St. Tikhon's Seminary to Host Clergy-Only Zoom Conversation - 02/20/2025
SOUTH CANAAN, PA [STOTS] - On Monday, February 24, 2025, St. Tikhon’s Theological Seminary will host a clergy-only Zoom conversation titled "Intentional Discipleship for Ministry: A Conversation on Vocations with Parish Priests," led by Archpriest John Parker, Dean, and Priest Paul Witek.
Lenten Retreat to be held at Holy Cross Church, Williamsport, PA - 02/20/2025
WILLIAMSPORT, PA [DOEPA] - On Saturday, March 22, 2025, Holy Cross Orthodox Church in Williamsport, PA, will be hosting a Lenten Retreat with Drs. David and Mary Ford who will be speaking on Corporate Prayer, the Divine Liturgy, and St. John Chrysostom. All are welcome!
His Eminence Archbishop Mark Requests Prayers from the Diocese for John Buckeye - 02/16/2025
BATH, PA [DOEPA COMMUNICATIONS] - His Eminence Archbishop Mark has requested that the clergy, matushki, and faithful of the Diocese of Philadelphia and Eastern Pennsylvania offer their prayers for Mr. John Buckeye
Pre-Lenten Retreat to be held at Holy Trinity Church, Wilkes-Barre, PA - 01/30/2025
WILKES-BARRE, PA [DOEPA] - On Saturday, February 8, 2025, Holy Trinity Church in Wilkes-Barre, PA, will be hosting a Pre-Lenten Retreat with the theme of "The Life and Wisdom of St. John Chrysostom" presented by Dr. David Ford.
Summer Camp Survey for Priests of the Diocese - 01/25/2025
BATH, PA [DOEPA COMMUNICATIONS] - A new survey for priests in the Diocese of Philadelphia and Eastern Pennsylvania regarding St. Tikhon's Summer Camp has been released.
Deadline Announced for Call for Reflections: February 18, 2025 - 01/18/2025
SPRINGFIELD, VA [OCA] - All parishes, missions, monasteries, and institutions of the Orthodox Church in America are reminded that the deadline to submit reflections for the 21st All-American Council is Tuesday, February 18, 2025.
Announcement of the 42nd Annual Father Alexander Schmemann Memorial Lecture and Mid-Year Commencement - 01/15/2025
YONKERS, NY [SVOTS] - On Thursday at 7 p.m., in the Metropolitan Philip Auditorium, St Vladimir’s Seminary will hold its Commencement ceremony for all mid-year graduates. Following the ceremony, the 42nd Annual Father Alexander Schmemann Memorial Lecture will begin. This year, Dr Henry Maguire, Emeritus Professor of the History of Art at Johns Hopkins University, will deliver the keynote presentation, “Heaven to Earth, Earth to Heaven: Neoplatonic Theology and the Art of Byzantine Churches.”
Registration Opens for Delegates and Observers for the 21st All-American Council - 01/13/2025
SPRINGFIELD, VA [OCA] - The Orthodox Church in America has announced the opening of registration for the 21st All-American Council (AAC), which will take place from July 14-18, 2025, at the Arizona Grand Resort in Phoenix, AZ. All clergy and faithful are invited to participate with this year’s theme being “Gathered Together By Christ.”
Announcement of the 20th Anniversary Celebration for Archpriest Timothy Hojnicki - 01/04/2025
MECHANICSBURG, PA [DOEPA] - On Wednesday, January 29, 2025, Holy Apostles Orthodox Church in Mechanicsburg, PA, will be hosting a celebration in honor of Archpriest Timothy Hojnicki on the occassion of his 20th Anniversary of Ordination to the Holy Priesthood.
Registration Opens for Online Music Classes Offered by the OCA Music Department - 01/03/2025
SPRINGFIELD, VA [OCA] - The OCA Music Department again offers its popular introductory online courses for the benefit of church singers and conductors. This semester we are also pleased to offer the opportunity for intermediate- and advanced-level conductors to take private lessons with Dr. Peter Jermihov.
Diocesan Media Office Requests Photos for the Feast of the Nativity of our Lord - 12/26/2024
BATH, PA [DOEPA COMMUNICATIONS] - The Diocesan Media Office has requested the submission of photos from the clergy and faithful of the Diocese of Philadelphia and Eastern Pennsylvania to be featured on the diocesan website and social media.
Archbishop Mark Calls For Prayers for Archbishop Alexander - 12/26/2024
BATH, PA [DOEPA COMMUNICATIONS] – On Thursday, December 26, 2024, during the Synaxis of the Most Holy Theotokos, His Eminence Archbishop Mark calls for prayers for His Eminence Archbishop Alexander of Dallas, the South, and the Bulgarian Diocese of the Orthodox Church in America, following his recent diagnosis of prostate cancer.
Archpastoral Message of Archbishop Mark for the 2024 Seminarian Nativity Appeal - 12/11/2024
BATH, PA [DOEPA COMMUNICATIONS] - On Wednesday, December 11, 2024, His Eminence Archbishop Mark released a letter regarding the 2024 Seminary Nativity Appeal.
Holy Ascension Church in Frackville, PA, to Host Inaugural Community Christmas Concert - 12/10/2024
FRACKVILLE, PA [DOEPA] - Holy Ascension Orthodox Church in Frackville, PA, will host its inaugural Community Christmas Concert on Sunday, December 22, 2024.
Metropolitan Tikhon sends letter of support to Patriarch John X - 12/10/2024
SPRINGFIELD, VA [OCA] - On December 12, 2024, His Beatitude Metropolitan Tikhon sent a letter to His Beatitude Patriarch John X of Antioch offering his support and prayers in midst of the turbulence and uncertainty unfolding in Syria.
The Holy Synod of Bishops Announces the Upcoming Retirement of His Eminence Archbishop Benjamin - 12/08/2024
SPRINGFIELD, VA [OCA] - The Holy Synod of Bishops of the Orthodox Church in America has announced the upcoming retirement of His Eminence Archbishop Benjamin, Archbishop of San Francisco and the West.
Metropolitan Tikhon Announces Significant Leadership Appointments in the New Year - 12/07/2024
SPRINGFIELD, VA [OCA] - His Beatitude Metropolitan Tikhon, Primate of the Orthodox Church in America, today announced several significant leadership appointments that will take effect January 1, 2025.
Gettysburg Mission Named Under Patronage of St. John the Theologian - 12/04/2024
BATH, PA [DOEPA COMMUNICATIONS] - On Wednesday, December 4, 2024, After a period of time of prayer and reflection, His Eminence Archbishop Mark has decided that the Gettysburg Mission will be under the heavenly patronage of the Holy Apostle and Evangelist John the Theologian.
BATH, PA [DOEPA COMMUNICATIONS] - For Giving Tuesday 2024, His Eminence Archbishop Mark has requested the support of the clergy, matushki, and faithful of the Diocese of Philadelphia and Eastern Pennsylvania, specifically for the Youth Ministry of the Diocese.
First Official Announcement of the 61st Diocesan Assembly - 11/27/2024
BATH, PA [DOEPA COMMUNICATIONS] - The 61st Diocesan Assembly of the Diocese of Philadelphia and Eastern Pennsylvania has been announced. The assembly will be held at St. Michael the Archangel Orthodox Church in Wilmington, DE, on January 23-24, 2025.
Patronal Feast of St. Herman of Alaska to be Hosted in Shillington, PA - 11/26/2024
SHILLINGTON, PA [DOEPA] - On Friday, December 13, 2024, The Patronal Feast of St. Herman of Alaska will be celebrated at St. Herman of Alaska Orthodox Church in Shillington, PA.
BROOKLINE, MA [OCF] - In honor of Giving Tuesday, kick off your year-end philanthropy today and have your gift to OCF matched! Join us in fostering a nurturing and supportive environment for Orthodox Christian college students.
Five Retreats for Widows of Clergy Available Online - 11/15/2024
SPRINGFIELD, VA [OCA] - Over the course of the past two years, the Clergy Wives Advisory Group (CWAG) of the Office of Pastoral Life (OPL) has sponsored five online retreats for widows of clergy of the Orthodox Church in America (OCA).
His Eminence Archbishop Mark Requests Prayers from the Diocese - 11/13/2024
BATH, PA [DOEPA COMMUNICATIONS] - His Eminence Archbishop Mark has requested that the clergy, matushki and faithful of the Diocese of Philadelphia and Eastern Pennsylvania to keep Archpriest Michael Evans, and his family and Priest Silouan Burns's father, Donald, in your prayers.
FOCA to Host Annual Virtual Christmas Concert - 11/09/2024
WILKES-BARRE, PA [OCA] - On Wednesday, December 25, The Feast of the Nativity of our Lord, The Fellowship of Orthodox Christians in America will be hosting a "Virtual Christmas Concert" along with other efforts during the Nativity season.
His Grace Bishop Benedict to Ordain Subdeacon Gregory Polk to the Diaconate - 11/07/2024
BATH, PA [DOEPA COMMUNICATIONS] - With the blessing of His Eminence Archbishop Mark, His Grace Bishop Benedict of Hartford and New England will Ordain Subdeacon Gregory Polk to the diaconate.
Online School Releases Asynchronous Learning Opportunities - 10/17/2024
YONKERS, NY [SVOTS COMMUNICATIONS] - The St Vladimir’s Online School of Theology announces its latest learning opportunity in the form of asynchronous course offerings.
Myrrh-Streaming Hawaiian Iveron Icon of the Mother of God to Visit Holy Apostles Church - 10/16/2024
MECHANICSBURG, PA [DOEPA] - On Tuesday, October 29, the Myrrh-Streaming Hawaiian Iveron Icon of the Mother of God will visit Holy Apostles Church in Mechanicsburg, PA.
BATH, PA [DOEPA COMMUNICATIONS] - His Eminence, Archbishop Mark, has released a letter regarding Alexander Scott, a Diocesan Seminarian at St. Tikhon's Theological Seminary.
BATH, PA [DOEPA COMMUNICATIONS] - Archpastoral Message of the Most Reverend Mark, Archbishop of Philadelphia and Eastern Pennsylvania, Regarding Clergy Appreciation Month.
The official announcement of ordinations, assignments, releases, and related matters affecting the clergy of the Diocese of Philadelphia and Eastern Pennsylvania are now published.
Announcement of the Certificate Program in Diaconal Formation at St. Tikhon’s Orthodox Theological Seminary in South Canaan, PA, this September will commence in collaboration with St. Stephen’s Orthodox Cathedral in Philadelphia, PA.
In an attempt to revitalize the tradition of recognizing diocesan graduates, we are making an effort to post the names and achievements of our graduates for recognition. Please take a moment to fill out this form with the necessary details.
Diocesan Seminarian Assists with Confection of Holy Chrism - 04/29/2024
Our Diocesan Seminarian, Priest Kirill Zawatski assisted with the confection of Holy Chrism for the Orthodox Church in America at St. Tikhon's Monastery in South Canaan, PA.
Confection Schedule of Holy Chrism Announced • Springfield - 04/09/2024
As has been previously announced, His Beatitude Metropolitan Tikhon will be presiding at the Rite of Preparation of Holy Chrism during the Vesperal Divine Liturgy of Great and Holy Thursday, May 2, 2024, at St. Tikhon’s Monastery. CLICK HERE for full article.
Registration for the Teen Winter Retreat is Open Now! - 12/12/2023
When: February 9-11, 2024
Register by: January 15, 2024 @ www.accounts.doepa.org
What: An Orthodox Weekend Winter Retreat for Teens with Ziplining, Campfire, and other Activities along with Prayers and Group Sessions
Where: Refreshing Mountain Retreat and Adventure Center - Stevens, PA
Cost: $0 for Teens in the Diocese of Eastern Pennsylvania ($200 for Teens outside the Diocese)
Details: Dropoff/Check-in Friday, 2/9 @ 3pm-4pm (late check-in available, but will miss dinner), Pickup/Check-out Sunday 2/11 after Liturgy 1pm-2pm (Parents welcome to come to the Liturgy)
ANNOUNCING: The 60th Annual Diocesan Assembly • Harrisburg - 11/07/2023
The 60th Annual DIocesan Assembly will take place on Thursday and Friday, January 25 & 26, at Christ the Saviour Orthodox Church in Harrisburg, PA. CLICK HERE for official announcement and details, and watch the Diocesan Assembly 2024 Tab for latest reports and news.
OCPM and St. Tikhon’s Orthodox Theological Seminary Now Offering a Certificate Program in Prison Ministry - 10/31/2023
Orthodox Christian Prison Ministry (OCPM) and St. Tikhon’s Orthodox Theological Seminary (STOTS) have partnered together to create the new Certificate Program in Prison Ministry, the first program of its kind in the United States.
50th Anniversary • St. Herman Of Alaska Orthodox Church - 09/26/2023
St. Herman of Alaska Orthodox Church in Glen Mills, PA recently celebrated its 50th Anniversary, welcoming guests including His Beatitude, Metropolitan Tikhon and His Grace Bishop Alexis of Sitka and Alaska.
Clergy Wives Ministry To Hold Meeting - 09/24/2023
The Orthodox Church in America Clergy Wives Ministry will hold a meeting entitled "Working For You! Working With You!" on Saturday, September 30, at 1PM. Click HERE to register.
The Myrrh-streaming Hawaiian Iveron Icon of the Mother of God will visit Holy Apostles Orthodox Church in Mechanicsburg, PA on Thursday, September 14. An Akathist will be served at 6:30pm. All are welcome!
Prison Ministry Awareness Sunday (PMAS) is right around the corner: July 30, 2023. On this day, the feast of St. Silas (patron saint of OCPM), hundreds of Orthodox churches across the U.S. will be preaching about the importance of prison ministry.
The 2023 Diaconal Liturgical Practicum of the Orthodox Church in America (OCA) will be held June 19–23, 2023 on the campus of St Vladimir’s Orthodox Theological Seminary in Yonkers, NY.
After 38 years as Pastor of St. Michael's Orthodox Church in Jermyn, PA, Fr. John Kowalczyk has accepted a full-time position at St. Tikhon's Orthodox Theological Seminary as Associate Professor of Pastoral Theology and Interim Chair of the Department.
The Institute of Sacred Arts (ISA) at St Vladimir’s Orthodox Theological Seminary (SVOTS) will host a panel discussion with artists and scholars Aidan Hart, Jonathan Pageau, and Andrew Gould, on Monday, April 24, 2023, at 7:30 p.m.
St Vladimir's 2023 Summer Music Institute - 04/07/2023
St Vladimir’s Seminary and its Institute of Sacred Arts announce the 2023 Summer Music Institute, “Sing to the Lord a New Song: American Orthodox Music,” taking place on June 20–24.
"Religious Freedom and Living Your Calling" - 03/29/2023
Stewardship Calling Host Bill Marianes will host a show on Ancient Faith Radio entitled "Religious Freedom and Living Your Calling" on April 5, 2023 beginning at 8PM.
St. Vladimir's to Hold Free Lenten Concert - 03/13/2023
St. Vladimir's Orthodox Theological Seminary (SVOTS) will host a free concert entitled "Hymns for the Theotokos and the Lenten Season" on Sunday, March 26, beginning at 5PM.
The Office of Pastoral Life presents its March Synaxis entitled "THe Priest's Confession: Finding the Thread that Runs Through You Life," with guest speaker Fr. Vladimir Aleandro, on March 21, 2023.
St. Tikhons Summer Camp 2023 • Waymart - 01/22/2023
His Eminence Archbishop MARK has released a message announcing the 2023 St. Tikhons Summer Camp, with an appeal to all parishes. ALL parishes are encouraged to support this important Youth Ministry program.
The St. Tikhon's Summer Camp website has been updated and is live to accept registrations for the 2023 Camp. It also has much information for Orthodox youth everywhere.
FOCA Virtual St. Andrew's Day Celebration - 11/17/2022
THe National Fellowship of Orthodox Christians in America will present a virtual St. Andrew's Day Celebration on Wednesday, November 30 beginning at 8PM.
World Premiere Fall Concert Series of Benedict Sheehan’s Vespers - 11/07/2022
[South Canaan, PA] - The Saint Tikhon Choir is pleased to announce the world premiere concert series for Benedict Sheehan’s modern masterwork Vespers. Two-time GRAMMY®-nominated conductor and composer Benedict Sheehan will lead the professional choristers of The Saint Tikhon’ Choir in this unique and powerful musical exploration that has been called “luminous and uplifting” (Choir & Organ) and a work of “unique musical genius” (Fanfare Magazine).
