese budget. The old system had consisted of a fixed dollar amount that each parish contributed based on the number of people reported by the parish census. The new system will eventually result in the parish tithing to the Archdiocese based on its Operating Income. The 10% will be attained by starting with 8% in 2006, 9% in 2007, and 10% in 2008.
3. The delegates approved a resolution calling on SCOBA to act decisively to plan and implement Orthodox Unity in North America (attached)
4. The delegates approved a resolution in vigorous opposition to extreme positions being taken by so-called “left-wing”, and “right-wing” Christian groups (attached)
5. The delegates approved a motion which removes the Archdiocese from membership in the National Council of Christian Churches in the USA (NCCCUSA), in light of the shift of the NCCCUSA to a position which no longer contributes to the mission of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese in North America. This move does not signal an end to participation in ecumenical dialog, and membership in appropriate groups.  On the contrary, it allows our attention to be focused on participation in groups which are consistent with the mission of this Archdiocese in North America.

OCN- Schedule of Programs for September 2005

For Immediate Release
For More Information please contact:
OCN - Orthodox Christian Network Sub Deacon Nicholas Tentzeras, Booking Director
"Come Receive the Light" Radio Program SubDeaconNicholas@receive.org
815 NE 15th Avenue Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33305 1-888-211.4141

Schedule of Programs for September 2005
 

09/03/2005    Topic:         Loss of a Child
              Guests:        Fr. Don and Khouriya Maggie Hock
 
How can one survive the loss of a child?  Will things ever be the same?  Be sure to join us as Father Chris and Emmy speak with Fr. Don and Khouriya Maggie Hock as they tell of their own personal experience on losing a child. Married 35 years with four daughters and a son, they share their story with us in an effort to give hope to families who have suffered a loss and educate those around them on how to be supportive.
 
09/10/2005    Topic:         Ecumenism in the 21^st Century
              Guest:         Despina Prassas
 
American society is a picture of multiculturalism.  How do you deal with faiths coming together in a diversified culture? Fr. Chris and Emmy welcome back Dr. Despina Prassas as she will discuss the dialogue between Pentecostals and Orthodox Christians and what the Orthodox Christian Church prays for and envisions as being the role of the Orthodox Christian Church in Ecumenism in the 21st Century.
 

09/17/2005    Topic:        Orthodox Christianity in American Public Life
              Guest:       Dr. Elizabeth H. Prodromou
 
There are many differences between the pluralistic society we live in and a Byzantium like state. So how do we deal with the challenges and are we able to be good Orthodox Christians while living in such a society?  Be sure to join us when we speak with Dr. Elizabeth Prodromou, Assistant Professor in International Relations from Boston University.
 
09/24/2005    Topic:        Religion and Illness                      
              Guest:        Fr. John Panagiotou
 
Another barrier has been created to keep religion out of public places. Fr. John Panagiotou will be discussing why priests should be allowed to visit the sick in hospitals and how a new law has created unintended consequences. Listen to learn how this can affect you and your family.
 
Subscribe to the Come Receive The Light e-newsletter at http://www.receive.org for a weekly inspirational message and the latest updates of upcoming programs.

Washington Post: New Iconostas : Ss. Peter & Paul : Potomac, MD

Carving Out a Sacred Space
The New Altar at a Potomac Church Hearkens to Ancient and Far-Flung Traditions

By Mary Otto
Washington Post Staff Writer
Saturday, July 9, 2005; Page B09

The new altar is made of pale golden marble, quarried from the treeless mountains of Syria where the Apostle Paul is said to have walked 2,000 years ago.

Paul was converted on the road to Damascus, according to the Bible, and he preached in the ancient city of Antioch, where Jesus's followers were first called Christians.

Click here to read this article on the Washington Post Website

Local Synod of Bishops of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America gathered together for their Spring meet

The Local Synod of Bishops of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America gathered together for their Spring meeting on June 2, 2005 at the Archdiocese Headquarters in Englewood, New Jersey.

The Bishops of the Local Synod; From l to r:  Bishop MARK of Toledo and the Midwest, Bishop BASIL of Wichita and Mid-America, Bishop ANTOUN of Miami and the Southeast, Metropolitan PHILIP, Bishop JOSEPH of Los Angeles and the West, Bishop THOMAS of Oakland PA and the East, Bishop ALEXANDER of Ottawa, Eastern Canada and Upstate New York.

 

 

OCA Unveils Redesigned, Expanded Web Site

SYOSSET, NY [OCA Communications] -- The Orthodox Church in America [OCA] unveiled its redesigned and expanded web site, www.oca.org , on Wednesday, March 2, 2005.

The site, which made its debut in December 1996, features several thousand pages of information on Orthodox Christian Scripture, doctrine, worship, history, and spirituality; a wealth of educational and ministry resources; a popular question and answer service; extensive photo galleries; daily liturgical texts, commemorations, and music; and directories of the OCA's hierarchs, clergy, parishes, and institutions.

With the blessing of His Beatitude, Metropolitan Herman, OCA primate, the site's web team, headed by web master John Mindala, spent countless hours over the past year reorganizing and redesigning the new site, which averages some 700 thousand hits from over 100 countries each month.

Numerous technical changes also have been added, making the site more user-friendly and easing the site's search features.

"We are confident that the redesigned site will prove useful to our faithful, the general public, and researchers alike,"

- said Protopresbyter Robert Kondratick, OCA chancellor, who supervised the site's upgrade together with the Very Rev. John Matusiak, OCA communications director.

"Since its inception, the site has steadily gained in popularity and has served to introduce countless individuals to the Orthodox Christian faith and tradition."

Tracing its roots to the arrival of Orthodox missionaries in Alaska in 1794, the Orthodox Church in America embraces over 700 parishes, missions, and institutions across the US, Canada, and Mexico.

MEDIA RELEASE / ORTHODOX CHURCH IN AMERICA PO Box 675 Syosset, New York 11791-0675

Contact: The Very Rev. John Matusiak

OCA Communications Director

630-668-3071

info@oca.org or tocmed@aol.com

www.oca.org

St. Nicholas Cathedral Celebrates 110th Anniversary and Elevation of Father Thomas Zain

St. Nicholas Antiochian Orthodox Cathedral of Brooklyn, the Mother Cathedral and oldest parish of the Archdiocese, celebrated her 110th anniversary June 4-5, 2005. The anniversary coincided with the spring meetings of the Local Archdiocesan Synod of the Self-Ruled Archdiocese, the Archdiocese Board of Trustees and the Governing Council of the Order of St. Ignatius of Antioch. All three meetings proved to be very productive, historic and fruitful.

On Saturday evening, some 300 people gathered for the grand banquet at the New York Marriott at the Brooklyn Bridge. Those in attendance from the religious community included His Eminence, Metropolitan PHILIP and the hierarchs of the Local Archdiocesan Synod, representatives from the Orthodox Church in America, the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America, St. Vladimir's Orthodox Theological Seminary, the Melkite Catholic Church, the Druze community and numerous priests and deacons from throughout the United States and Canada. Also in attendance were members of the diplomatic corps and local civil authorities including New York State Senator Martin Golden, the Syrian Ambassador to the United Nations, Fayssal Makdad, the Counsel General of Lebanon in New York, Mohamad El-Harake and the Charge d'affaires from the Mission of Lebanon to the United Nations, Ibrahim Assaf.

Highlights of the banquet included a State Senate Proclamation presented to Metropolitan PHILIP, Father Thomas and the Cathedral by Senator Golden, the recognition of Mr. Nick Nassir of California who was baptized in the Cathedral 93 years ago, possibly by St. Raphael himself, and the presentation of the Certificate of Meritorious Service by Metropolitan PHILIP to the general chairwoman of the weekend, Ms. Elaine Khoury, for all of her hard work and dedication over the years.

On Sunday, June 5, 2005, the Hierarchical Divine Liturgy took place before a standing room only crowd at the Cathedral. His Eminence, Metropolitan PHILIP and all the diocesan bishops of the Archdiocese were present along with 16 priests and deacons of various Orthodox jurisdictions from throughout the United States and Canada. Prior to the Liturgy, the clergy met Metropolitan PHILIP and the bishops at the entrance of the Cathedral and processed in with the relics of St. Raphael that were then placed in the holy altar table. This is significant in that St. Nicholas was the first community founded by St. Raphael and he was originally buried under the altar at the Pacific Street Cathedral before his remains were moved to a Brooklyn cemetery (and subsequently to the Holy Resurrection Cemetery at the Antiochian Village) when the location of the Cathedral changed to its present spot in 1920 at 355 State Street.

The historic liturgy concluded with the other main celebration of the weekend, the elevation of the Cathedral's Dean, Rev. Fr. Thomas Zain, to the dignity of Archpriest by His Eminence, Metropolitan PHILIP. Father Thomas is celebrating his 11th anniversary in the priesthood next month and his 8th anniversary as Dean of St. Nicholas Cathedral in August. His sponsors, Archimandrite Michael Evans and Archpriest George Alberts led him to Metropolitan PHILIP for the elevation prayer. Following the laying on of hands, Metropolitan PHILIP presented Father Thomas with the jeweled cross to wear as a sign of his new rank. The cross was given as a gift from the Cathedral. A sold out reception honoring Father Thomas, Khourieh Claudia and their children Simone and George and sponsored by the Tri-State members of the Archdiocese Board of Trustees and others followed in the Cathedral Hall.

At the same liturgy, a 40 day Trisagion (memorial) service was held for the late Archbishop IAKOVOS of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of North and South America and seven new members were inducted into the Order of St. Ignatius of Antioch, the charitable arm of the Archdiocese.

Convention Begins

Orthodox Peace Fellowship to hold annual conference at St. Vladimir's Seminary

Orthodox Peace Fellowship to hold annual conference at St. Vladimir's Seminary

CRESTWOOD, NY — The North American branch of the Orthodox Peace Fellowship [OPF] will hold its annual east coast conference at Saint Vladimir's Orthodox Theological Seminary on July 29-31, 2005. The conference theme, "Salt of the Earth, Light of the World: Living the Similitudes in Our Communities," will focus on gathering and expanding a variety of Orthodox social outreach ministries to the underserved in our communities.  The main speakers of the conference are Mr. Joe May of Akron, OH's Matthew 25 House of Hospitality, presenting "Downward Mobility: Voluntary Simplicity in Christian Life and Witness," and the Rev. Paisius Altschul of the Kansas City Reconciliation Ministries speaking on "The Icon of God: Getting Beyond 'Us' 'Them.'" Other Orthodox social ministries to participate by leading workshops include the homeless ministry conducted by Saint John the Compassionate Mission, Toronto, ON, Canada; the Treehouse Center for Mothers, Wichita, KS; Zoe for Life, and prison ministries. On-line registration is encouraged through the OPF web site at www.incommunion.org or by writing to the Orthodox Peace Fellowship, PO Box 390838, Cambridge, MA 02139. Questions may be directed to Sheri San Chirico at sherihopesc@yahoo.com. OPF's North American branch was established several years ago as a extension of the international OPF, based in Alkmaar, Holland.

Statement on the Falling Asleep of Archbishop Iakovos

April 11, 2005

 

 

 

 

 

His Eminence Archbishop IAKOVOS, 93, spiritual leader of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of North and South America from 1959 to 1996, fell asleep in the Lord on April 10, 2005 at Stamford Hospital in Connecticut.

 

 

 

 

 

All of the hierarchs, clergy, and faithful of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of

North America join in mourning the loss of this most special leader of Orthodox Christians in this Hemisphere.  At the same time, we rejoice in the legacy that he leaves to us, and we feel challenged to continue his good work for the Glory of God.  It can be said that his ministry has put Orthodoxy on the map in North America.

 

 

 

 

 

His Eminence Metropolitan PHILIP worked very closely with Archbishop IAKOVOS for many years, and together they were instrumental in the establishment of such important organizations as SCOBA (The Standing Conference of Canonical Orthodox Bishops in America), and the IOCC (International Orthodox Christian Charities).

 

 

 

 

 

In 1995, Metropolitan PHILIP said the following in his commencement address at Holy Cross Seminary,

Brookline, MA:

 

 

 

 

 

“I am indeed delighted to share this podium with my beloved Brother in Christ, Archbishop IAKOVOS, Primate of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of North and

South America.  During the past twenty-nine years, I have had the distinct honor and pleasure of working with him as Vice-Chairman of SCOBA.  Throughout the years, he has lead SCOBA with much patience, wisdom and vision, despite the monumental difficulties which we face.  I do not know of any other Orthodox hierarch who has sacrificed more of his time, energy, and health for our Church in this hemisphere than Archbishop IAKOVOS.”

 

 

 

 

 

Today, His Eminence Metropolitan PHILIP said:

 

 

 

 

 

“The passing of Archbishop IAKOVOS marks the end of an era.  He has left his footprints on the sands of time as he worked tirelessly to develop the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese and her institutions.  He was the much respected and loved dean of the Orthodox clergy, and he was not afraid to fight for the rights of the oppressed in

America and abroad.  Through all of the years that we worked together, we never had a single misunderstanding.  I have lost a very dear brother and friend.  May his memory be ever eternal!”

 

 

 

 

 

It is clear that the words of our Lord apply to His Eminence Archbishop IAKOVOS:

 

 

“Well done, good and faithful servant; you have been faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things.  Enter into the joy of your Lord” (Matthew 25:23).

 

 

 

 

 

May our Lord grant rest to the soul of His servant Archbishop IAKOVOS, and may his memory be eternal!!

 

 

Seven hierarchs of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America to Concelebrate divine liturgy at St. Nicholas

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The Self-Ruled Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese

 

OF

NORTH AMERICA 

 

 

  Telephone (201) 871-1355 * Fax (201) 871-7954

 

Website:  www.antiochian.org  *  Email: 

archdiocese@antiochian.org

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

 

May 26, 2005 –

Englewood, New Jersey

 

 

SEVEN HIERARCHS OF THE ANTIOCHIAN ORTHODOX CHRISTIAN ARCHDIOCESE OF NORTH AMERICA TO CONCELEBRATE DIVINE LITURGY AT ST. NICHOLAS CATHEDRAL IN

BROOKLYN, NEW YORK ON SUNDAY JUNE 5^TH, 2005 ON THE OCCASION OF THE 110^TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE CATHEDRAL.  TRISAGION SERVICE TO BE HELD IN MEMORY OF ARCHBISHOP IAKOVOS, FORMER ARCHBISHOP OF THE GREEK ORTHODOX ARCHDIOCESE OF NORTH AND SOUTH AMERICA.

 

For the first time since the election and consecration of three new diocesan bishops in December 2004, all seven hierarchs of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America will concelebrate the Divine Liturgy on Sunday June 5^th, 2005 at St. Nicholas Cathedral in

Brooklyn, New York.  The Divine Liturgy will be the highlight of a weekend that celebrates the 110^th anniversary of St. Nicholas Cathedral, and includes the Spring meetings of the Local Synod of the Archdiocese and the Board of Trustees.

 

In addition, a Trisagion Service will be held in memory of His Eminence Archbishop IAKOVOS, former spiritual leader of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of North and

South America, who went to his eternal rest on April 10^th, 2005 at the age of 93.  Archbishop IAKOVOS had served as the Greek Orthodox Archbishop of North and South America for 37 years from 1959 to 1996.  His passing marked the end of an era, as he worked tirelessly to develop the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese and her institutions.  As chairman of SCOBA (The Standing Conference of Canonical Orthodox Bishops in America) he laid the foundation for cooperation between all of the Orthodox jurisdictions in America, as he pursued his vision for Orthodox unity on this continent.  We are challenged to continue his good work for the Glory of God and His Holy Church.

 

Attending the Local Synod of the Antiochian Archdiocese of North America, and concelebrating at the Divine Liturgy will be the following hierarchs:

 

His Eminence Metropolitan PHILIP, Archbishop of New York and Metropolitan of All North America, His Grace ANTOUN, Bishop of Miami and the Diocese of the Southeast, His Grace JOSEPH, Bishop of Los Angeles and the Diocese of the West, His Grace BASIL, Bishop of Wichita and the Diocese of Mid-America,  His Grace THOMAS, Bishop of Oakland, PA and the Diocese of the East, His Grace MARK, Bishop of Toledo and the Diocese of the Midwest, and His Grace ALEXANDER, Bishop of Ottawa and the Diocese of Eastern Canada and Upstate New York.

 

The Local Synod of the Archdiocese will hold its meeting on Thursday, June 2^nd at the Archdiocese Headquarters in

Englewood, New Jersey.  The Archdiocese Board of Trustees will meet on Friday June 3^rd, and Saturday June 4^th at the Brooklyn Marriott Hotel, which will also be the location of the Grand Banquet on Saturday evening to celebrate the 110^th anniversary of St. Nicholas Cathedral in Brooklyn, New York.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Resolution on Autonomy

Resolution on Autonomy June 11, 2001  TO BE READ FROM THE PULPIT AND PUBLISHED IN THE CHURCH BULLETIN Venerable Hierarchs, Esteemed Members of the Board of Trustees of the Archdiocese, Beloved Clergy, Parish Council and Faithful of our Archdiocese: “Now, when the Day of Pentecost had fully come, they were all with one accord, in one place. And suddenly, there came a sound from heaven, as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled the whole house, where they were sitting. Then there appeared to them divided tongues, as of fire, and one sat upon each of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit....” (Acts 2:1-4) God continues to work in His Church. On Saturday, June 2, 2001, the day before we celebrated the birthday of Christ’s Holy Church and the coming of the Holy Spirit, the Archdiocesan Board of Trustees met in Englewood, New Jersey, and unanimously and joyously recommended to the General Assembly of the Archdiocese, when it meets in July in Los Angeles, to request the Holy Synod of Antioch to grant autonomy to our Archdiocese. This would not sever our ties with Antioch, but would allow the Archdiocese to be self-governing except that the Holy Synod of Antioch would retain certain authority with respect to the validity of the election of the Primate of the Archdiocese. The details of the autonomous Church would be worked out in consultation with the Patriarchate. The Resolution makes clear that the proposed autonomous Archdiocese desires to maintain close ties with the Patriarchate of Antioch and its institutions and that the people of the Archdiocese will not forget their roots. Enclosed is the Resolution which will be placed before the General Assembly. We believe the Holy Spirit has blessed this attempt to insure the future stability and flourishing of our Archdiocese, to allow our people to select their bishops, and to lay a groundwork for a unified church in the United States and Canada sometime in the future, while maintaining close ties with the Patriarchate of Antioch. It is our fervent hope that the General Assembly will unanimously pass the resolution. We would then consult with the Holy Synod of Antioch to work out the details. We have just learned that the Reverend Clergy of the Southwest Region, at their convention in Wichita, voted unanimously for autonomy. So that we might be orderly, the procedure with respect to the resolution shall be to comment primarily by parish delegation, only through one representative. Proposed changes to the Resolution will only be considered if received by my office prior to July 1 5, 2001. Anyone desiring to see the text or understand the procedure, please contact the Parish Priest and/or Parish Council Chairperson. Please read the Resolution carefully and come to Los Angeles prepared to vote on it. We ask that you keep the welfare of our God-protected Archdiocese in your prayers always, especially in these next five or six months, as we hopefully work with the Holy Synod of Antioch for the glory of Christ’s Church on this continent. Your Father in Christ,   Metropolitan PHILIP Primate Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America PROPOSED RESOLUTION TO THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY WHEREAS, the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America (“Archdiocese”) has grown from a small mission, directed chiefly to immigrants from the Near East, into a vast archdiocese of approximately 230 parishes and missions, over 350 clergy and approximately 500,000 faithful, whose ethnic diversity increasingly approximates the rich ethnic diversity of North America itself; WHEREAS, among other things the growth of the Archdiocese has been accompanied by an increase in the number of bishops serving in it, from a single Metropolitan to a Metropolitan and four auxiliary bishops; WHEREAS, the Archdiocese has developed its own internal structures and institutions, which respond effectively to the particular cultural and political conditions in North America, while at the same time reflecting the Orthodox Church’s perennial norms for the well-ordered life of an autonomous local church; WHEREAS, the granting of the status of autonomy to the Archdiocese by the Holy Synod of Antioch at this time would confirm and strengthen the Archdiocese’s capacity for effective self-governance, and thus help to ensure the stability of the Archdiocese and its continued flourishing in the future; WHEREAS, such autonomy would safeguard the canonical principle that local matters should be handled locally, among other things allowing the selection of bishops for the Archdiocese whose life and work is known to the faithful here and who are familiar with the situation of the Church in the United States and Canada; WHEREAS, such autonomy would allow greater flexibility to the Archdiocese as it works with other Orthodox jurisdictions towards the establishment of an administratively united Orthodox Church in North America, which would more fully embody the ecclesiology and canonical norms of Orthodoxy and advance the mission and witness of Orthodoxy on this continent; WHEREAS, the autonomous Archdiocese would continue to maintain close ties with the Mother Church of Antioch, with its institutions and faithful, always mindful of its spiritual roots; WHEREAS, His Beatitude, Patriarch Ignatius, and His Eminence, Metropolitan Philip, will be meeting to discuss this resolution; THEREFORE, the General Assembly of this 45th Convention of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese does hereby beseech the Patriarch and the Holy Synod of Antioch to grant the Archdiocese autonomy, the details of which would be worked out, in consultation with the Patriarch. (Revised form, passed by the General Assembly July 27, 2001)

Appeal Regarding the Church of the Nativity April 20, 2002

Urgent Appeal from the Orthodox Patriarchate of Jerusalem Regarding the Church of the Nativity   From Archimandrite (Doctor) Atalla Hanna Official Spokesman for the Orthodox Church in Jerusalem and the Holy Land Regarding the Siege and Break-in Attempts of the Church of the Nativity    + We strongly denounce and condemn the attempts of the Israeli Occupation Authority to break into the Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem. Shelling and bombing have set the sanctuary of St. George Church, where children are baptized, on fire. Several of the rooms at the monastery adjacent to the Church of the Nativity, where the Greek Orthodox Bishop of Bethlehem resides, were also burned. The shells, bullets and bombs resulted in massive losses and obvious impact on the structure of the Church which is considered to be a spiritual, humanitarian and cultural landmark of Christianity. Several of the besieged inside the church were also hit by the shells. + We charge the Israeli Government and its occupation forces with responsibility for this vicious attack on the most important Christian Churches in the world. We affirm that these Israeli acts of occupation are shameful assaults on the sanctity of holy things and a disgraceful violation of the religious consciousness of Palestinian Christians, in particular, and all Christians throughout the world, in general. The Occupation Authority has overstepped all boundaries and acts without restraint, ignoring all spiritual, human and cultural morals. + We call for immediate international intervention to prevent the Occupation Authority from engaging in any further inhumanity towards people and property. Nothing seems to be beyond their reach, including all things that are holy and sacred to millions of faithful throughout the world. + We demand the end of the siege on the city of Bethlehem and the Church of the Nativity in particular. We will not accept any attempt to harm the Palestinians who are blockaded inside the Church of the Nativity. We are very concerned about their safety and insist on the end of the siege on all Palestinian towns, cities and camps. We are further concerned about the tragic living conditions of the Palestinian people. We appeal to the human rights advocates to intervene and save the Palestinian people from the severe violations of human rights committed against them. + Occupation poses a great danger to the security and stability of the national and international community. It is, therefore, imperative that this scandalous aggression against the Palestinian people and property be stopped, the occupation ended and the Palestinian Nation, with Jerusalem as its Capital, established. This is the only way stability in the area and in the whole world can be guaranteed. + We appeal to all the Christian Churches of the world in general and of the Middle East in particular to dedicate tomorrow (Sunday) as a day of unity in which we pray for the Palestinian People and the besieged Church of the Nativity. We further appeal to the Christians in the Holy Land to go to Bethlehem on this day to pray at the Church of the Nativity and to show to the entire world our rejection and condemnation of the siege and occupation that is imposed on the Church of the Nativity. Jerusalem: April 20, 2002 Translated 24-Apr-2002 by Lucy Hanna View this Appeal in the original Arabic

Appeal Regarding the Church of the Nativity April 20, 2002 (Arabic)

Urgent Appeal from the Orthodox Patriarchate of Jerusalem Regarding the Church of the Nativity   Original Arabic text will take time to download, if you're using a slow connection.   Click Here for English translation

Statement on Crisis in Holy Land

SCOBA STATEMENT ON CRISIS IN THE HOLY LAND     April 5, 2002   “And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” (Phil 4:7) In the midst of this holy season of Great Lent, our souls are troubled deeply by the escalation of hostilities in the land where our Lord has walked, where the shadow of the Prince of Peace, moved upon the ancient roads of Israel. In one voice, we, the hierarchs of the Standing Conference of Canonical Orthodox Bishops in America, address this appeal to the Israeli Government and the Palestinian Authority, for reconciliation, justice and peace in the Holy Land. To every Palestinian and Israeli citizen who is praying for an end to the violence, we extend to you the prayers and solidarity of our faithful in America. Churches, mosques and temples are constructed as houses of prayer. The desecration and destruction of these sacred buildings, historic edifices and treasures of humanity, cannot be tolerated and must cease immediately. We urge a halt to all aggression against all religious sites. We urge for freedom of access to the faithful and religious leaders related to their places of worship. We deplore the unprecedented escalation of violence, and the senseless destructions of lives and infrastructures. We urge the Israeli Government and the Palestinian Authority to abide strictly by the United Nations Resolutions 194, 242, 338, 425 and 1402 which represent international legitimacy. In unison we raise our voice of supplication to the Government of Israel and to the Palestinian Authority for a cessation of actions that bring violence and death to innocent people. We issue our supplication because we agree with our brothers, the Heads of Churches in the Holy Land, who indicated in their most recent letter that the key to any future and lasting peace is in the hands of the Israeli Government and the Palestinian Authority. After eighteen months of death and destruction, leaders from both sides must see that war and violence has settled nothing. Only meaningful negotiation between Palestinians and Israelis alike, whom God has destined to live as partners in this holy place, can ensure a future promising security, justice and peace in a land where three great monotheistic religions are called to coexist. As we Orthodox Christians prepare for the coming of Pascha, the Feast of Feasts, our Lenten prayer is for peace in the Holy Land. To our Christian, Jewish and Muslim friends living through this horror, we cry with the Psalmist who wrote, “Pray for the peace of Jerusalem: ‘May they prosper who love you. Peace be within your walls, and security within you towers.’ (psalm 122:6). Peace and Love to all and for all.

