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Clergy Wives Weekend 2009: Antiochian Village, Nov. 8-9

Antiochian Village Announces a pan-Orthodox gathering of spiritual refreshment and fellowship in memory of Kh. Joanne Abdalah.

Kh. Joanne Abdalah served as an inspiration in her life as the wife of a priest and as a counselor to many. She understood the joys and trials of this life, and the need for finding strength in Christ and each other. She believed that every clergy wife needs to discover and develop her own Christian vocation.

In her memory, clergy wives of the Antiochian Archdiocese and greater Pittsburgh area Orthodox churches are planning the inaugural pan-Orthodox Clergy Wives Weekend at the Antiochian Village the weekend of November 7-8, 2009. Mother Christophora of Holy Transfiguration Monastery (Ellwood City) and Matushka Juliana Schmemann will be the speakers, addressing the theme: “How to Be a Clergy Wife and Still Go to Heaven.” The schedule will reflect Joanne’s holy and holistic approach to life – we need to pray; we need to play. We need to enjoy the fellowship for this short time without parish responsibilities, family responsibilities or other cares of this world.

The schedule for the Weekend’s program will begin Saturday morning and end with Sunday liturgy and brunch. Participants wishing to arrive Friday night will be able to do so, for the additional night’s lodging. An informal gathering will be held for those arriving Friday. Registration forms and information will be mailed in August. Additional information and forms will also be available as they are completed on the Antiochian Village website. (www.antiochianvillage.org, “Conference Center” link, then under “Upcoming Events.”)

For further information, please contact Stefanie Yazge, Weekend Committee Coordinator, at 724-832-1101 or syazge@msn.com