Free Public Lecture With Archbishop MARK • Harrisburg - 10/07/2022
Christ the Saviour Orthodox Church in Harrisburg, PA will host a FREE Public Lecture on Tuesday, October 25 beginning at 7PM entitled: Where Did The Bible Come From?
ALL CLERGY - 2022 Clergy Synaxis • Antiochian Village - 09/28/2022
2022 Clergy Synaxis @ the Antiochian Village (Oct. 17-20) that will include a pilgrimage to the graveside of St Raphael of Brooklyn at the Antiochian Village. This synaxis is for all Orthodox clergy of all jurisdictions. The speaker for the retreat is Fr. Stephen DeYoung, renowned biblical scholar, author and broadcaster. The title of the synaxis is "God is a Man of War."
Diocesan Clergy Continuing Education October Session - 09/08/2022
Diocesan Clergy are invited to attend a Continuing Education event entitled For Our Deliverance From All Wrath: Dealing with Anger in an Angry Society with retreat leader Fr. Ted Pulcini. The retreat is scheduled for October 25 from 10AM until 3PM at Holy Apostles Orthdox Church. Please RSVP by Octboer 19
Wilkes-Barre Deanery to Hold Retreat Featuring Bill Marianes - 08/26/2022
The Wilkes-Barre Deanery will hold a retreat entitled: Igniting the Flames of Renewal in your Heart and in your Parish featuring Bill Marianes on Saturday, October 1 beginning at 9AM. All are strongly urged to attend. This event is being sponsored by the Diocese and is free to all.
The Fellowship of Orthodox Christians invites everyone to join us Sunday July 10th . Arrive after Liturgy and enjoy the day in the park, then at 6pm a Hamburger/ Hot Dog dinner with sides and soda will be served in Pavilion D, near the Ferris Wheel. No need to RSVP, $5 per person, children under 6 FREE.
Assembly Of Bishops Blesses July 31 As “Prison Ministry Awareness Sunday” - 06/15/2022
The Assembly of Canonical Orthodox Bishops has blessed July 31, 2021 to be “Prison Ministry Awareness Sunday,” the day for Orthodox parishes across the United States to learn more about the work of Orthodox Christian Prison Ministry (OCPM), the national prison ministry of the Orthodox Church and an agency of the Assembly of Bishops.
The Office of Pastoral Life is pleased to announce our summer Pastoral Life Synaxis online clergy conference for the clergy of the Orthodox Church in America on Tuesday, June 21st from 2:00-4:00 pm EST.
"Where Saints Have Walked" • Virtual Youth Retreat - 10/22/2021
Orthodox Youth ages K-12 are encourages to join retreat leaders Archmandrite Sergius and the Monastery Brotherhood as they share the history of St. Tikohon's Monastery and the lives of the many holy men and women who lived there while following Christ.
Appeal For Seminarian Deacon Bill Rusk As He Begins Final Year - 09/07/2021
His Eminence, Archbishop MARK has released an appeal for Seminarian Bill Rusk, who enters his final year of studies at St. Vladimir's Orthodox Theological Seminary. His letter can be read HERE.
Join Metropolitan Tikhon live to discuss the 20th All-American Council - 07/26/2021
On Wednesday, July 28, at 7:00 PM ET, His Beatitude Metropolitan Tikhon will be hosted by Archpriest Thomas Soroka to discuss and formally announce the 20th All-American Council which will take place in Baltimore, MD on July 18-22, 2022.
Assembly of Bishops Mental Health Needs Assesment Survey - 05/10/2021
His Eminence, Archbishop MARK has released a letter regarding a mental health inititiative for Orthodox Christians developed by the Assembly of Bishops' Metnal Health Task Force, with links to a survey that parishioners are encouraged to complete.
Healing the Wounded Congregation Workshop - 04/20/2021
In this workshop, Earl Nichols, D.Min., LMFT (a former pastor of a wounded congregation) will share ways to identify a wounded congregation; how to recognize the injuries and consequences; and specific steps that give "the how" you, as pastor, can guide the wounded congregation to health and wholeness.
ARCHBISHOP MARK WARNS OF SPOOF EMAIL SCAM - 04/11/2021
Please be careful with any suspicious email correspondence. Should you have any concerns about messages received, use the diocesan email account in the footer or call our office.
His Eminence, Archbisshop MARK has released a message to the Diocese regarding respect of our brothers and sisters decisions during the ongoing pandemic which can be read HERE.
Assembly of Bishops Declares 2021 as “Year of the Youth” - 01/28/2021
At the annual meeting in October 2020, the Assembly of Canonical Orthodox Bishops of the United States of America declared 2021 the Year of the Youth, with the intent of augmenting ministry to children, teens, and young adults across the country.
IGNITING THE FLAME OF TRUE STEWARDSHIP AND GENEROSITY - An Online Seminar - 01/24/2021
If you, or any leader in your church, wants to learn church stewardship best practices, please join us this Tuesday, January 26 at 7:00 p.m. Eastern (6 Central - 5 Mountain - 4 Pacific). The GOA Stewardship Department is sponsoring free Stewardship ZOOM seminars open to ALL Orthodox faithful regardless of jurisdiction or location.
The Orthodox Church in America is pleased to announce that the encyclical, “We Rejoice Even in Tribulations”: An Encyclical of Hope, adopted unanimously at the last meeting of the Holy Synod, has been posted today on the home page.
The Department of Youth Ministry of the Diocese of New York and New Jerset is hosting a Virtual Winter Teen Retreat for Teens in Grades 6-12 on Wednesday, December 30th. REGISTER NOW!
Announcing the 2021 Diocesan Assembly - 11/30/2020
The 57th Annual Diocesan Assembly will take place on Friday, January 29, 2021 online via ZOOM as we cannot plan an in-person meeting with any certainty. Please read His Eminence, Archbishop MARK's announcement HERE. A dedicated tab for the Diocesan Assembly is at the top of the website - all reports and correspondence will be posted there as they are approved. Please check back often.
Please note that you must register Delegates and Alternates as soon as possible with email and phone number contact to be able to set up the onine meeting - please keep this in mind as delegates and alternates are chosen. The forms are on the 2021 Diocesan Assembly Page.
Also note the Parish Annual Report form - posted on the 2021 Diocesn Assembly Page. please fill this out and return to the Diocesan Office electronically as soon as possible.
Feast of the Dormition • Wilkes Barre - 08/20/2020
On Saturday August 15, 2020, The Dormition of the Mother of God Feast, was celebrated by Fr Innocent Neal and the faithful of Holy Trinity Parish of Wilkes-Barre, with Blessing of flowers.
Alternatives to Public and Private Schools - 07/13/2020
His Grace, Bishop THOMAS, Chairman of the Committee for Youth of the Assembly of Canonical Orthodox Bishops has released a message providing alternatives to public and private schools.
St. Tikhon's Virtual Summer Camp Registration OPEN! - 06/29/2020
Virtual camp will be from July 19 - August 1, 2020. For more information and to register please visit their website. Please note that you must register by July 17.
Holy Synod Issues Pastoral Letter and Directives - 05/07/2020
On Friday, May 1, 2020, meeting under the Presidency of His Beatitude Metropolitan Tikhon, the Holy Synod of the Orthodox Church issued the following Pastoral Letter, and Synodal Directives related to COVID-19. His Eminence, Archbishop MARK has released preliminary Diocesan Guidelines.
Peer Learning Opportunities for Clergy Wives - 05/02/2020
The Thriving in Ministry Clergy Peer Learning Program has an opportunity to offer facilitated peer groups for clergy wives in our Diocese. To learn more about the Thriving in Ministry Program visit their website.
Core Guidelines For Parish Councils to Address Before Reopening - 04/29/2020
Thank you for your patience during these ever-evolving times. As the Church looks forward to re-opening, there are many areas that Parish Councils must address to insure the safety and well-being of its’ members. Any questions that may arise should be addressed to the Deans or to the Diocesan Office. The list below will grow as we move forward, and it is key that Parish Councils make sure that all are addressed. Please check back often for updates to this list.
The Holy Synod of the orthodox Church in America will meet via Video Conference April 29th to discuss each unique Diocesan situation and a way forward.
Diocesan Leadership Discusses Options for Re-Opening - 04/23/2020
+His Eminence Archbishop Mark held Video Conferences this week with each Deanery to discuss ideas and concerns related to re-opening parishes within the Diocese.
Grants Available to Further the Mission of Orthodoxy - 04/01/2020
The Elsie Skvir Ganister Foundation is now taking applications for grants to worthy Orthodox endeavors to further the mission of Orthodoxy. The full press release can be read HERE.
Glory to Jesus Christ! As Holy Week begins there are many options for the faithful. Many parishes will be live streaming services in lieu of being able to meet phsically as a comunity. There are also many resources for use at home. Please check the list of resources and chose a service to "attend."
The Diocese of Philadelphia and Eastern Pennsylvania will use this space to provide Spiritual Resources in Time of Need. This are will be updated frequently in the interest of serving your Spirutual needs.
Glory be to Jesus Christ! Glory Forever! In light of the Statement of the Holy Synod of Bishops of the Orthodox Church in America March 17, 2020, and after consultation with the clergy of the diocese who met in teleconference with me today, it is my decision that in order to comply with Federal, State and local recommendations, and most importantly, out of our love and care for one another, we will not hold public services in our parishes until April 1 at the earliest.
2020 A Year of Anniversaries for the Orthodox Church in America - 03/16/2020
On Wednesday, November 13, 2019, the Holy Synod of Bishops of the Orthodox Church in America concelebrated the Divine Liturgy for the feast of Saint John Chrysostom. At the conclusion of the Divine Liturgy His Eminence Archbishop Michael of New York and New Jersey, Secretary of the Holy Synod, read a proclamation of the Holy Synod announcing the anniversary celebrations for the Canonization of Saint Herman of Alaska, and the reception of the Tomos of Autocephaly.
Women's Retreat • St. Tikhon's • February 22 - 02/05/2020
The Diocese of Philadelphia and Eastern Pennsylvania will hold a Women's Retreat on Saturday, February 22 from 9:30am until 3. Cost is $10 per person and includes continental brekafast and lunch. Mother Gabriella (Ursache) of the Dormition of the Mother of God Monastery will lead the retreat. Deadline to register is February 17. Call 910.988.3462 or email Matushka Emilia Shepherd at officermillie79@gmail.com for more info
Sanctity of Human Life Sunday • Bethlehem - 01/21/2020
On Sunday, January 19, the Sanctity of Human Life Sunday, the community of St. Nicholas Orthodox Church in Bethlehem, PA was pleased to have Bright Hope Pregnancy Support Centers as their special guests.
83rd Annual Novogodny Ball • Philadelphia - 12/18/2019
St. Stephen's Orthodox Cathedral's Fellowship of Orthodox Christians in America will hold the 83rd Annual Novogody Ball on Sunday, January 19th 202 at the Radisson Hotel in Trevose PA.
St. Nicholas Russian Orthodox Church a cappella choir will present a concert of Orthodox liturgical hymns of the Nativity season and familiar Christmas carols on Sunday, December 15 at 3:30 p.m. in the Church.
Holy Trinity Orthodox Church in Catasaqua, PA will hold an Akathist Prayer Service to honor their Pochaev Mother of God Icon on Saturday, November 16 beginning at 6PM. Light refreshments will be served afterwards. All are welcome.
St. Michael's Day and Veterans Day Celebration - 10/02/2019
St. Michael's Orthodox Church in Mount Carmel will celebrate their Parish Feast Day and Veterans Day with a celebration on November 8th. The event kicks off with Divine Liturgy at 9AM, followed by a free meal. The Miracle Icon of St. Anna will be on display in the church.
Pan-Orthodox Teen Retreat • Harrisburg - 10/01/2019
Christ the Saviour Orthodox Church in Harrisburg, PA will host a Pan-Orthodox Teen Retreat entitled "I will fear no evil: A Christian approach to fear, anxiety and depression" on Saturday, November 9th. Dr, Al Rossi will lead this retreat.
2019 October Lecture Series • St. Tikhons - 09/24/2019
St Tikhon's Orthodox Theological Seminary announces the 2019 October Lecture Series, "Autocephaly", celebrating the 50th Year of Autocephaly of the Orthodox Church in America. The Lectures will begin Tuesday, October 8, and continue on each of the following Tuesdays in the month, Oct 15, 22, and 29.
Two Notable Fall Presentations - MARK YOUR CALENDARS! - 09/16/2019
Clergy and Laity in the Diocese of Philadelphia and Eastern Pennsylvania are invited to participate in two Orthodox themed workshops / presentations this fall. "Doxamoot" at the St. Basil Center, and a presentation by Fr. Barnabas Powell at various locations around the Diocese.
Fr. Barnabas Powell Speaking Tour • Diocese of Philadelphia - 08/30/2019
Fr. Barnabas Powell will speak at parishes across the Diocese beginning Tuesday, October 8. The Topic of his presentation is "Why I do the things I do... and what I can do about it!"
New Baptismal Font Blessed • Bethlehem - 08/27/2019
On Sunday, August 25 during the Divine Liturgy, a brand new baptismal font was blessed. The font, which was funded by the “O” club, was a welcome addition to the church.
Doxamoot: The Orthodox Christian Tolkien Conference • Emmaus - 08/26/2019
The St. Basil Center for Orthodox Thought and Culture will present a conference on the relationship between Orthodoxy and J.R.R. Tolkien entitled "Doxamoot: The Orthodox Christian Tolkien Conference" beginning on Friday, September 27 at the St. Basil Center. This is a three day event and tickets are limited. Click HERE for an itinerary and tickets.
Honoring Fr. Vladimir Petorak • Wilkes Barre - 07/02/2019
Holy Resurrection Cathedral in Wilkes-Barre, PA will be hosting Archbishop Mark on Saturday August 31st & Sunday September 1st for his annual parish visit. On Sept. 1st during Divine Liturgy the V. Rev. Vladimir Petorak will be awarded the Mitre. Immediately following Divine Liturgy clergy and their spouses from throughout the diocese are welcome to come and join us for fellowship and to congratulate Fr. Vladimir on this joyous occasion.
Ss. Peter and Paul Orthodox Church in Minersville, PA will celebrate the Feast of Ss. Peter and Paul on Saturday, June 29, beginning at 9:30AM with Divine Liturgy. A light lunch will follow.
Holy Annunciation Orthodox Church in Berwick, PA will host an Open House and Pig Roast on Saturday, June 15 beginning at 12PM and continuing until 6PM. There is no charge for this event and all are welcome to experience our Faith through Music, Icons and Church tours. There will be a free pig roast and children's activities. For more information please call Father Michael Demko at 570.752.3184.
Holy Apostles Orthodox Church in Mechanicsburg, PA will celebrate their Patronal Feast Day on Saturday, June 29 with Great Vespers at 6PM with Supper to follow.
How To Bake Pascha Bread • Mount Carmel - 03/06/2019
St. Michael's Orthodox Church in Mount Carmel, PA will host a Pascha Bread Baking Class on Saturday, April 13 beginning at 9:30AM. Participants will learn how to bake Pascha Bread and all who attend will be given a Pascha. To ensure sufficient supplies are on hand, please RSVP by emailing stosca@stmichaelsorthodoxchurch.org
St. Michael's Orthodox Church 131 North Willow Street Mount Carmel, PA 17851
St. Michael's Orthodox Church will host Lenten Vespers for the 2nd Sunday of Great Lent - St. Gregory Palamas. Services start at 4pm and a Lenten Dinner will follow.
St. Michael's Orthodox Church 131 North Willow Street Mount Carmel, PA 17851
Marywood Scholarship for Orthodox Students • Scranton - 02/27/2019
Students at Marywood University in Scranton, PA who self identify as communicants of the Orthodox Church are eligible to apply for the Peter Kohudic Scholarship which is available exclusively to Orthodox students. Preference is given, but not limited to students at St. Tikhon’s Orthodox Theological Seminary. For complete details please contact Barbara Schmitt, Director of Financial Aid, at schmitt@marywood.edu or 570-348-6225.