Metropolitan PHILIP's Pastoral Letter on Autonomy, June 27, 2002

 

June 27, 2002

TO BE READ FROM THE PULPIT

Brother Hierarchs,

Beloved Clergy,

Esteemed Members of the Board of Trustees

And all Faithful members of our God-protected Archdiocese:

Greetings and best wishes in the spirit of this Holy season of Pentecost.

I have just returned home, together with my delegation, after a very successful journey to Syria and Lebanon. We were extremely busy participating in the meetings of the Holy Synod of Antioch. And we bring to all of you the blessings and best wishes of our Father-in-Christ, His Beatitude, IGNATIUS IV, Patriarch of Antioch and all the East. In the September issue of the WORD Magazine, you will read a full account about our entire trip.

We have very good news. The Holy Synod of Antioch has blessed and recognized the autonomy of our God-protected Archdiocese, not “in theory” as it was wrongly reported, but in reality.

The following is the translation of the Synodal decision which was adopted unanimously on Thursday, June 13, 2002:

SYNODAL DECISION

“The Holy Synod of Antioch, at its regular meeting, held at the Patriarchate in Damascus, Syria, from June 11 to June 14, 2002, and having reviewed the plea of the General Assembly of the Antiochian Archdiocese of North America, which was adopted in Los Angeles, CA, July 26, 2001, and has been submitted to His Beatitude, Patriarch Ignatius IV and the Holy Synod blesses the wish of its children in the Antiochian Archdiocese of North America, and recognizes their Archdiocese as autonomous.

This will render their witness more powerful and more effective, as they identify with the civilization of North America; and in order to express the canonical and pastoral factors of this renewed Archdiocese, which will affect the basic law of the Patriarchate, on the one hand, and the constitution of the Archdiocese on the other hand.

Therefore, the Holy Synod decided to establish a committee, composed from six to eight persons, appointed equally by His Beatitude and His Eminence, Metropolitan Philip, to propose a constitution for this autonomous Archdiocese, to be presented to the Holy Synod of Antioch, in order to acquire its final canonical status.

The first meeting of this committee will be held in the coming fall.”

The above decision was authored by Metropolitan George Khodre of Mount Lebanon, and the translation was approved by him.

In the near future, I will appoint the members of our Archdiocesan delegation which will meet with the Patriarchal delegation either in Europe or in the Middle East to discuss the canonical details of our autonomy.

Finally, may the All Holy Spirit guide us to do what is pleasing to His holy Church.

Your Father in Christ,

Metropolitan PHILIP

Primate

Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese

of North America

“…the Disciples were called Christians first in Antioch!” ACTS 11:26

Press Reslease on Autonomy June 26, 2002

Press Release: Holy Synod of Antioch Recognizes Its North American Archdiocese as Being Autonomous     FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:                           Contact:  Fr. Michael Evans June 26, 2002                                          201/871-1355 Fax: 201/871-7954                                                               E-Mail: frmichael@antiochian.org   The Holy Synod of Antioch has blessed and recognized the autonomy of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America, not “in theory,” as it was wrongly reported, but in reality. The following is the translation of the Synodal decision which was adopted unanimously on Thursday, June 13, 2002:    SYNODAL DECISION           “The Holy Synod of Antioch, at its regular meeting held at the Patriarchate in Damascus, Syria, from June 11 – June 14, 2002, and having reviewed the plea of the General Assembly of the Antiochian Archdiocese of North America, which was adopted in Los Angeles, CA, July 26, 2001, and has been submitted to His Beatitude, Patriarch Ignatius IV and the Holy Synod blesses the wish of its children in the Antiochian Archdiocese of North America, and recognizes their Archdiocese as autonomous.            This will render their witness more powerful and more effective, as they identify with the civilization of North America; and in order to express the canonical and pastoral factors of this renewed Archdiocese, which will affect the basic law of the Patriarchate, on the one hand, and the constitution of the Archdiocese on the other hand.           Therefore, the Holy Synod decided to establish a committee, composed from six to eight persons, appointed equally by His Beatitude and His Eminence, Metropolitan Philip, to propose a constitution for this autonomous Archdiocese, to be presented to the Holy Synod of Antioch, in order to acquire its final canonical status.             The first meeting of this committee will be held in the coming fall.”       “…the Disciples were called Christians first in Antioch!”     ACTS 11:26

Metropolitan Philip, IOCC Leaders Discuss Needs in Holy Land

CHURCH, IOCC LEADERS DISCUSS NEEDS IN HOLY LAND CONTACT: Stephen Huba Communications Associate 1-877-803-IOCC (4622) (410) 243-9820, ext. 28 shuba@iocc.org FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Nov. 21, 2002        Englewood, N.J. (IOCC) - The spiritual leader of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese expressed his continuing support for the humanitarian response by International Orthodox Christian Charities (IOCC) to the human suffering in the Holy Land.      His Eminence Metropolitan Philip welcomed Nora Kort, head of IOCC's office in Jerusalem, to the Archdiocesan headquarters on Sunday, Nov. 17, the last day of her seven-day speaking tour across the United States.      "Nora brings with her the suffering of the Palestinian people, and we share in their suffering," Metropolitan Philip said. "When we see innocent children being killed, our hearts are shattered. When olive trees are uprooted, we are uprooted."      Ms. Kort, a native of Jerusalem, directs IOCC's humanitarian initiatives in the Holy Land, including a $2.6 million rural development project in the West Bank. From Nov. 10-17, she visited Orthodox parishes in the United States to raise awareness and support for IOCC's work in the Holy Land.      Her audience with Metropolitan Philip capped a series of stops in Los Angeles, Detroit, Baltimore, Washington, D.C., and Westfield, N.J.      Ms. Kort spoke with Metropolitan Philip about IOCC's efforts since 1997 to alleviate suffering and create opportunity for Palestinians living in rural, isolated areas in the West Bank. She was accompanied by IOCC Board Member Anne Glynn Mackoul and former IOCC Board Chairman Charles R. Ajalat, as well as IOCC Executive Director Constantine M. Triantafilou.      "I am pleased to hear of the impact that we are having in Jerusalem," His Eminence said. "I would like to see IOCC doing more and being more visible."      Metropolitan Philip called on all Orthodox Christians to get behind IOCC and its work in the Holy Land. And he said the Archdiocese's Children's Relief Fund, a program to help children in Lebanon, should expand its reach into the West Bank.      "The needs here are not ordinary because the situation is man-made," Ms. Kort said. "As Orthodox Christians, we are called to serve the vulnerable, the needy, and show them our solidarity - spiritually, financially, and humanitarian."      Metropolitan Philip also praised Ms. Kort and other IOCC staff members who "put their lives on the line" every day to serve others. He likened the work of IOCC to the actions of the Good Samaritan, an outsider who offered life-saving assistance to someone in need.      Before returning to Jerusalem, Ms. Kort thanked the parishes and communities that hosted her talks, including St. Michael Antiochian Orthodox Church in Van Nuys, Calif.; St. Mary Antiochian Orthodox Church in Livonia, Mich.; Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church in Westfield, N.J.; Sts. Peter & Paul Antiochian Orthodox Church in Potomac, Md.; and the Greek Orthodox Cathedral of the Annunciation in Baltimore, Md.      For more information about IOCC's humanitarian work in the Holy Land and elsewhere, please visit www.iocc.org or call toll-free 1-877-803-IOCC (4622).   International Orthodox Christian Charities 110 West Road, Suite 360 Baltimore, MD 21204

Statment on Iraq - Oct. 9, 2002

October 9, 2002 STATEMENT ON IRAQ While our country is on the brink of war with Iraq, it is the opinion of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America that our esteemed President and governmental leaders rethink their position and the logic behind this impending conflict. Such an attack will destabilize the entire region, cause untold harm to countless children and other civilians as well as bring political and social unrest to an already troubled area of the world. It is our conviction that all United Nations resolutions must be implemented in a consistent and meaningful way. We must add that we find it hypocritical that Iraq is threatened with war and destruction for failing to comply with UN resolutions while another state in the same region is in violation of about seventy UN resolutions which have never been implemented. This continues to be a reality even as this state occupies land that does not belong to it, illegally expands and builds settlements on occupied territories and implements collective punishment on masses of innocent people because of the distorted actions of a few. We are fully aware that Saddam Hussein and his government have committed atrocious acts which are in violation of international law. We are gravely concerned, however, that a war against Iraq will create even more chaos in the region. The overthrowing of the Iraqi government could cause the breakup of the country into warring factions for many years to come. In addition, the geo-political imbalance this war would cause in the area will take generations to repair. It is said that our government will “rebuild Iraq and help the people of Iraq to form a democratic government.” History has proven that this rarely comes to fruition. We need only look to the Balkans and Afghanistan as recent examples. Therefore, we beseech our respected leaders and representatives and all those of good will to allow the United Nations inspectors to complete their mission. At the same time, we encourage our President and Congress to seek the difficult and tiresome road of peace rather than the bloody and dark road of war. Issued by: Metropolitan PHILIP Saliba, Primate Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America     “…the Disciples were called Christians first in Antioch!”     ACTS 11:26

IOCC Launches West Bank Job Creation, Education Project

INTERNATIONAL ORTHODOX CHRISTIAN CHARITIES (IOCC)

 

 

110 West Road, Suite 360 , Baltimore , Md.
21204

— Tel:
(410)
243-9820 — Fax:
(410)
243-9824

Web: www.iocc.org — E-mail: news@iocc.org

 

For immediate release

 

IOCC LAUNCHES WEST BANK JOB CREATION, EDUCATION PROJECT

Jerusalem (IOCC) – In some parts of the
West Bank, school children meet for class in tents. In other parts, authorities cannot build schools fast enough to keep up with the growing student population.

These needs, along with the continuing problem of unemployment in the
West Bank, prompted International Orthodox Christian Charities (IOCC) to launch a new project that will expand educational opportunities for thousands of underprivileged Palestinian young people.

The $3 million project funded by the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) will result in the construction or renovation of school classrooms, bathrooms, libraries, labs, playgrounds and other youth facilities in 24 villages in the Ramallah region.

IOCC was one of six international relief agencies to recently sign an agreement with USAID to promote job creation and education reform in the
West Bank. The $13 million agreement, spread among the six agencies, will create employment opportunities through the construction and renovation of classrooms and youth centers in the
West Bank and
Gaza.

On hand for the February signing ceremony at
Jericho’s Intercontinental Hotel was IOCC-Jerusalem Director Nora Kort, who emphasized the importance of creating opportunities for Palestinian girls.

“Many rural areas do not have any schools or enough classrooms, and children are compelled to go to neighboring villages,” Ms. Kort said. “This presents great challenges and obstacles, especially for girls: Tradition does not allow them to travel outside their own villages in search of education.”

The new project will build on IOCC’s work over the past eight years to train women, create jobs, renovate public buildings (including schools) and revitalize agriculture in rural areas of the
West Bank. In that time period, IOCC has built partnerships with local leaders and organized the participating villages into “clusters.”

Ms. Kort said IOCC will use the same system with the new initiative. Clusters of 13 villages near the town of
Ni’lin and 11 villages near the town of
Beit Liqya will be involved, potentially benefiting a population of more than 68,000 residents.

“Children who live in rural areas of the
West Bank are suffering from a lack of safe educational and recreational facilities,” said IOCC Director of Operations Samir Ishak. “Their parents suffer from a lack of employment. This project addresses both concerns – the short-term and the long-term.”

IOCC’s partners in the project include USAID, local village councils, and the Palestinian Ministry of Education and Higher Education.

IOCC will employ more than 2,000 people in the constructions trades for the life of the 30-month project. The result will be an improved educational infrastructure network serving more than 26,000 children ages 5-19, Ms. Kort said.

IOCC has been active in the
Middle East since 1997, when it began humanitarian programs in
Jerusalem and
Bethlehem. Founded in 1992, IOCC is the official humanitarian agency of the Standing Conference of Canonical Orthodox Bishops in the Americas (SCOBA).

To learn more about IOCC’s relief and development programs in the
Holy Land and around the world, please visit www.iocc.org.

 

###

 

For media inquiries, please contact IOCC Communications Associate Stephen Huba at
1-877-803-4622 or shuba@iocc.org.

Palestinian students gather for recess at a school playground in Deir Balout in the
West Bank. Safe places to play and learn are scarce in the smaller, rural villages of the
West Bank, where International Orthodox Christian Charities (IOCC) is beginning a $3 million project to renovate and build classrooms, bathrooms, libraries, playgrounds and other youth facilities.

Photo courtesy of Chris Maddaloni

 

Statement on Crisis in Holy Land and Arson in Los Altos Church

Message from Metropolitan PHILIP On the Crisis in the Holy Land And The Fire at Church of the Redeemer, Los Altos, California April 18, 2002 TO BE READ FROM THE PULPIT AND PUBLISHED IN THE CHURCH BULLETIN Beloved Hierarchs, Clergy, Archdiocesan Trustees, Members of the Order of St. Ignatius, and all faithful of our Archdiocese: We greet you in the spirit of this Great Lent.  The news from Palestine is heart-breaking.  I am sure that you have seen on your TV screens the cities of Jenin, Nablus, Ramallah and other cities, towns and villages which seem as if they were hit by a devastating earthquake.  The extent of suffering and human misery is beyond description.  The people of our Archdiocese have always responded courageously and generously to human tragedy, whether it was the bombing of the Federal Building in Oklahoma City, the earthquakes in California and Mexico, Hurricane Andrew in Florida and the barbaric attack on America, September 11, 2001.  I want to inform you that last December I was honored to present, on your behalf, a $200,000 check to the police and fire departments of the city of New York.  I am sorry to tell you that one of our churches, the Church of the Redeemer in Los Altos, California, was consumed by fire.  After a federal investigation, it was determined that the cause of this fire was arson.  It has also come to our attention that historic Orthodox churches and mosques have not been spared destruction in Palestine.  As of this date, the Church of the Nativity, the second holiest shrine in Christianity, is still surrounded by tanks and soldiers.  Beloved children, during these holy days of Lent, it is important to give up certain kinds of food; but it is even more important to give out from your money for the needy and the poor.  I am beseeching you, therefore, to take collections on Palm Sunday and Great Friday for Palestinian victims whose land has been occupied for the past thirty-five years.  Your collections will also help our Church of the Redeemer in Los Altos, California.  Please be generous and send whatever you collect immediately to the Archdiocese headquarters marked “Victims of Palestine and Church of the Redeemer.”  While we relive the events of Holy Week, especially the suffering of our Lord on Holy Thursday and Great Friday, I pray that the Eternal Light of the empty tomb will shine in your hearts and in the hearts of people everywhere.  Your Father in Christ, Metropolitan PHILIP, Primate Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America

Statement on Arson in Los Altos Church

Statement from Metropolitan PHILIP On the Arson at Church of the Redeemer Los Altos, California 11 April 2002 We are deeply shocked and saddened that this church which our community in Los Altos has built with love and dedication to the Almighty God, was consumed by such a criminal act. Our Antiochian Orthodox Church has been preaching love and peace for the past two thousand years. We have no doubt that our community in Los Altos is determined, more than ever, to rise from the ashes and build an even more beautiful church. We are thankful for all the help and support of all people of good will. + Metropolitan PHILIP

Metroplitan's Directive on New Monthly Assessment Rate

 

 

Metropolitan's Directive on New Monthly Assessment Rate
 

 

December 11, 2003

 ARCHPASTORAL DIRECTIVE

Dear Father and Esteemed Members of the Parish Council:

Last July, at the General Assembly of the Archdiocese Convention held in Miami, Florida, it was overwhelmingly resolved that the annual parish assessment to the Archdiocese would be raised from $25.00 to $30.00 per baptized soul. The budget which was approved for the fiscal year ending January 31, 2005 is $4,413,000, the largest in the history of the Archdiocese. It should be recognized that the last increase in parish assessment was eight years ago.

The purpose of this letter is to remind you that this new assessment of $30.00 per baptized soul will go into effect January 1, 2004. Because of the need for a continuing cash flow throughout the year, most of the parishes in the Archdiocese are already paying their assessments on a monthly basis and if you are one of them, we thank you. If not, we ask you to institute a monthly assessment payment plan effective January 1, 2004.

In early January, you will receive a request for Parish Census from the Department of Statistics and Credentials. You should indicate your monthly payment amount on your response to the census request.

Hoping that you will cooperate with us fully on this matter, we pray that this Christmas Advent will bring to you and your loved ones a great measure of peace, joy and spiritual renewal.

Yours in His Service,

Metropolitan PHILIP
Primate
Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America

Metropolitan PHILIP's Message on Self-Rule

 

 

TO BE READ FROM THE PULPIT AND PUBLISHED IN THE CHURCH BULLETIN

October 20, 2003

Beloved Hierarchs, Clergy, Trustees, and All Faithful of this God-Protected Archdiocese:

On Saturday October 18th, 2003, by the grace of God, we returned safely from our historic trip to Damascus to attend the meeting of the Holy Synod of Antioch.  On Thursday, October 9th, 2003, after two days of intense discussion, the Holy Synod of Antioch voted unanimously to grant self-rule to the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America.  The full text of the Resolution of the Holy Synod is attached for your review.

I wish to express my gratitude to His Beatitude Patriarch Ignatius IV and the members of the Holy Synod of Antioch  for their unanimous expression of support for this Archdiocese.

I am extremely pleased and grateful to God on several fronts for the outcome of this meeting.  First, that the Holy Synod of Antioch, in granting self-rule to this Archdiocese, has unanimously affirmed the need for us to move forward and to make important decisions in the life of this Archdiocese which will allow it to stand as a beacon of hope for now and for the future.  Second, that the unanimity of this decision has demonstrated not only the unity of the Church of Antioch, but our ability to make decisions, guided by the Holy Spirit, which protect the best interests of the Church.  Third, that our own internal deliberations and decision making, fully involving all of the clergy and laity of this Archdiocese in an orderly process which insures that the voice of the people is heard, has borne the fruit of these decisions.  Finally, that our travels were blessed by God with safety, productivity, and fellowship.

I wish to express my sincerest thanks to Very Rev. Joseph Antypas, Dr. George Farha, and Mr. Fawaz El Khoury who accompanied me on this historic journey, and who were a constant source of support.  I also wish to thank all of those individuals who worked so diligently in the background to help to achieve this result.

I ask that you pray for us, as we always pray for all of you and the outstanding work that you do on behalf of this Archdiocese.  Together, by the Grace of God, we will continue to spread the good news of the Gospel of Jesus Christ to the North American continent.

Your Father in Christ,

Metropolitan PHILIP
Primate
Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America

Summary of 2003 Archdiocese Convention

 

 

Summary of 2003 Archdiocese Convention

 

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 1, 2003 – Englewood, New Jersey

 FORTY-SIXTH CONVENTION OF THE ANTIOCHIAN ORTHODOX CHRISTIAN ARCHDIOCESE OF NORTH AMERICA CONVENED IN MIAMI FLORIDA FROM JULY 21ST-27TH, 2003.

 

 The Forty-sixth Convention of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America convened at the Fontainebleau Hilton Hotel in Miami, Florida from the 21st to the 27th day of July, 2003.  It was attended by more than two thousand delegates, and more than two hundred fifty clergy.

 Metropolitan PHILIP, Primate of the Archdiocese, presided and conveyed to the hierarchs, clergy, members of the Board of Trustees and all delegates the blessings and greetings of His Beatitude, IGNATIUS IV, Patriarch of Antioch and all the East.  In attendance were three of the four Regional Bishops of the Archdiocese, His Grace Bishop ANTOUN, His Grace Bishop JOSEPH, and His Grace Bishop BASIL.  Also attending as an honored guest was Metropolitan PAUL, Primate of the Antiochian Archdiocese of Australia, and New Zealand.

 On Monday evening July 21st, the Cathedral of St. George of Coral Gables, FL hosted a welcome reception, which was attended by 350 clergy and Trustees.

 On Tuesday July 22nd, the Metropolitan presided over the Clergy Assembly, and held a dialogue with them on important matters pertaining to the Archdiocese.

 The Grand Assembly of the Order of St. Ignatius of Antioch also met on Tuesday, July 22nd, and elected the following officers: Mr. Edward Assile, Chairman, Mr. Daniel Abraham, Vice Chairman, Mr. Anton Khoury, Treasurer, and Mrs. Mary Winstanley O’Connor, Secretary.  The Order held a banquet on Tuesday evening in honor of the outgoing officers.  There are now 2,875 active members of the Order, including 211 Life Members.

 The Antiochian Orthodox Christian Women of North America (AOCWNA) held their Assembly and luncheon on Wednesday, July 23rd.  Among the highlights this year was the celebration of the 30th anniversary of AOCWNA, whose members have labored unwaveringly to assist orphans, the poor and destitute around the world.

 The departments of the Archdiocese met on Wednesday July 23rd, and the General Assembly convened on Thursday and Friday, July 24th, and 25th.  The delegates heard reports from the 27 Archdiocesan departments, commissions, councils, and organizations.  The General Assembly approved the following important items:

1. A resolution thanking the Cathedral of St. George of Coral Gables, Florida for hosting an outstanding Convention.
2. A resolution welcoming His Eminence Metropolitan PAUL of Australia and New Zealand.
3. A budget in excess of $4.4 million, the largest operating budget in the history of the Archdiocese, for the 2005 fiscal year which runs from February 1st, 2004 to January 31st, 2005.
4. The “Geneva Agreement” on Autonomy as the official position of the Archdiocese.

 The Geneva Agreement on Autonomy was approved by a roll-call vote with an overwhelming majority of 99.6% of the votes cast being in favor of the proposal.  This agreement was approved in November 2002 by the joint committee comprised of representatives of the Patriarchate of Antioch, and the Archdiocese.  When approved by the Holy Synod of Antioch, the details in this agreement will guide the governance of the autonomous Archdiocese and its continuing close relationship with the Holy Synod of Antioch.  The Holy Synod of Antioch will address this agreement at its upcoming meeting on October 14th, 2003 in Damascus, Syria.

 His Eminence reappointed the following people to the Archdiocese Board of Trustees:  Mr. Fawaz El-Khoury of Westboro, MA, and Mr. Mansour Rayan of Lincolnwood, IL.  He also made the following new appointments to the Board: Mr. Joseph Hanna of Montreal, PQ Canada, Mr. Anton Khoury of Miami, FL, and Mr. Kory Warr of Oklahoma City, OK.

 The following people were elected to the Board of Trustees:  Mr. Alan Abraham of Grand Rapids, MI, Dr. David Bojrab of Ft. Wayne, IN, Mr. Don Braun of Goleta, CA, Dr. John Dalack of Staten Island, NY, Mr. Philip Haddad of Charleston, WV, Dr. Donald Howard of Davie, FL, Mr. George Nassor of Wyckoff, NJ, Dr. Raymond Rishwain of Stockton, CA, Miss Jean Sam of Duluth, GA, and Dr. Joseph Samra of Pawtucket, RI.

 The 2005 Convention will be held in Detroit and hosted by St. George Church of Troy, Michigan. By vote of the delegates to the General Assembly,  the 2007 Convention will be held in Montreal, and hosted by St. Nicholas Church of Montreal, Province of Quebec, Canada.

 The Grand Banquet on Saturday was attended by 1,500 people.  Metropolitan PHILIP addressed the banquet attendees and presented the Antonian Silver Medal to Mrs. Suzanne Sayfie, Chairlady of the Convention, for her outstanding efforts.

 The Convention concluded on Sunday July 27th with a most inspiring Hierarchical Divine Liturgy.  The beautiful choir, comprised of members from across the entire Archdiocese, was conducted by Mr. James Meena, the Chairman of the Archdiocese Department of Sacred Music.