February 10 is Scout Sunday across the United States of America. Bishop David of Alaska, the Episcopal Liaison to the Eastern Orthodox Committee on Scouting, has released a message on this occasion. Please take a moment to review and make plans to welcome and celebrate the Scouts in your parish. His message can be read HERE.
Free Hot Dog and Soup Event • Mount Carmel - 01/10/2019
St. Michael's Orthodox Church in Mount Carmel, PA will hold a FREE Hot Dog and Soup Social on Sunday, January 27 from 11:30 until 4PM at the Church. Join the parish for a hot bowl of homemade beed vegetable soup or vegetarian option, hot dog, dessert and coffee. There is NO COST, the Parish simply wants to give back to the community and offer the opportunity for fellowship.
St. Michael's Orthodox Church 131 North Willow Street Mount Carmel, PA 17851
Orthodox Hymns and Christmas Carols • Bethlehem - 12/10/2018
St. Nicholas Orthodox Church in Bethlehem, PA will present an A Capella Concert of Orthodox Hymns and Christmas Carols on Sunday, December 16, 2018 beginning at 3:30PM. Fellowship and refreshments to follow in the parish hall.
Holy Trinity Orthodox Church in Pottstown, PA will hold a cookie sale on Saturday, December 8 from 9AM until 12 (or when sold out. There will also be limited quantities of Pirogies, Halupki, Halushki, homemmade soup, and nutroll. Raffle prizes too.
Community Christmas Concert • Edwardsville - 12/04/2018
St. John the Baptist Orthodox Church in Edwardsville, PA will host the Annual Community Christmas Concert on Sunday, December 23, beginning at 3PM. Local Edwardsville parishes will present Christmas hymns and carols in their tradition. Fellowship to follow in the parish hall.
2019 Youth Winter Retreat - Save the date! - 11/26/2018
The 2019 Youth Winter retreat has been announced! The Retreat will happen on February 8-9 at Christ the Saviour Orthodox Church in Harrisburg, PA with special Retreat Leader Steven Christoforou - director of Y2AM and Host of "Be the Bee." Stay tuned for more details as they emerge. Save the date and plan now!
Holy Annunciation Orthodox Church in Berwick, PA will present a Nativity Concert on Sunday, December 16 beginning at 3PM. Enjoy an afternoon of traditional Slavic Christmas carols and hymns sing during Nativity services. Refreshments will follow in the parish hall.
Christmas Bazaar and Bake Sale • Bethlehem - 11/19/2018
St. Nicholas Orthodox Church in Bethlehem will hold a Christmas Bazaar and Bake Sale on Friday, December 14 and Saturday December 15, from 10AM til 6PM
Veteran's Day Celebrations • Mount Carmel - 10/22/2018
St. Michael's Orthodox Church in Mount Carmel will hold special Veteran's Day Celebrations on Thursday, November 8 beginning at 8:45AM with the Reading of the Hours, and Divine Liturgy with special recognition of veterans following the service. At 10:45, brunch will be served in the Parish Hall to all attendees.
The Diocese of Philadelphia and Eastern Pennsylvania will present a Clergy Retreat on November 13-14, 2018, at the Fransiscan Spiritual Center in Aston, PA. The guest speaker will be His Grace, Bishop ANTHONY of the Diocese of Toledo (Antiochian Archdiocese)
16th Annual Fall Food Festival • Frackville - 09/14/2018
Holy Ascension Orthodox Church in Frackville will hold their 16th Annual Fall Food Festival on Saturday, September 22, 2018, 8AM until 2PM or sell out.
Christmas in September Raffle • Jermyn - 09/14/2018
The Festival Committee at St. Michael's Orthodox Church in Jermyn, PA, announces that the Basket Raffle of the Christmas in September Parish Festival features major prizes including a bicycle, a television, a microwave oven, a shop vac, a drone, and more!
If you are able to, the Diocese would appreciate your assistance with the ongoing move to the new Diocesan Center in Bath, PA. There are two opportunities to share your talents:
SECOND WORK DAY SEPTEMBER 8, 8:30 A.M. till? We have another work day Saturday, September 8th, starting at 8:30 a.m. If you are able to come any time after Liturgy, it would be most appreciated. Is anyone able to install a shower stall door, install electrical and switch for a ceiling fan, install electrical outlets in the garage and for a garage door opener, sweep floors, clean windows and window sills. We still have lots of work getting the landscaping under control. Spackle. Paint. Rehang shears and valances. Our move is scheduled for September 14-15th and much work needs to be done to prepare the house. We could really use help raking up the grass as it was almost a foot high. Russell mowed three times. MOVING SEPTEMBER 14-15 We are scheduled to pick up the U-Haul on the evening of September 14th. We will begin loading that evening. On the 15th we will continue loading and move. Assistance is needed at the new location to unload, unpack and clean what is unpacked. The china cabinet will need filled, bedding set up, etc.
St. Michael's Festival Committee invites everyone to attend the first event of our Christmas in September Parish Festival -- a Designer Purse Bingo, on August 26, 2018, at St. Michael's Center, 403 Delaware Street, Jermyn, PA
In Memoriam: Matushka Mary Klemash Dirga - 08/13/2018
Matushka Mary Klemash Dirga, 99, of Williamsport, PA fell asleep in the Lord on August 8, 2018 at UPMC Susquehanna Williamsport Regional Medical Center. She was born on May 14, 1919 in Yonkers, NY and was the daughter of Peter and Julia Moroz Klemash.
Congratulations on your accomplishment! Please share your good news with the Diocese. The Fall issue of Alive in Christ (the Diocesan Magazine) will feature all Diocesan Graduates. The only way this can happen is if YOU choose to participate. If you do (and you really should!) please submit the following:
Your Photo - a headshot will appear in the magazine. You can supply any type of photo of yourself that you want, but know that it will ultimately be cropped to a headshot. Quality counts! A larger photo file size is better - it will print better. Please supply as a JPG file electronically to doepa.communications@gmail.com
Your Biography - the following information will appear if you supply it - send to the same email address - you can send info AS an email or attach an MS word document. DO NOT PUT THE PHOTO IN THE MS WORD DOCUMENT - send as a separate attachment
Graduate's Name - correct spelling Graduate's Parish - name of Parish AND City please Graduate's Parent' Names - whomever you consider your guardians or would like to acknowledge Where you graduated from - full name of school and location Future Plans - college? Work? Continue in your career?
This information is exactly what space allows for and is what will be printed. No More, No Less.
You can also send physical photos and written correspondence to
Aric Gingo 160 Shadetree Road Shavertown, PA 18708
Please note that any physical materials will not be returned
Due Date is June 30, 2018 - but please feel free to be an overachiever and send early!
Recognizing Service of Retired Clergy • Wilkes-Barre - 03/16/2018
Holy Trinity Orthodox Church of Wilkes-Barre have been Blessed with the dedicated Orthodox retired priests in the area, while they are waiting for a permanent priest.
St. Tikhon’s Chamber Choir To Perform • Wilkes-Barre - 03/01/2018
South Canaan, PA—The Chamber Choir of St. Tikhon’s Monastery, an acclaimed professional vocal ensemble under the auspices of America’s oldest Orthodox monastery, will perform Rachmaninov’s All-Night Vigil, Op. 43 on Sunday, May 27th, at 7:30 p.m. The performance is part of the festivities of St. Tikhon’s Monastery’s 114th Annual Memorial Day Pilgrimage, and it will be held in the visually rich and acoustically stunning atmosphere of St. Stephen’s Episcopal Cathedral in Wilkes-Barre, Pa.
Confronting Dragons: Christian Hope in Tolkien and Fantasy Literature! - 02/12/2018
We are very excited to announce the college accredited 2018 Summer Scholars Program, hosted by the St. Basil Center for Orthodox Thought and Culture (being run in conjunction with the Templeton Honors College): Confronting Dragons: Christian Hope in Tolkien and Fantasy Literature! The program is geared to high school students. This year, we will be focusing our time on discussing Christian hope in Tolkien and other fantasy literature. We believe this program would be an excellent fit for many Orthodox Christian students. Check here for more details
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania - On Saturday, February 17th at 5pm, Aunt Pearlie Sue and the Gullah Kinfolk will perform at the Connelly Center Cinema on the campus of Villanova University in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The performance will recognize the important link between Philadelphia and the Sea Islands of South Carolina during slavery and Reconstruction. The performance is free and open to the public, refreshments will be provided, and offerings are welcomed.
St. Tikhon's Seeks Experienced Retail/Customer Service Person - 01/15/2018
St. Tikhon's Monastery Press and Bookstore is seeking an experienced retail/customer service professional with experience in bookkeeping. Please see their flyer for more information.
St. Michael's Orthodox Church in Mount Carmel, PA will hold a Free Soup Event on Sunday, January 28 from 11:30AM until 4:00 PM. All are invited to this FREE Event to enjoy soup, dessert, coffee and most importantly, fellowship!
St. Nicholas Orthodox Church a cappella choir will present a concert of Orthodox liturgical hymns of the Nativity season and familiar Christmas carols on Sunday, December 17 at 3:30 p.m. in the Church.
Sponsored by St. Stephen’s OCF - Chapter 82 Fellowship of Orthodox Christians in America Sunday, January 14, 2018
Radisson Hotel – Philadelphia Trevose, PA
A Semi-Formal Event for the benefit of deserving charities Dinner (Optional), Dancing & Treats by Reservation Only Optional Dinner: 5:00 PM Dancing & Treats: 7:30 – 11:30 PM
For detailed information regarding reservations, call Andre Cox at (215) 290-4542 or email: novogodnyball@gmail.com
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Advent Retreat • Pottstown - 11/13/2017
Holy Trinity Orthodox Church will hold an Advent Retreat featuring a lecture by Dr. Albert Rossi entitled "Becoming a Healing Presence." The retreat will begin with Vespers at 5:30PM on December 9 and continue through Sunday December 10.
I Was Sick and You Visited Me • Mechanicsburg - 11/03/2017
Holy Apostles Orthodox Church will host the workshop entitled "I was sick and you visited me", a workshop for Clergy, Council Members and the Faithful on Saturday, November 18.
The 8th Annual Parish Festival “Christmas in September and Car Show” on September 22 through 24 at St. Michael's Center in Jermyn, Pennsylvania, was a tremendous success.
The Annual St. Michael's Day Dinner Celebration of St. Michael's Orthodox Church in Jermyn, Pennsylvania, will be held on Sunday, November 12th at 11:30 a.m. following the Divine Liturgy.
The Hawiian Iveron Icon of the Mother of God will be present in St. Michael's Orthodox Church, 305 Walnut Street, Jermyn, Pennsylvania 18433, on Tuesday, November 7th for the Eve of the Church's Patronal Feast of St. Michael and the Bodiless Hosts, for the 6:30 p.m.
Myrrh-Streaming Iveron Icon to Visit • Olyphant - 10/25/2017
The Myrrh-streaming Hawaiian Iveron Icon will be at the St. Nicholas Orthodox Church, Olyphant, PA on Thursday, November 9 at 7 P.M. All are welcome to come and venerate the icon and be anointed with the myrrh.
St. Michael's Orthodox Church in Mount Carmel, PA will host a Veteran's Breakfast on November 5, 2017 in the Churhc Hall. Divine Liturgy begins at 9AM, with breakfast to follow at 11. For more information call 570.339.1200 or visit their website for more info.
Holy Annunciation Orthodox Church will host a Women's Retreat entitled "Nurturing Our Parish takes both a Martha and Mary," on Saturday, November 4 from 10AM until 3PM. Lunch will be provided and the public is welcome. Call 570. 752.3184 or visit their website for more information.
Who is Christ and why does it matter? • Berwick - 10/23/2017
Mother Magdalena and Mother Seraphima of Holy Transfiguration Monastery will deliver a lecture entitled "Who is Christ and why does it matter?" on Friday, November 3 beginning at 6PM. For more information please call 570.752.3184 or visit their website.
Exploring Hospice and Palliative Care Workshop • Wilkes-Barre - 10/10/2017
Allied Services / Heinz Rehab Hospital at 150 Mundy Street in Wilkes-Barre will hold a Workshop entitled "When the Time Comes: Exploring Hospice and Palliative Care." This conference is intended for social workers, nurses, counselors, chaplains, clergy, other interested professionals, persons with addictions, heir caregivers, and students. Pre-registration is required and non-refundable in most cases. Deadline for registration is October 12, 2017 or when 75 reservations have been received The general cost for the conference is $50 per person for chaplains, clergy, and those not receiving CEUs. $75 for nurses and social workers obtaining CEUs, and $25 per person for persons who have disabilities, caregivers, and students. A limited number of scholarships is available. Discounts for groups of five or more are available. Please make checks payable to Allied Services. A brochure for this event can be found HERE.
Holy Cross Orthodox Church will celebrate its' 40th Anniversary on Saturday, November 11 and Sunday November 12 with a full slate of services and activities. All are invited, reservations are required by October 15. Call 570.322.2020 for details and reservations.
Holy Resurrection Orthodox Cathedral in Wilkes-Barre, PA, founded by St. Alexis Toth, will celebrate their 125th Anniversary on October 28 and 29. ALL ARE INVITED!
Saturday, October 28, 2017, 2:00 – 4:00 PM Open House w/ Free Food & Beverages & Music
Sunday, October 29, 2017, 9:00 AM Hierarchical Divine Liturgy Archbishop Mark of Philadelphia – Presiding Banquet to Follow at Apple Tree Terrace, Dallas, PA
591 North Main Street Wilkes-Barre, PA 18705
For Reservations & Info Call 570-407-0005 or 908-313-2740
St. Mary's Altar Society of St. Michael's Orthodox Church in Jermyn, PA, presents the 2017 Harvest Dance and Dinner Buffet: Saturday evening, November 4th, at St. Michael's Center, 403 Delaware Street, Jermyn, PA 18433.
Holy Annunciation Orthodox Church in Berwick, PA will present a Marriage Retreat entitled: "Insights into Marriage from the Saints Through the Centuries and Practical Suggestions for Marriage" on Saturday, September 16 beginning at 10AM. Drs. David and Mary Ford of St. Tikhon's Orthodox Seminary will be at the presentation, and lunch will be provided. Contact Fr. Michael Demko at 570-752-3184 for more information.
Konevets Quartet to Perform • Harrisburg - 09/04/2017
The Konevets Quartet from St. Petersburg, Russia will perform at Christ the Saviour Orthodox Church in Harrisburg, PA on Tuesday, September 19 beginning at 7pm.
Many Upcoming Activities at St. Vladimir's • New York - 08/28/2017
St. Vladimir's Orthodox Theological Seminary in Yonkers, New York has a full schedule of fall activities, including the Father John Meyendorff Memorial Lecture, Prospective Student Open House, and Orthodox Education Day: “Modern Martyrs”. Click HERE for a complete listing of all upcoming activities.
A Women’s Retreat, sponsored by the Department of Religious Education of the Diocese of Philadelphia and Eastern PA, will be held on Saturday, September 9, in the St. Tikhon’s Monastery Dining Hall. The topic for this year’s retreat is: “Sisters on a Journey: Saints’ Lives and Our Lives,” presented by Mat. Valerie Zahirsky, chairman Orthodox Department of Christian Education, OCEC Representative, author of: “Encountering Women of Faith.” The cost for the retreat is $10 which includes lunch. It is open to all women 13 years and older.
CALLING ALL ATTORNEYS! Please let all of the attorneys in your congregation know that they are invited to a gathering of Orthodox Christian attorneys from across the country for a time of fellowship, networking, and learning from an excellent lineup of speakers. This inaugural event of the ORTHODOX ATTORNEY NETWORK is a chance for fellow Orthodox attorneys to meet and build relationships across jurisdictions, and learn how to serve our Lord together through our profession.
Fr. Patrick Henry Reardon Fall Tour • Diocese of Philadelphia and Eastern PA - 06/19/2017
Fr. Patrick Heny Reardon will be making a fall tour throughtout the diocese to deliver a lecture entitled "Atonement: An Orthodox Theology of Redemption"
Fr. Reardon will be visiting various churches in each deanery to deliver this lecture.
St. Tikhon’s Seminary Announces Enrollment into Diaconal and Parish Leadership Formation Program - 06/19/2017
St. Tikhon’s Seminary is announcing open enrollment into an expanded Diaconal and Parish Leadership Formation program! The program is currently structured to satisfy the educational requirements of laymen who would like to pursue ordination into the Diaconate. It is also intended for faithful men and women, who would like to deepen their knowledge of Orthodox theology and spiritual life to be more effective in their ministry in the Church. The expanded program now consists of two educational tracks: one for those who intend to serve as Deacons in the Orthodox Church and another for those who are actively involved in parish leadership.
Saint Vladimir's Orthodox Church in Lopez, PA will celebrate their 110th Anniversary on July 15, 2017. The Celebration is open to all, but reservations are greatly appreciated for planning purposes.
WE WANT TO MAKE SURE THERE'S ENOUGH FOOD FOR EVERYBODY ATTENDING THE PICNIC. While walk-in guests are welcome, if you definitely plan on joining us, please help us be prepared - RSVP with your name and number of guests by Saturday July 8 and leave a message at the parish house (570) 928-8909. Or contact Bob Neufer, parish president at (570) 928-1099 or kbneuf@ptd.net
The Hawaiian Myrrh-Streaming Icon • Jermyn - 06/08/2017
The Hawaiian Myrrh-Streaming Icon of the Iveron Mother of God will be present at St. Michael’s Orthodox Church in Jermyn, PA on Sunday, June 18th (Father’s Day) for the 9:30 a.m. Divine Liturgy.
The Effective Church Model - Igniting The Flame • Parish Council Workshop • Harrisburg - 04/25/2017
The Effective Church Model - Igniting The Flame Learn how to re-organize and re-energize your Parish, its ministries, stewardship and effectiveness, as you discover and live your personal calling as a Disciple of Christ. The Igniting The Flame program is a comprehensive approach to organizing the most effective and strategic Parish and ministries and becoming better Disciples.
Holy Apostles Orthodox Church in Mechanicsburg, PA will host a Paschal Retreat on Saturday, May 6 2015 beginning at noon.
Very Reverend Dr. Chad Hatfield will speak at the retreat, delivering a presentation entitled: Mary, Mysteries and Mission. To register email HAOCMechPA@gmail.com
BACKGROUND CHECK INFORMATION AVAILABLE NOW - 03/20/2017
New guidelines for Background checks has been posted to the website. These guidelines and necessary forms can be found under the RESOURCES tab or can be accessed HERE.
Holy Trinity Orthodox Church in Pottstown PA will hold their Spring Bazaar on Saturday, April 1 from 8AM until noon. For more information visit their website.
St. Nicholas Orthodox Church in Bethlehem, PA will host a series of Friday Lenten Fish Dinners, on March 10, Marxh 24, and April 7, from 4PM - 6:30PM. Eat in or Take out.
Very Reverend Archpriest Andrew Stephen Damick woll deliver the lecture: "Will YOU Be Left Behind? The RAPTURE in Light of Ancient Christianity" at Holy Trinity Orthodox Church in Pottstown, PA on Saturday, March 18 at 9:30AM. A light lenten luncheon will follow the lecture.
Holy Annunciation Orthodox Church in Berwick, PA will present a pre-lenten lecture by Very Reverend Raymond Browne entitled "The Healing Agony of Forgiveness" on Saturday, Februry 18 beginning at 10AM. For more information call Fr. Michael Demkoat 570.752.3184
St. John the Baptist Orthodox Church will hold a Potato Pancake sale on Saturday, March 4 from 11 until 3:30. Potato pancakes, home made pierogi, soups and baked good will also be available. Take out or dine in.
Agia Sophia Coffee House and the Orthodox Christian Charities of Greater Harrisburg will hold their 4-person scramble golf tournament on Saturday, July 15. Space is limited, cost is $260 per team.
Villanova University will present "Blood and Soul: The Russian Revolutions of 1917", commemorating the 100th Anniversaries of the 1917 Revolutions and the Enthronement of St. Patriarch Tikohn of Moscow. Opening ceremonies are on February 8, 2017 at 4PM at Corr Hall Chapel with a Panikhida for the victims of the Russian Revolutions. Opening Reception to follow at 5PM at Falvey Memorial Library.
The Pennsylvania Immigration Resource Center is currently looking for individuals who speak fluent Tigrinya and English to volunteer their time to facilitate attorney/client meetings at the York County Prison in York, PA.
St. Michael's Orthodox Church will hold a Community Soup Event on Sunday, February 5, from 11:30 until 5. The event takes place in their hall, and is absolutely free.
Dear V. Rev. Frs., Rev. Frs., Diocesan Council Members, and Department Chairs, The 53rd Diocesan Assembly will be held on Thursday and Friday, January 26 and 27, 2017 at Christ the Saviour Orthodox Church, 5501 Old Locust Lane, Harrisburg, PA 17109. All our active clergy, delegates and department chairs are required to attend this Assembly. Registration will begin on Thursday beginning at 3:00 p.m. followed by the formal opening of the Assembly at 4:00 p.m. Dinner will be at 5:00 p.m. and Great Vespers at 6:00 p.m. All relevant documents and information can be found on the Diocesen Assembly 2017 Page. Please check back as it will be updated often.
9th Annual Pan-Orthodox River Blessing - 12/20/2016
The 9th Annual Pan-Orthodox Great Blessing of the Susquehanna River at City Island will take place on Sunday, January 22. Participants should gather at the Arcade at 2PM. Reception to follow at the Agia Sophia Coffehouse.
Community Christmas Concert • Edwardsville - 12/02/2016
Saint John the Baptist will host the second annual Community Christmas Concert featuring performances by:
Featuring performances by: Immanuel Baptist Church Polish National Church Dr. Edward’s Memorial Congregational Church The Choir of St. John the Baptist Orthodox Church
A Nativity Concert featuring the Holy Annunciation Orthodox Church Choir from Berwick, PA will be performed at Bucknell University on Sunday, December 4 beginning at 7pm.
St. Nicholas Orthodox Church in Bethlehem will hold its' annual Christmas Bazaar on Saturday, December 10 from 9 to 5 and Sunday December 11 from Noon til 3.
St. Nicholas Russian Orthodox Church a cappella choir will present a concert of Orthodox liturgical hymns of the Nativity season and familiar Christmas carols on Sunday, December 11 at 3:30 p.m. in the Church. Traditional Valaam, Kievan, and Serbian chants along with arrangements by well known Russian composers will include O House of Ephrata, Rejoice, O Virgin Theotokos by Rachmaninoff, Glory to God in the Highest by Bortniansky, and The Kanon of the Feast by Allemanov. Traditional Russian Christmas carols will be sung in Russian and English. The Choir is under the direction of Reader Nicholas Lezinsky. A free will offering will be taken. Following the concert, light refreshments will be served in the Chernay Fellowship Hall. The Church is located at 980 Bridle Path Road (between Route 512, Center Street, and Jacksonville Road). For information, call 610-867-0402 or 610-868-9468.
On Wednesday, November 23 at 7PM, The Orthodox Council of Churches of South Central PA (OCCSCP) will hold a Thanksgiving Akathist at Holy Apostles Orthodox Church. The brnad new church is laocted at 7111 Wertzville Road, Mechanicsburg, PA.
The Mystery of Holy Unction • Mechanicsburg - 11/08/2016
Holy Apostles Orthodox Church in Mechanicsburg, PA will hold "The Mystery of Holy Unction" on Saturday, November 19 beginning at 10AM. The office of Holy Annointing will take place, with commentary. Lenten lunch to follow. The event akes place at the brand new church at 7111 Wertzville Road (Silver Spring Township), Mechanicburg, PA. See their website for more details.
Christmas Bazaar and Concert • Bethlehem - 11/01/2016
Saint Nicholas Orthodox Church will hold their annual Christmas Bazaar on December 10, 2016. On December 11, the parish will present a Christmas Concert.
13th Annual Election Day Dinner • Williamsport - 10/26/2016
Holy Cross Orthodox Church will hold their 13th Annual Election Day Dinner, featuring Chicken Potpie, Side Dishes, Dessert and drinks. Take outs are available. See their website for more details.
Psalms and Hymns Benefit Concert • Philadelphia - 10/06/2016
St. Tikhon's Seminary has partnered with the newly launched Center for Orthodox Thought and Culture to hold a benefit concert in Philadelphia on Sunday, November 6 at 4:00 PM in the McInnis Auditorium on Eastern University's campus.
"Sharing the Gospel in the Age of the Internet" • Williamsport - 10/06/2016
On Monday, October 17, Holy Cross Orthodox Church will host Sister Vassa who will give a presentation entitled "Sharing the Gospel in the Age of the Internet." The lecture will begin at 7PM. For more information visit their website.
"Ancient Spirituality: Modern Application" • Williamsport - 10/06/2016
On Monday, October 24, Holy Cross Orthodox Church in Williamsport, PA will host Fr. Thomas Soroka who will give a presentation entitled "Ancient Spirituality: Modern Application." The lecture will begin at 7PM. For more informaton visit their website.
THe vocal ensamble, LYRA, from St. Petersburg, Russia, will perform at Holy Cross Orthodox Church in Williamsport, PA on WEdnesday, October 5, 2016, beginning at 7PM. For more information call 570.322.3020 or visit their website
Celebrating Mary • St. Vladimir's Seminary *UPDATED! - 09/20/2016
On Saturday, October 1, 2016, St. Vladimir's Orthodox Theological Seminary in Yonkers, NY will recognize Orthodox Education Day with a presentation entitled "Celebrating Mary." Orthodox Education Day, the annual open house of St. Vladimir’s Orthodox Theological Seminary, will begin at 2:30 p.m. on Saturday, October 1. The events of the day have been moved forward into the afternoon and evening, out of respect for a neighborhood fireman who was killed in the line of duty on Tuesday morning, September 27, during an explosion in the Bronx. More details can be found at their website.
Miracle Working Icon of St. Anna • Pottstown - 09/20/2016
The Miracle Working Icon of St. Anna will be at Holy Trinity Orthodox Church in Pottstown, PA on Saturday, September 24. Visitors can call beginning at 4PM. For more information call 610.327.1542, or visit their website at www.holytrinitypottstown.org
Refugee Aid Charity Dinner • Pottstown *UPDATED! - 09/16/2016
Holy Trinity Orthodox Church will present a Charity Dinner with the theme "Refugee Aid: How the Orthodox Church Can Help" on Saturday, November 12, 2016.
Christmas in September will be held on Friday, September 23, Saturday, September 24th and Sunday, September 25th the Classic Car Show at St. Michael's Center in Jermyn, Featuring, Homemade Goods, Homemade Holiday Baked Goods, Holiday Gifts Jewelry and Collectibles.
Celebrate the World Day of Prayer for the Care of Creation on September 1 - 08/30/2016
INVITATION: Join a 30-minute Teleconference to Observe the World Day of Prayer for the Care of Creation Sept. 1 at 8:30pm ET / 5:30pm PT
Fr. Yeprem Kelegian of the Armenian Church of America and Deacon Sergei Kapral of the Orthodox Church in America will share Orthodox theology and prayer with the Creation Justice Community. Sign up now.
St. Vladimir Orthodox Theological Seminary Presents Orthodox Education Day • Yonkers - 08/30/2016
St. Vladimir Orthodox Theological Seminary will host an Orthodox Education Day on Saturday, October 1, 2016 beginning with Divine Liturgy at 8am. The theme for the day is "Celebrating Mary." For more information, see the flyer,
35th Annual Russian Days Festival • Bethlehem - 08/22/2016
St. Nicholas Orthodox Church in Bethlehem PA will hold their 35th Annual "Russian Days Festival" from September 9 through September 11. Doors open daily at 11AM.
Diaconal Program Expands • Philadelphia - 08/17/2016
As many of you know, for a number of years St. Stephen's Cathedral has been hosting a Diaconal Formation Program of St. Tikhon's Seminary. We've been working on expanding this program to also allow for training of layity who are not planning to pursue Diaconal ordination but are active members of their parish and help out in various positions. This program gives participants foundational knowledge of Orthodox Theology, Church History, Scriptural interpretation and Typical, so it can be especially important for those involved in Catechetical work, Sunday School (especially teen/high school level) and cantors/choir directors.
Coffee With Sister Vassa October 2016 Tour - 08/09/2016
Sr. Dr. Vassa Larin will make a series of presentations around the Diocese of Philadelphia and Eastern Pennsylvania beginning on October 17, 2016. A flyer with her full itinerary can be found HERE.
Addiction: Hope For Recovery Workshop • Wilkes-Barre - 08/03/2016
Allied Services in Wilkes-Barre, PA will present a workshop entitled "Addiciton: Hope For Recovery" on Thursday, October 20, beginning at 7:15AM. A brochure and registration form can be found HERE.
Holy Trinity Orthodox Church will have its 50th Annual Parish Bazaar on the church grounds, 401 E. Main Street (Miners Mills), Wilkes Barre on Saturday, July 30 and Sunday, July 31 from 4:00 p.m. until 10:00 p.m. each day.
Women's Retreat • St. Tikhon's • 8/20/2016 - 07/15/2016
A Women’s Retreat, sponsored by the Department Curriculum and Education of the Diocese of Philadelphia and Eastern PA, will be held on Saturday, August 20, 2016 in the St. Tikhon’s Monastery Trapeza. The topic for this year’s retreat is: SPIRITUALITY in Our Daily Lives.” The speaker will be Archimandrite Sergius, Abbot of St. Tikhon’s Monastery. The cost for the retreat is $10 which includes lunch. It is open to all women.
Holy Trinity Orthodox Church in McAdoo, PA will celebrate their 115th Anniversary on the weekend of July 8-10. Please RSVP for the event by July 4 to 570.929.2733
St. Tikhon's Orthodox Theological Seminary in Waymart, PA would like to take the opportunity to extend an invitation to parishioners to join us for two important events that are happening here at the Monastery this summer: St. Anna’s Day - On Sunday, July 24th at 2:00 p.m. we will have an Akathist, procession and anointing in honor of the Miraculous Icon of St. Anna that resides here at the Monastery.
Our Patronal Feast Day of St. Tikhon of Zadonsk - On Saturday, August 13th please join Metropolitan Tikhon and the Monastery Brotherhood for Divine Liturgy and a festive meal beginning at 9:00 a.m.
On Sunday, September 11th at 4pm Christ the Saviour Orthodox Church in Harrisburg, PA will welcome the renowned Konevets Quartet from St. Petersburg, Russia for a concert of sacred and folk music.
Holy Cross Orthodox Church in Williamsport, PA will hold a Semi-formal dance on Friday, June 17 from 5 - 9pm. Pizza and snacks will be served, and dancing will include both traditional and pop music. Please RSVP to Myra Kovalak by June 10
An Orthodox Perspective of Islam • Mechanicsburg - 04/28/2016
Holy Apostles Mission will present a discussion led by the Very Reverend Fr. Thomas Soroka entitled: "An Orthodox Perspective of Islam" on Saturday, May 14, 2016. Registration and information by email: haocmechpa@gmail.com
St. Alexis Toth Feast Day Celebration • Wilkes-Barre - 04/27/2016
St. Alexis Feast Day celebration Holy Resurrection Cathedral in Wilkes-Barre, PA invites all the clergy and parishioners of the Diocese of Philadelphia and Eastern Pennsylvania to celebrate the feast day of St. Alexis Toth on May 6th-7th. Vespers will begin on Bright Friday, May 6th, at 6pm. On Bright Saturday, May 7th Divine Liturgy begins at 9:00 am followed by an inside festal picnic. To help in the preparations, please contact Fr. Timothy Cremeens at 570-202-0755 or dr.cremeens@ggsm.us if you are able to attend.