Metropolitan's Message Regarding Implementation of Self-Rule

 

 

Metropolitan's Message Regarding Implementation of Self-Rule
 

 

 

TO BE READ FROM THE PULPIT AND PUBLISHED IN THE CHURCH BULLETIN

December 31, 2003

 

Beloved Hierarchs, Clergy, Trustees, and All Faithful of this God-Protected and

Self-Ruled Archdiocese:

 

Greetings and Blessings to all of you in the Name of our Lord Jesus Christ on this Eve

of the New Year !

 

Since our return from Damascus on October 18th, 2003 we have been very busy with the detailed planning of the first steps that must be taken in order that we properly implement the self-rule status that was granted to this Archdiocese by the resolution of the Holy Synod of Antioch.  The official English translation of this resolution was previously sent to you to be read from the pulpit.  We have also received many questions from our clergy and faithful who are rightfully interested in understanding the next steps, and the time frame for those steps.  This letter addresses some, but not all of those questions.  We must all be patient, and understand that events must happen in a certain order, to insure that the best interests of the Church are being served.  As St. Paul teaches “Let all things be done decently and in order” (1 Corinthians 14:40).

 

Now that our self-rule status is final, the first step will be for us to integrate the Synodal resolution into the Archdiocese Constitution.  We will accomplish this integration by the amendment process that is specified in our current constitution.  As such, we will call a special convention consistent with Article V, Section 2 of our current constitution.  This special convention will be held from Friday July 16th through Sunday July 18th, 2004 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.  Delegates are expected to arrive in Pittsburgh on Thursday July 15th.  The date and location has been chosen so that the clergy of the Archdiocese can proceed directly from the special convention to the biennial Clergy Symposium that is scheduled from July 19th through July 23rd at the Antiochian Village.  All clergy, parishes, and missions must be represented either in person or by legal proxy, as is the case at our regular conventions.  The parish will grant their priest time off from his pastoral duties, as well as travel and living expenses for his attendance at this Special Convention.  Specific information regarding the hotel and agenda for this special convention will follow in the near future.

 

Our intention is to have two major items on the agenda for this special convention; The approval of the amendments which integrate the Synodal resolution on self-rule into the Archdiocese constitution, and the nomination, by our General Assembly, of candidates who will stand for election as Diocesan Bishops.  The nominations will occur according to Article I Section 6 of our current constitution.  The election will occur at a later time by the Local Synod of the North American Archdiocese, with the participation of “two or three Metropolitans” designated by the Patriarch of Antioch and invited to participate in the election.

 

As stated above, our clergy and faithful have asked many additional questions regarding the implementation of self-rule.  Some information can be given now, as follows:

 

1.                  We will be drawing Diocesan boundaries that will become the jurisdictions of the Diocesan bishops.  Although these dioceses may resemble the current regions, there will likely be changes, as well as the creation of new dioceses that do not correspond exactly to any of the existing regions.  This is necessary to insure that our Diocesan bishops have the maximum opportunity to visit their flocks, and make personal contact with them.  The specification of Diocesan boundaries is likely to be done before the special convention is convened.

2.                  The enthronement of our current bishops into specific dioceses will occur some time after the special convention.  The consecration and enthronement of newly elected bishops will occur sometime after their election.

3.                  There is no plan to establish Diocesan Assemblies in the foreseeable future since we have Diocesan Parish Life Conferences.

4.                  The Diocesan bishops will have additional duties and responsibilities as appropriate.  We will however, preserve the strong unity of this Archdiocese under the leadership of the Metropolitan.

5.                  Commemorations - The Metropolitan will commemorate the Patriarch of Antioch, the Holy Synod of Antioch, and the Local Holy Synod of the Archdiocese.   The Diocesan Bishop will commemorate the Metropolitan and the Local Holy Synod of the Archdiocese.  The clergy will commemorate the Metropolitan followed by the Diocesan Bishop.  The commemoration of the Diocesan Bishops will begin after the Special Convention in July.

 

Together we have much difficult work ahead of us.  Let us pray fervently that the Holy Spirit will continue to guide us, so that our work may be pleasing to our Lord Jesus Christ, for the Glory of His Holy Name, and the Glory of His Church.

 

Your Father in Christ,

 

 

 

Metropolitan PHILIP

Primate

Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America

 

Location and Other Convention Details

Metroplitan's Message on Choir Appreciation

 

 

Metropolitan's Message on Choir Appreciation
 

 

November, 2003

 TO BE READ FROM THE PULPIT

 “I will sing unto the Lord as long as I live; I will sing praises to my God while I have my being.” (Psalm 103:33-34)

 Beloved Clergy, Parish Councils and Faithful of our Archdiocese:

We greet you during this holy season of Advent as we prepare to celebrate the coming of our Lord, God and Savior Jesus Christ in the flesh, praying that you are all in good health.

During this joyous season, we take the time out of our busy schedules to honor the choirs and chanters of our parishes. While they are faithful each and every Sunday, feast day, sacrament and other service throughout the year, we too often take them for granted. Today, however, is a day to thank them for their dedication and service to the Church. If we stop for a moment and think how dull our services would be without our choirs, most especially during special seasons such as this one, we realize the importance they play in the life of the parish. Having traveled all over our God-protected Archdiocese, I thank God that wherever I go, I am fortunate to hear beautiful voices singing praises to our Lord.

In appreciation, therefore, for the tremendous contribution which our choirs are making to our parishes, we proclaimed the second Sunday in December as “Choir Sunday” last year. This year, that Sunday falls on December 14, 2003. We thus urge our beloved clergy and parish councils to honor our choirs and chanters on this day by doing something special in their honor.

Your Father in Christ,

Metropolitan PHILIP
Primate
Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America

Synod of Antioch Grants Self-rule to North American Archdiocese

 

 

 

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

October 20, 2003 – Englewood, New Jersey

 

HOLY SYNOD OF ANTIOCH GRANTS SELF-RULE TO THE ANTIOCHIAN ORTHODOX ARCHDIOCESE OF NORTH AMERICA

 On Thursday, October 9th, 2003, the Holy Synod of Antioch voted unanimously to grant self-rule to the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America.  The full text of the authorized English translation of the Synodal Resolution is included below.

Resolution of the Holy Synod Regarding the Status of the Antiochian Archdiocese in North America   

1.  Self rule and Jurisdiction
The Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America is and shall remain self-ruled within its present jurisdiction (The United States of America and Canada) and shall constitute one unified ecclesiastical Antiochian entity.

2.  Governance
The Archdiocese is governed by the Holy Scripture, the Sacred Tradition, the Holy Canons, the Constitution of the Church of Antioch and this Synodical resolution and by its Constitution and Bylaws.

3.  Recognition of Auxiliary Bishops as Diocesan Bishops and Local Synod
Upon adoption of this resolution, the Auxiliary Bishops of the Archdiocese shall become Diocesan Bishops and bear their given titles. The Diocesan Bishops will constitute under the Metropolitan the Local Synod of the Archdiocese which will be its governing authority. The Local Synod shall determine the number of dioceses and their boundaries.

4.  Procedure of election of Diocesan Bishops
A- The General Assembly of the Archdiocese will nominate three candidates for a Diocesan Bishop. When Diocesan Assemblies shall be constituted the nominations shall then be made, by the said assemblies.

B- The Patriarch of Antioch shall delegate two or three Metropolitans to participate on behalf of the Holy Synod together with the Local Synod in the election of the Diocesan Bishops. The Metropolitan shall preside over the electoral assembly.

C- The consecration and enthronement of the Bishops shall be accomplished in North America by the Metropolitan, the Patriarchal Delegate and the members of the Local Synod.

D- In case of insufficient number of qualified nominees from the Archdiocesan clergy, the Archdiocese shall nominate from the list of nominations kept in the Patriarchal records.

5.  Procedure of election of the Metropolitan Primate
The Metropolitan Primate shall be nominated according to the Constitution of the Church of Antioch and the Constitution and Bylaws of the Archdiocese. The three nominees for the office of Metropolitan Primate shall be submitted to the Holy Synod of Antioch to elect one of them. The Metropolitan shall be a member of the Holy Synod of the Patriarchate as well as of the Local Synod of the Archdiocese.

6.  Right of appeal and Synaxis
In all matters of hierarchical discipline, Bishops of the Local Synod have the right to appeal to the Patriarch of Antioch and the Holy Synod. The Archdiocesan Bishops, after consultation with the Metropolitan, shall attend the gatherings or synaxis of the Antiochian Bishops which may be called from time to time by the Patriarch of Antioch.

7.  Decisions of the Holy Synod of Antioch
The decisions of the Holy Synod of Antioch shall be binding on the Archdiocese on matters of doctrine, liturgy, sacraments, relations with autocephalous Orthodox Churches and ecumenical policy with regard to other Christian and non-Christian bodies.

8.  Amendment and translation
The Patriarchate of Antioch and the Archdiocese shall each amend its constitution in accordance with the above. The Archdiocese shall submit its amended constitution to the Holy Synod of Antioch for approval.  The Arabic text of this resolution and its English translation shall have equal force and validity.

United Nations Prayer Service

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE May 19, 2003   Joint Commission of Eastern and Oriental Orthodox Churches Announces Third Annual United Nations Prayer Service New York, NY [SCOBA/SCOOCH] -- The Joint Commission of the Standing Conference of Oriental Orthodox Churches (SCOOCH) and the Standing Conference of the Canonical Orthodox Bishops in the Americas (SCOBA) has announced the date of the third annual Orthodox Prayer Service and Reception for the United Nations Community.  The service will take place at 6:30 p.m. on October 6th, 2003 at Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Archdiocesan Cathedral, 319 East 74th St, New York, NY. His Beatitude, Metropolitan HERMAN, Primate of the Orthodox Church in America, will host this year's event, which will include a Vespers Service and a short program of speakers from the UN community. Last year's service, hosted by His Eminence, Archbishop Khajag Barsamian, Primate of the Diocese of the Armenian Church of America (Eastern) at St. Vartan Armenian Cathedral, drew over 200 participants, including SCOOCH and SCOBA heads of churches and ambassadors to the UN from Armenia, Bulgaria, the Czech Republic, Cyprus, Finland, Moldova, Russia, Syria and the Ukraine.  Distinguished speakers included His Excellency Sergey Lavrov, Permanent Representative of the Russian Federation to the UN, and Mr. Benon Sevan, Undersecretary-General of the United Nations, Executive Director of the Iraq Programme. Members of the Metropolitan New York Orthodox community are encouraged to attend this annual prayer service.  For more information, please contact Mr. David Wagschal (516) 922 0550.

Antiochian Village Breaks Ground for New Wing

ANTIOCHIAN VILLAGE BREAKS GROUND FOR NEW WING               Thanks to the generosity of the Antiochian Board of Trustees, churches, organizations and many individuals, construction is officially underway for a new, two million dollar, 16,600 square foot addition to the Antiochian Village Heritage and Learning Center in Western Pennsylvania.  On Saturday, April 12, 2003, Bob Laham, Chairman of Village Council, joined with architect Peter Cecconi, Jr., AIA, and contractors to sign official documents and break ground for the project.             The new wing, designed in a manner to reflect ties to the religious heritage of Byzantine tradition, will house the Eastern Heritage Museum’s collection of more than 700 icons, religious relics and cultural artifacts and will include a Rare Book Room addition to the library which will help preserve and make usable for research its collection of more than 150 rare or historical theological books, manuscripts and other documents.  The expansion will occur at the south end of the present facility becoming a connected and contiguous part of the present structure.  Additionally, it will contain a sloped seating lecture/performance hall, several seminar rooms, offices, and ancillary support areas. Funds to begin construction of the facilities were raised within the Archdiocese primarily by contributions from members of the Archdiocese Board of Trustees with donations also coming from churches, organizations and other individuals.  To date, $1,320,500 has been pledged.  There are still many “naming opportunities” for donors for specific spaces such as the new auditorium, seminar rooms, rare book room, archival/work room, museum and lobbies. Father Michael Massouh and the Very Reverend Father Nabil Hanna conducted a ceremony to bless the project prior to the first shovels being lifted to officially break ground. The Heritage Museum will house and display delicate items behind glass enclosure walls where a constantly monitored, controlled atmosphere of 72 degrees and 50% humidity is maintained.  Lighting systems have been designed to avoid the damaging effects of ultra-violet rays.  Less sensitive items of metal and glass will be displayed in secured casework located in what the plans designate as “display lobbies.”  Public areas will be equipped with conventional heating, cooling and lighting systems.             The Rare Book Room will expand upon the existing library.  The collection will be housed in a secured glass wall enclosure with a controlled atmosphere.  Other configuration changes will occur in the library to improve security and better accommodate library management and use.             The Auditorium concept is an acoustically treated, tiered amphitheater that will be equipped with a motorized projector platform and projection screen, complete sound system, and a multi-controlled lighting system.  It will accommodate a variety of educational or entertainment venues.             Presently, the Village museum collections include 106 icons dating from the 12th through the 20th century representing 14 different countries or regions of the world outside of the United States.  An additional 634 artifacts, relics and items reflect the Middle Eastern and Eastern European ancestry of the Orthodox Christian heritage and culture.  The new wing and its facilities will articulate boldly the Antiochian Legacy through knowledge and understanding of its ancient and historical past and cultural contributions.  Upon completion, the museum will be open to the public with regular hours.  For more information, call Antiochian Village at 724-238-3677.

Balamand University Summer Connect 2003

UOB Announces 3rd Annual Academic and Cultural Summer Program for Youth -CONNECT 2003 CONNECT 2003 is an academic and cultural program for youth aged 17-25 at the University of Balamand from July 6 to August 3, 2003.  This special program promotes understanding of Middle Eastern culture and heritage in a learning environment of diversity and tolerance. CONNECT 2003 is based at the main campus of the University of Balamand in northern Lebanon.  Learning excursions take participants to beautiful historical sites in Lebanon and Syria. For four weeks, members of the Connect program engage in academic workshops and tutorials, participate in cultural & sports activities and work in community-based projects. Participants in CONNECT 2003 also receive three undergraduate credit hours as a result of the academic exposure offered in this month-long learning experience. The CONNECT program has proven to be a memorable experience establishing links for the participants with the Middle East, teaching them about Lebanon, Syria, and the region and taking them to beautiful historical sites like the Cedars, Baalback, Beirut, Byblos, Palmyra and Kark, to name just a few.   During the past two years, participants learned a lot, earned three college credits and had loads of fun!  Here's what some of them had to say: · The opportunity to visit Lebanon was incredible, but the opportunity to visit two countries in the Middle East in the same month was awesome. The facilities are awesome.  The University is beautiful and offers so much.  Next year will be even better with the new field and the student center. The whole team did a great job.  You made us feel completely at home and welcome.  This experience turned out to be so much more than I could have ever expected.  Thanks for changing my life. (2001) · (Arabic) Instructor was fantastic… (History of the region instructor)  Instructor's professionalism and subject matter expertise were incredible.  (2002) · Thank you so much for your hard work to make our trip a memorable experience.  (2002) · The things that I have learned and the friends I have made throughout this trip will be life long.  I had a great time visiting the exceptionally unique places in Lebanon, it is truly a beautiful country and I fully enjoyed my time here.  Connect is a wonderful program and I am sure it will flourish in the future.  The staff has been truly superb leaders and also great friends.  (2001) Applications are still being accepted.  Limited Space.  For more information, visit our website http://www.balamand.edu.lb/Connect/index.html,  or e-mail: connect@balamand.edu.lb, UOBalamand@aol.com or call the US Office of the University of Balamand at 201-945-1131. The University of Balamand is a private non-profit higher education institution founded in 1988.  The University consists of nine faculties offering undergraduate and graduate programs within an academic framework similar to that of universities in North America.  The University campus stretches over 300 acres located on a hill by the Mediterranean Sea, south of the city of Tripoli, 15 kilometers from the Cedars of Lebanon, and 60 kilometers north of Beirut.  Founded by the Patriarch of Antioch and all the East, His Beatitude Ignatius IV, and presided over by H.E. Dr. Elie A. Salem, former deputy prime minister and foreign minister of Lebanon, author and professor, the University takes pride in its Antiochian heritage and scholarly academic environment where students from all faiths, cultures and social classes interact in pursuit of knowledge, excellence and well-being.   Khatmeh Osseiran-Hanna Director of Development -North America University of Balamand --US Office 518 Oregon Avenue Cliffside Park, NJ  07010 Tel: 201-945-1131 Fax: 201-945-8875 e-mail: UOBalamand@aol.com www.balamand.edu.lb

Report on Meeting of Eparchial Synod - May 1, 2003

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE May 1, 2003— Englewood, New Jersey     SPRING MEETING OF THE EPARCHIAL SYNOD OF THE ANTIOCHIAN ORTHODOX CHRISTIAN ARCHDIOCESE OF NORTH AMERICA HELD ON APRIL 30TH, 2003       The spring meeting of the Eparchial Synod of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America was held on Wednesday April 30th, 2003 at the Archdiocese Headquarters in Englewood, New Jersey.   His Eminence Metropolitan PHILIP, Primate of the Archdiocese, presided. In attendance were the Antiochian Bishops of North America: His Grace Bishop ANTOUN, His Grace Bishop JOSEPH, His Grace Bishop BASIL, and His Grace Bishop DEMETRI.   A wide range of important topics were discussed which have impact not only on the Antiochian Archdiocese, but also on Orthodoxy in North America.   Of extreme importance is the status of the detailed work which is being done to finalize the details under which the Autonomous Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America will operate. On November 20—22, 2002, a joint commission with representatives from the Patriarchate of Antioch, and the Antiochian Archdiocese of North America met in Geneva, Switzerland to draft the final operational details which will govern the Autonomous Archdiocese of North America. The output of this meeting was the Geneva Proposal, which was reviewed in detail by the Eparchial Synod. The Eparchial Synod approved 99% of this document, and expects the remaining details to be addressed without difficulty.   Another matter of extreme importance which was discussed is the crisis which has been created by the illegal and shameful activities of the Patriarchate of Jerusalem in North America. The Patriarchate of Jerusalem has established headquarters in Long Island, New York, under the leadership of Archbishop DAMASKINOS. They have targeted locations in North America where well established and stable Antiochian and Greek Orthodox parishes exist, with the express purpose of dividing these parishes through recruitment of parish members. Metropolitan PHILIP held a meeting with Archbishop DEMETRIOS of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of North America to address this serious issue, and to seek the assistance of Archbishop DEMETRIOS to halt this activity. When a similar activity was undertaken in Australia in 1993 by the Patriarchate of Jerusalem, the Ecumenical Patriarch of Constantinople severed communion with the Patriarch of Jerusalem and excommunicated two archbishops on his staff, Archbishops TIMOTHEOS and ISYCHIOS, until the activity was halted, and a pledge was made that it would not occur again. It is expected that this precedent-setting action of 1993 would be repeated now, given that the circumstances are identical, and that well-established Antiochian Churches are being threatened.   The Eparchial Synod also discussed the following matters, which represent important progress on the part of the Antiochian Orthodox Archdiocese of North America:   Ø      The Metropolitan’s appeal to all Archdiocese parishes to collect money to assist the children of Iraq who are suffering from years of oppression, as well as the effects of war.   Ø      New procedures for the screening of prospective seminarians and members of clergy to detect possible impediments as early as possible in the process of their education and ministry   Ø      The need to maintain strong discipline and consistency among the clergy of the Archdiocese. Metropolitan PHILIP declared that discipline and consistency have always been, and will continue to be an important priority of this Archdiocese.   Ø      The tremendous growth of the Order of St. Ignatius, the philanthropic and humanitarian arm of the Antiochian Archdiocese in North America. The Synod made a unanimous pledge to continue its strong support for the recruitment of new members.   Ø      Reports by the Regional Bishops highlighting the tremendous progress in building, expanding, and renovating parishes, and the vital lay ministries of our Teen SOYG, Antiochian Women, and Fellowship of St. John the Divine. The Metropolitan commended the Regional Bishops for their diligent work as loving shepherds.   Ø      The formation of the new Department of Marriage and Family Ministry, headed by Khourieh Maggie Hock of Omaha, Nebraska. This department will develop and deliver programs to insure that the health and well-being of marriages and families within the Archdiocese is being maintained, and improved.   It is expected that the next meeting of the Eparchial Synod will be held in conjunction with the bi-annual convention of the Archdiocese which will be held in Miami, Florida from July 21-27, 2003.

Statement on Bishop DEMETRI

 

 

Metropolitan's Statement Regarding Bishop Demetri

 

July 14, 2003

Beloved Hierarchs, Clergy, Trustees and All Faithful of our Archdiocese:

We are deeply saddened and disturbed to learn of the incident involving Bishop  Demetri Khoury in Traverse City, Michigan, that reportedly was caused by his use of alcoholic beverages.

Many people from all walks of life suffer problems with alcohol.  The experts tell us that most will never seek help until something tragic happens.  In this case, Bishop Demetri has acknowledged that he has a problem with alcohol, that perhaps combined with various medications he has been taking for serious health problems, may have contributed to his actions in Traverse City, which he truly regrets.  He, as many others afflicted by that illness, believed that he could handle it on his own without professional counseling.  He now knows that he cannot do it alone.

I have directed Bishop Demetri to seek professional help.  He is willing to do that and has already made arrangements for inpatient treatment at a well-recognized facility.  Once he receives the permission of the civil authorities, he will be entering a ninety-day treatment program.  I have also directed Bishop Demetri not to preach or preside at any liturgical service during the time that he is under treatment, or while this matter is under investigation.

Tragic situations such as this require from us a Christian response.  We will not abandon Bishop Demetri, who is both a brother and a friend.  We must show that Christian love and support required of us, and offer our prayers for him.  At the same time we must remember in our prayers those who were directly affected in Traverse City by Bishop Demetri's actions, as well as the faithful, especially those in the Midwest and throughout this Archdiocese, both clergy and laity, who have been deeply surprised, hurt and disappointed.

While we know that his acts are uncharacteristic of him, and were influenced by his consumption of alcohol, at the same time we also know that individuals must be accountable for their actions.  Our Board of Trustees of this Archdiocese adopted in June 1999 "Policies and Procedures" that govern our response to some of the allegations in this incident.  Those rules apply to all clergy, deacons, priests and bishops as well as lay workers in this Archdiocese.  We will be following those "Policies and Procedures" in this matter.

We ask all of you to remember Bishop Demetri in your prayers

Yours in the Merciful Christ,

Metropolitan PHILIP, Primate
Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America

Important Status Update on Bishop Demetri

Bishop Demetri recently submitted a request to retire which has been accepted.  He will relocate from Toledo to a location which has not yet been determined.  The Local Synod of Bishops will meet in early June to discuss any additional questions.

While continuing his rehabilitation, Bishop Demetri will be doing research to transform the current Archdiocese “Priest’s Guide” into a new Archdiocese Guide for Clergy and Laity that reflects our self-rule status.  While doing this work, he will be receiving some financial assistance from the Archdiocese.