Holy Monday - April 25 - Bridegroom Matins @ 6:30pm Holy Tuesday - April 26 - Bridegroom Matins @ 6:30pm Holy Wednesday - April 27 - Liturgy of Presanctified Gifts along with Holy Unction @ 6:30pm Holy Thursday - April 28 - Vesperal Divine Liturgy of St Basil @ 10am Holy Thursday - April 28 - Holy Friday Matins with the reading of the 12 Passion Gospels @ 6:00pm (His Eminence Archbishop Mark will visit our parish for this service)
Holy Friday - April 29 - Royal Hours Service @ 10:00am Holy Friday - April 29 - Vespers with Procession and Reading of Ezekiel @ 6:00pm Holy Saturday - April 30 - Vespers with Divine Liturgy of St Basil the Great (All 15 Readings) @ 10:00am Holy Pascha - May 1 - Pascha Service (Procession, Matins, Divine Liturgy) @ 8:30am Holy Pascha - May 1 - Pascha Vespers approximately 15 minutes after blessing of the Easter basket which will occur immediately after Divine Liturgy
Bright Saturday - May 7 - Vespers @ 5:00pm St Thomas Sunday - May 8 - Divine Liturgy @ 10:00am with the Blessing of the Graves at Mount Moriah Cemetery afterwards (weather permitting).
Free Lecture by Archpriest John Moses • Wilkes-Barre - 04/18/2016
Holy Trinity Orthodox Church will sponsor a lecture by Archpriest John Moses entitled "Living a Christian Life in a Material World (My Home is my Monastery)" on Saturday, May 14, 2016 at 4:00PM.
APRIL 21 • 7:00 PM ST. GABRIEL SYRIAC ORTHODOX CHURCH 750 SUNSET AVENUE HAWORTH, NJ 07641
All people of faith and good will are invited to pray for the safe return of the two kidnapped hierarchs from Aleppo--Metropolitan Paul Yazigi of the Greek Orthodox Patriarchate of Antioch and Archbishop John Ibrahim of the Syriac Orthodox Church--and for all those suffering calamities in the Middle East. This gesture of prayerful solidarity marks the commencement of the formal dialogue and cooperation between the Assembly of Bishops and SCOOCH.
Booklet for the service of the Akafist to the Theotokos available for download - 04/13/2016
This Friday night the Typicon prescribes a special service of Small Compline with the Akafist and Canon to the Theotokos. The Liturgical Life Committee of the Diocese of Eastern PA has prepared a special booklet with this service and it is now available for download from Diocesan web site and can be printed for the use of the choir and parishioners. Also, available is a PDF file with musical notation for the Odes of the Canon that can be used by the church choir.
St. John the Baptist Orthodox Church in Dundaff, PA will hold their annual Mother's Day Dinner on Sunday, May 8, 2016. Takeouts are available from 11 - 11:30AM • Dinner begins at 12PM
St. Tikhon's Seminary Century Association presents "Hospitality A La Ruse vII" featuring Traditional Russian Cuisine and the Kauriga Balalaika Orchestra
Sunday, May 15, 2016
St. John's Russian Orthodox Cathedral St. John's Center
Lecture Series at Villanova • Russian America: The Alaskan Native Spiritual Legacy - 02/09/2016
In continuation of the "Russian America: The Alaskan Native Spiritual Legacy" exhibition at Villanova University, a series of lectures will begin in March.
Partners in Faith Formation of Children with Autism and Other Disabilities • Harrisburg - 01/31/2016
The Cardinal Keeler Center in Harrisburg, PA will hold a presentation entitled "Partners in Faith Formation of Children with Autism and Other Disabilities" on April 23, 2016.
33rd Father Alexander Schmemann Memorial Lecture: “Toward the Holy and Great Council” - 01/12/2016
The Reverend Dr. John Chryssavgis, Archdeacon of the Ecumenical Patriarchate, will be the presenter at the 33rd Father Alexander Schmemann Memorial Lecture on Sunday, January 31, 2016, at 7 p.m. The lecture is titled, "Toward the Holy and Great Council: Retrieving a Culture of Conciliarity and Consensus," and will be held in the Metropolitan Philip Auditorium of the John G. Rangos Family Building on our campus. The presentation is free and open to the public.
Exhibition at Villanova • Russian America: The Alaskan Native Spiritual Legacy - 01/11/2016
As we honor the 45th anniversary of the canonization of St. Herman of Alaska, the north star of Christ's Holy church, we are pleased to announce the opening of the exhibition, "Russian America: The Alaskan Native Spiritual Legacy". Organized by Fr. Richard G. Cannuli, OSA, Villanova University Art Gallery and Fr. John J. Perich, curator of the Metropolitan Museum of the Orthodox Church in America and St. Tikhon's Monastery and Seminary Icon Repository. This exhibition celebrates the various native American peoples of Alaska, their culture and the spiritual legacy of the Russian Orthodox Church.
Diocesan Winter Teen Retreat 2016: February 26th-28th - 01/08/2016
Need to recharge your spiritual batteries? Join in the fun at the 2016 Winter Teen Retreat! Make new friends, meet up with old friends, and learn about your faith with Fr. Timothy Hojnicki and the Office of Young Adult Activities!
Peace Light from Bethlehem • Wilkes-Barre - 12/18/2015
Holy Trinity Orthodox Church, Wilkes Barre, will have the honor of receiving the candle flame from Bethlehem, the place where our Lord was born. This light from Bethlehem will illumine the church throughout the Christmas season and beyond. Visitors will have the opportunity to take this light home with them in the same way that a lighted candle is brought home by many following the services of Holy Thursday evening. This event will take place on Wednesday, December 23rd at 6:30 p.m. An Akathist to the Nativity will be celebrated following the reception of the light.
"Now in its 29th year, the Peace Light from Bethlehem campaign was originally organized by the Austrian Broadcasting Company - ORF (Linz) - and was part of a large charitable relief mission - Light into Darkness, for children in need in Austria and abroad. Since 1986 there has been a great deal of co-operation between Scouts and Guides in many countries which has allowed the light to travel throughout Europe, such that the light is passed on to 30 European Countries and for the past few years, on to North America, Mexico and Canada . Each year, a child from Upper Austria kindles a flame from the "Eternal Flame" from the Nativity Grotto in Bethlehem where Jesus was born. The light is then flown to Austria from where it is distributed at a Service of Dedication to delegations from across Europe who take it back, with a message of Peace, to their own countries for use at ecumenical services throughout the Continent. Scouts and Guides can then take the light on to other churches, hospitals, old people homes, prisons, and places of public, cultural and political importance - to anybody that appreciates the significance of the "gift". " ~ Peace Light website
Please invite your friends and neighbors to join us on Wednesday, December 23 at 6:30 p.m. for this wonderful event. Some lanterns will be available for sale at the church to carry the light home with you or you can bring your own lantern.
On Sunday, December 20th, 2015 all are welcome to join the parish for a Christmas Sing-A-Long following Divine Liturgy at St. Michael’s Orthodox Church at 131 North Willow Street in Mt. Carmel.
Special Advent Retreat • Mount Carmel - 12/10/2015
On Sunday, December 13th, 2015, Archpriest Chad Hatfield will do a special Advent retreat at St. Michael's Orthodox Church in Mt. Carmel on the topic of Mary, Mysteries and Mission - The Three "M"s. This will begin after the Divine liturgy around 10.30 am. He will also be the homilist at the Liturgy. Archpriest Chad Hatfield is the first Chancellor of St. Vladimir’s Seminary (SVOTS). Father Chad came to SVOTS from St. Herman Seminary in Alaska, where he was serving as the Dean. He presently serves as a member of the Metropolitan Council of the Orthodox Church in America (OCA). Divine Liturgy begins at 9:00 AM at St. Michael’s Orthodox Church at 131 North Willow Street in Mt. Carmel. Everyone is welcome to join us for the retreat and a light lunch.
The Mother of God and the Saints • An Icon Exhibition • Stroudsburg - 12/07/2015
Iconography holds theological and spiritual importance in Eastern Orthodox Christian worship. This exhibit is on loan from St. Tikhon's Museum and Fr. John Perich, curator. The exhibit celebrates the beauty and spirituality of The Holy Icon and Holy Relics common to the Eastern Orthodox Christian Church. The exhibit features icons hand written in the ancient egg tempera style originally developed centuries ago. Many are embellished with silver, gold and precious metals. The collection also includes ecclesiastical items and richly embroidered vestment
St. Herman's Advent Lecture • Philadelphia - 11/24/2015
St. Stephen’s Cathedral will host annual St. Herman’s Advent Lecture on Sun, Dec. 13 at 4 PM. This year’s lecturer will be Dr. David Ford, a professor of Church History at St. Tikhon’s Seminary. He will present lecture “Dealing with Despondency: the Letters of St. John Chrysostom to St. Olympia the Deaconess”. Dr. David Ford would like to share with us the wisdom of this famous saint which is contained in the letters of St. John to St. Olympia, which he wrote while in exile.
Dr. Albert Rossi to Lecture • Berwick - 11/19/2015
Dr. Albert Rossi will deliver a lecture at Holy Annunciation Orthodox in Berwick entitled "Purity of Heart in a Sex Saturated World" on December 3, 2015 at 6:30PM
A Christmas Bazaar and Pierogi Sale will be held at St. Nicholas Russian Orthodox Church from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, December 12, 2015 in the Church Fellowship Hall. The Church is located at 980 Bridle Path Road, Bethlehem.
St. Nicholas Russian Orthodox Church a cappella choir will present a concert of Orthodox liturgical hymns of the Nativity season and Russian Christmas carols on Sunday, December 13 at 3:30 p.m. in the Church.
Lecture - The Shroud of Turin and its place in Orthodoxy • St. David's - 11/06/2015
Dr. Corrado Altomare will deliver a lecture entitled: "The Face of God?" The Shroud of Turin and its place in Orthodoxy on Wednesday, November 18 at 7:30PM at the Warner Memorial Library at Eastern University.
An Advent Spiritual Retreat entitled "Living the Mystery" featuring Fr. Stephen Freeman will bw held at Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church in Lancaster, PA on December 12, 2015, from 9AM - 1PM.
The Pan-Orthodox Choir will present aBenefit Concert for International Orthodox Christian Charities (IOCC)and the Orthodox Christian Mission Center (OCMC) entitled “Glorifying Christ our God”
“All About You Catering” Hall 302 East Lehman Street Lebanon, PA 17046 717-273-1986
22 November 2015 6 pm Concert 7:30 Dinner
Znamenny, Valaam, Byzantine, Serbian, Carpathian, Bulgarian Chants, & more by composers Karam, Smirnov, Kastalsky, Bortiansky, with a Gretchaninov premier.
Fr. Andrew Stephen Damick to lecture • Berwick - 10/29/2015
Fr. Andrew Stephen Damick will present his lecture, "Will YOU Be Left Behind?" The Rapture in light of Ancient Christianity on Tuesday, November 1o at 6:30PM at Holy Annunciation Orthodox Church in Berwick, PA.
Spiritual Retreat for Teenagers • Harrisburg - 10/09/2015
Christ the Saviour Orthodox Church will host a teen retret entitled "Purity and Prayer" from December 4-6, 2015. The keynote speaker will be Dr. Albert Rossi.
All Diocesan clergy wives, including all our widowed matushki, are invited to attend the Clergy Wives Retreat on Saturday, October 24th, at St. Nicholas Church in Bethlehem. This invitation is also extended to clergy wives from other jurisdictions as well. There is no charge. This Retreat will be covered through the H.O.P.E. Grant for our Diocese.
Thank you. Should you need any further information, you can contact Matushka Masha Solak
The Mother of God and the Saints • Suraci Gallery • Marywood University - 10/03/2015
Marywood University's Suraci Gallery will host the Exhibition: " The Mother of God and the Saints," featuring icons and relics from St. Tikhon's Monastery and the Metropolitan Museum. The Exhibition opens on October 25, at 4PM, and will feature a lecture by Archpriest Fr. John Kowalczyk, followed by a reception.
St. Petersburg Choral Ensemble to Perform • Williamsport - 09/30/2015
LYRA, a professional choral ensemble from St Petersburg Russia, will perform a concert of Russian Orthodox liturgical hymns and folk songs on Tuesday, October 13, 7pm at Holy Cross Orthodox Church, Williamsport.
Inaugural Lecture • Fordham University - 09/28/2015
Fr. John Meyendorff & Patterson Family Chair of Orthodox Christian Studies at Fordham University will hold the inaugural lecture, "War, Violence, and the Feast of the Holy Cross in Byzantium," presented by George E. Demacopoulus, PhD, on Monday, October 5 in Keating Hall at Fordham University.
Archpriest Joseph Martin's 50th Anniversary of Ordination • Wilkes-Barre - 09/25/2015
Holy Resurrection Orthodox Cathedral in Wilkes-Barre, PA will honor Archpriest Joseph Martin on Saturday, November 7 at 9AM with a Divine Liturgy of Thanksgiving on the occasion of Fr. Martin's 50th Anniversary of Ordination in the Holy Priesthood.
The Holy Mysteries and Family Life Retreat • Philadelphia - 09/17/2015
The Orthodox Clergy Brotherhood Of Philadelphia is Sponsoring a Retreat entitled "The Holy Mysteries and Family Life" to be held on October 24, 2015, at St. Micahel Orthodox Church, 4th and Fairmount Sts., Philadelphia, PA.
Icon of St. Anna, Service of Supplication to the Mother of God • St. Stephen’s Cathedral, Philadelphia - 07/29/2015
St. Stephen’s Orthodox Cathedral will be holding a Service of Supplication to the Mother of God on August 16, starting at 4PM, in conjunction with the visit by Pope Francis to the City. The Miracle-Working Icon of St. Anna will be present at the service. All are invited.
Women's Retreat • St. Tikhon's Orthodox Theological Seminary - 06/27/2015
A Women’s Retreat, sponsored by the Department Curriculum and Education of the Diocese of Philadelphia and Eastern PA, will be held on Saturday, August 22, in the St. Tikhon’s Seminary Dining Hall. The topics for this year’s retreat are: “Orthodox Living in the Modern World- Steps to Spiritual Transformation,” and “From Illness to Wellness- My Journey with God to a Kidney Transplant.” The speakers will be Archimandrite Sergius, Abbot of St. Tikhon’s Monastery and Carole J. Fair, Award Winning Author, and a member of Holy Apostles Mission, Mechanicsburg. The cost for the retreat is $10 which includes lunch. It is open to all women 13 years and older.
Diaconal Formation Program Open For Enrollment • Philadelphia - 06/26/2015
Diaconal Formation Program of St. Tikhon's Seminary based in Phiadelphia, PA is open for enrollment for the Fall Semester 2015. The program immerses students in the life of the Orthodox Church through serving in the altar, singing in the choir, and studying Scripture, Church History, Liturgics, and Spirituality. The Diaconal Formation program meets every Saturday from September to December (Fall Semester) and January to May (Spring Semester). Completion of the course of studies fulfills the necessary academic requirements for ordination to the Holy Diaconate. (In accordance with Canon Law, all decisions regarding ordination rest with the diocesan hierarch.) Men among the laity interested in pursuing theological study, spiritual formation, and liturgical training, and sense they might be called to the diaconal ministry, are encouraged to consider applying to this program and seek guidance from their parish priest. Click here or on photo for flyer.
St. Tikhon's Seminary Annual Clergy Continuing Education Symposium - 06/01/2015
Saint Tikhon’s Orthodox Theological Seminary will host its annual Continuing Clergy Education Symposium June 16-18, 2015. The seminary is pleased to provide this symposium to assist OCA priests and deacons fulfill their 20 hours of continuing education studies mandated each year by the Holy Synod of Bishops. This year’s program is focused most intensively on theological foundations for and the practice of pastoral care by our clergy in parish life. The list of speakers and topics to be included in this year’s symposium includes the following:
• “Practical Issues in the Life of an Orthodox Priest with Guidance from the Holy Fathers” by Archbishop Michael (Dahulich), Rector of St. Tikhon’s Seminary, Professor of Scripture - Tuesday afternoon, June 16, at 1:30 p.m. We will explore specific aspects of the Holy Priesthood, with direction gleaned from the writings of pastoral theology by Saint Ambrose of Milan, Saint Gregory the Great and Saint John Chrysostom.
• “The Concept of Healing as Found in the Dynamic of the Treatment Team Model” by Archpriest John Kowalczyk, Director of Field Education at St. Tikhon’s Seminary and Chaplain at SCI Waymart - Tuesday evening, June 16, at 6:30 p.m. We will examine the concept of healing as found in the dynamic of the Treatment Team Model and how the various disciplines working together interface in a harmonious way and bring care for the total person. We will review and bring examples of how this treatment model can bring healing for the priest in his personal life and pastoral work.