SCOBA Appeal For Peace 4-Feb-2003

Press Release February 11, 2003  SCOBA HIERARCHS ADDRESS THE PRESENT CHALLENGE TO SECURITY AND PEACE At this time, one of the most critical in human history, we the Hierarchs of the Standing Conference of the Canonical Orthodox Bishops in America, painfully understand the exceedingly great existential burden placed upon our government leaders, who, at this crucial moment are charged with the power to decide the fate of innumerable human beings. They will have to make the ultimate decisions required by the information available to them. We pray for them, for their wisdom, determination and compassion as they contemplate actions that may have a tremendous impact upon millions of our fellow human beings, including many of our own sons and daughters. As leaders of Orthodox Christian Communities throughout America and as servants of the One who on His way to the cross said: "Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you."  (John 14:27), we urge all leaders of governments to utilize every means available to seek a peaceful resolution to the present challenge to the security and happiness of all humankind, posed by the forces of terror and evil that threaten not only the civilized world, but the very survival of human existence. As Orthodox Christians we constantly and fervently pray in each and every worship service of our Church "for the peace from above", and incessantly implore the Lord "for the peace of the whole world". As disciples and followers of Jesus Christ we seek and pursue peace in prayer, in faith and in action. Death, terror, destruction, and endless suffering are formidable enemies with which we are not ever going to be reconciled. In the uniquely significant days ahead, may our good and loving God enable us all, the people of this blessed country, to know and to do what is just and right in order to secure a lasting peace on our planet Earth.   +Archbishop DEMETRIOS, Chairman Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America  +Metropolitan PHILIP, Vice Chairman  Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America +Metropolitan CHRISTOPHER, Secretary Serbian Orthodox Church in the USA and Canada +Metropolitan NICHOLAS of Amissos  American Carpatho-Russian Orthodox Diocese in the USA +Metropolitan HERMAN Orthodox Church in America +Archbishop NICOLAE Romanian Orthodox  Archdiocese in America and Canada +Metropolitan JOSEPH Bulgarian Eastern Orthodox Church +Metropolitan CONSTANTINE Ukrainian Orthodox Church of the USA +Bishop ILIA of Philomelion Albanian Orthodox Diocese

SCOBA Appeal For Prayer 2-Apr-2003

Press Release April 2, 2003  SCOBA Hierarchs Issue Appeal For Prayer We, the hierarchs of the Standing Conference of the Canonical Orthodox Bishops in the Americas are compelled by our spiritual obligation as peacemakers. to express the anguish in our hearts that, once agan. due to the presence of sin and evil in the world, nations and people of faith have been unable to avoid a dreadful confrontation.  As heads of Orthodox Christian communities in North America we are compelled to call our pious clergy and faithful to pray for peace and for respect of the sanctity of all human persons.  We ask our churches to open their doors during this season of the Great Lent for people to enter, light a candle, and pray for peace and reconciliation among nations.  We exhort our faithful to pray for all the people who live in areas of conflict. for the innocent women, children and elderly who live in places of high risk and harm, for those in flight, for refugees throughout the region who join others on a journey of profound uncertainty.  We pray for the security and well-being of our military personnel. for advisors and diplomats, and for families at home, who must live in fear for the safety of their loved ones.  We pray for our President and all civil authorities, for their discernment and divine guidance during this difficult time.  This tragic war, combined with the threat to security at home, has created enormous fear and anxiety throughout the world. Only the Prince of Peace, who said “My peace I give to you” (Lk 14:27), can allay this fear and anxiety. Please know, dearly beloved that our humanitarian aid agency, the International Orthodox Christian Charities (1OCC), has already prepared itself to address the tremendous needs that will confront the world in the days ahead. This response wi1l include the distribution of “survival packs” to persons fleeing Iraq, provisions of medical assistance to ill or disabled refugees in Jordan, and the distribution of humanitarian relief within Iraq. We urge you to help IOCC in this massive philanthropic effort.  May the peace and love of God be with all of you.  With paternal love and blessings, PS The IOCC toll-free telephone number to call is 1-877-803-4622. Make a gift on-line at ww.iocc.org/iraq, or mail a check to: IOCC Middle East Crisis PO Box 630225 Baltimore, MD 21263-0225 +Archbishop DEMETRIOS, Chairman Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America  +Metropolitan PHILIP, Vice Chairman  Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America +Metropolitan CHRISTOPHER, Secretary Serbian Orthodox Church in the USA and Canada +Metropolitan NICHOLAS of Amissos  American Carpatho-Russian Orthodox Diocese in the USA +Metropolitan HERMAN Orthodox Church in America +Archbishop NICOLAE Romanian Orthodox  Archdiocese in America and Canada +Metropolitan JOSEPH Bulgarian Eastern Orthodox Church +Metropolitan CONSTANTINE Ukrainian Orthodox Church of the USA +Bishop ILIA of Philomelion Albanian Orthodox Diocese

Message for Great and Holy Friday 2003

Message from the Metropolitan for Great and Holy Friday 2003 Beloved faithful of our Archdiocese: I cannot help but think of the suffering of tens of thou-sands of Iraqi children who have been victimized by war. We thank God that the people of this Archdiocese have responded generously in the past to all social and natural disasters, whether in America, Mexico, Latin America, Africa, Eastern Europe or the Middle East. The scenes of suffering Iraqi children break one’s heart. Suffering has no nationality and no boundaries. We recall the words of our Lord in Matthew: “Whatever you have done to the least of these, my brethren, you have done it unto me.” As you know, we have an Antiochian Orthodox Archdiocese of Baghdad under the omophorion of our beloved brother, Metropolitan Constantine Pappastephanou, and this Archdiocese is a part of the Patriarchate of Antioch. I am appealing to you, beloved children, as you commemorate the agony of our Lord on the cross on Great Friday, to take a collection to help save some of the children in Iraq. Please give generously to this worthy cause; and immediately send your checks to the Archdiocese marked “Iraqi Children.” May the Eternal Light of the empty tomb, which cannot be overcome by darkness, shine in your hearts and in the hearts of people everywhere. Yours in the Risen Lord, Metropolitan Philip Primate Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America

Metroplitan Calls for Orthodoxy Unity

 

 

Metropolitan calls for unity of Orthodoxy

Also says Toledo bishop may be assigned to N.J.

By DAVID YONKE
BLADE RELIGION EDITOR

Having just achieved self-rule for the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America, Metropolitan Philip already is looking toward the next goal: unity among U.S. Orthodox churches.

"As long as we are fragmented and known by Antiochians and Greeks and Serbians and Bulgarians and Russians, we will have no impact as a church on this country," Metropolitan Philip said this week.

The leader of the 450,000-member archdiocese was in Toledo to celebrate the 90th anniversary of St. George Antiochian Orthodox Cathedral.

In a wide-ranging interview in the Presidential Suite of the Wyndham Hotel, Metropolitan Philip discussed U.S. foreign policy in the Middle East, the church’s efforts to preserve the family unit, and the ordination of a homosexual Episcopal bishop.

Regarding Toledo-based cleric Bishop Demetri, arrested in July for allegedly fondling a woman and being highly intoxicated in a casino, the metropolitan said he is likely to be reassigned to the archdiocese’s Englewood, N.J., headquarters once he completes a rehabilitation program.

Metropolitan Philip said barring Bishop Demetri, the 55-year-old leader of the Midwest Diocese, from performing liturgies "was an act of love and act of compassion because he has this problem with alcohol. He must be rehabilitated."

He said it "broke my heart" when he learned of the bishop’s alcohol problem after his arrest July 9 at the Turtle Creek Casino near Traverse City, Mich. Prosecutors said the bishop appeared highly intoxicated when he allegedly grabbed the breast of a woman who was passing by.

Bishop Demetri was charged with criminal sexual conduct, but no trial date has been set yet, Traverse County Prosector [sic] Dennis LaBelle said this week.

The bishop is undergoing treatment in a rehabilitation clinic in Minnesota, Metropolitan Philip said.

"When he comes back, we will put him someplace to continue his rehabilitation," Metropolitan Philip said. "It could be our headquarters of the archdiocese, where we have a community. Some people cannot be alone. He was living alone. And I think he was a lonely man."

He indicated it is unlikely that Bishop Demetri will return as leader of the Midwest diocese, calling it "questionable at this time."

"Basically he’s a good man, a good worker, a good bishop," Metropolitan Philip said.

"I believe that people can be transformed, people can be changed. ..."

Metropolitan Philip, 72, a native of Lebanon who immigrated to the United States in 1956, said he presented his case for autonomy to Patriarch Ignatius IV during a synod in Damascus last month.

Since the North American archdiocese was founded in the late 19th century, the U.S. church has been governed by the Damascus headquarters of the Antiochian Orthodox Church, which traces its origin to the days of Saints Peter and Paul in Antioch.

A charismatic and politically savvy leader who has led the church since 1966, Metropolitan Philip said he told Patriarch Ignatius that members of the American church voted 97.7 percent in favor of autonomy in 2001 and 99.6 percent this year.

"When I faced the patriarch with these facts, I said, ‘What do you want me to go and tell these people in America?’ And we Americans are very, very fond of democracy. ... Even our Constitution starts ‘We the people ...’

"So I said, ‘We the people in America desire this self-rule, this autonomy. And here you are. What are you going to do?’

"Finally, after some tense moments - and there were tense moments - I stood my ground and I said, ‘This is it. We have other choices. The choice is yours now, to grant us self-rule or not to. If you don’t, then I will return to the United States of America and tell my people that you refused to grant us self-rule and we will take it from there.’"

Autonomy gives the North American church more control over such matters as the selection of bishops and self-governance, although it still reports to the patriarch in Damascus on matters of theology.

Metropolitan Philip said he does not believe Orthodox unity in the United States will be achieved soon.

"We have been preaching Orthodox unity for more than half a century. The problem which we are facing is that we are ready for it, for example, but others are not."

The U.S. Greek Orthodox in particular, he said, are too "connected" with their mother church to achieve autonomy and without self-rule, churches cannot discuss unity.

Metropolitan Philip said he created a department of marriage and parish family ministries in order to help preserve the family unit.

"I came to this country in 1956 and things were not as bad as they are today," he said. "The basic unit of our society is the family. If the family is disintegrated, the whole society is disintegrated."

He said members of the Orthodox Church are as affected as any segment of society by divorce and other cultural problems.

"We are no longer an ethnic island," Metropolitan Philip said.

In the 19th century, church members who immigrated from the Middle East used to live near the church so they could speak Arabic and hear the liturgy in their native tongue, he said.

"Those days are gone. Our people are totally integrated into American society. What affects society affects us."

As for U.S. foreign policy in the Middle East, Metropolitan Philip called it "a total failure."

"I believe that all the oil of Arabia is not worth one drop of blood of an American soldier," he said. "It pains me to see these young people dying in Iraq. For what? Iraq does not threaten our nation’s security."

He called Iraq "a broken society" that has suffered through an embargo and years of war with Iran.

"We have these young American boys dying every day, every day, every day, every day," he said. "How long can the American people tolerate that? ... This is not a regular war. This is a guerrilla war, the worst kind of war."

He also called for the establishment of a Palestinian state adjacent to Israel.

"Let us not take sides in this conflict. Let us bring these people together and bring peace to the Palestinians and Israelis," he said.

Regarding the consecration of an openly gay Episcopal bishop this week, Metropolitan Philip said "I feel very sorry. The church is being torn asunder." He said Bishop V. Gene Robinson’s ordination "goes against the teachings of our church. It’s against the Scripture."

According to the Book of Genesis, he said, "‘God created them male and female.’ That’s how we build our families, through procreation, a man and a woman coming together. Not a man and man, or a woman and woman."

Leaders of other Christian churches must "take a firm stand" against homosexuality, Metropolitan Philip said.

"I will never approve such things in the Orthodox church - never! Never! And what do you do with all these teachings? What do you do with the theology of 2,000 years? Throw it in the garbage?"

Reprinted with permission from the Toledo (Ohio) Blade.
Article published November 8, 2003.

Patriarchal Statement on War in Iraq 24-Mar-2003

بطريركية أنطاكية وسائر المشرق للروم الأرثوذكس Greek Orthodox Patriarchate of Antioch and All the East   Patriarchal Statement This is a time of fear and sorrow for many. As Church leaders of the Middle East we spoke in one voice. We, Orthodox Christians of the Patriarchate of Antioch, are concerned for the people of Iraq as the unjust war against their country intensifies. The voices of Churches, and millions of people of good will, opposing the immoral and illegal use of force was unheard. We have repeatedly stated that such a unilateral and preemptive action, where the logic of might prevails, is a defeat of international law and diplomacy, with grave consequences for the world. The war causes, in our region and well beyond, great pain and anger. It must stop. As people of faith this is our cry today. Many Iraqis are, and will be, displaced. Many are threatened in their lives and possessions. The present war continues their long-enduring suffering. We pray for all the Iraqis, our spiritual children, the Antiochian Orthodox, and their compatriots, Christians and Muslims. We urge our faithful and our friends, to express solidarity and support generously the humanitarian efforts that our Church, in coordination with other Churches, towards the relief of the afflicted. May the Lord of Peace bless you all. March 24th, 2003 + + + The historical St. Mary Convent in Saydnaya village has opened its door to receive Iraqi families who have left Iraq before the war. Many other Iraqis refugees who can not support themselves are expected to be hosted in many Convents and Monasteries related to the Antiochian Orthodox Patriarchate. Besides, the Patriarchate is contacting the Syrian Orthodox Patriarchate to offer the available support it has for many families staying at St. Ephram Monastery in Merret village nearby Saydnaya. Seeing the tragedy everyday on TV and hearing about the horrible fight in the weeks to come motivate us to raise more profoundly our prayers to our Savior to interfere to end this catastrophe and inspire decision makers in the world over to find a peaceful solution. Let us join our prayers and our voices to be the voice of voiceless so that the power of resurrection prevail.

Metropolitan's Appeal for Iran Earthquake Relief

 

 

Metropolitan Appeals for Iran Earthquake Relief
 

 

December 30, 2003

Beloved in Christ:

 

Greetings in the name of our incarnate Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. I pray you all had a joyous and blessed celebration of our Lord’s Nativity in the flesh. As the final days of 2003 fade into the history books, another horrific tragedy will become a part of the permanent history of 2003. The recent earthquake in Iran has left tens of thousands of people dead and hundreds of thousands homeless and grieving the loss of loved ones. This earthquake can be counted among the most deadly and devastating in history. As such, we feel compelled to do our part to help those who are suffering from this great tragedy.

 

Next week, as we bless the waters on the Great Feast of Theophany, we pray for all of God’s creation and His saving hand in that creation. As stewards of this same creation, it is our duty to help those in need who have been displaced, who are starving and who are grieving because of the terrible destruction of part of God’s creation. Therefore, we are asking all of our parishes to have a special collection for the suffering people of Iran. Please make your checks payable to your local parish and the parish will forward one check in your name to the Archdiocese marked “Earthquake Relief Fund.” Because of the extreme urgency of this tragedy, we ask that the parish’s check be sent to the Archdiocese no later than January 30, 2004.

 

Praying that our Lord will keep you safe and healthy as we begin a New Year wishing you all a blessed feast of Theophany, I remain,

Your Father in Christ,

 

+Metropolitan PHILIP

Primate
Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese

of North America
 

Antiochian Village Names Director of Sales

Download the PDF Version

FOR RELEASE:

CONTACT: Denise O’Neal

E-MAIL: marketing@antiochian.org

ANTIOCHIAN VILLAGE NAMES DIRECTOR OF SALES

(Ligonier, PA) Antiochain Village Conference & Retreat Center announces the appointment of Anne Peagler as Director of Sales in a new position at the Village to develop new business, to build relationships, and to increase partnerships for the Village.

Anne holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Pittsburgh and from there went on to become Regional Marketing Executive at LendSource Inc. located in Minnesota. Most recently Anne was the National Advertising, Media, and Marketing Director at Mid-Atlantic Unified Health Systems, which is located in New Stanton. She has also served as the Marketing Coordinator and Advertising and Promotions Manager at Southwest Bank in Greensburg and was also employed at the University of Pittsburgh at Greensburg where she was the Director of Conference Services.

“I am excited to be working in this new position,” said Anne. “It is a great opportunity to be part of the continuous expansion process at Antiochian Village”. As Director of Sales Anne plans to create a better awareness of what the Village has to offer through attending community and business functions and visiting such areas as Harrisburg, Washington D.C., Pittsburgh and Johnstown. “My goal is to develop relationships with government, associations, education and corporate groups as well as religious groups who have not yet utilized our facility,” she added.

Antiochian Village Conference & Retreat Center services group meetings, seminars, retreats, workshops and conferences. The Village holds a membership in the Ligonier Valley Association of Churches, Christian Associates of Western Pennsylvania, the Religious Conference Management Association, Laurel Highlands Visitors Bureau, Ligonier Valley Chamber of Commerce, Westmoreland Chamber of Commerce and the Johnstown-Cambria County Chamber of Commerce.

Facilities at Antiochian Village include 100 lodging rooms with private bathrooms, full service banquet halls, 18 meeting rooms with technical support, a new sloped-seat auditorium, free parking, a sports complex, an ecumenical chapel, a 21,000-volume library, the new Antiochian Heritage Museum, and a certified ropes course for organizational development. Antiochain Village is a full-service non profit conference facility with a hospitality ministry and is available for public use. The Village is located on Route 711 six miles north of Ligonier on 300 wooded acres. For information, contact Anne at (724) 238-3677 or anne@antiochian.org .

Call to Prayer for Metropolitan PHILIP and the Holy Synod of Antioch

Metropolitan Travels for Holy Synod Meeting

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

October 4, 2004

We ask all clergy and faithful of our Archdiocese to keep in their prayers—both at home and in the churches—our Father and Chief Shepherd, Metropolitan PHILIP, together with His Beatitude, Patriarch IGNATIUS IV, and all the Fathers of the Holy Synod of Antioch. We pray for Godspeed as our Archbishop and those accompanying him travel to Damascus this week to participate in the meetings of the Holy Synod that begin on Oct. 12, 2004.

Of great significance for our Archdiocese, the Holy Synod will take up ratification of revisions to our Archdiocese Constitution relating to our self-rule status that was previously agreed upon at the October, 2003, meeting of the Holy Synod.

Our new constitution was passed unanimously at a special Archdiocese convention on July 16, 2004, and is already in effect. With the Synod of Antioch’s action next week, we shall be awaiting a delegation of bishops from the Holy Synod to augment our local, North American synod of bishops for the election of three new bishops from the seven candidates nominated by our general assembly in July.

The Patriarchal Holy Synod is a council comprised of all the metropolitan bishops, who are, in turn, representing the synods of their local diocesan bishops. As Metropolitan of the Great City of Antioch (where “the Disciples were first called Christians,” Acts 11.26), His Beatitude IGNATIUS IV serves as President of the Holy Synod and is known as “Patriarch.” The Patriarchate of Antioch “and All the East,” in the global organizational structure of the Orthodox Church, encompasses much of the Middle East and beyond, plus dependencies in the New World (such as our own Archdiocese of North America).

The Synod will meet in Damascus, on Straight Street, where St. Ananias met and healed the would-be Apostle Paul (Acts 9.11). We pray that all-Holy Spirit will guide and strengthen our bishops to do what is right and pleasing to Him, just as He has guided and preserved His faithful through 2000 years, continuously, in this same place.

Conciliar Press Announces Redesign of Again Magazine

PRESS RELEASE

Conciliar Press Announces Redesign of Again Magazine

Thursday, May 6, 2004

BEN LOMOND, CA—Conciliar Press, a leading Orthodox Christian publisher, has announced a major redesign of Again, their flagship quarterly periodical. Again is an Orthodox Christian magazine proclaiming the power of the ancient Christian faith as it is lived today. The mission of Again is to explore the beauty of the Way of Christ and to confront the challenges facing His followers in the 21st century. Again is crisp, readable, balanced, and upbeat—ideal for both Orthodox believers desiring a deeper relationship with God, and for inquirers interested in encountering the enduring wisdom and spiritual tradition of the Orthodox Church.

 

Read the full press release here.

Visit Conciliar Press on the web.

General Assembly Nominates Candidates for New Diocesan Bishops

General Assembly Nominates Candidates for New Diocesan Bishops

On July 16 the Special Convention General Assembly (2004) for the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese approved the Amended Archdiocese Constitution. In accordance with the amended constitution, by the unanimous will of the General Assembly, implementation of the amendments began with the nomination of candidates for the Office of Diocesan Bishop.

Prior to the nomination process (by clergy and laity), candidates were asked to share with the assembly their vision for the future of the Archdiocese. Many of the candidates mentioned Orthodox unity in America. After these brief comments from the candidates, the nomination process proceeded smoothly. Many delegates and attendees commented on the orderliness of the nomination process and the overall joy present. The orderliness and joy are the mark of the Holy Spirit upon the Church as they seek and do God’s will.

About the Nomination Process

According to the Amended Constitution (soon to be posted on Antiochian.org) in the case of a single vacancy for the Office of Diocesan Bishop, three names are submitted to the local Holy Synod, from which the bishops pick one to fill the office. During this nomination process, because three vacancies need to be filled, all seven names of the candidates were submitted to the bishops. This nomination process was about the laity and clergy giving them guidance and lending our voice to the decision on final selection.

It is important to note that the selection process must be in harmony. Again this is the mark of the guidance of the Holy Spirit. Candidates must be willing to stand as nominees for election. The people must voice their choice. Finally, the Hierarchs must concur. As mentioned in a previous article on the convention, this process showed how in a hierarchal church, by the guidance of the Holy Spirit, clergy and laity alike are allowed to participate in the decision process.

The Results of the Nominations

(In order of number of votes received at Special Convention from most to least)

1. Rt. Rev. Archimandrite Thomas Joseph
2. Rev. Fr. Mark Maymon
3. Rt. Rev. Archimandrite Daniel Griffith
4. Rev. Fr. Rafeek Mufarrij
5. Rev. Fr. Andre Issa
6. Rt. Rev. Archimandrite Daniel Keller
7. Rt. Rev. Archimandrite Michel Boghos

 

What Happens Next

At the next meeting of the Holy Synod of Antioch, His Eminence Metropolitan PHILIP will present our amended constitution for ratification. This meeting is expected to take place in October.

Having been passed unanimously by General Assembly and approved by the Metropolitan, the constitution is now in effect. It will be taken to the Holy Synod of Antioch to be ratified and filed at the Patriarchate so they will see that what we have done is consistent with the decree of the Holy Synod of Antioch regarding our self-rule last October.

After the ratification and filing, the Patriarch will send a delegation of up to three bishops from the Holy Synod to join with our bishops here in America in electing three bishops from the seven nominees. After selection, the new Diocesan Bishops will have their consecrations scheduled. It is anticipated that the new bishops will not be in place until approximately one year; therefore the regional structure that we have had will continue to transition into the new diocesan structure through the 2005 parish life conferences.

As part of this transition, Bishop ANTOUN will be enthroned as bishop of the Diocese of Miami and the Southeast. Bishop JOSEPH will be enthroned as bishop of the Diocese of Los Angeles and the West. Bishop BASIL will be enthroned as bishop of the Diocese of Wichita and Mid-America. Other dioceses will be the Archdiocese district in which Metropolitan PHILIP will continue to be Archbishop of New York and Metropolitan of North America. Metropolitan PHILIP’s dioceses will include the New York City Metro Area (including regions of New Jersey and Connecticut near NY City) and the churches in the Washington DC Metro Area and all institutions such as the Antiochian Village and any seminaries or monasteries.

The only enthroning date set so far is for Bishop JOSEPH on Sunday Sept. 12.

The three new bishops will fill the following offices:

The Diocese of Toledo and the Midwest

The Diocese of Ottawa and Upstate New York

The diocese whose jurisdiction will include all of Pennsylvania, West Virginia, Maryland (except Potomac), and Delaware. (The name and title are yet to be determined.)

The vacant Diocese of Worcester and New England will be administered for the time being by the Metropolitan. The Diocese of Eagle River and the Northwest will continue to be administered by the Diocese of Los Angeles and the West for the time being.

Bishops for the two vacant dioceses plus an auxiliary bishop to help the Metropolitan will be elected at a future time.

Click Here to Read a Full List and Description of the Proposed Structure of the self-ruled Archdiocese

General Assembly Unanimously Approves Amended Constitution

General Assembly Unanimously Approves Amended Constitution

The 2004 Special Convention General Assembly for the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese met this Friday July 16, 2004, to review and approve an Amended Archdiocese Constitution and to nominate candidates for the Office of Diocesan Bishop.

The proposed amendments to the Archdiocese Constitution were developed to help enact the self-rule status granted last year to the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America. The amended constitution was presented Friday morning to participants in the Special Convention (including clergy and laity). After an open question and answer session discussion and clarifying the amendments, participants voted unanimously to approve the constitution and submit it to the Holy Synod of Antioch.

 

This General Assembly showed how in a hierarchal church priests and laity alike are allowed to participate in the process of approving the recent great deeds by the visionary leadership within this Archdiocese.

His Eminence Metropolitan PHILIP says, “This is a New Era!”

His Eminence Metropolitan PHILIP addressed the assembly saying, “This is a new era; this is a new day!” “The future of this Archdiocese is not fifty years ago. The future is now….We have much to be done…We must think and act not only for us but for generations to come.”

Read Metropolitan PHILIP's Speech to the General Assembly

2004 Financial Statement Unanimously Accepted - 2006 Budget Unanimously Approved

The Department of Finance presented the 2004 Financial Statement and the 2006 Budget Fiscal Year Budget to the general assembly. Both were unanimously accepted by the assembly.

AOCWNA Announces Million Dollar Orphanages Fund Goal Reached

The Antiochian Orthodox Christian Women of North America announced this Friday that they have met their goal of raising one million dollars for an endowment fund for orphanages. Laila R. Ferris (president AOCWNA), says, “The Endowment Fund for Orphanages will help perpetually care for our orphans for many years to come.”

AOCWNA Announces New Goal to Raise Half a Million Dollars for the Housing Fund for Retired Clergy

AOCWNA rolled out their banner announcement to the general assembly pledging to raise a half million dollars to show they care for those who care for us.

Divine Liturgy Crowns the Closing of the Assembly

Friday’s general assembly was closed by moving comments from Metropolitan PHILIP encouraging all (priest and laity) to go and make disciples of all nations. His Eminence also continued to call upon all Orthodox Christians in North America to work toward the day of Orthodox Unity in America.

 

 

The general assembly events and accomplishments were crowned with Divine Liturgy on Sunday, celebrated by Bishop Joseph presided over by His Eminence Metropolitan PHILIP. Ending with Divine Liturgy put a holy seal on the spiritual deeds accomplished during this blessed General Assembly.