• “Palliative Care” by Dr. George Giokas, Physician specializing in: Geriatric Medicine, Hospice and Palliative medicine in Schenectady, NY - Wednesday, June 17, at 9:00 a.m. Palliative Care is a specialty of medicine caring for seriously ill people using an interdisciplinary team approach. The presenter, a practicing palliative care physician, will provide a medical perspective of current challenges to caring for adults with life-threatening illnesses. We will also explore issues related to advance care planning including advanced directives.
• “Pastoral Care in the Lives of the Saints” by Fr. Joseph Frawley, St. Martin Chapel at West Point Academy - Wednesday, June 17, at 1:00 p.m. We will examine Pastoral Care from two perspectives: first, as reflected in the Lives of the Saints (i.e. the various categories of saints); and then as exemplified in the lives of more contemporary God-pleasers.
• “Caring for the Elderly and Disadvantaged” by Mat. Marion Swencki, Director of Long Term Care, Wayne Woodlands Manor, Waymart, PA - Thursday, June 18, at 9:00 a.m. We will discuss the following topics: Alzheimer's disease and related dementias; simple solutions to major problems; person centered care and the corresponding right to dignity and respect; multi-pharmacy and effects on well being; Medicare, Medicaid, Private insurance, Managed Care, and Supplemental Insurance; Elder Abuse -- identification, prevention, and reporting.
• “Pastoral Counseling in the Parish” by Archpriest Steven Voytovich, Dean, Associate Professor of Pastoral Arts and Praxis, St. Tikhon’s Seminary - Thursday, June 18, at 1:00 p.m. We will consider some topics related to parish life that will include grief and loss, marriage, addictions, and family system orientation helpful for family counseling, and other topics of interest to participants; also considerations given to referrals.
All courses are available for Clergy Continuing Education credit, as approved by Archpriest Ian Pac-Urar. The cost, which includes lecture registration, room and board (in the Metropolitan Leonty Dormitory), is $100.00 per person. For an additional charge, a block of rooms has been reserved at the Pioneer Plaza Hotel in Carbondale, PA.
Please contact the seminary directly for any questions or to make reservations at at the seminary’s main number 570-561-1818 or by e-mail to teresa.vauxmichel@stots.edu.
St. Tikhon’s Seminary Opens Search for Director of Student Life - 06/01/2015
Saint Tikhon’s Orthodox Theological Seminary here recently initiated a search for a full-time Director for its Office of Student Life, which directly provides for the overall welfare and practical needs of seminarians in formation, with special attention given to their spiritual life.
The Director of Student Life will be responsible for supervising the overall discipline of seminary student body, coordinating with all seminary constituencies in matters related to community events, serving in counseling, advocacy, and advisory roles to students in general academic, spiritual, and personal matters.
The seminary is offering a competitive salary, flexible work environment, and benefits package.
To apply for the position, please forward a cover letter, resume, three references and three writing samples to the V. Rev. Steven Voyovich, Dean, at P.O. Box 130, South Canaan, PA 18459. Alternatively, applications may be submitted by e-mail to: steven.voytovich@stots.edu
The 73rd Annual Commencement of St. Tikhon's Orthodox Theological Seminary will be held on Saturday, May 23, 2015 beginning at 1PM. A Formal banquet will follow the commencement.
Funeral Service booklet (in PDF format) is now available for download. The file is formatted in a way that allows for easy printing of the service (needs to be printed double sided and then folded). This booklet is ideal for following the service by either the clergy or those who gathered for the funeral service. The Booklet can be downloaded HERE.
Spring Dance • Williamsport • May 1, 2015 - 03/24/2015
The youth of Holy Cross Church, Williamsport, will host a semi-formal Spring Dance on Friday, May 1 from 5:00-9:00pm. Diocesan youth (and friends!) ages 12 and up are invited to the parish's Orthodox Fellowship Center, adjacent to the church, for an evening of dancing to traditional and pop music. Pizza and snacks will be provided. Donation is $5 per person. Please RSVP by April 24 by calling 570-322-3020 or emailing mekovalak@gmail.com. Come, share some Paschal joy!
Religious Education Day • Philadelphia - 03/10/2015
On Saturday, March 28, St.Stephen's Orthodox Catholic Fellowship, Chapter #82 of the Fellowship of Orthodox Christians in America, will host the annual Colonial District Religious Education Day at St. Stephen's Cathedral at 8598 Verree Road in Northeast Philadelphia.
Fish Dinners and Pierogie Sale Calendar • Bethlehem - 02/28/2015
St. Nicholas Russian Orthodox Church, 980 Bridle Path Road, Bethlehem, PA will sponsor fish dinners and pierogie sales from 4 to 6:30 pm on Fridays, March 6, March 20, and April 3. The menu will feature baked or lightly breaded fried filet of haddock, vegetable, oven roasted potatoes, pickled cabbage, bread, choice of dessert from the dessert table, and beverage. Dine in or take out. Price is $10.00 for an adult and $6.00 for children. Theme basket raffle. Treasures of Russia Gift Shop will feature a wide variety of Easter eggs, Faberge style boxes and egg pendants, Matroshka nesting dolls, icons, crosses, and much more. Potato cheese pierogies will be available for purchase. For information call the Church at 610-867-0402
The St. Nicholas Orthodox Church Choir of Bethlehem, PA will present a concert on Sunday, December 21 2014, at 2PM, at Holy Trinity Orthodox Church in Stroudsburg, PA. All are welcome! Refreshments will be served following the concert.
Archpriest Chad Hatfield to Deliver Lecture on Anglican/Orthodox Relations - 12/03/2014
On Tuesday, December 9, 2014, Archpriest Chad Hatfield, chancellor/CEO of St. Vladimir’s Orthodox Theological Seminary, Yonkers, NY, will deliver the annual Kuehner Seminar Lecture at St. Paul’s Reformed Episcopal Church, 800 Church Road, Oreland, PA, 19075.
A Christmas Bazaar and Pierogi Sale will be held at St. Nicholas Russian Orthodox Church from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, December 13, 2014 in the Church Fellowship Hall. The Church is located at 980 Bridle Path Road, Bethlehem.
Ethnic foods such as halushki, halupki, potato pancakes, and borscht will be available for dine in or take out. Hand pinched pierogis will be for sale by the dozen. A bake sale table will have nut, apricot, poppy rolls and kiffles, and a wide assortment of Christmas cookies and cakes.
The Treasures of Russia Boutique will feature a variety of unique Christmas ornaments, matroshka nesting dolls, Faberge style pendants with Christmas motifs, hand-painted lacquered boxes, decorated eggs, hand-embroidered linens, Lomonosov china including a selection of collectible cups and saucers, and a large selection of icons and crosses. Crafters will offer a selection of handmade items.
St. Nicholas Russian Orthodox Church a cappella choir will present a concert of Orthodox liturgical hymns of the Nativity season and Russian Christmas carols on Sunday, December 14 at 3:30 p.m. in the Church. Traditional Valaam, Kievan, and Serbian chants along with arrangements by well known Russian composers will include O House of Ephrata, Rejoice, O Virgin Theotokos by Rachmaninoff, Glory to God in the Highest by Bortniansky, and The Kanon of the Feast by Allemanov. Traditional Russian Christmas carols will be sung in Russian and English. The Choir is under the direction of Reader Nicholas Lezinsky. A free will offering will be taken. Following the concert, light refreshments will be served in the Chernay Fellowship Hall. The Church is located at 980 Bridle Path Road (between Route 512, Center Street, and Jacksonville Road). For information, call 610-867-0402 or 610-868-9468.
On-line webinar to explore parish communications - 09/05/2014
“Communicating Your Parish: The Yellow Pages is No Longer Good Enough” is the theme of an on-line webinar on Tuesday, September 16, 2014 at 8:00 p.m. EDT.
Mr. Joseph Kormos of the Archdiocese of Western Pennsylvania’s Parish Development Ministry, will facilitate the session.
Matushka Vera Yuschak, widow of the late V Rev Nicholas Yuschak, fell asleep in our Lord, on Wednesday August 20, 2014 after a brief illness. Funeral arrangements Viewing St. Herman of Alaska Church Glen Mills Pa. Sunday August 24, 2014 from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm Funeral Service Sunday evening 5:00 p.m. St Herman of Alaska Church Monday August 25, 2014 Panikhida St Tikhon's Monastery Church followed by nternment in St Tikhon's Monastery Cemetery.
33rd Annual Russian Days Festival • Bethlehem - 08/13/2014
St. Nicholas Orthodox Church in Bethlehem, PA will hold their 33rd Annual Russian Days Festival from September 5 through September 7, 2014, 11AM until 7PM daily at the Parish grounds.
A Women’s Retreat, sponsored by the Department of Religious Education of the Diocese of Philadelphia and Eastern PA, will be held on Saturday, August 16, 2014. in the St. Tikhon’s Seminary Gymnasium. The topics for this year’s retreat are: “Prayer and Confession” and “Depression, Anxiety, and Stress.” The speakers will be Archimandrite Sergius, Abbott of St. Tikhon’s Monastery and Daria Virvan, (CRNP-PMH, BC), a Clinical Specialist in Adult Psych/Mental Health, in private practice works in the mental health community of the greater Washington, DC and Baltimore, MD metropolitan areas. She has a particular interest in the interplay of psychological and spiritual issues. The cost for the retreat is $10 which includes lunch. It is open to all women 13 years and older.
A flyer and registration form for this event can be found HERE
17th Annual St. Tikhon's Golf Tournament - 07/14/2014
Arrangements have been made for the 17th Annual St. Tikhon’s Golf Tournament to be held on Saturday August 16, 2014 at Jack Frost National Golf Course in White Haven, Pa. The event will start with registration and lunch at 12:00 P.M. and a shotgun start at 1:00 p.m.
Holy Trinity Orthodox Church will hold its 48th Annual Bazaar on the Church Parish grounds at 401 East Main Street, Miners Mills Section of Wilkes-Barre Saturday, July 26th from 4:00pm to 10:00pm and Sunday, July 27th from 4:00pm to 10:00pm.
Live music will be provided each evening. Ethnic food and a variety of bazaar favorites will be served, including:
Potato Pancakes Pierogies Halupki Halushki Hamburgers, Hot Dogs and Fries Sausage & Peppers / Steak & Onion Sandwiches Funnel Cakes And more . . . Also featured will be a bake sale and other bazaar favorites. We are most grateful for the opportunity to offer our 48th Annual Bazaar to our local parishes and community, and look forward to and appreciate your fellowship and participation once again!
St. Tikhon's Seminary opens search for Director of Development - 06/20/2014
Saint Tikhon’s Orthodox Theological Seminary is now interviewing qualified people for the position of Director of Development. Those interested may send resume information to 178 St. Tikhon’s Rd. Waymart, PA 18472.
2014 Orthodox Institute, “Theosis: Your Life with God” Announced - 05/23/2014
Announcing the 2014 Orthodox Institute, “Theosis: Your Life with God” which will offer courses on the topic of “Theosis.” These courses will serve as a spiritual retreat for those who attend and will educate them on this life-giving theology. The dates of the event are October 30-November 2, 2014, and the venue is The Antiochian Village, near Pittsburgh
St. Tikhon’s Seminary to Host Continuing Education Symposium - 05/19/2014
SOUTH CANAAN, PA [STOTS] – Saint Tikhon’s Orthodox Theological Seminary here will host its annual Continuing Clergy Education Symposium June 17-19, 2014. This is the second year that the school will provide this symposium to assist OCA priests and deacons in fulfilling their 20 hours of continuing education studies mandated each year by the Holy Synod of Bishops.
13th Century Kursk Icon Coming to Stroudsburg - 02/06/2014
The 13th Century Kursk Icon will be at Holy Trinity Orthodox Church, Stroudsburg, on March 5, 2013, beginning at 2PM. A flyer for this event can be found HERE. More information can also be found at Holy Trinity's Website.
SS Peter & Paul Orthodox Church in Minersville will be holding a Pre-Lenten Dinner on Sunday, February 16 at noon. A flyer for this event including menu and pricing can be found HERE.
St. Nicholas Orthodox Church in Olyphant, PA will hold a Senior Appreciation Day on Tuesday, February 11, beginning at 12 Noon. Topics that will be discussed include Estate Planning, Wills, Elder Care and more. Attorney Robert T. Kelly, Partner with the Law Firm of Myers, Brier and Kelly, LLP, will be at the event to assist with many of these timely topics. Lunch will be served at no charge. The Public is welcome - please call for reservations at 570-489-3891 or 570-587-3510. A flyer for this event can be found HERE.
Annual Midwinter Festival • Wilkes-Barre - 01/27/2014
Holy Resurrection Cathedral will hold their annual Midwinter Ethnic Food & Craft Festival on February 15 and 16. Home made ethnic foods and crafts, scented candles, pysanky and icons are a few of the items available. The Festival takes place at the Holy Resurrection Cathedral Parlors. Admission is FREE! A flyer for the event can be found HERE.
Holy Annunciation Orthodox Church's Youth Group will hold a Dinner Dance on Sunday, February 16. The event starts at 5PM and will take place at the Berwick Elk Lodge.
The Diocesan Assembly will take place on January 18, 2013, at St. Nicholas Orthodox Church in Bethlehem, PA. An agenda will be posted shortly - please mark your calendars!
The Diocesan Assembly will take place on January 18, 2013, at St. Nicholas Orthodox Church in Bethlehem, PA. An agenda will be posted shortly - please mark your calendars!
Christmas Bazaar and Pierogi Sale • Bethlehem - 12/03/2013
A Christmas Bazaar and Pierogi Sale will be held at St. Nicholas Russian Orthodox Church from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, December 14, 2013 in the Church Fellowship Hall. The Church is located at 980 Bridle Path Road, Bethlehem. A flyer for this event can be found HERE.
The St. Vladimir’s Seminary Octet, an all-male choir specializing in Orthodox Christian liturgical music from various ethnic traditions, will offer a concert of hymns in honor of St. Mary the Virgin, at Holy Trinity Orthodox Church, 1501 Trinity Court, Stroudsburg, on December 8th at 1:30 pm. The concert will feature selections drawn from the great feasts and seasons of the Orthodox Church’s liturgical year, and is free and open to the public. A flyer for this event can be found HERE
God is with us Free Community Christmas Concert • Harrisburg - 11/07/2013
A free community Christmas concert will be presented at Christ the Saviour Orthodox Church on December 15, 2013. A flyer for this event can be found HERE
Free Community Christmas Concert • Harrisburg - 11/04/2013
Christ the Saviour Orthodox Church, Harrisburg, will present a free community Christmas Concert - "God is With Us!" on Sunday, December 15, 2013. A flyer for the concert can be found HERE
St. Nicholas Orthodox Church will hold a "Senior Appreciation Day" on November 12, beginning at 11:30AM.
Community Resources for Senior Citizens By Dr. Kathleen Evanina, DNP, PhD Soup and Salad will be served Public Welcome! St. Nicholas Hall 604 E. Lackawanna St. • Olyphant, PA 18447 For questions or information please contact: Fr. Vladimir Fetcho 570-489-3891 Fr. Dn. John Nightingale 570-587-3510
“On Earth as it is in Heaven: Putting Orthodox Theology and Ecology into Practice.” A Conference at Saint Sophia Greek Orthodox Cathedral - 10/27/2013
“On Earth as it is in Heaven: Putting Orthodox Theology and Ecology into Practice.” A Conference at Saint Sophia Greek Orthodox Cathedral, Washington DC November 11th, 2013 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM You are invited to attend!
St. Tikhon's Announces Fall Lecture Series - 10/09/2013
St. Tikohn's Orthodox Theological Seminary announces its fall lecture series, featuring Matushka Natalie Stavrevsky, BSN, RN, MBA, Fr. Moses Berry, and Archpriest Steven Voytovich, D. Min. The lectures are free to the public. A schedule for the lecture series can be found HERE
Agia Sophia Coffeehouse will participate in "Third in the Burg" activities with live music and guest speaker John Hudanish on Friday, October 18, beginning at 6pm. More information can be found HERE
Father Moses Berry to Speak • Berwick - 10/09/2013
Father Moses Berry will speak at Holy Annunciation Orthodox Church, Berwick, PA on Tuesday, October 22 at 7PM. Admission is free and light refreshments will be served following the presentation. A flyer for this event can be found HERE
Father Moses Berry to Speak • Harrisburg - 10/09/2013
Father Moses Berry will speak at Christ the Saviour Orthodox Church, Harrisburg, PA on Wednesday, October 23 at 7PM. There will be a Vespers service at 6:30PM. Admission is free and light refreshments will be served following the presentation. A flyer for this event can be found HERE
St. John's Orthodox Church in Dundaff will be holding an ethnic food sale on Saturday, October 19 from 9AM - 2PM or until they are sold out. A flyer with more information can be found HERE
Christian Education Program • Antiochian Village - 10/07/2013
The Orthodox Institute in conjunction with the Antiochian Village announces the 2013 Orthodox Christian Education workshop, October 31 through November 3. An informational packet with pricing and application can be found HERE. A schedule of classes can be found HERE.