His Eminence Metropolitan PHILIP - Special Convention Speech - July 16, 2004

Special Convention Speech  

 

July 16, 2004

 

 

 

Beloved Hierarchs, Esteemed members of the Archdiocese

 

Board of Trustees, Beloved Clergy, Parish Councils, Delegates

 

and all Faithful of our God-protected Archdiocese: 

 

 

 

I warmly welcome you to this special Archdiocese Convention.  The last Special Convention was held in the city of

New York in 1966 to nominate candidates to succeed Metropolitan Antony Bashir of thrice-blessed memory.  I bring to you greetings and blessings from our Father in Christ, His Beatitude, Ignatius IV, Patriarch of Antioch and all the East. I have been in touch with His Beatitude almost on a weekly basis and he is very much interested in the work of this convention. 

 

The Book of Acts recorded the trials and tribulations of Peter, John, Paul and the rest of the early Christian community as they preached the crucifixion and resurrection of Christ Jesus.  In Acts 4:31-32, we read:  “And when they had prayed, the place in which they were gathered together was shaken and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke the Word of God with boldness.  Now the company of those who believed were of one heart and one soul.”  I hope that after our prayers and accomplishments at this convention, the foundations of this fragmented Orthodoxy in

North America will be shaken and all Orthodox will speak the Word of God with boldness and with one heart and one soul. 

 

 

 

My dear brothers and sisters: 

 

About a month ago, the members of our Local Synod and the members of the Board of Trustees, the Governing Council of the Order of St. Ignatius of Antioch, and some of our Villagers and faithful gathered at the Antiochian Village to dedicate our beautiful museum and celebrate the Twenty-fifth Anniversary of our camping program which has touched thousands of young people throughout North America.  We were there on that beautiful mountain with one heart and one soul to witness to Holy Orthodoxy in prayers, in words and deeds.  Now we do have a decent place to house some of our spiritual and cultural heritage. 

 

At the banquet Saturday evening, the Villagers energized the banquet by their youth, hopes and dreams for a brighter future.  I hope the day will come when hundreds of our Villagers will return to that beautiful mountain to renew friendships and collect the precious memories of their camping years. 

 

 

 

Ladies and Gentlemen: 

 

This is a working convention.  Therefore, we have no social events planned except the Bible Bowl and the Oratorical Contest.  We are here to finish the work which we started in

Los Angeles, California.  Remember in Los Angeles, you voted overwhelmingly for self-rule for this Archdiocese.  In 2002, we sent a delegation to Geneva, Switzerland, chaired by our brother, Bishop Basil, to discuss this self-rule with a patriarchal delegation and a statement was approved by both delegations.  In 2003, the Geneva Statement was discussed in the Holy Synod of Antioch and a Synodal Document was unanimously approved.  Article VIII of this document states:  “The Patriarchate of Antioch and the Archdiocese shall each amend its constitution in accordance with above.  The Archdiocese shall submit its amended constitution to the Holy Synod of Antioch for approval.  The Arabic text of this resolution and its English translation shall have equal force and validity.”  I made some minor corrections to the Synodal Document which do not violate its substance.

 

Today, we are here first to amend our constitution in order to reflect the Synodal Document.  Second, to nominate three eligible clergymen for the office of bishop in order to fill three vacancies, namely:  The Canadian-American Diocese, the

Pennsylvania and West Virginia Diocese and three, the Midwest Diocese.  Our local Holy Synod, in its session held on Friday, June 4, 2004, decided that His Grace, Bishop Antoun will shepherd the Diocese of the Southeast, temporarily from the Archdiocese headquarters.  In the final analysis, the Antiochian Archdiocese of North American will consist of nine dioceses.  The Diocese of the Metropolitan will consist of the New York Metropolitan area and Washington, D.C.  The New England Diocese will remain under the omophorion of the Metropolitan for the foreseeable future and the Diocese of the North West will be under the omophorion of Bishop Joseph for the time being.  Our hierarchs have already met twice as a local synod.  I am thankful for the harmony and unity which exists among us.  All the decisions, which we made, were adopted unanimously. 

 

 

 

Beloved in Christ: 

 

Three years have elapsed since our first vote in

Los Angeles.  These three years have been marked by frustration, tension and disappointment.    But our Church is a church of hope.  In John 5:17, our Lord said:  “My father is still working and I am working.”  If you are in Christ, you do not despair, you do not give up, and you do not surrender.  Christ is working with us and will continue to work with us until the end of time.  He is the foundation and head of the Church.  In I Corinthians 3:11-13, St. Paul said:  “For no other foundation can any one lay than that which is laid, which is Jesus Christ. Now if any one builds on the foundation with gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, straw – each man’s work will become manifest; for the Day will disclose it, because it will be revealed with fire, and the fire will test what sort of work each one has done.”

 

The Orthodox Church of Twenty-first century

America is destined to chart its own course and shape its own future, despite the obstacles.  We in the Antiochian Archdiocese have reached the point of no return.  Our Mother Church of Antioch is very dear to us and we shall continue to do everything within our power to support our beloved Patriarch in all his endeavors.  The founding of the University of Balamand by His Beatitude, Patriarch Ignatius IV, is the greatest event which has happened in Antioch since the days of Peter and Paul.  This Special Convention is a bright moment in our history.  Let us seize this moment and appeal to our brothers and sisters of other jurisdictions to emulate our example and seize the moment.  In II Corinthians 5:17, St. Paul said:  “therefore, if any man is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has passed away, behold the new has come.”  Today, I am overwhelmed by a sense of newness.   This is a new era and a new day.   Without the steadfastness and unity of our people which was magnificently demonstrated in Los Angeles and Miami, Florida, and by our hierarchs, clergy, Board of Trustees, parish councils and faithful throughout North America, this new day could never have been possible. 

 

I would be remiss if I do not express my gratitude to the Archdiocesan department of legal affairs, especially Chancellor Robert Koory and Chancellor Charles Ajalat for reviewing our constitution and proposing to us the necessary amendments.  I also would like to thank our hierarchical assistant, the Reverend Father George Kevorkian and the Very Reverend Father John Abdalah for organizing this special convention.

 

 I do not want you to be under the illusion that our task has been completely accomplished; we have just begun.  The future of this Archdiocese is not fifty years from now; the future is now.  With the new structure of our Archdiocese, the new future bishops, chanceries, organizations and departments, we have much to be done.  We cannot waste time.  Thus, our work begins now.  We must think and act, not only for the moment, but for generations to come.

 

In conclusion,  I am reminded of the story of Marshall Lyautey, who once asked his gardener to plant a tree.  The gardener objected that the tree was slow to grow and would not reach maturity for a hundred years.  The

Marshall replied, “in this case, there is no time to waste, plant this morning.”  Today, in a world of fragmented Orthodoxy on this continent and abroad, we have no time to waste, let us plant our trees this morning.  Thank you. 

 

His Eminence Metropolitan PHILIP Hosts His Eminence Archbishop DEMETRIOS

On Monday Sept. 27, 2004, His Eminence Metropolitan PHILIP hosted His Eminence Archbishop DEMETRIOS, Primate of the Greek Orthodox Church in America, at the Archdiocese Headquarters in Englewood, New Jersey. Accompanying Archbishop DEMETRIOS was His Grace Bishop DIMITRIOS of Xanthos, and participating from the Antiochian Archdiocese was His Grace Bishop ANTOUN. Metropolitan PHILIP and Archbishop DEMETRIOS discussed several items of utmost importance to the Orthodox Church both here in America and abroad. The meeting can be characterized as fruitful and successful. Following the meeting, all the participants joined together for lunch at the Archdiocese Headquarters.

Left to right: Bishop ANTOUN, Archbishop DEMETRIOS, Metropolitan PHILIP, Bishop DIMITRIOS

Archbishop DEMETRIOS Confers with Metropolitan PHILIP

 

IOCC Providing Aid to Victims Of Hurricane Charley

INTERNATIONAL ORTHODOX CHRISTIAN CHARITIES (IOCC)

110 West Road, Suite 360 , Baltimore, Md. 21204 — Tel: (410) 243-9820 — Fax: (410) 243-9824

Web: www.iocc.org — E-mail: news@iocc.org

For Immediate Release

August 17, 2004

IOCC PROVIDING AID TO VICTIMS OF HURRICANE CHARLEY

Baltimore , MD – International Orthodox Christian Charities (IOCC) is working with its domestic disaster response partners to help victims of Hurricane Charley by providing critical assistance to those hardest hit by the storm.

The death toll this morning from Hurricane Charley now stands at 19, according to Florida law enforcement officials. Authorities are estimating total property damage in the billions of dollars, though it could be some time before final fatality and damage figures are known, since access to many areas is still cut off. Hundreds of thousands remain without power in parts of Florida, and it could take weeks before power is restored in some areas.

Working through one of its primary domestic disaster response partners, Church World Service (CWS), IOCC is supporting the work of disaster response liaison teams to identify members of communities already vulnerable before the disaster, and to assess and help meet both their short and long-term unmet recovery needs.

This aid work will focus on all areas of Florida affected by the hurricane, including the Gulf Coast, and will involve collaboration with local disaster response groups like Florida Interfaith Networking in Disaster (FIND), the Florida Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (VOAD) and IOCC’s local Orthodox Church partners.

IOCC is the humanitarian aid agency of the Standing Conference of Canonical Orthodox Bishops in the Americas (SCOBA). All of its assistance is delivered solely on the basis of need.

Donations for IOCC’s Hurricane Charley Disaster Response Fund may be sent to IOCC, marked “Hurricane Charley,” P.O. Box 630225, Baltimore, M D . 21263-0225. Donations may also be made online at www.iocc.org or by calling toll-free 1-877-803-IOCC (4622).

###

For media inquiries related to IOCC efforts to aid Hurricane Charley victims, please contact Colin McGinnis at IOCC Headquarters at 1-877-803-4622 or cmcginnis@iocc.org.

Letter from His Eminence Metropolitan PHILIP Special Olympics

Beloved in the Lord:

Greetings in the name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. I pray you and your families are in good health. Once again we come to that time of year when our teens raise money for Special Olympics Awareness Day. This year is special in that we are celebrating the 25th anniversary of our SOYO’s ministering to Special Olympics. As we mark this milestone, we cannot but think of the countless lives we have touched and also how our lives have been touched by these special children of God. This past year, from August 13-21 our Antiochian Village became a gathering place for these children, and we welcomed them, through your support, with open arms.

Each year our own teens participate in the training and help the official staff of the Special Olympics to teach these beautiful children to compete in and enjoy what many of our own children take for granted. As a result, our own teens learn from the Special Olympians as well. It is indeed a learning experience for all involved. May God bless these young people and may we continue to encourage them to do what it well pleasing to His holy name.

Your Father in Christ,

Metropolitan PHILIP

Primate

Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America

Letter of Patriarch Ignatius to General Assembly

Damascus, July 9, 2004

 

 

 

Beloved Brother Archbishop Philip (Saliba)

 

Metropolitan of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of

North America

 

 

We greet you in The Name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

 

 

On the occasion this special convention of your Archdiocese, we seize the opportunity to address, through you, esteemed and honorable brother, the faithful flock of this beloved Archdiocese, to emphasize on the following:

 

 

1         Based only on the ecclesiological grounds and from this single perspective we consider and deal with the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of

North America as one of the Archdioceses affiliated to the Patriarchate of Antioch.

2         The Holy Scripture, the Sacred Tradition, the Holy Canons, the Constitution of the

Church of Antioch and its bylaws are the sole references of government to all our Archdioceses. Any dissidence to this context is considered as a violation to our constituency.

3        The Holy Synod of the

Church of Antioch is the ultimate authority from which all ecclesiastical privileges proceed. This Holy Synod holds alone the competence of making and implementing resolutions all over the see of  Antioch. Your membership, beloved brother, in the Holy Synod is the only guarantee of keeping tight the organic ties uniting all of us in the Church of Jesus Christ. Likewise the absolute compliance to the authority of the Holy Synod, guarantees the safekeeping of the bonds of unity in the Church as well the governance, of the church matters decently and in order. What affects the authority of the Holy Synod affects the essential nature of the relation that unites us in the Body of Jesus Christ by the community of the Holy Spirit. We are sure that you are eagerly devoted to keeping strong these bonds of unity. Be assured also of our attachment to the unity and the peace of the Church. We will spare no effort to maintain the purity and the integrity of the Lord's legacy, as well.

We herewith enclose a true copy of the Synodical Resolution of October 9, 2003, kindly requesting Your Eminence, its distribution among the participants of the special convention, when reading this letter to them, so that they get a clear understanding of our stand.

 

 

Finally, we assure you of our deep love and of our confidence that we are together seeking the same aims. Likewise, your assistants and the faithful people of this thriving archdiocese are entrusted of this same strive. God has been and will always be, glorified by your deeds, since we are altogether laboring for the wellbeing of Christ's Church.

 

 

We bless your actions towards this aim and heartily pray the Lord to grant Your Eminence always the required strength, to rightly dividing His Word of truth.

 

Pray for us. You are always remembered in ours.

 

Ignatius IV

 

Patriarch of

Antioch and All the East

 

 

 

 

Letters of Correspondence Between His Eminence and Fr. George Dimas, Secretary to the Holy Synod Of Antioch

Local Synod Inaugural Mtg

1st Meeting of the Local Holy Synod of the Self-ruled Antiochian Orthodox Archdiocese of North America

 

 

 

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

January 2, 2004 – Englewood, New Jersey

 

HISTORIC FIRST MEETING OF THE LOCAL HOLY SYNOD OF THE SELF-RULED ANTIOCHIAN ORTHODOX CHRISTIAN ARCHDIOCESE OF NORTH AMERICA HELD ON DECEMBER 29TH AND  30TH, 2003.

 

 

The first meeting of the Local Holy Synod of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America was held on Monday December 29th and Tuesday December 30th, 2003 at the Archdiocese Headquarters in Englewood, New Jersey.  The meeting was historic in that it represented the first time that the bishops have met as a Local Holy Synod, after the granting of self-rule status to the Archdiocese by the Holy Synod of Antioch in October of 2003.

 

His Eminence Metropolitan PHILIP, Primate of the Archdiocese, presided.  In attendance were three of the Antiochian Bishops of North America: His Grace Bishop ANTOUN, His Grace Bishop JOSEPH, and His Grace Bishop BASIL.  His Grace Bishop DEMETRI was not in attendance.

 

The focus of this meeting was to reach agreement on several very important topics which will allow the orderly implementation of self-rule.

 

First, the plans for the Special Convention were discussed.  This Special Convention will be convened in Pittsburgh, PA during the weekend of July 16 – 18, 2004.  The Special Convention will have two primary agenda items, which will be discussed and voted upon by the entire General Assembly of the Archdiocese.  First, the approval of amendments to the Archdiocese Constitution which are necessary for the implementation of self-rule.  Second, the nomination of candidates who will stand for election as Diocesan Bishops of this Archdiocese.  The Local Holy Synod of the Archdiocese of North America will elect the new Diocesan Bishops sometime after this Special Convention.

 

Second, two documents were reviewed which put forth the Rights and Responsibilities of the Metropolitan, and the Rights and Responsibilities of the Diocesan Bishops.  These documents specify, in detail, the working relationships between the Primate of the Archdiocese, and his Diocesan Bishops, who will receive enhanced responsibilities within their diocese.  These documents were approved unanimously. 

 

Third, the bishops reviewed a document which specifies the proposed structure of the Archdiocese.  Each Diocese was identified, along with the Cathedral which will serve as the seat of the Diocesan Bishop, and the geographical boundaries of each diocese.  This document was also approved unanimously.

 

The final discussion involved the status of Bishop DEMETRI.  The Synod agreed on a course of action but will postpone implementation until January 23, 2004, which is the scheduled date for the court case to be heard.  This postponement will insure that there is no interference in any way with the legal proceedings.  However, the latest date for the implementation of the course of action will be February 23rd, 2004.  Until that time, Bishop DEMETRI’s status will remain as it was specified in the Metropolitan’s letter of July 14th, 2003.  To quote from that letter “I have also directed Bishop DEMETRI not to preach or preside at any liturgical service during the time that he is under treatment or this matter is under investigation.”

 

With the enthusiastic and focused leadership of His Eminence Metropolitan PHILIP, this meeting of the Local Holy Synod of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America was conducted with an intense spirit of love, brotherhood, and cooperation.  This allowed important issues to be debated constructively, and agreements to be reached which will pave the way for the new era of self-rule for this Archdiocese.

 

It is expected that the next meeting of the Local Holy Synod will be held in conjunction with the spring meeting of the Archdiocese Board of Trustees which will be held at the Antiochian Village in Ligonier, Pennsylvania from June 4 – 6, 2004.

Local Synod Met October 29 in Naples, Florida

The Antiochian Orthodox Parish of St. Paul, Naples Florida was our host for an historic weekend of events from October 29 through 31, 2004. During this weekend the Local Synod of this Archdiocese had its meeting, as well as the Board of Trustees. The weekend concluded with an outdoor Divine Liturgy, and the groundbreaking prayers that marked the start of the construction of the new St. Paul church complex.

On Friday, October 29, 2004, the Local Synod of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America met for their regular Fall meeting. However, this meeting was anything but “regular”. The meeting table was adorned with the Holy Gospel, the Precious and Lifegiving Cross, Icons of our Lord and the Theotokos, and candles. The meeting began with the opening prayer, led by His Eminence, Metropolitan PHILIP. Also in attendance were Bishop ANTOUN of the Diocese of Miami and the Southeast, Bishop JOSEPH of the Diocese of Los Angeles and the West, and Bishop BASIL of the Diocese of Wichita and Mid-America. The prayers included the chanting of the Troparion and Kontakion of Pentecost, as a reminder that the work of the Synod is inspired by the Holy Spirit. The main item on the agenda was a report by His Eminence on his trip to the Middle East to attend the meeting of the Holy Synod of Antioch, and the election of three new Diocesan Bishops.

The results of the election were as follows:

Rt. Rev. Thomas Joseph as the Bishop Elect for the Diocese of Pittsburgh and the East

Rev. Fr. Mark Maymon as the Bishop Elect for the Diocese of Toledo and The Midwest

Rt. Rev. Rafeek Mufarrij as the Bishop Elect for the Diocese of Ottawa and Upstate NewYork

It has since been confirmed that the consecration of these Bishops Elect will take place at the Patriarchal Cathedral in Damascus, Syria on December 3^rd, 4^th, and 5^th, 2004.

The meeting of the Archdiocese Board of Trustees was held during the evening of Friday, October 29^th, and continued to the morning of Saturday, October 30^th. The main order of business was to consider and discuss the proposed changes to the amended Constitution that have been suggested as a result of the meeting of the Holy Synod of Antioch, which concluded on October 14, 2004. The Board decided to submit these proposed changes to the Department of Legal Affairs for consideration. The Department of Legal Affairs will make a recommendation to the Board of Trustees at their Spring meeting in June, 2005. Finally, the Board of Trustees will recommend final action to be taken by the General Assembly of the Archdiocesan Convention, scheduled for July, 2005. The Board also heard reports from the following Archdiocesan departments: 2004 Parish Life Conferences, Antiochian Village Camp, Antiochian Village Heritage & Learning Center, Antiochian Village Council, Finance, Antiochian Women, Christian Education & Tithing, Youth & Parish Ministry, Order of St. Ignatius, Planning & Future Development, and Communications & Information.

This historic weekend continued with a banquet on Saturday evening for the celebration of the 45^th Anniversary in the priesthood of Very Rev. Joseph Shaheen, pastor of St. Paul Antiochian Orthodox Church of Naples, Florida.

The events concluded with an outdoor Divine Liturgy on the site of St. Paul Church, presided over by His Eminence, Metropolitan PHILIP, and the prayers for groundbreaking for the new St. Paul Church, which is to be constructed.

Truly this was a blessed and historic set of events for the self-ruling Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America.

Location

Metropolitan PHILIP Hosts Dinner

 

 

Metropolitan PHILIP Hosts Dinner
To Discuss Situation in Lebanon and Middle East

From left to right are: His Excellency Bishara Merhige, Minister of the Lebanese Government Metropolitan PHILIP Mr. Monsour Harik

Monday April 5, 2004
Archdiocese Headquarters in Englewood, NJ

Metropolitan PHILIP hosted a dinner on Monday April 5th, 2004, attended by His Excellency Bishara Merhige, Minister of the Lebanese Government, and Mr. Monsour Harik, where they discussed the current situation in Lebanon, the explosive environment in the Middle East and the effect that these events are having on the Church.

Metropolitan PHILIP's Pascha Message, 2004

Pascha 2004

“He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities, the chastisement for our peace was upon Him, and by His stripes we are healed. All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned, every one to His own way; and the Lord has laid on Him the iniquity of us all.” (Isaiah 53:5-6)

“O Christ Saviour, we were but yesterday buried with Thee, and we shall rise with Thee in Thy Resurrection. We were but yesterday crucified with Thee: glorify us with Thee in Thy kingdom.”
(Verse from the Third Ode of the Paschal Canon)

Beloved Hierarchs, Clergy, Trustees, Parish Council Members, and All Faithful of our God-Protected Archdiocese:

Christ is Risen!

I greet you with the Paschal greeting, praying that our Risen Lord will bless you and your families as we celebrate His glorious Resurrection from the dead. As we live in the midst of a world plagued by war, famine, crime and moral decay, we have no other hope than to look to our Lord who destroyed death and gave new life to all. This new life and hope should strengthen us to overcome all of these destructive forces and, in fact, enable us to speak out against them. Indeed, as Christ ended the “wailing of Eve by His Resurrection,” we must also “proclaim that the Saviour is risen from the dead.”

May the eternal light of the Empty Tomb shine in your hearts and in the hearts of people everywhere.

Wishing you a glorious Paschal season, I remain
Yours in the Risen Lord,

Metropolitan PHILIP
Primate, Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America

Metropolitan Reviews Progress with University of Balamand President

 

 

Metropolitan Reviews Progress with
University of Balamand President

From left to right are: Dr. Elie A. Salem (President of the University of Balamand), Metropolitan PHILIP and Mr. Fawaz El Khoury (Member of the Archdiocese Board of Trustees)

Monday April 5, 2004
Archdiocese Headquarters in Englewood, NJ

Metropolitan PHILIP hosted a luncheon for Dr. Elie A. Salem (President of the University of Balamand – Lebanon) and Mr. Fawaz El Khoury (Member of the Archdiocese Board of Trustees), where the current status and future plans for the University were discussed. By the grace of God, and with much continued hard work, the University of Balamand will continue to shine forth as a bright beacon of education and understanding for people of diverse backgrounds and faiths.

Metropolitan's Message Regarding Special Archdiocese Convention

 

 

Metropolitan's Message Regarding Special Archdiocese Convention
 

 

 

February 3, 2004

TO BE READ FROM THE PULPIT AND PUBLISHED IN THE CHURCH BULLETIN

 

Beloved Hierarchs, Clergy, Trustees, Parish Council Members and All Faithful of this God-Protected Archdiocese:

Greetings and Blessings to all of you in the Name of our Lord Jesus Christ!

 

As we wrote in our letter of December 31, 2003, we are calling a Special Convention of this Archdiocese in order to proceed with the implementation of our Self-Rule status.  This Special Convention will be held from Friday July 16th through Sunday July 18th, 2004 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.  Delegates are expected to arrive in Pittsburgh on Thursday July 15th.  Please make your reservations early for this historic Special Convention by using the following hotel information:

Hilton Pittsburgh

Gateway Center, Downtown

Call 1-800-445-8667 by June 15, 2004 to make your reservations

and secure the special room rate of $99.00 per night plus tax.

Tell the operator that you are with the Antiochian Orthodox Church.

Transportation – Shuttle from Pittsburgh International Airport is available

at a cost of $16.00 one way, or $30.00 round trip.

Parking is $24.00 per day for valet – local garages are also available

 

All parishes and missions must be represented at this special convention, either in person, or by valid proxy.  Official proxy forms will be mailed in late April or early May.  All pastors are expected to attend in person.  No community will be seated at the special convention unless all of the following obligations have been met:

 

1.       All 2003 assessments, tithes, and special trays have been paid in full.

2.       All 2004 assessments, tithes, and trays are up-to-date at the time of the convention.

3.       A Statistics and Census Report has been filed with the Archdiocese office for the year ending December 31, 2003.  These reports were due by Feb. 1, 2004.

 

Please note that the schedule of the Clergy Symposium will be different this year.  Normally it would run from Monday afternoon through Friday.  This year, it will start on Sunday afternoon, July 18th, and end on Thursday, July 22nd.  All clergy should be sure that their schedule accounts for this change.

 

Praying that our Lord will bless our planning and deliberations for the glorification of His Holy Church, I remain

 

Your Father in Christ,

 

 

Metropolitan PHILIP

Primate

Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America

 

Agenda for the Special Convention

Metropolitan's Message Regarding the Film, “The Passion of The Christ.”

 

 

Metropolitan's Message Regarding the Film, “The Passion of The Christ.”
 

 

 

March 2, 2004

TO BE READ FROM THE PULPIT AND PUBLISHED IN THE CHURCH BULLETIN

 

 

Beloved Clergy and Faithful of our Archdiocese:

Greetings and blessings to you in the spirit of this Holy and Great Lenten season.