There will be a Clergy Wives Retreat on Sunday, November 3 at 4pm at the Holy Protection Monastery. The retreat leader will be Dr. Albert Rossi. A flyer for the event can be found HERE.
Holy Cross Announces Fall Lecture series - 09/30/2013
Holy Cross Orthodox Church announces their 2013 lecture series, including speakers Fr. Alexander Veronis, Fr. Victor Gorodenchuk, and Fr. Moses Berry. A flyer with more information can be found HERE.
DIOCESAN COUNCIL MEETING DATE CHANGED! - 09/26/2013
The date of the next Diocesan Council meeting is being changed to Tuesday, November 19th, at Holy Assumption Church in Philadelphia to accommodate the speaker, Nick Chakis. Please mark this change in your calendars. More information will follow at a later date.
Russian Days Festival September 6, 7, 8, 2013 • Pierogis, potato pancakes, halupki, halushki, delicious baked goods • Treasures of Russia, crafters, raffle, polka music And much much more! Eat in or take out. 11 am to 8 pm daily. St. Nicholas Russian Orthodox Church, 980 Bridle Path Road, Bethlehem
LYRA returns to Holy Cross • Williamsport - 08/12/2013
The choral ensemble "LYRA", from St. Petersburg, Russia, will present a concert of Russian Orthodox Liturgical Hymns and Russian Folk songs on Wednesday, September 25, at 7pm, at Holy Cross Orthodox Church in Williamsport. A flyer for the event can be found HERE.
Children and Family Festival • Coaldale - 08/09/2013
St. Mary's Orthodox Church will be sponsoring our 5th annual Festival on Thursday, August 15th 2013 from 4pm-8pm at the parish grounds (217 First Street Coaldale, Pa 18218).
St. John the Baptist Orthodox Church, Edwardsville, PA, will hold their annual Ethnic Food Festival on Saturday, August 24, from 11AM to 6PM, rain or shine. Handmade Pierogies, Freshly Grated Potato Pancakes, Halupki, Halushki, Pulled Pork, Goulash, Clam Chowder, Homemade bread and baked goods will all be available, as well as warm Orthodox Fellowship. A Flyer for this event can be found HERE.
Fr. John Naumovich Literary “R” Club, Chapter 50 (FOCA) is hosting a breakfast on September 8, 2013 at 11:30 after Liturgy. The proceeds benefit the rectory fund. Adults $7.00 Children under 12 $3.50 Call Liz Dutko at 570-905-5531. Reservations close Monday, September 2.
Altar Boy Retreat • Wilkes-Barre Deanery - 07/28/2013
The Wilkes-Barre Deanery will be holding an Altar Servers Retreat on Thursday, August 22nd, at Holy Trinity Orthodox Church in Wilkes-Barre. The Retreat will begin at 11:00 am and continue until 3:00 pm. There will be a cook-out, swimming, and games. The Deanery is providing hot dogs, hamburgers and drinks. Please bring a side dish to contribute to the cook out.
Please RSVP to Father David Shewczyk by Monday, August 19 with the number of Altar Servers from your parish who will be attending. You can RSVP with Father David by email: ka3wzy@ptd.net or by phone (570) 825-6540.
Akathist to St. Panteleimon • Berwick - 07/28/2013
On Monday July 29th, Holy Annunciation in Berwick will be celebrating an Akathist to the Great Martyr and Healer Panteleimon at 6:30 pm. All are welcome.
In an effort to meet the needs of online seekers, Holy Apostle's Mission, Mechanicsburg, PA updated to a custom built website, which was launched on June 13. It can be found at
2013 OCA Parish Ministries Conference • July 10-13 2013 - 06/12/2013
“Faith in Action: Equipping the Saints for Worship, Learning and Service,” will be the theme of a parish ministries conference to be hosted by four Orthodox Church in America departments on the campus of Marymount University, Arlington, VA, July 10-13, 2013.
St. Tikhon's Continuing Clergy Education Symposium - 05/20/2013
In association with our 75th Anniversary Celebration, St. Tikhon’s Orthodox Theological Seminary is pleased to present the 2013 St. Tikhon's Continuing Clergy Education Symposium to be held from Tuesday evening, June 18, through lunchtime on Thursday, June 20.
ST. TIKHON’S SEMINARY OPENS SEARCH FOR NEW DEAN - 03/26/2013
March 22, 2013
(South Canaan, PA) The Board of Trustees of Saint Tikhon’s Orthodox Theological Seminary, South Canaan, PA (www.stots.edu) announces a vacancy in the office of Dean, to be filled effective July 1, 2013. Applications, nominations, and expressions of interest for the position of Dean are now being accepted.
Saint Tikhon’s Seminary is an institution of professional Orthodox Christian theological education, affiliated with the Orthodox Church in America, chartered by the Department of Education of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, and nationally accredited by the Association of Theological Schools in the United States and Canada. St. Tikhon’s Seminary offers the Master of Divinity degree, as well as the Bachelor of Arts in Theology degree, and a certificate in diaconal formation studies.
The primary purpose of the Seminary is to provide the necessary theological, spiritual, and moral foundation for Orthodox men to become good shepherds of Christ’s Holy Orthodox Church and for others to pursue advanced theological study and personal enrichment.
Dean’s Role
The Dean is the Chief Operating Officer of the Seminary. The Dean manages and oversees all spiritual, educational, communal, financial, and legal activities of the Seminary. The Dean represents the Seminary before all agencies – ecclesiastical, educational, and civil – to which it is accountable.
Candidates for the position of Dean of the Seminary should be deeply rooted in the Orthodox Faith, possess the general qualifications for a full-time position on the Seminary faculty, and hold a terminal degree. They should have demonstrated success in exercising effective spiritual, academic, pastoral, administrative, and developmental leadership skills as well as the ability to communicate the vision of the Seminary and to interact effectively with the entire Seminary community, constituencies, supporters, donors, and potential students.
Applications
Applications should include a detailed letter demonstrating the candidate’s suitability for the position, a current curriculum vitae, and a list of the names and contact information of at least three (3) individuals who have agreed to serve as references. All communications will be held in strictest confidence. The Job Description of the Dean is available upon request.
Completed applications are to be mailed to: Dean Search Committee; Michael Herzak, Chairman; 6709 Springview Drive, Independence, Ohio 44131 (e-mail: mherzak@inssys.com), and received no later than May 15, 2013, at which time the formal review of applications by the Search Committee will commence.
Committee Membership
The Search Committee consists of His Grace, Bishop Michael, Rector; Michael Herzak, Board Chair; Igumen Sergius, Acting Dean; Archpriest Theodore Boback, Alumni President; Harry Boosalis, Ph.D., Regular Faculty; Alexander Bratic, JD, Board Member; Leda Dzwonczyk, Board Secretary; Mary Ford, Ph.D., Regular Faculty; Moses Hibbard, Student Government Vice-President; Jason Rossiter, JD, Legal Counsel; Eli Stavisky, DMD, Board Vice-Chair; and Archpriest David Shewczyk, Adjunct Faculty.
Sunday of Orthodoxy Services • Philadelphia / Wilkes-Barre - 03/21/2013
SUNDAY OF ORTHODOXY SERVICES: March 24, 2013 – 4:00 P.M.
Holy Resurrection Cathedral 591 N. Main Street Wilkes-Barre, PA Main Celebrant: Bishop MELCHISEDEK Choir members are invited to join the Wyoming Valley Orthodox Choir in singing the responses. A brief rehearsal will be held at 3:00 P.M.
St. Nicholas Church 817 N. 7th Street Philadelphia, PA Main Celebrant: Bishop MARK
Holy Trinity Orthodox Church seeks Choir Director • Catasauqua - 03/07/2013
HOLY TRINITY ORTHODOX CHURCH, Catasauqua, PA, seeks a choir director to lead our choir in Divine Liturgy services. For more information, please contact James O'Brien at 610-682-7888 or Suzanne Cressman at 215-407-7336.
March Third in the Burg at Agia Sophia • Harrisburg - 03/07/2013
On Friday, March 15th Agia Sophia Coffeehouse and Bookstore will "kick-off" St. Patrick's Day weekend with special Third in the Burg featuring the Carraig School of Irish Dance (6pm-6:30pm), and a special presentation on the "Saints of Ireland" (7pm) with Fr. Martin Browne, pastor of St. Mark Orthodox Church in Wrightstown, PA. We hope you, your parishioners, and your friends will join us! Please visit our website at www.agiasophiaharrisburg.com for more information! A flyer for this event can be found HERE
Pysanky Class for Sunday School Students of Wilkes-Barre Deanery - 03/07/2013
St. John the Baptist Orthodox Church, Edwardsville, PA will be holding an introduction to Pysanky for SUNDAY SCHOOL STUDENTS on Saturday, March 30, 2013, from 11AM to 2PM. This free* class will be taught by Eugene Gingo and will result in one finished Pysanky egg or a hundred pieces of broken eggshell. All materials to complete the project will be provided, and a light luncheon will be served. This class is restricted to SUNDAY SCHOOL STUDENTS OF THE WILKES-BARRE DEANERY only, and is limited to 25 people. If there is an interest, a second class MAY be added. First come, first served, reserve your spot now! There is no charge for this class, but attendees are asked to bring donations for the Sunday School Lenten Food Drive to benefit the West Side Food Bank. Please RSVP to Aric Gingo. A flyer for this event can be found HERE.
Orthodox Family Day Sponsored by FOCA - 03/07/2013
Everyone in the Diocese is invited to attend a day of relaxation and fun: FOCA Sponsored ORTHODOX FAMILY DAY JULY 28th, 2013 from 12noon to dusk. Mauch Chunk Lake Park in Jim Thorpe, PA This event is FREE. Those attending are asked to bring a dish to pass, a lawn chair and swimming gear (if you want to swim). There will be Dogs and Burgers, drinks and table service provided. We plan to eat around 2pm. Activities: There is a very nice sandy beach area for swimming, volleyball, horse shoes, boating and kayaking (rental fee), fishing, hiking on the historic Mauch Chunk Trail, there will also be some organized relays planned for the children and adults. We will have the Ginder-Vermillion Pavilion in the park for our meal and event gathering. For more info and directions to the park please check out the website: www.carboncounty.com/park/
Anyone interested in attending the DOEPA MISSIONS TRIP to South Philadelphia on JULY 14th-21st tshould attend the orientation meeting held on April 7th, 2013 at 2pm at Holy Trinity Orthodox Church in Wilkes-Barre. This will be an informational meeting detailing our work, and stay for the week. Please bring any questions you may have to this meeting.
Author Klaus Kenneth to give lecture • Berwick - 02/20/2013
Klaus Kenneth, author of Born to Hate, Reborn to Love, will speak at Holy Annunciation Orthodox Church in Berwick on Thursday, March 21 6:00 P.M. A flyer for this event can be found HERE
As part of an outreach effort to the greater community, St. Vladimir’s Church, Lopez, PA will host a free public concert of ancient church hymns on Saturday, March 2, at 2:00. Everyone is welcome to attend this special afternoon of song that will feature the life of Jesus Christ through Orthodox liturgical music. Rev. Father Nicholas Solak, Dean of the Wilkes-Barre Deanery of the Orthodox Church in America, will offer an explanation of the architecture and iconography found in the 100 year old Lopez church structure, while a trio of nuns from the Orthodox Monastery of the Transfiguration, Ellwood City, PA will present the musical program. The trio is made up of Rev. Mother Christophora, Abbess, with Sister Martha and musical director, Sister Helene. Church hymns dating back to the fifth and seventh centuries by St. Roman the Melodist, St. Andrew of Crete, St. John of Damascus and St. Cosmas the Hymnographer will be sung in settings of ancient Byzantine Chant, Carpatho-Russian Chant and Russian Choral Music, including an arrangement of the Christmas Kontakion by the 18th century Russian composer, Dimitri Bortniansky. All of the hymns will be sung in English, although the Easter Hymn, “Christ is Risen” will be sung in a number of languages. Following the hour long program everyone is invited for free refreshments at St. Vladimir’s Fellowship Hall.
SS. Peter and Paul Orthodox Church, Minersville, will hold its annual Pre-Lenten Dinner on Sunday, March 10th at 12 noon. Chicken and holupki will be served. Cost is $9.00 for adults and $4.50 for children. Everyone is welcome.
Mark your calendars and make plans to attend Holy Resurrection Cathedral's Annual Midwinter Ethnic Food and Craft Fair. The event will be held on February 23 and 24 at the Holy Resurrection Cathedral Parlors. Homemade ethnic foods and crafts from Russia, Ukraine, Poland and America. A flyer for this event can be found HERE.
On Monday, March 4th, beginning at 10:00 a.m. the first Diocesan Council meeting of 2013 is being scheduled at Holy Trinity Church, 1501 Trinity Court, Stroudsburg.
Christ the Saviour seeks Choir Director • Harrisburg - 01/23/2013
Christ the Saviour Orthodox Church (OCA) in Harrisburg, PA is seeking a choir director to lead our singers and faithful in the Divine services. A flyer with all details can be found HERE. Interested parties should contact Fr. Steven Vernak at 717-652-1825 or svernak@hotmail.com The position will be open after June 1, 2013.
St. Basil's Orthodox Church in Simpson will host a Pulled Pork Sandwich Dinner on Saturday, February 16, 2013 from 11AM - 2PM. Price is $7.50 and includes a beverage and dessert. Take outs only! For more information see a flyer for the event HERE
76th Novogodny Ball St. Stephen’s OCF - Chapter 82 Sunday, January 20, 2013 You are cordially invited to attend the Semi-formal event for the benefit of St. Tikhon’s Seminary Married Student Housing Project & other deserving charities Crowne Plaza Hotel - Philadelphia / Cherry Hill, NJ
Nativity Concert in Berwick - December 16 2012 - 12/12/2012
Holy Annunciation Orthodox Church Choir will be presenting their Nativity Concert on Sunday December 16th at 3:00 PM The concert will highlight liturgical hymns of the Nativity season. The choir will also sing traditional Christmas carols. Refreshments and fellowship will follow the concert, in the church fellowship hall.
Teen Winter Retreat 2013 - UPDATED WITH NEW PRICING - 12/11/2012
Come Join the Fun!
Join us the weekend of February 8-10, 2013, for the annual Winter Teen Retreat of the Diocese of Eastern Pennsylvania. Hang out with old friends, meet new ones, and create memories while learning about the lives of the twelve apostles with Fr. Stephen Vernak. Registration forms are available at www.ocayouth.org. NEW LOWER PRICING - Thanks to Diocesan subsidization, this years' event is only $50! A flyer for this event can be found HERE
For more information Call: 570-493-0108 E-mail: retreat@ocayouth.org Visit: www.ocayouth.org
Wyoming Valley Orthodox Choir Christmas Concert - 12/08/2012
The Wyoming Valley Orthodox Choir will give a concert on December 16, 2012 at Holy Resurrection Orthodox Cathedral, 591 North Main Street, Wilkes Barre, Penna. A flyer for the event can be found HERE.
2:30 pm Veneration of Icon of the Theotokos “She who is Quick to Hear” from St. Tikhon’s Monastery
3 p.m. concert
Light refreshments and Christian Fellowship will follow the concert in the cathedral parlors.
A free Will offering will be taken, proceeds to benefit St. Tikhon’s Monastery
St. Tikhon's Mission Choir to perform - 12/03/2012
St. Tikhon's Orthodox Theological Seminary presents "Hymns and Carols of Holy Russia," a concert performed by the St. Tikhon's Mission Choir. The concert will take place on Friday, December 7, 2012, at the Trinity Episcopal Church, located at 58 River St, Carbondale, PA. There is a $10 suggested donation for the event which benefits St. Tikhon's Seminary. A flyer for this event can be found HERE.