Shortly after the beginning of our journey with our Lord to Calvary and the empty tomb, Mel Gibson released his excellent film, “The Passion of The Christ.” This film raised many favorable, and at the same time, controversial questions; thus, I decided to see this movie and form my own opinion. The following is my observation:

I think that Mel Gibson has done an outstanding job. Ninety-five percent of the film is based on the biblical accounts recorded in the Gospels. We cannot distort history nor can we betray the hymnology of our church and the story which we relive every year during Holy Week. I advise our clergy and faithful to see this movie and share the suffering of our Lord and the joy of His Glorious Resurrection.

Yours in the Triumphant Christ,

Metropolitan PHILIP
Primate
Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese
of North America

New Home Consecrated for the Oldest Parish

The first Antiochian Orthodox parish on the west coast celebrated the consecration of its new church temple on Sunday, Sep. 19, 2004, with Metropolitan Philip and Bishop Joseph leading an overflowing assembly of clergy and laity for a joy-filled celebration.

Pictorial Review

Consecration and 75^th Anniversary Celebration
St. George Antiochian Orthodox Christian Church
Portland, Oregon

September 17-19, 2004

 

 

O Master, Lord our God, Hope of all the ends of the Earth, hear us sinners who make our supplications unto Thee, and send Thine all-Holy and Adorable and Almighty Spirit, and sanctify this temple and this altar table. Fill it with the Light Everlasting; elect it for Thy dwelling-place; make it the abode of Thy Glory. ...
                                   _{Excerpt from one of the prayers of consecration}

 

 

St. George Orthodox Church of Portland was the first Antiochian parish on the west coast when it was established in 1930, when Syrian Orthodox Christian immigrants paid $700 for a church building on Southeast 62nd, near Foster. The parish moved to larger quarters in 1965, buying a church building at 115th and Holgate, but it did not take long to outgrow it. In 1998 Metropolitan PHILIP broke ground for the construction of a traditional Orthodox church at Northeast 162nd. The community began using the new temple in 2001 as finishing touches and hall construction continued, culminating in a joy-filled celebration September 17-19, 2004.	Exterior view of the newly consecrated church temple and fellowship hall/classroom buildings of St. George Orthodox Church at 2101 NE 162nd Ave (at St. George Street) PO Box 20695 Portland, OR 97294 (503) 255-6055 www.stgeorgeportland.org V. Rev. Father Alban West, pastor
The celebration opened Friday evening, Sep. 17, with a gala dinner for the entire parish and the arriving bishops, clergy, relocated parishioners and friends.
The next morning, the church school children and then the teens had some tough questions for Metropolitan PHILIP and Bishop JOSEPH in the new church. Here an inquisitive boy asks his Eminence if his crown were heavy. Metropolitan PHILIP brought out his mitre and showed it to the children. (Maybe the lad will be a bishop someday, so he can have his own?!)
Metropolitan PHILIP, Bishop JOSEPH and Fr. Alban pose with the younger children and their teachers in front of the iconostasis. The iconostasis came from the church on Holgate Blvd, but the icons are all new. Additional iconography in the apse and on the walls throughout the temple will be completed over time, as funds allow.
Saturday evening, following Great Vespers, the parish celebrated with a Banquet in the new church fellowship hall. In his banquet keynote message, his Eminence challenged the parish not rest at having built a building but to be the living, breathing Body of Christ, bearing witness to Him in a world that so desperately needs the truth and moral guidance of the Orthdodox Faith. He urged those gathered to work for full administrative unity of all Orthodox in North America, so that thereby we may speak with a clear voice. The Archbishop also bestowed the Antonian Gold Medal, the highest award for laity, upon William F. Bitar, a humble and tireless member of the parish who headed the building committee.
Near the end of the Matins service (morning prayers) on Sunday, Sep. 19, Metropolitan PHILIP presided at the consecration of the new church temple, with Bishop Joseph, Fr. Alban and many clergy from local sister parishes and from the around the west coast concelebrating. Here, Metropolitan PHILIP, vested in a savanon, washes the new altar table. Protosyngellos of the Archdiocese, Fr. Paul Doyle, who pastored the Portland parish from 1977 to 1985, and others look on.
Fr. Alban West, Pastor of St. George parish, and other clergy join in washing the altar. The consecration service is modeled after baptism. In a sense the altar and the entire building are baptized and made Christian. They are now dedicated to the service of God alone, reclaimed for His Kingdom.
Bishop JOSEPH joins the Archbishop in drying the holy table. Bishop JOSEPH had been enthroned just one week earlier as the first Bishop of the Diocese of Los Angeles and the West. He also serves as locum tenens for the new Diocese of the Northwest (that encompasses Portland) until a new bishop is installed. First the altar is washed with soap and water. Then it is dried, washed again with rosewater and dried yet again.
The holy table is then vested with the white inner garment (à la the baptism gown), anointed with the holy chrism, and then fully dressed in its outer garments. The tabernacle, Gospel book, candlesticks, etc. are placed onto the altar, each item being individually blessed with holy water. In the square cavity in the center of the holy table are sealed relics of a saint and a list of all parish members at this time.
The Metropolitan then went throughout the temple anointing its walls with the holy chrism. He used a sponge soaked in chrism at the end of a long pole. In this view one can also clearly see the beautiful, fully 'dressed' altar table within the sanctuary.
Metropolitan PHILIP chrismates the walls of the baptistery transept/apse. The new temple features a full-size, sunken adult baptistery.
A packed and overflowing crowd follows the clergy as the Archbishop anoints all the walls with chrism.
Some of the architectural features and scale of the new church may be observed in this view. The temple is bright yet warm and graceful.
Following the consecration, the Divine Liturgy began, where thanks was given to the Lord in the Eucharist, with the offering of the Gifts and the sacrifice of praise.
At the conclusion of the Divine Liturgy Fr. Paul Doyle and Fr. James Bernstein (Dean of the Pacific Northwest parishes) escorted Fr. Alban to stand before Archbishop PHILIP, and the latter blessed him, elevating Fr. Alban to the dignity of Archpriest (proto-presbyter to be precise). It came as a total surprise to Fr. Alban. Normally pastors are not eligible for elevation until they have served well for a minimum of ten years. His Eminence noted this fact and declared, "Sometimes we need to make exceptions, because Fr. Alban is an exceptional priest."

Notice of Special Convention - May 25, 2004

 

May 26th, 2004

TO BE READ FROM THE PULPIT AND PUBLISHED IN THE CHURCH BULLETIN

NOTICE OF SPECIAL CONVENTION

To:  Venerable Hierarchs, All Reverend Clergy, Archdiocesan Trustees, Parish Councils, and

       Faithful of our Archdiocese

Greetings and Blessings in the Name of our Lord and God and Saviour Jesus Christ!

This letter serves as the official notice of our Special Convention of 2004.  This Special Convention will be held at the Hilton Pittsburgh, Gateway Center, Downtown, from July 16-18, 2004, and is being hosted by the parish of St. George, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.  The purpose of this Special Convention is to implement the self-rule status of our Archdiocese.

We would like to direct your attention to the following important matters:

1.  All parishes and missions are required to send official delegates to vote in behalf of your community.  All parishes and missions are entitled to one vote for each one hundred baptized persons, or fraction of one hundred that exceeds fifty persons.  The official Census Report that you submitted as of December 31st, 2003 is used to determine this number.  You must submit the names of your official delegates to the Department of Statistics and Credentials, using the form that was sent to you in early May, 2004.  If necessary, you may assign your votes by proxy using the proxy forms which have already been sent to you by the Department of Statistics and Credentials.  All delegate forms and proxy forms must be returned by June 30, 2004.

2.  All Reverend Clergy and delegates must be in Pittsburgh no later than Thursday evening, July 15th, 2004.  This will insure that we can begin our General Assembly promptly at 10:00 a.m. sharp on Friday July 16th, 2004.

3.  The current Archdiocese assessment is $30.00 per baptized Orthodox person, regardless of age (except for tithing communities who are contributing 10% of their budgets).  In order for your community to be seated at this Special Convention, all of the following must be in order:

          (a)  You must have paid your entire 2003 assessment and Special Trays in full

          (b)  Your 2004 assessment and Special Tray payments must be up to date as of the

                Convention

          (c)   You must have submitted a valid Census Report as of December 31st, 2003

4.  It is the sacred obligation of the clergy, and lay delegates to attend this Special Convention.  It is also the sacred duty of every Parish Council to pay the expenses for their pastor to attend this Special Convention.

5.  A Special Convention is called for a very specific purpose.  As such, no resolutions will be accepted either in advance, or from the Convention floor.

6.  The following items are enclosed with this letter:

          (a)  A Schedule for the Special Convention

          (b)  An agenda for the Special General Assembly

          (c)  A list of names and biographies for the candidates for the office of Diocesan

                Bishop.  Your delegates will vote to nominate candidates who will be submitted to

                the Local Synod of this Archdiocese for election of new bishops.

          (d)  An Advance Registration Form for those attending the Convention

      Please note that a copy of the Archdiocese Constitution showing the proposed

      Amendments required to implement self-rule will be sent to you by mid-June, after it is

      Approved by the Board of Trustees.  Your delegates will be asked to vote to approve this

      New Constitution.

7.   Every person attending this Special Convention will be asked to pay a special registration fee of $20.00 in order to help us cover the expenses for this Special Convention.  You will be issued a registration badge, which will be required in order to enter any of the Convention events.  There will not be much time at the Convention for the registration process, so we are asking you to help us by registering in advance.  Please follow the instructions on the enclosed “Advance Registration Form”, and send the form and your payment as soon as possible.

This Special Convention is an historic event in the life of this God protected Archdiocese.  We urge you to properly prepare yourselves, and to participate fully in the work which must be done.

Praying that our Lord will bless your preparations, and your travel to Pittsburgh, I remain

Your father in Christ,

Metropolitan PHILIP
Primate
Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America

 

---

 

Related Information:

Proposed Structure of the self-ruled Archdiocese - July 27th, 2004

Proposed Structure of the self-ruled Archdiocese

July 27^th, 2004

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Diocese of New York and Washington D.C. – 12

 

Title: Archbishop of New York and Metropolitan of All

North America

 

Seat: St. Nicholas Cathedral,

Brooklyn, NY.

 

Extent of Jurisdiction: Metropolitan area of New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, and Metro Washington D.C, as well as the

Antiochian Village.

 

 

 

The Diocese of Toledo and the

Midwest - 41

 

Title: Bishop of Toledo and  the

Midwest

 

Seat: St. George Cathedral of

Toledo, OH.

 

Extent of Jurisdiction: Michigan, Ohio, Indiana, Eastern Missouri,  Illinois, Eastern Iowa, Minnesota, Kentucky, and

Fargo ND.

 

 

 

The Diocese of Miami and the Southeast - 39

 

Title: Bishop of

Miami and the Southeast

 

Seat: St. George Cathedral,

Miami, FL.

 

Extent of Jurisdiction: Florida, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Tennessee, Mississippi, Louisiana, Arkansas, Virginia, and

Alabama.

 

 

 

The Diocese of Worcester and

New England - 11            

 

Title: Bishop of Worcester and

New England

 

Seat: St. George Cathedral,

Worcester, MA

 

Extent of Jurisdiction:

New England

 

 

 

The Diocese of Wichita and Mid-America - 39

 

Title: Bishop of Wichita and Mid-America

 

Seat: St. George Cathedral,

Wichita, KS

 

Extent of Jurisdiction: Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, Colorado, New Mexico, Western Iowa, Western Missouri, Nebraska, Rapid City SD, and Gillette WY.

 

 

 

The Diocese of Los Angeles and the West - 34

 

Title: Bishop of

Los Angeles and the West

 

Seat: St. Nicholas Cathedral,

Los Angeles

 

Extent of Jurisdiction: California, Arizona, Nevada, Utah, and

Hawaii.

 

 

 

The Diocese of Ottawa and Upstate New York - 18

 

Title: Bishop of Ottawa and Upstate

New York

 

Seat: St. Elias Cathedral, Ottawa, Ontario (will reside in

Montreal)

 

Extent Of Jurisdiction: Ontario (Including Windsor), Quebec, Nova Scotia,

New York (outside of the NYC area)

 

 

 

The Diocese of (name to be determined) - 25

 

Title: Bishop of (name to be determined)

 

Seat: Cathedral to be determined (will reside at the

Antiochian Village)

 

Extent of Jurisdiction: All of Pennsylvania, West Virginia, Maryland (except Potomac), and

Delaware.

 

 

 

The Diocese of Eagle River and the Northwest - 18

 

Title: Bishop of

Eagle River and the Northwest

 

Seat: St. John Cathedral,

Eagle River, AK

 

(this diocese will be under the omophorion of the bishop of

Los Angeles for the foreseeable future)

 

Extent of Jurisdiction: Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Montana, Canada from Manitoba and west, and

Alaska

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

TOTAL - 237

SCOBA Statement on College Student Sunday

...And they devoted themselves to the Apostles’ teaching and fellowship, to the breaking of bread and prayers. (Acts 2:42)

College Student Sunday September 19, 2004

To all the Clergy and the Laity of the Holy Orthodox Churches in the Americas Beloved Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

The passage cited above from the book of the Acts of the Apostles is a beautiful description of the manner in which early Christians organized and conducted their lives as a united community. Today, over 40,000 Orthodox Christian college students studying on hundreds of campuses throughout North America are called to live the very same ideal, gathering together in a spirit of learning, fellowship, and worship through the work of the Orthodox Christian Fellowship (OCF), the official campus ministry effort under SCOBA.

Our college students come from diverse places of origin to live on campuses that are sometimes thousands of miles away from their homes. For many of them, it is the first time they are living on their own. During these challenging years of college, our students are faced with unprecedented opportunities for learning, for personal growth, and for psychological and spiritual development. However, as they are exposed to new ideas and environments, and as they encounter others who come from a wide array of cultural and religious backgrounds, they are also faced with perplexing conditions that often challenge their identities and their Orthodox Christian faith.

The presence of the OCF on the college campus is so very crucial in that it serves as a community that brings students together and anchors them firmly in their Orthodox Christian faith. Through communal prayer, fellowship, philanthropy, and witness, students who participate in the OCF can be sure that their encounter with others from different walks of life will truly enrich and enhance their growth as Orthodox Christians. Likewise in the classroom, their exposure to philosophical worldviews and teachings that sometimes diverge from Orthodox Christian thought will also beautifully augment their intellectual and spiritual growth.

For some time, colleges and universities throughout North America have been cognizant of the need to focus upon the spiritual development of their students. Many schools of higher learning have developed campus ministry programs to this end, therefore welcoming and supporting OCF chapters. As hierarchs of the Standing Conference, we commend these schools for their dedication to the religious needs of students from all faiths, and specifically for their support of our Orthodox Christian students who are in need of a place of true community and fellowship.

As the ministry of the OCF continues to flourish, as is evidenced already by its dedicated team of student advisors and staff in offices across America, we encourage our priests and parishes to support this important ministry through prayer and through financial assistance. Accordingly, we designate this Sunday following the Elevation of the Holy Cross, September 19, as our annual College Student Sunday. On this day, we call upon each of you to remember the particular needs of college students, who face incredible challenges and opportunities, and to make other young people who are preparing for college aware of the opportunities that are open to them through the OCF and its valuable programs.

As we begin the new ecclesiastical year and the new academic year, it is our heartfelt prayer that all of you, especially our students, may hold to the example of the early Christians, gathering together as a united community in learning, fellowship, prayer, and in unceasing ministry to others.

May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God the Father, and the communion of the Holy Spirit be with you always.

Special Collection to Assist the Victims Of Hurricane Charley In Florida

TO BE READ FROM THE PULPIT

“But whoever has this world’s goods, and sees his brother in need, and shuts up his heart from him, how does the love of God abide in him?” (1 John 3:17)

Beloved Clergy and Faithful of our Archdiocese:

Greetings and blessings in the Name of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ. We pray that your summer has been peaceful and prosperous.

As you all know, several areas of Florida have been devastated by Hurricane Charley which slammed into Florida with winds reaching 145 mph and a surge of sea water of 13 to 15 feet. The latest reports tell us that at least 16 people were killed, and the property damage is estimated to be as much as $15 billion. Officials have said that hundreds of people are unaccounted for, and that the search for missing people was slow in some areas because of the danger from downed power lines and debris. There are thousands of people without homes, and nearly 1 million people are still without power.

Our God-protected Archdiocese has always taken to heart the needs of our brothers and sisters around the world who have suffered from natural disasters. We have assisted victims across every continent of the world. It has been said that “charity begins at home”, and with this in mind, we make an appeal to you for assistance for the Florida hurricane victims. We ask you to take a special collection as soon as possible and forward it to the Archdiocese headquarters immediately (but not later than Sept. 30th), marked “Florida Hurricane Relief”, so that we can do our share to try and ease a small portion of the suffering.

Please be generous, keeping in mind the words of St. John quoted above, and our accountability to our Lord for how we respond in times of need.

May the Almighty God continue to surround all of you with His love and heavenly protection.

Your father in Christ,
Metropolitan PHILIP
Primate
Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America

Special Convention Implements Self-Rule Status For The Antiochian Archdiocese- July 29, 2004 – Englewood, New Jersey

Press Release Special Convention 7-28-2004 (Word Version)

Press Release Special Convention 7-28-2004 (PDF Version)

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 29, 2004 – Englewood, New Jersey

SPECIAL CONVENTION IMPLEMENTS SELF-RULE STATUS FOR THE ANTIOCHIAN ARCHDIOCESE

On Friday, July 16th, 2004, the Special Convention of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America was convened at the Hilton Hotel in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania and was chaired by His Eminence Metropolitan PHILIP. The delegates to this Special Convention were called to discuss and implement four important items of business as follows:

1. To consider and approve the proposed amendments to the Archdiocesan Constitution which would incorporate the October 9, 2003 Resolution of the Holy Synod of Antioch that granted self-rule status to this Archdiocese.

2. To nominate candidates for the episcopacy, who will preside as Diocesan Bishops over three newly-created dioceses within the self-ruled Archdiocese.

3. To discuss the new diocesan structure of the self-ruled Archdiocese, and the detailed Rights and Responsibilities of the Metropolitan, and the Diocesan Bishops.

4. To approve a budget for the fiscal year ending January 31, 2006, that accounts for the additional expenses and income required in order to implement the self-rule status.

A quorum was present that represented 92% of the eligible voting delegates, an extremely high percentage, reflecting the historic nature of this gathering.

The reading of the message of His Beatitude, IGNATIUS IV, Patriarch of Antioch and all the East was the first item of business. In his message, His Beatitude expressed his “deep love and confidence”, and expressed his feelings that “God has been and will always be, glorified by your deeds, since we are all together laboring for the well being of Christ’s Church.”

A lively, and constructive discussion ensued around the proposed amendments to the Constitution. It was clear from the start that there was a “oneness of mind” among all of the delegates, with the love and unity of the Holy Spirit clearly present in the discussion. The debate ended with a motion to approve the amended Constitution by acclamation, and this motion passed unanimously.

The new diocesan structure of the self-ruled Archdiocese was presented. There are nine dioceses, including the Diocese of New York, which will be under the omophorion of His Eminence, Metropolitan PHILIP, Archbishop of New York and Metropolitan of North America. The other 8 dioceses will be under the omophorion of Diocesan Bishops. Three existing Auxiliary Bishops (Bishop ANTOUN, Bishop JOSEPH, and Bishop BASIL) become Diocesan Bishops. Three newly elected bishops will also become Diocesan Bishops. Two dioceses will remain vacant for now, under the omophorion of one of the existing bishops. The hierarchs are members of the newly formed Local Holy Synod, with the Metropolitan as the presiding member. In addition, a document was read which specifies the detailed Rights and Responsibilities of the Metropolitan and the Diocesan Bishops. This document was approved unanimously by the Local Synod and will insure that good order is maintained in the working relationships of the hierarchs.

The proposed budget for the fiscal year that ends on January 31, 2006 was presented, and passed unanimously. This budget is the largest in the history of the Archdiocese, and includes the increased expenses and income required to implement the self-rule status. Included in these expenses are the stipends for the new Diocesan Bishops, as well as operational expenses for their chanceries.

Finally, the seven candidates for the Episcopacy were presented, and each spoke briefly on the subject of his vision for this Archdiocese. After the presentations, all delegates to the General Assembly cast their votes by secret ballot to nominate candidates for election as Diocesan Bishops. The Local Holy Synod has the ultimate responsibility to elect the new bishops, with the participation of three Metropolitans from the Holy Synod of Antioch, who will be designated by His Beatitude Patriarch IGNATIUS IV. The election of bishops is expected to occur sometime after the October 2004 meeting of the Holy Synod of Antioch.

The Special Convention concluded with the celebration of the Hierarchical Divine Liturgy, which was attended by all of the clergy and laity who were present at the Special Convention.

Although the General Assembly had been scheduled for two days, all of this work was accomplished in one day, due to the cooperation, love, and unity which was clearly manifested throughout the deliberations. All of the delegates departed from the Special Convention with a renewed spirit and optimism for a bright future. We are united with our Mother Church of Antioch, we are united as one Archdiocese at home, and we are blessed with dedicated and competent leadership. Our heartfelt appreciation and love is expressed to our beloved Patriarch IGNATIUS IV, and the members of the Holy Synod of Antioch for their expression of love and trust in their maturing children of North America.

Statement of the Antiochian Archdiocese on the Passing to Eternal Life of Pope John Paul II

We join in mourning the loss of Pope John Paul II, the great leader of the Roman Catholic Church. At the same time we rejoice in his ministry, and the legacy of compassion that he leaves to the world. We bring to mind the teaching of St. Ignatius of Antioch in his exhortation to Polycarp, the Bishop of Smyrna on the role of the bishop:

“Lift up all men, as the Lord lifts you; put up with all in love, as you actually do. Be diligent in unceasing prayers; ask for more understanding than you have; watch with a sleepless spirit. Speak to each individual after the example of God; bear the sickness of all, as a perfect athlete. Where the labor is greatest, the gain is great.” (Ignatius to Polycarp 1:2-3)

It seems clear that Pope John Paul II, in his episcopacy, was true to this teaching. He touched many people of all races and religions by his example of caring, love, and compassion. He also served as a strong example of what it means to suffer and die with grace. He has “fought the good fight” (2 Timothy 4:7)

His Eminence Metropolitan PHILIP had met Pope John Paul II on two occasions and was impressed by his faithfulness, and holiness. Surely his soul is resting in peace and his memory is eternal.

Youth and Seminary Month

October 2004

 

 TO BE READ FROM THE PULPIT

 

 

Greetings and blessings in the Name of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ. We pray that you have enjoyed a peaceful and relaxing summer.

 

Once again, we bring to your attention that October in the Antiochian Archdiocese is "Youth Month and Seminary Month." This year we have twenty-five (25) students in three seminaries. Many, if not all of these students, will someday serve this Archdiocese as priests. It is important that we support and subsidize their education as well as continuing to support the institutions that provide this vital education. Today our clergy interact with people of all faiths and must be well educated in order to provide a sound and knowledgeable defense of our ancient faith and a true and clear witness of the one God in three persons. Therefore, we ask for your generous donations today in order to support the institutions which educate our seminarians.

 

May the Lord continue to bless all your efforts in His name and those theological schools that train our men to this high calling.

 

Your Father in Christ,

Metropolitan PHILIP
Primate
Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America

Address Delivered by His Grace B a s i l On the occasion of his enthronement as Bishop of Wichita and Mid-America December 15, 2

ADDRESS DELIVERED BY HIS GRACE
B A S I L
ON THE OCCASION OF HIS ENTHRONEMENT AS
BISHOP OF WICHITA AND MID-AMERICA
DECEMBER 15, 2004

My beloved Father in God: the Most Reverend Philip , Archbishop of New York and Metropolitan of all North America;

My esteemed Brother in the Lord: the Right Reverend Joseph , Bishop of Los Angeles and the West;

My most cherished Sons in Christ: the Right Reverend, Very Reverend and Reverend Priests and Deacons;

My venerable Intercessors before the All-holy Trinity: the venerable Monastics who struggle here in the Heartland;

My precious Lambs of Christ the Good Shepherd: the faithful, beloved of the Mother of God, who are gathered together from the farthest reaches of our Diocese and Nation;

My Brothers and Sisters: Glory to Jesus Christ!

On the day when I was consecrated to the sacred episcopacy in this very Cathedral, I spoke the following words which were first uttered by our Venerable and God-bearing Father Symeon the New Theologian on the occasion of his election as superior of the Monastery of Saint Mamas in the year 980 :

“I feel shame before your charity, because I know my unworthiness. For this reason I would rather be silent forever, as the Lord knows, without even lifting up my eyes to look at any man’s face, since my conscience condemns me. I was appointed to be the superior over all of you, though I am wholly unworthy ... Thus it is no small and ordinary grief that possesses me for having been chosen, unworthy as I am, to lead you who are most worthy.”

Now, having lived the life of a bishop for twelve and a half years, I know even more my unworthiness for that sacred office. But while my grief at having been elected to the episcopacy remains, it is far outweighed by my thankfulness to our good God who loves mankind, for I have experienced firsthand how He compassionately and patiently tolerates this sinner and uses him, as He did Balaam’s ass, to lead men to the Good News of forgiveness of sins in Christ Jesus and everlasting life in the Kingdom of Heaven.

Now, for reasons known only to Him, He has chosen my unworthiness to bear the title of and responsibility for a newly established Diocese. Some may think that one person – in this case me, Bishop Basil – is the reason for our gathering this evening. But they would be mistaken. That which we celebrate this evening is something much bigger and of greater importance than me or any one person. It is much bigger and of greater importance than this Cathedral or any one holy temple, this City of Wichita or any one town, this State of Kansas or any one state. That which is the cause of our great rejoicing and the reason for this festive celebration is the establishment, by the Will of God, of the Diocese of Wichita and Mid-America – a recognition that the πλήρωμα , the fullness, of the Church of Christ lives and breathes right here in America’s Heartland.

Shortly after his consecration to the sacred episcopacy a century ago – on March 13th 1904 – St Raphael of Brooklyn performed his first priestly ordination, the ordinand being a young widower, Nicola Yanney, a native of the tiny village of Fi’eh in north Lebanon, living with his children on a farm in Gibbon, Nebraska. Father Nicola was ordained for, what was then the westernmost parish of St Raphael’s Diocese, St George Church in Kearney, Nebraska, but he was given pastoral responsibility for an area that is nearly identical to the boundaries of our newly created Diocese of Mid-America. Father Nicola’s parish stretched from the Canadian border in the north, to the Mexican border in the south, and from the Mississippi River in the east, to the Rocky Mountains in the west. It is Father Nicola who, as a circuit-riding priest headquartered in Kearney, followed the example of his Father-in Christ, St Raphael, and visited Orthodox Christians in the scattered towns, villages and isolated farm lands throughout America’s Heartland.

Could Father Nicola, the sole priest serving a parish as large as the Great Plains, have imagined that the seeds he planted would bear fruit this day as we witness the birth a Diocese comprised of fifty congregations and served by a Bishop and dozens of priests and deacons? Could any among those immigrants gathered with him at Divine Liturgy in a crowded living room on the west side of Wichita have imagined that exactly one century later there would be in this All-American city (named for a local tribe of Native Americans and which counts among its founders Catherine McCarty, the mother of Billy the Kid) a Diocesan Cathedral? “Come and see the works of the Lord, how awesome He is in His counsels, more than the sons of men” (Ps. 65:4). We bless the memory of Father Nicola and his brothers in the sacred priesthood who came after him to minister to Christ’s flock in Mid-America, and we bless the memory of their wives and children and of all the sons and daughters of the Church who first brought Holy Orthodoxy to the Great Plains and witnessed to its Truth by their very lives. God grant that we be found worthy of their sacrifice.

On behalf of their spiritual descendants, all of us gathered in this holy Cathedral from every corner of the Diocese of Wichita and Mid-America, I express to our Most Blessed Patriarch Ignatius IV and the venerable members of the Holy Synod of the See of the Great City-of-God Antioch and all the East, profound gratitude for discerning in us a level of spiritual maturity warranting self-rule for our beloved Archdiocese of North America.

I make a prostration before our most-beloved Father-in-God, the Most Reverend Metropolitan Philip , kissing his sacred right hand and asking his blessing and God-pleasing prayers for me and for the Christ-loving Priests and Deacons of this Diocese, their families and all the pious faithful who comprise that portion of Christ’s flock now entrusted to my archpastoral care. Your Eminence, the nearly four decades you have lived for us as Father and Chief Shepherd of the Archdiocese of North America can easily be read as pages of a living Gospel adorned with illuminations painted with by your own sweat and blood and tears. All which we are today, all which we hope to be tomorrow, is inspired by Your Eminence’s faithfulness to God’s call and your charge to us that we be nothing but the Church, the very Body of Christ her Bridegroom – here (in America), and now (the 21^st century), the Church of the Apostles Peter and Paul – here and now, the Church of Saint Thekla Peer-of-the-Apostles – here and now, the Church of Saint Ignatius of Antioch – here and now, the Church of Saint John Chrysostom – here and now, the Church of Saints Pelagia the Penitent, John of Damascus, Raphael of Brooklyn – here and now. God grant that we be found worthy of Your Eminence’s confidence.

Brothers and sisters of the Diocese of Wichita and Mid-America, a sacred trust has been placed in our hands this evening. Responsibility for proclaiming the Gospel, responsibility for raising up holy souls and holy temples, responsibility for being the Church here in the Heartland has now been entrusted to us. The meaning of our English word ‘tradition’ is for Orthodox Christians found in the Greek word παράδοσις which literally means a ‘passing down’ or a ‘handing on’ of something. What has now been passed down or handed on to us is nothing less than “the faith which was once delivered unto the saints” (Jude 3b). But, thanks be to God, we are not alone in fulfilling this awesome responsibility. We are eager to join with our fellow Orthodox Christians of other jurisdictions, who also call these Great Plains “home,” in building up Holy Orthodoxy in the Heartland. May God “knit us together as one man” (Judges 20:11) that we might prove to be faithful and wise stewards of that which He has entrusted to us. “For unto whosoever much is given, of him shall be much required; and to whom men have committed much, of him they will ask the more” (Luke 12:48b).

I am most appreciative of the presence this evening of my beloved brother in Christ and concelebrant in the Sacred Mysteries, His Grace Joseph , Bishop of Angeles and the Diocese of the West. Thank you, Sayyidna, for the trouble you have taken and for the honor you have accorded us. Εἰς πολλὰ ἔτη Δέσποτα !

I bless my clergy as well as those clergy from other Dioceses who have traveled from near and far to be present for this historic occasion. Fathers, know without a doubt that you are the joy, the consolation and the boast of all bishops of this Archdiocese. May the Lord God remember your priesthood in His kingdom always.

I bless my sisters, my Godchildren, my spiritual children and all the faithful laity present in this holy Cathedral this evening and beg your holy prayers for me and my clergy.

Let historians record that on this day, Wednesday - December 15^th 2004, Christ has adorned His Bride, the Church, with another Diocese for the preservation and propagation of Holy Orthodoxy – the Diocese of Wichita and Mid-America. May we, the clergy and laity of that Diocese, always have the prayers of His all-immaculate Mother, the Most Holy Theotokos and Ever-virgin Mary, and of all the saints who in every generation have been well-pleasing to the God Who is worshipped and glorified in Trinity, now and throughout all ages. Amen.

The Kingdom is at Hand: the December 15, 2004 Enthronement of the Right Reverend Bishop BASIL to the Newly-established See of Wi

The Kingdom is at Hand: the December 15, 2004 Enthronement of the Right Reverend Bishop BASIL to the Newly-established See of Wichita and Mid-America.

Perhaps a thousand of the faithful of the self-ruled Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America came to the enthronement of Bishop BASIL for the See of Wichita and Mid-America on the evening of December 15, 2004. They gathered at St. George Cathedral in Wichita, Kansas, to pray Vespers and to witness as Metropolitan PHILIP conveyed the episcopal staff and throne to the first bishop of the See of Wichita.

During the Vespers, hymns were sung to commemorate the next day’s remembrance of the Prophet Haggai. Looking into Holy Scripture we discern the Prophet’s words to come from the Holy Spirit with special meaning for the establishment of a new diocese and the enthronement of her new father and shepherd.

^1:6For thus saith the LORD of hosts; … ⁷ I will fill this house with glory, saith the LORD of hosts… ⁹The glory of this latter house shall be greater than of the former, saith the LORD of hosts: and in this place will I give peace, saith the LORD of hosts. … ¹⁴I am jealous for Jerusalem and for Zion with a great jealousy… ¹⁶I am returned to Jerusalem with mercies: my house shall be built in it, saith the LORD of hosts… ¹⁷My cities through prosperity shall yet be spread abroad; and the LORD shall yet comfort Zion, and shall yet choose Jerusalem… ^2:5For I, saith the LORD, will be unto her a wall of fire round about, and will be the glory in the midst of her… ¹⁰Sing and rejoice, O daughter of Zion: for, lo, I come, and I will dwell in the midst of thee, saith the LORD. ¹¹And many nations shall be joined to the LORD in that day, and shall be my people: and I will dwell in the midst of thee, and thou shalt know that the LORD of hosts hath sent me unto thee.

These verses from the prophecy of Haggai express the will and work of God in restoring the temple to Israel after the exile in Babylon. But they also express the will and work of God establishing in Wichita, Kansas, and across Mid-America the fullness of the New Israel, the Holy Church.

 

When the faithful arrived at the Cathedral that evening they saw not just three priests, as would be usual there; instead they saw twenty times that number! They met there perhaps sixty priests and deacons from all the parishes of the Diocese of Wichita and from parishes of other Dioceses of the Antiochian Church in North America, together with His Eminence Metropolitan PHILIP of New York, His Grace JOSEPH of Los Angeles, and His Grace BASIL, titular bishop of Enfeh Al Koura – who was soon to be diocesan bishop of Wichita and Mid-America. Serving that evening were the three ranking priests of the Diocese: Archimandrite Daniel Griffith (senior priest of the Diocese), Protopresbyter Paul O’Callaghan (dean of the Diocesan Cathedral), and Economos Constantine Nasr (president of the Diocesan Council of Presbyters). They were assisted by Deacon John Timby.

Awaiting the arrival of His Eminence PHILIP, these priests, deacons and bishops lined both sides of the central aisle of the Cathedral. Many who were present later remarked on how impressive this was. Yet more impressive, according to some, was the arrival of Metropolitan PHILIP. Vested in full regalia according to the custom of Orthodox bishops, with tall black hat and veil descending down his back over a royal purple mantle, and carrying his pateritsa (pastoral staff) he was, even more than usual, the image of leadership and fatherly authority in the grace of the Holy Spirit. He made his way, preceded by the host of clergy, to his episcopal throne, the very throne he would soon deliver to his brother in the Spirit, Bishop BASIL.

As Vespers concluded, Metropolitan PHILIP descended from this throne to give the final blessing of the service. This was also to be his final blessing as the shepherd of the church of Wichita. With the conclusion of Vespers the service of Enthronement itself immediately began. This brief and matter-of-fact service (by Orthodox standards) consisted of prayers for the grace of God to be with the new bishop of the Diocese and the Metropolitan’s handing over of the pateritsa, or bishop’s staff saying, “To those who obey, may this be a staff of comfort and guidance. While to those who disobey, may this be a staff of disciplining.” Receiving the staff with these words, Bishop BASIL was escorted to the throne by the three ranking priests of the new diocese.

After donning new epitrachelion and omophorion, embroidered with images of Christ the Good Shepherd, the Apostles, the Evangelists and Ss Basil the Great and John Chrysostom, His Grace delivered his first archpastoral message to his new flock of lambs in Christ.

Here are some excerpts from that address:

“That which we celebrate this evening is something much bigger and of greater importance than me or any one person. It is much bigger and of greater importance than this Cathedral or any one holy temple, this City of Wichita or any one town, this State of Kansas or any one state. That which is the cause of our great rejoicing and the reason for this festive celebration is the establishment, by the Will of God, of the Diocese of Wichita and Mid-America – a recognition that the πλήρωμα , the fullness, of the Church of Christ lives and breathes right here in America’s Heartland…

The new bishop of Wichita called to remembrance his priestly predecessor in the mission of the Gospel in Mid-America, Fr. Nicola Yanney, the first Antiochian Orthodox priest west of the Mississippi. His Grace explained, “Father Nicola was ordained for, what was then the westernmost parish of St Raphael’s Diocese, St George Church in Kearney, Nebraska, but he was given pastoral responsibility for an area that is nearly identical to the boundaries of our newly created Diocese of Mid-America. Father Nicola’s parish stretched from the Canadian border in the north, to the Mexican border in the south, and from the Mississippi River in the east, to the Rocky Mountains in the west. It is Father Nicola who, as a circuit-riding priest headquartered in Kearney, followed the example of his Father-in Christ, St Raphael, and visited Orthodox Christians in the scattered towns, villages and isolated farm lands throughout America’s Heartland…

“Could Father Nicola, the sole priest serving a parish as large as the Great Plains, have imagined that the seeds he planted would bear fruit this day as we witness the birth a Diocese comprised of fifty congregations and served by a Bishop and dozens of priests and deacons? …

“Could any among those immigrants gathered with him at Divine Liturgy in a crowded living room on the west side of Wichita have imagined that exactly one century later there would be in this All-American city (named for a local tribe of Native Americans and which counts among its founders Catherine McCarty, the mother of Billy the Kid) a Diocesan Cathedral? “Come and see the works of the Lord, how awesome He is in His counsels, more than the sons of men” (Ps. 65:4)…

(The central dome of St George Cathedral in Wichita, Kansas)

Special words were reserved for gratitude to His Eminence, Metropolitan PHILIP: “All which we are today, all which we hope to be tomorrow, is inspired by Your Eminence’s faithfulness to God’s call and your charge to us that we be nothing but the Church, the very Body of Christ her Bridegroom – here (in America), and now (the 21^st century), the Church of the Apostles Peter and Paul – here and now, the Church of Saint Thekla Peer-of-the-Apostles – here and now, the Church of Saint Ignatius of Antioch – here and now, the Church of Saint John Chrysostom – here and now, the Church of Saints Pelagia the Penitent, John of Damascus, Raphael of Brooklyn – here and now. God grant that we be found worthy of Your Eminence’s confidence.”

Shortly after this address, Bishop BASIL came forward from his episcopal throne to the same place from which Metropolitan PHILIP had given his final blessing at Vespers. From there His Grace BASIL bestowed his first blessing on his own new flock. He then turned to face the Holy Table, the throne of Christ, as the Cathedral’s protopsaltis intoned for the first time the polychronion, a formal prayer asking God to grant the bishop many years. After the service many remarked how moving it was to hear in the midst of this solemn and ancient hymn the words “Wichita” and “Mid-America.” One person noted how difficult it is to spell or even pronounce “Wichita” in the traditional and widespread languages of the Orthodox world: Russian, Arabic, Greek or others. Truly the ancient faith of the Apostles has been established in the heart of the New World.

As if all this was not enough joy and celebration, those present were invited to partake of “light refreshment” appropriate to the Church’s season of pre-Christmas fasting. The table in the Cathedral fellowship hall was well-laden and set for what must have been over one-thousand guests. If any went from there hungry they could blame no one but themselves. The hospitality of the Cathedral was, as always, without peer.

As the faithful dined, they listened to the words of those who have been important to Bishop BASIL and to what was formerly the Southwest Region. The speakers included the President of the Fellowship of St. John the Divine, Mrs. Joan Farha, the head of the Diocesan Clergy Brotherhood of St. Raphael, Very Reverend Economos Constantine Nasr, who has known Bishop BASIL since they first met at St. Vladimir Seminary thirty-four years ago; also speaking were Dr. George Farha, Vice Chairman of the Archdiocesan Board of Trustees and parishioner at St. George Cathedral, and the Dean of the Cathedral, Fr. Paul O’Callaghan. Both the Fellowship of St. John and the Clergy Brotherhood presented His Grace with gifts: the Fellowship coordinated the gift of a Life Membership in the Archdiocese’s Order of St. Ignatius and a check for use at the bishop’s pastoral discretion, and the Clergy Brotherhood likewise presented His Grace with a monetary gift to use as he sees fit for the needs of the Diocese. Fr. Paul O’Callaghan read greetings from those not in attendance, notably Patriarch IGNATIUS IV, Metropolitan ELIAS of Beirut, Metropolitan SABA of Hauran, Bishop DEMETRI of the Antiochian Archdiocese, and Archimandrite Kyrill, Abbot of the Monastery of St. John the Baptist in Essex, England (where His Grace was tonsured). Dr. George and Fr. Paul both commented how if they had been told years ago of the change that would affect the Archdiocese, they both would have said this was just a collection of someone’s hallucinations.

When His Eminence stood to make the keynote address, he mused that he had indeed been the one “hallucinating” during the last two decades and that Fr Paul, Fr Constantine, Dr. George Farha, Bishop BASIL, et al., were all part of this “hallucination.” His Eminence went on to relate the life and pastorate of Bishop BASIL from his youth up. He connected these events with the broader visions he has had as Metropolitan Archbishop of the Archdiocese, all of which have materialized as concrete developments of the Church from sixty-five parishes in 1966 to over two-hundred fifty today – “and still going strong,” in his words. Specially noted by His Eminence was the reception of two-thousand, seven-hundred Evangelical Christians into the flock of Antioch in 1987. This was his example of a fulfillment of the Lord’s command to us to “’Go and make disciples of ALL nations,’ not just Syrians, Palestinians, Jordanians, Russians, Greeks.” He emphasized that he looks forward to the day when fifty bishops, not only two or three, gather on the American Continent to pray to the Triune God. “Why not,” he said. “Why not?” With this he turned to highlight the missionary work continuing in the Wichita Diocese, saying that we are not called merely to “preserve” the faith, but to spread it. He earned a hearty laugh from his hearers when he said we sometimes are so preoccupied with talk of “preservation” we are in danger of becoming pickles! He said preserving the faith is not our chief purpose. We preserve the faith so that we may obey the Lord and spread it, “Our Lord did not tell us to preserve the faith, but to spread it!”

Finally, His Eminence displayed for the edification and blessing of the faithful the engolpion, or pectoral icon of the Archangel Raphael, which he wore that evening. He told them that it was the very one worn by St. Raphael a century ago, and worn by himself at Bishop BASIL’s ordination to the priesthood in 1980 and consecration to the episcopacy in 1992.

With that the benediction was given and the faithful departed with much joy, having participated in an event that was not once-in-a-lifetime, but truly once in history, never to be repeated. We have all been enriched by this gift of grace given to us in the form of a God-fearing bishop who presides over an equally God-protected diocese. So we do well to keep ever in mind the exhortation of the Apostle: “Obey your leaders and submit to them; for they are keeping watch over your souls, as men who will have to give account. Let them do this joyfully, and not sadly, for that would be of no advantage to you (Hebrews 13:17).”

To BASIL the most pure and right reverend, chosen by God, Bishop of the See of Wichita and Mid-America, our Father and Chief Shepherd, many years!

Submitted this 20^th day of December,
the feast of St. Ignatius of Antioch, 2004,
by the most unworthy Rev. Fr. Paul Hodge,

Secretary of the Diocesan Council of Presbyters.

Three New Diocesan Bishops Consecrated for the Self-Ruled Antiochian Orthodox Archdiocese of North America

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

December 6, 2004 –

Englewood, New Jersey

 

 

 

Three New Diocesan Bishops Consecrated for the Self-Ruled Antiochian Orthodox Archdiocese of

North America

 

 

 

Over the weekend of December 3^rd through 5^th, 2004, three new diocesan bishops were consecrated for the Self-Ruled Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of

North America.  The consecrations took place in the Patriarchal Cathedral in Damascus, Syria, and were presided over by His Beatitude IGNATIUS IV, Patriarch of Antioch and All of the East.

 

 

 

The three new diocesan bishops, and their dioceses are as follows:

 

 

 

His Grace, THOMAS (Joseph), Bishop of

Pittsburgh and the Diocese

 

of the East.

 

 

 

His Grace, MARK (Maymon), Bishop of

Toledo and the Diocese

 

of the

Midwest.

 

 

 

His Grace ALEXANDER (Mufarrij), Bishop of

Ottawa and the Diocese

 

of Eastern Canada and Upstate

New York.

 

 

 

These consecrations are an important step in the implementation of the Self-rule status that was granted to this Archdiocese by the Resolution of the Holy Synod of Antioch which was approved on October 9^th, 2003, and signed by every member of the Holy Synod.  Subsequent to that resolution, the General Assembly of the Archdiocese met in a Special Convention in

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania on July 16^th, 2004, and unanimously approved an amended Constitution that specifies the detailed implementation of the Self-rule status, including the procedure for the election, consecration, and enthronement of diocesan bishops.  At that same Special Convention, the General Assembly nominated, from a list of eligible clergymen, those candidates who would stand for election as diocesan bishops.  The three new bishops were elected by the Local Synod of this Archdiocese as its duly convened meeting in Naples, Florida, on October 29^th, 2004.

 

 

 

The three new bishops will assume their diocesan responsibilities effective January 1^st, 2005, and they will be enthroned in their respective Cathedrals some time after that date.  The first enthronement of a diocesan bishop under self-rule status occurred on September 12^th, 2004, when His Grace JOSEPH, Bishop of Los Angeles and the Diocese of the West was enthroned by His Eminence Metropolitan PHILIP at St. Nicholas Cathedral in

Los Angeles, California.  The enthronement of His Grace BASIL, Bishop of Wichita and the Diocese of Mid-America is scheduled to be held on Wednesday, December 15^th, 2004, at St. George Cathedral, Wichita, Kansas, and His Eminence Metropolitan PHILIP will preside.  The enthronement of His Grace ANTOUN, Bishop of Miami and the Diocese of the Southeast is being scheduled.

 

 

 

It is clear that the Holy Spirit is working in a powerful way as the Antiochian Orthodox Archdiocese in

North America makes these historic strides to implement self-rule.

 

 

 

We wish to express our heartfelt thanks to Our Father in Christ, Patriarch IGNATIUS IV, and the members of the Holy Synod of Antioch for their continuing support of the North American Archdiocese.  In addition, we thank our Metropolitan PHILIP for his vision and untiring leadership which inspires us to greater works for the Glory of God. We pray that our Lord will guide and protect Bishop THOMAS, Bishop MARK, and Bishop ALEXANDER as they assume their positions as shepherds of their dioceses.  We pray that God will grant them all Many Years!

 

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Message of Condolence on the Passing of Metropolitan Anthony of San Francisco

Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America

Statement on the Passing of
Metropolitan Anthony of San Francisco

December 28, 2004

His Eminence, The Most Reverend Archbishop DEMETRIOS
The Venerable Members of the Eparchial Synod
Esteemed Members of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese Council
Reverend Clergy and Laity of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America

With much sadness, we received the news of the falling asleep in Christ of our beloved brother, His Eminence, Metropolitan Anthony of San Francisco.

Death in human experience has never been easy, whether it comes in youth or in old age, whether it comes suddenly or after a long illness, it always leaves in its wake sorrow, tears, loneliness and longing. But our Lord, who has conquered death by his own death, proved to us that beyond Calvary, there is the empty tomb and all of us, if we live the way Metropolitan Anthony lived, will be with Christ in His heavenly kingdom.

During the past twenty-five years of shepherding the Metropolis of San Francisco, he proved himself to be the “good shepherd.” Through his hard work and the many organizations which he created, he will always be remembered as one of the great Prelates of our Holy Orthodox Church.

On behalf of the hierarchs, the Board of Trustees, the clergy and laity of the Self-Ruled Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America, we convey to you, his immediate family and all the Greek Orthodox people in America our deepest sympathy.

May the soul of our beloved brother, Metropolitan Anthony, rest in peace and may his memory be eternal.

+ Metropolitan PHILIP

Archbishop of New York and Metropolitan of All North America
Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America

Antiochian Orthodox to Enthrone First Bishop of Los Angeles and the West

NEWS RELEASE

August 1, 2004 For further information contact:

For immediate release Fr. Peter Gillquist (805)968-8648

Antiochian Orthodox to Enthrone First Bishop of Los Angeles and the West

Immigrant bishop turned American citizen thanks God for the freedom we enjoy here.

In an historic event, the Right Reverend Bishop Joseph will be enthroned as the first bishop of the new Antiochian Orthodox Christian Diocese of the West. The enthronement ceremony will take place Sunday, September 12, at 10:30am at St. Nicholas Antiochian Orthodox Cathedral, 2300 West Third Street, Los Angeles. The Most Reverend Metropolitan PHILIP, primate of the Antiochian Archdiocese in North America, will preside.

The new diocese and bishop are results of the self-ruling status recently granted by the Holy Synod of Antioch, headquartered in Damascus, Syria, to its daughter Church in North America. With self-rule comes the re-structuring of the Antiochian Archdiocese into regional dioceses and the election of its own bishops.

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Bishop Joseph was consecrated to the episcopacy in Syria in 1991. In 1995, upon the request of Metropolitan PHILIP, the bishop was sent to the Antiochian Archdiocese of North America as one of the auxiliary bishops and was assigned by Metropolitan PHILIP to oversee the Western Region of the Archdiocese, residing in Los Angeles. Before coming to America, Bishop Joseph served as assistant to the Patriarch of Antioch and as secretary to the Holy Synod. He also was involved in missionary work, planting Churches in London and Cyprus, and for a time worked as a high school principal in Syria. In 2003, Bishop Joseph became a citizen of the United States.

“His Grace Bishop Joseph is the first of our bishops to be enthroned to lead a diocese here in America,” noted Metropolitan PHILIP. “He has served the Church with distinction and has and will bring numerous new converts into the Orthodox Church.”

“It is such an honor for me to serve the Church here in America,” Bishop Joseph told a group of Antiochian Orthodox priests last week. “As an immigrant, I can tell you freedom here is a gift from God.”

The enthronement ceremony Sunday morning is free and open to the public. A reception and luncheon honoring Bishop Joseph will follow at 1:00pm at the Millennium Biltmore Hotel, 506 South Grand Avenue, Los Angeles. For luncheon reservations and more information call the cathedral office at (213) 382-6269.

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Holy Synod of Antioch Approves the Constitution of the Self-Ruled Antiochian Orthodox Archdiocese of North America

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

October 22, 2004 – Englewood, New Jersey

HOLY SYNOD OF ANTIOCH APPROVES THE CONSTITUTION OF THE SELF-RULED ANTIOCHIAN ORTHODOX ARCHDIOCESE OF NORTH AMERICA

On Thursday, October 14^th, 2004, the Holy Synod of Antioch voted to approve the Constitution of the self-ruled Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America. By this action, the final step has been taken and this Archdiocese can now function as a self-ruling Archdiocese.

In approving the Constitution, several important changes were made to the version that had been approved by the General Assembly of the Special Convention in Pittsburgh on July 16^th, 2004. The following are the significant changes that were made:

1. The election of Diocesan bishops will be conducted by the Local Synod (Archdiocesan Synod), with the participation of only the Metropolitan, and the Diocesan Bishops who are members of the Local Synod (Archdiocesan Synod).

2. The consecration of Diocesan Bishops will be held at the Patriarchal Cathedral in Damascus, Syria.

3. Clergy from this Archdiocese who are eligible for election will be added to the master list of candidates held in the Patriarchate, and the General Assembly of this Archdiocese will nominate candidates from this master list.

4. Other minor changes that will be communicated in the near future

The final ratification of this amended Constitution by the General Assembly of this Archdiocese will be accomplished at the upcoming 47^th Convention of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America which is scheduled to be held from July 24^th through 31^st, 2005, and hosted by St. George Church of Troy, Michigan.

In accordance with this decision, the Local Synod will elect three new Diocesan Bishops at its upcoming Fall meeting which will be held on Friday October 29^th, 2004, in Naples Florida. The consecration of these new Diocesan Bishops will take place in Damascus at some time following the election. Some time after the consecration, they will be enthroned in the Cathedral of their diocese.

His Eminence was accompanied to the Middle East by the following members of our Archdiocese (listed in alphabetical order):

Dr. George Farha, Vice Chairman of the Archdiocese Board of Trustees

Very Rev. Joseph Antypas, Pastor of St. George Church of Troy, Michigan

Mr. Nicola Antakli, Member of the Archdiocese Board of Trustees

Mr. Fawaz El Khoury, Member of the Archdiocese Board of Trustees

Mr. Walid Khalife, Honorary Member of the Archdiocese Board of Trustees

Mr. Anton Khoury, Member of the Archdiocese Board of Trustees

We are thankful to these men for the outstanding support that they gave to His Eminence throughout this arduous journey.

We wish to express our heartfelt thanks to Our Father in Christ, Patriarch IGNATIUS IV, and the members of the Holy Synod of Antioch for this vote of confidence in the North American Archdiocese. In addition, we thank our Metropolitan PHILIP for his vision and untiring leadership, without which, this historic event could not have occurred. We pray that God will grant them all Many Years!

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His Grace, Bishop JOSEPH Enthroned as The First Bishop of the Diocese Los Angeles and the West

His Grace, Bishop JOSEPH Enthroned as The First Bishop of the Diocese Los Angeles and the West

by Fr. Joseph Corrigan

September 12, 2004, Los Angeles, California.

During the Divine Liturgy at St. Nicholas Cathedral in Los Angeles, this morning, His Eminence, Metropolitan PHILIP gave to His Grace, Bishop JOSEPH, the arch-pastoral staff, which heretofore he had carried as Auxiliary Bishop to the Metropolitan. Immediately after this, Bishop JOSEPH ascended the episcopal throne of St. Nicholas Cathedral in Los Angeles as His Eminence prayed the prayer of enthronement. Having been enthroned as the first Bishop of the Diocese of Los Angeles and the West, Bishop JOSEPH’s homily spelled out his vision of increasingly effective evangelism with the Gospel of Jesus Christ and deepening pastoral care for all the faithful of the newly formed Diocese.

Metropolitan PHILIP gives to Bishop JOSEPH the Archpastoral staff.

Bishop JOSEPH ascends the Episcopal Throne at St. Nicholas Cathedral in Los Angeles.

In October of 2003, the Holy Synod of Antioch joined His Beatitude, IGNATIUS IV in granting to the Antiochian Christian Archdiocese of North America the status of Self-Rule. At the Special Convention of the Archdiocese in July of this year, the delegates unanimously approved the changes proposed for the Archdiocese Constitution which had been made to reflect our new Self-Rule status by the Chancellors, Charles Ajalat and Robert Koory. The delegates also confirmed the nomination of candidates from which the Local Synod will choose three new diocesan bishops for our Archdiocese. Read more about Self-Rule here.

“With the enthronement of our brother, Bishop JOSEPH,” said Metropolitan PHILIP, “we take the first step in applying our Self-Rule status. Thus, Bishop JOSEPH’s enthronement is truly an historic occasion.”

Metropolitan PHILIP teaches about the responsibilities of one who would bear the Archpastoral staff andexplains the historical significance of today’s events.

 

Soon to be followed by His Grace, Bishop BASIL’s enthronement on the episcopal throne at St. George Cathedral in Wichita, Kansas and the Bishop of the Diocese of Wichita and Mid-America, today’s milestone sets in motion the eventual enthronement of nine Diocesan Bishops in the nine Diocese that will constitute our God-protected Archdiocese.

Most of the clergy of the newly formed Diocese of Los Angeles and the West were in attendance at St. Nicholas Cathedral, coming from as far away as Alaska, Idaho and Arizona. The cathedral was filled to beyond its capacity with overflow seating with closed-circuit television coverage being projected on large screens in the nearby parish hall. Four chalices were assigned there for Communion. Joining the faithful of St. Nicholas Cathedral were many the faithful from neighborining Antiochian parishes of Southern California, the Board of Trustees and the Governing Council of the Order of St. Ignatius of Antioch.

Most of the Clergy of the newly formed Diocese of Los Angeles and the West were present for the Enthronement of Bishop JOSEPH.

Bishop JOSEPH was honored by the presence of His Grace, Bishop BENJAMIN of the OCA, His Grace, Bishop SYRAPION, of the Coptic Orthodox Church of Los Angeles, and His Grace, Bishop Todd Brown of Orange, of the Roman Catholic Church. Along with them were many municipal and foreign dignitaries, including Farid Abboud, the Ambassador of Lebanon and Hazem Shehabi, the Consul General of Syria.

Honoring Bishop JOSEPH at his Enthronement are Bishop SERAPION of the Coptic Orthodox Church in Los Angeles and Bishop Todd Brown of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Orange California.

Ambassador Abboud of Lebanon brings greetings to Bishop JOSEPH.

The ballroom was filled to capacity for this special banquet.

Bishop BENJAMIN of the OCA, Bishop BASIL, and Bishop JOSEPH at the Hierarchs' Head Table.

No stranger to such occasions, Fr. Peter Gillquist did a masterful job in “governing the feast.”

 

Following the services, a banquet celebrating Bishop JOSEPH’s Enthronement was held in nearby Downtown Los Angeles at the historic Millennium Biltmore Hotel. The Archpriest Peter Gillquist, Director of the Department of Missions and Evangelism for the Archdiocese was the Master of Ceremonies who began the afternoon festivities by introducing the Dignitaries at the Head Table as they entered the Millennium Ballroom: The Protosynkellos, the Right Reverend Fr. Paul Doyle, Dn. Thomas Nassif of St. Anthony Church in San Diego, Hazem Shehabi, the Consul General of Syria, Farid Abboud, the Ambassador of Lebanon, His Grace, His Grace, Bishop Todd Brown of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Orange, California, His Grace, Bishop BENJAMIN of the OCA, Bishop BASIL, soon to be enthroned as the Bishop of the new Diocese of Wichita and Mid-America, His Grace Bishop JOSEPH, His Eminence Metropolitan PHILIP, the Rev. Fr. Michel Najim, the Dean of St. Nicholas Cathedral in Los Angeles and his Khouria, Eva Najim, and Mr. and Mrs. John L. Sadd, Jr., St. Nicholas Cathedral Parish Council Chairman and the Chairpersons of the Enthronement Banquet. Although not seated at the head table, Fr. Augustino Hanna, pastor of St. John Coptic Orthodox Church of Covina, California represented Bishop SERAPION who could not attend the banquet.

Following an invocation by His Eminence, and some short introductory remarks by Fr. Gillquist, a luncheon, consistent with the Biltmore Hotel’s excellent reputation as one of the best hotels in Los Angeles was served. Those attending had the choice between a filet mignon and an excellently prepared white fish with an apple pie dessert.

Fr. Michel began the final part of the afternoon by speaking of personal remembrances and some historical reflections of the life of Bishop JOSEPH. His remarks were followed by a short video which highlighted some major milestones of his life and focused on his consecration as a bishop in 1991 at the hands of his own mentor, our Patriarch, His Beatitude, IGNATIUS IV.

After some kind greetings and remarks by Farid Abboud, the Ambassador of Lebanon and Hazem Shehabi, the Consul General of Syria, Dn. Thomas Nassif, himself have significant, successful experience and an Ambassador of the United States, read a letter of congratulations to Bishop JOSEPH from California Governor, Arnold Schwarzenegger. Fr. Peter Gillquist then read letters of congratulations from Councilman Michael Antonovich of the Los Angeles City Council, from Congressman Darrel Issa, and from other civil and ecclesiastic officials to numerous to mention.

Dn. Thomas Nassif reads a letter to Bishop JOSEPH from California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger.

 

Our beloved Metropolitan PHILIP took a few moments to put the glorious events of the day into concise, historical perspective. He underlined the profound historical significance of the events we experienced together. After presenting an exquisite engolpion (The Icon of the Theotokos a Bishop wears as the insignia of his office) to Bishop JOSEPH, Metropolitan PHILIP introduced him as the newly enthroned, first Bishop of Los Angeles and the West. Following a warm and enthusiastic welcome by all those present, Bishop JOSEPH spoke to us, again targeting Orthodox unity, the evangelism of North America by the Holy Orthodox Church and the care of God’s faithful in his remarks. The afternoon concluded as Bishop BASIL of Wichita, brought his personal best wishes and best regards to our Bishop JOSEPH.

It was a long day, and it was a glorious one. History is always in the making and most events that end up in history books can be seen as such only in retrospect. Relatively few people can say that they knew they were living in a turning point of history, even as they were happening. This sentiment is summarized in the words familiar to the older among us who remember how Walter Cronkite used to conclude his first television documentary program, You Were There :

“What kind of a day was it? A day like all days, filled with those events that alter and illuminate our times, except...you were there!”

We were there when it happened. We were there when the Archdiocese took a bold step into the new era of our self-rule and the increasing possibility of the unity of the Holy Orthodox Church in North America.

Pittsburgh Post-Gazette News about the Archdiocese

Sunday, July 18, 2004	Orthodox self-rule just start of vision
Saturday, July 17, 2004	Orthodox church approves self-rule
Friday, July 16, 2004	Self-rule for some Orthodox Christians is just days away
Thursday, June 17, 2004	Antiochian Heritage Museum opens in Westmoreland County

Photos from The Thirteenth Biennial Clergy Symposium

Photos from The Thirteenth Biennial Clergy Symposium

Father Joseph Allen addresses the clergy with opening comments.

“This year’s theme is, A Diversity of Ministries, the Same Lord.”- I Corinthians 12:5

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Fr. John Breck addresses clergy on the bio-ethical challenges in a post modern world. He discusses ways priests may offer pastoral guidance to those who make moral decisions with regard to medical technology.

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The Most Reverend Archbishop PETER addresses the clergy on the topic of Ecclesial Structures according to the Canonical Tradition.

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Clergy attending the symposium listen to, ask questions of, and hold dialogue with the special speakers.

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Vendors are invited to the symposium to provide clergy with a range of products for their parish ministry.

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As usual the Antiochian Village provides excellent fare for our clergy.

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His Eminence Metropolitan PHILIP addresses the clergy conveying words of vision, humor, and love to the clergy.

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His Eminence Metropolitan PHILIP takes photos with graduates after conferring their degrees.

Over 100 College Students Live the Orthodox Faith on their Spring Break

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE             Orthodox Christian Fellowship

 

Thursday, June 10, 2004                            P.O. Box 249

 

                                                              

Boston, MA  02130

 

Contact: Joseph J. Samra                           1-800-919-1623

 

Program Coordinator                                 www.ocf.net

 

 

 

Over 100 College Students Live the Orthodox Faith on their Spring Break

 

 

 

BOSTON, MA— This spring, while hundreds of thousands of college students flocked to spring break hot-spots such as Cancun and

Ft. Lauderdale, 102 Orthodox college students opted for dramatically different destinations. These students chose to spend their week away from school pressures serving those less fortunate. Real Break, the spring break alternative program of Orthodox Christian Fellowship (OCF) had another record breaking year, with eight teams working in five different locations. They served the Hogar Rafael Ayau Orphanage in Guatemala, Project Mexico, the Aleutian village of Eklutna, Alaska, Raphael House in San Francisco and St. George the Martyr Monastery in Greece.

 

Hogar Rafael Ayau Orphanage in

Guatemala hosted two teams, who experienced the love and hope of over 150 children living there. Real Break returned to Project Mexico with three trips, where the teams completed three buildings to be used as housing for Project Mexico’s summer groups. The Orthodox young people also spent valuable time with the 18 boys of St. Innocent Orphanage. In the serene landscape of Alaska, a world away from the tropical beaches where many of their classmates were spending their week, a team built a new floor for St. Nicholas Church. In Karditsa, Greece, the students worked on a monastery landscaping project, while witnessing the vibrant expressions of Orthodoxy of the surrounding community and monasteries. Real Break also returned to San Francisco to help serve food and maintain facilities at Raphael House, a shelter for homeless families.

 

 

 

The intent of the program is to impact our Orthodox college students with the life-changing experience of living a full Orthodox lifestyle. Elyse Pickwick, a sophomore from

Eastern Kentucky University reflected on her experience in Greece: “I have been influenced in so many ways – my focus was put into perspective.  I realized its ok to change your plans for no other reason but GOD!”

 

 

 

Now in its fifth year, Real Break has had 340 students participate, with 2004 the biggest year, seeing a 50% increase in participation. Fr. Michael Nasser, Executive Director of OCF stated, “Real Break has become one of the most important experiences a student can choose to take. The time spent in these amazing places changes the student for life, spiritually and mentally, ultimately bringing them closer to Christ.”

 

 

 

Each Real Break provides alternatives to "traditional" spring breaks for Orthodox college students, and gives them instead a full Christian experience of fellowship and service to others. The program provides opportunities for spiritual growth with one-on-one interaction with a priest accompanying each group. Each participant is asked to raise the funds for their trip, with donors becoming a part of each participant’s experience as photos and stories are shared upon their return.  Excess funds are distributed directly to the location. This year over $30,000 will be given to these locations’ ministries on behalf of the students and their donors.

 

 

 

For more information about Real Break visit http://realbreak.ocf.net

 

Photo Caption:

 

Ben, a graduate student at the Miami University Ohio, enjoys his time spent with his friend David, one of the many children he interacted with on one of the 2004 Real Breaks to Hogar Rafael Ayau in Guatemala.

 

 

 

About OCF

 

Orthodox Christian Fellowship (OCF) is the official campus ministry effort of the Standing Conference of Canonical Orthodox Bishops in the Americas (SCOBA).  It is a Pan-Orthodox effort, overseen by an Executive Committee and aided by a sixteen-person Student Advisory Board. The office is located in Boston, MA, where a full time staff develops OCF programs and resources. The staff is available to guide and support local OCF chapters through communication with the larger Orthodox community, national programs, and development of resources for use by Orthodox college students. SCOBA designated the 3rd Sunday in September each year as “College Student Sunday” to raise awareness of our students on campus and OCF’s activities.

 

Appeal for Tsunami Relief

Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America

Statement/Appeal Regarding the
Tsunami in the Indian Ocean Basin

December 29, 2004

Venerable Hierarchs, Esteemed Members of the Board of Trustees, and Beloved Clergy and Faithful of this God-Protected Archdiocese:

We hope and trust that you have had a most blessed and joyful Nativity celebration. We are writing to you on the threshold of a New Year which we pray will be filled with peace and tranquility throughout the world. It is in this spirit that we also make this appeal to you.

You have all no doubt been following the news of the terrible devastation in Southern Asia, in the wake of the powerful tidal waves that swept across the Indian Ocean, striking the countries of Sri Lanka, India, Indonesia, Thailand, Bangladesh, Burma, and Malaysia. The current estimates place the number of dead in excess of 60,000, with disaster experts predicting that the death toll could reach 100,000. This does not account for the enormous numbers of injured and homeless people due to this tragedy.

In my entire life, I have not witnessed a natural disaster that has caused human tragedy on this scale. It brings pain to all of us that the people in this part of the world, who already suffer more than their share of poverty, must also endure this suffering. Two of the Fathers of the Holy Orthodox Church speak with power and conviction regarding our responsibility as Christians in this time of need:

“The price of the Kingdom is the food that you give to those who need it.” – St. Leo the Great

“Feeding the hungry is a greater work than raising the dead.” – St. John Chrysostom

We completely support the efforts of the International Orthodox Christian Charities (IOCC) to respond to this emergency need. We call on all members of this Archdiocese to contribute generously to this appeal through the IOCC. Specific information on how to contribute can be found at www.iocc.org/news/12-27-04.shtml

Praying that you will have a blessed New Year, I remain,

Your Father in Christ,

Metropolitan PHILIP
Archbishop of New York and Metropolitan of All North America

Important Statement on the Self-Rule Status of our Archdiocese

 

 

Important Statement on the Self-Rule Status of our Archdiocese

Holy Thursday- April 8, 2004

Unfortunately, there has been some recent and isolated activity that has caused some people to question the self-rule status that was granted to this Archdiocese by His Beatitude Patriarch IGNATIUS IV and the Holy Synod of Antioch in October, 2003. It should be known without hesitation or reservation, that our self-rule status is final, and that we are proceeding with all due diligence to implement this self-rule status. Proposed Diocesan boundaries have been drawn, and detailed documents have been written that specify the Rights and Responsibilities of both the Metropolitan, and the Diocesan Bishops under this new structure. We are working on the drafting of amendments to our Constitution that will implement self-rule. All of this work will culminate in our historic Special Convention, to be held in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, during the weekend of July 16-18, 2004. At that Special Convention, we will approve the amended constitution, present the Diocesan structure, and the entire General Assembly of clergy and laity will nominate candidates who will stand for election as new Diocesan Bishops. We continue to enjoy the best relations with our beloved Patriarch IGNATIUS IV and the Mother Church of Antioch. May God bless our efforts to move forward in a positive way for the Glorification of His Holy Name.

The Thirteenth Biennial Clergy Symposium

The Thirteenth Biennial Clergy Symposium (2004)

The Thirteenth Biennial Clergy Symposium was held the July 18-22. This year’s theme was “A Diversity of Ministries, the Same Lord”- I Corinthians 12:5. Over 200 clergy from across North America assembled at the Antiochian Village in Ligonier, PA, to worship, pray, learn, share fellowship, and break bread together.

The Holy Hierarchs of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese (including His Eminence Metropolitan PHILIP, Bishop ANTOUN, Bishop JOSEPH, and Bishop BASIL) were in attendance celebrating liturgical worship services together with our priests, officiating at meetings, attending lectures, and hearing reports from clergy and department heads.

The conference opened Sunday with the liturgical service of the Blessing of the Water celebrated by Bishop BASIL in Ss. Peter and Paul Chapel. It seemed as if God’s own hand blessed the service by sending a powerful rainstorm to shower water upon the roof of the chapel during the service. Priests’ voices rang in hymns of praise to God amidst the resonance of the spectacular thunder shower just outside the chapel. This opening service commenced the rhythm of worship which continued in the three services a day held during each day of the symposium and was crowned by Divine Liturgy celebrated on the morning of the final day.

The clergy symposium is part of the Antiochian House of Studies program for the continuing education of our priests. Every other year it provides a forum for both theory and praxis in the ministry of the priesthood.

The continuing education of our clergy began with opening comments by Fr. Joseph Allen, Chairman of Theological & Pastoral Education. Immediately after his opening comments Fr. Joseph sent the clergy off to begin working in groups to discuss and formulate practical responses to assigned topics.

Each day clergy attended morning lectures. This year’s lecturers included Fr. Alkiviadis Calivas, Fr. John Breck and The Most Reverend Archbishop PETER .

Each afternoon clergy choose to attend electives from the following ten electives offered this year:

1. The Place of Sacred Music in Worship Today
2. The Ministry to Marriage and Family
3. Christian Education in Today’s Church (Focus on Teaching Tithing)
4. Pastor, People, Parish
5. The Role of the Internet in Today’s Church
6. Compensation and Retirement Planning
7. Empowering Lay Leadership for Evangelization
8. Christianity and Islam
9. Relations of Orthodox with Other Arab Christians
10. Ministry of Repentance and Direction Today

On the last night of the symposium His Eminence Metropolitan PHILIP held a meeting with clergy. During the meeting clergy reported on their conclusions made in their group topic sessions and elective chairpersons presented brief reports on the major issues taught and discussed during their sessions. His Eminence also presided over the Conferring of Degrees Ceremony in which he presented degrees to graduates of the Masters Degree program in Applied Orthodox Theology and the Doctor of Ministry Program.

Click here to view pictures from the clergy symposium.

 

 

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[1] Fr. John Breck was Professor of New Testament and Ethics at St. Vladimir's Seminary, and is presently Professor of Biblical Interpretation and Ethics at St. Sergius Theological Institute, Paris, France. With his wife, Lyn, he is the director of the St. Silouan Retreat Center, Wadmalaw Island, South Carolina.

[2] Fr. Alkiviadis Calivas is Professor Emeritus of Liturgical Theology at Holy Cross Greek Orthodox School of Theology

[3] The Most Reverend PETER is Archbishop of New York and New Jersey (Orthodox Church in America)

An Important Notice Regarding Bringing America to Orthodoxy!

An Important Notice Regarding Bringing America to Orthodoxy!

Dear Friend,

The 2004 North American Orthodox Conference on Missions and Evangelism will be held September 3-6 (Labor Day Weekend) in Norman, Oklahoma, just outside Oklahoma City. The Conference is a cross-jurisdictional event sponsored by the Orthodox Christian Mission Center, and hosted by the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese Department of Missions and Evangelism.

Participants will learn how to share their Christian Faith from an Orthodox perspective and help their parishes grow. The Conference has proven enormously beneficial to hundreds of Orthodox clergy and laity for well over a decade, and even has become a popular and pivotal event for inquirers exploring the Orthodox Church.

This year’s Conference features Fr. Peter Gillquist, Prof. Matthew Gallatin (author of “Thirsting For God”), and Mrs. Catherine Lingas (president of the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of San Francisco Commission on Orthodox Missions and Evangelism). This excellent line-up of speakers addressing several new and very important topics, combined with the top-notch facilities offered by the University of Oklahoma at a very affordable rate, adds up to a terrifically inspirational and instructional experience for Orthodox Christians who wish to share their “pearl of great price”.

This is the first time the Conference has been offered in the middle part of America. Don’t let this fantastic opportunity for spiritual education and renewal pass you by, especially if you live in the Midwest, South, or Southwest.

Please consider attending the 2004 Orthodox Conference on Missions and Evangelism. For complete information and registration instructions, visit www.antiochian.org/missions/conference, or call the conference coordinator at (805) 685-8999. Please note that this year, for the first time, you may register on-line if you wish, and you have the option of paying by credit card.

Finally, please share this information with a friend(s), and remember those who labor on this Conference and its participants in your prayers. Thank you, and may the Lord God bless you!

Yours in Christ,

Howard Lange

Department of Missions and Evangelism

Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese

777 Camino Pescadero

Goleta , CA 93117

office phone: (805) 685-8999

More Assistance Needed for Hurricane Victims

September 16, 2004

TO BE READ FROM THE PULPIT

Beloved Clergy and Faithful of our Archdiocese:

Greetings and Blessings in the Name of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ.

As you all know, the devastation from hurricane Charley has been followed by additional hurricanes that have ravaged areas of the South, some of which had not even begun to recover from the previous storms. In our message of August 16, 2004, we appealed to all of the communities of this Archdiocese to take a special collection to assist the victims of hurricane Charley. Unfortunately, the response to this appeal has been very disappointing.

In light of the disappointing response to the first appeal, and the additional tragedy that has been wrought by new storms, we appeal to you to take another special collection as soon as possible and forward it to the Archdiocese headquarters immediately, marked "Hurricane Relief", so that we can do our share to try and ease a small portion of the suffering.May the Almighty God continue to bless all of you.

Your father in Christ,

Metropolitan PHILIP
Primate
Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America

Original Appeal Letter