The Diocesan Assembly will be held on January 19 in Bethlehem PA. Reading of the Hours to begin at 7:30 AM followed by Divine Liturgy at 8:00AM. More details to come as they are available. A full schedule can be found HERE
A Google calendar listing upcoming events has been added to the website. This differs from the Liturgical calendar which you may be familiar with. The Diocese is strongly encouraged to submit dates of upcoming events to be added to the calendar. The online calendar can be viewed HERE
The contact info has been updated to include His Grace Bishop Melchisedek, Bishop of Pittsburgh and Western Pennsylvania and Locum Tenens of the Diocese of Philadelphiaand Eastern Pennsylvania and His Grace Bishop Mark, Bishop of Baltimore and Administrator of the Diocese of Eastern Pennsylvania. Please direct correspondence towards them as opposed to His Beatitude, Metropolitan TIKHON.
There will be a meeting of the Diocesan Council this Thursday, November 29th, following the clergy continuing education lecture, approximately 1:00 P.M. at Holy Annunciation Church, 1228 Second Avenue, Berwick
In Memoriam: Archpriest Michael Rachko - 11/08/2012
Archpriest Michael M. Rachko, 90, who in retirement was attached to Saint Herman of Alaska Church here, fell asleep in the Lord at Forest City Nursing Home on Monday, November 5, 2012.
Born in Maysville, PA on April 27, 1922, the son of the late Michael and Julia [Bader] Rachko, he was a graduate of Saint Tikhon’s Seminary, South Canaan, PA. He was the widower of Matushka Jean [Oleynik] Rachko, who fell asleep in the Lord on February 15, 1986.
Father Michael served parishes in Coatesville and Berwick, PA; Wilmington, DE; Herkimer, NY; and Mays Landing, NJ. He was a founding member of Christ the Saviour Church, Harrisburg, PA. In 2004, he was awarded a Synodal grammota on the 60th anniversary of his ordination.
In addition to his pastoral duties, he worked as a systems analyst for the US Department of Defense.
Father Michael is survived by a daughter, Theodora “Terri” Bruno of Rockland Twp., PA; three brothers: George Rachko of Woodbury, NJ, Rev. Dimitri Rachko of Minneapolis, MN, and Peter Rachko of Frackville, PA; a sister, Mrs. Helen VanCleave of Dallas, TX; and several nieces and nephews. In addition to Matushka Jean, he was preceded in death by brothers, Archpriest John Rachko and Stephen Rachko; and a sister, Mary Harahus.
The Funeral Service will be celebrated at Saint Tikhon’s Monastery on Friday, November 9, at 6:00 p.m. The Divine Liturgy will be celebrated by His Eminence, Archbishop Tikhon of Philadelphia and Eastern Pennsylvania on Saturday, November 10, at 8:00 a.m. Interment will be held at Saint Vladimir Cemetery, Trenton, NJ.
UPDATED! - Dr. Maria Khoury to deliver PA Lectures - 11/01/2012
Dr. Maria Khoury, a noted Orthodox Human Rights champion, will deliver a series of lectures titled "The Christian Presence in the Holy Land Today" at various stops in the Diocese of Eastern Pennsylvania.
Dr. Maria C. Khoury to lecture in Berwick - 10/29/2012
Join us for a free lecture by Dr. Khoury Tuesday November 13, 7pm At Holy Annunciation Orthodox Church 1228 2nd Ave Berwick. A flyer for this event can be found HERE.
Saints Peter and Paul announce Annual Thanksgiving Dinner - 10/15/2012
Saints Peter and Paul Orthodox Church, Minersville, PA, will hold its Annual Thanksgiving Dinner on Sunday, November 4th at 12 Noon. For more information please call the church rectory at 570-544-2690.
We are pleased to announce an upcoming workshop for Orthodox Clergy and Educators with Dr. Anton Vrame, the director of religious education for the Greek Archdiocese.
The Diocese of Philadelphia and Eastern Pennsylvania is pleased to inaugurate a program of Clergy Continuing Education beginning in the Fall of 2012. With the blessing of His Eminence, Archbishop Tikhon, and in response to the need for clergy continuing education as highlighted in the OCA Strategic Plan, the following series of workshops is offered to the clergy of all Orthodox Jurisdictions.
The fabulous choral ensemble "LYRA" from St Petersburg Russia will appear at Holy Cross Church in Williamsport on Tuesday, September 18, 2012 at 7 pm. The concert will include Russian Orthodox liturgical hymns and Russians folk songs. A free-will offering will be received. For more information CLICK HERE.
Archbishop Tikhon Offers Resignation as Rector of Saint Tikhon’s Seminary - 08/04/2012
Effective August 1, 2012, His Eminence, Archbishop Tikhon has
resigned from his position as Rector of the Orthodox Theological Seminary of
Saint Tikhon of Zadonsk. His Eminence has issued a pastoral letter to the
Diocese of Philadelphia and Eastern Pennsylvania (available here) in which he
offers his thoughts on this matter.
On
April 25, 2012, His Eminence submitted a letter of resignation to His
Beatitude, Metropolitan Jonah, and to the Holy Synod of Bishops. During the
Spring Session of the Holy Synod (May 7-10, 2012), Metropolitan Jonah, with the
concurrence of all the hierarchs, accepted His Eminence’s resignation,
effective August 1, 2012. At the most recent meeting of the Lesser Synod, on
July 5, 2012, Metropolitan Jonah appointed His Grace, Bishop Michael, as
Interim Rector of St Tikhon’s Seminary.
Further
details can be found on the seminary website (here).
Holy Trinity Church will hold its 46th Annual Bazaar on the Church Parish grounds at 401 East Main Street, Miners Mills Section of Wilkes-Barre Saturday, July 28th from 4:00pm to 11:00pm and Sunday, July 29th from 4:00pm to 10:00pm.
Below are some ongoing and upcoming events within the Diocese of Philadelphia and Eastern Pennsylvania
Mission to Appalachia
Beginning this past Monday, a group of close to 30 members
from our Diocese has been in Spruce Pine, North Carolina, an Appalachian
Mountain community that has been devastated by the economic downturn of the
past several years. Our group, under the leadership of Fr. Daniel Matthewson,
Fr. Nicholas Solak and Fr. Michael Demko, has partnered with FOCUS North
America in order to offer the time and talents of the faithful of our diocese
to this community.FOCUS North
America is an Orthodox institution of charity whose mission is to “serve the hungry,
thirsty, stranger, naked, sick and imprisoned by providing food, occupation,
clothing, understanding and shelter.”
We ask for your continued prayers for the good work of our
mission group as they continue their work through Sunday, July 1. We are proud
of the clergy and faithful from St Mary’s in Coaldale, Holy Trinity in
Stroudsburg and Holy Annunciation in Berwick for their willingness to volunteer
for this mission, for their love of their neighbor and for their zeal to live
the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
St Tikhon’s Summer Camp
We are looking forward to the 2012 St Tikhon’s Summer Camp,
which begins this coming Sunday, July 1 and runs through Saturday, July 7. The
summer camp is a ministry of the Diocese of Eastern Pennsylvania and its Office
of Young Adult Activities (OYAA), under the direction of Kimberly Metz, Tatiana
Bohush and Nicholas Macura. More information about the OYAA can be found here: http://www.ocayouth.org/.
This year, 124 children are attending and over 50 counselors
and support staff are assisting. The camp administration has been working for
several months to prepare for the camp and onsite upgrades to the physical
plant over the past year will provide a wonderful setting for the campers. Recently,
the roof of the Pavilion was re-shingled and the Dining Room kitchens were
completely renovated, thanks to the generosity of the St Tikhon’s Monastery
Brotherhood. In addition, the recent renovations to the Seminary building will
provide a wonderful environment for the campers. The summer camp also hosts a blog
which you can access at the following address: http://www.sttikhonscamp.org/blog/
The Diocese of Eastern Pennsylvania is grateful for the
cooperation and support of all those who assist in the monumental task of
running the Summer Camp. We are especially thankful to the Seminary which
provides housing and other facilities and to the Monastery for their
willingness to provide the space to feed the campers and to open the doors of the Monastery Church. The prayerful atmosphere
of the Monastery and the educational milieu of the Seminary create an ideal
space for the children to pray, learn and have fun.
Travels of His Eminence
His Eminence, Archbishop TIKHON, will be traveling to the
Chancery Offices in Syosset on Thursday, July 5 for a meeting of the Lesser
Synod of Bishops. His Eminence serves on the Lesser Synod in his capacity as Secretary of
the Holy Synod.The following
week, His Eminence will be traveling to the French Alps for some personal time
and to visit his family (most notably his paternal grandmother, who is 105
years old). He will be away from July 8-23. Any concerns or questions that need to be addressed to His Eminence should be directed to the Deans or the Chancellor.
Metropolitan Constantine Falls Asleep in the Lord (UPDATED) - 05/21/2012
We have been informed that His Eminence, Metropolitan Constantine of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church of the United States of America fell asleep in the Lord on May 21, 2012. More information can be accessed at the official website of the Ukrainian Archdiocese http://www.uocofusa.org/news_120521_1.html
His Grace, Bishop Tikhon, regrets to announce that his maternal
Grandmother, Cynthia McCarter, fell asleep in the Lord on March 28, 2012 in
Hershey, Pennsylvania. She was 101 years old and further details of her long
life can be read in her obituary here:
His Grace is thankful for the prayers of all the clergy and faithful of
the Diocese of Eastern Pennsylvania and asks that they would continue to pray
for Cynthia’s repose. In lieu of flowers, the family is asking that donations
be made to the two charitable organizations that are referenced in the above
obituary.
The funeral service will be held at 11:00 am on Saturday, March 31, at
St Luke’s Episcopal Church in Mount Joy, PA.
On Saturday, March 24, HOLY ANNUNCIATION ORTHODOX CHURCH, Berwick, will host a seminar entitled "The Ancient Spirituality of the Eastern Christian Church." Dr. Harry Boosalis, Professor of Dogmatic Theology at St. Tikhon’s Orthodox Seminary, will present the topic starting at 10:30 AM. Divine Liturgy will be served at 8:30 AM. A lunch will be provided. All are invited to this free event. CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION
His Grace, Bishop TIKHON, is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Aric Gingo as Assistant to the Bishop for Communications. Mr. Gingo succeeds Ms. Cindy Davis who has moved on to a full time career in social work. The diocese is very grateful to her for her work with both the diocesan website and Alive in Christ, both of which she has edited for the past two years.
Mr. Gingo is a member of our diocese, a lifelong member of St. John the Baptist parish in Edwardsville. He is a professional art director of almost twenty years experience and has both Bachelor’s and Master’s Degrees in Advertising and Design.
He will handle both the magazine and the website, as did Cindy. The diocesan administration welcomes his talent, experience and enthusiasm and looks forward to parish cooperation with him in making known the Good News as it is lived out in our parishes. He will be contacting the Rectors directly in the coming weeks to solicit ideas and information for the website and the magazine and other means of communication. The Diocese is reminded that all correspondence should continue as usual to the existing doepa email address.
Matushka Eleanor Kosko Krell, 85, of Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, peacefully
fell asleep in the Lord on Thursday evening, January 19, 2012 at Little Flower
Manor, Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania.
Born February 7, 1926 in Wilkes-Barre, she was the daughter of the
late Joseph and Olga Zevan Kosko and wife of Reverend Father Adam Jacob Krell.
She was preceded in death by her late husband, Reverend Father
Adam Jacob Krell and son David Adam Krell.
Matushka Eleanor graduated from Plains Memorial High School, Plains,
Pennsylvania, class of 1943.
With her late husband Father Adam, Matushka Eleanor served in
numerous Orthodox parishes in Pennsylvania, including: St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, Allison
Park, Pennsylvania; St. Michael
Church, Portage, Pennsylvania ; St. Nicholas Church, Bethlehem, Pennsylvania ; Holy
Ascension Church, Lykens, Pennsylvania; and Saint Tikhon’s Monastery Church in
South Canaan, Pennsylvania.
Prior to retiring, she enjoyed working at the business office at
Cove Haven Resort, Lakeville, Pennsylvania; and as a member of the Crime Watch
Unit of the Wilkes-Barre Police Department, Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania. In
addition, she volunteered for many years at Geisinger
Medical Center, Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania.
In addition to her husband she is survived by her loving children,
son Michael Adam and daughter-in-law Ruth, Hawley, Pennsylvania; daughter
Deborah Krell Mills and son-in-law David Charles Mills, Wilkes-Barre,
Pennsylvania; sisters Vera and Husband Joseph Teddick, Fort Lauderdale, Florida
and Lorraine Danilack, Brick, New Jersey; grandson Jonathan David Krell,
Harrisburg, Pennsylvania; great-grandchildren Elijah, Zirah and Kiana; and nieces and nephews.
Visitation will begin at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, January 24, at Holy
Resurrection Cathedral, 591 North Main Street, Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, with
the celebration of the Panikhida at 6:30 p.m.
A funeral service will be held in Holy Resurrection Cathedral, 591
North Main Street, Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, on Wednesday morning, January
25, at 9:30 a.m. with the His Grace, Bishop Tikhon, Diocese
of Philadelphia and Eastern Pennsylvania, officiating.The celebration of the Panikhida will
be held at 12:00 noon at Saint Tikhon’s Monastery Church, South Canaan,
Pennsylvania. Interment will be in
Saint Tikhon’s Cemetery, South Canaan, Pennsylvania.
Those wishing to remember Matushka in a special way may make
contributions in her memory to Holy Resurrection Cathedral, 591 North Main
Street, Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania. Funeral arrangements are under the
direction of Yeosock Funeral Home, 40 South Main Street, Plains, Pennsylvania,
18705, 570-823-1001.
IN MEMORIAM: Matushka Joanna Pianovich - 01/14/2012
Matushka Joanna Pianovich fell asleep early on the morning of January 14 at the Community Hospice in Scranton. She is the wife of retired Archpriest Eugene Pianovich, presently of Archbald, PA. Funeral services are tentatively scheduled to be held at St Nicholas Orthodox Church in Olyphant, PA, with a Panikhida on Tuesday, January 17 at 7:00 p.m. and the Funeral Service at 10:00 a.m. Burial will take place at St Tikhon's Monastery in South Canaan.
We ask for your prayers for the soul of the newly-departed handmaiden of God, Matushka Joanna. May her memory be eternal!
IN MEMORIAM: Archpriest Michael S. Romanchak (UPDATED) - 01/02/2012
January 1, 2012
BETHLEHEM, PA [OCA]
Archpriest Michael Romanchak,
98, fell asleep in the Lord here at Saint Luke’s Hospital, Fountain Hill, on
Sunday afternoon, January 1, 2012.
Born in Warrior Run, PA, the
son of the late Stefan and Paraskeva [Fedok] Romanchak. Father Michael
graduated from Saint Tikhon’s Seminary, South Canaan, PA. After marriage
to the former Julia Knapp 60 years ago, he was ordained to the priesthood in
New York in 1952. After completing his first assignment in in Syracuse,
NY, he was assigned to Holy Trinity Church, Catasauqua, PA in April 1954.
He retired from active ministry in 1986. He served until the time of his
death at Saint Nicholas Greek Orthodox Cathedral.
Father Michael also served as
a volunteer chaplain at Allentown State Hospital for 15 years and as President
of the region’s Brotherhood of Orthodox Priests. He was honored by the
United Fund for his service to the community. For 15 years he delivered
Meals on Wheels. He also published numerous articles in newspapers and
religious journals.
In addition to his wife,
Matushka Julia, Father Michael is survived by son Sergius [Louise], McLean, VA;
daughter Paula Cagli [Alessandro], Belgium; grandchildren Maximos, Eli and
Arianna; nephew Archpriest Stefan [Larissa] Romanchak and their family;
grand-nephew Matthew Romanchak, novice at Holy Trinity Monastery, Jordanville,
NY; niece Marilyn [John] Nunnally; and brother-in-law George Knapp. He is
also survived by many other nieces and nephews.
Visitation will be held at
Saint Nicholas Greek Orthodox Cathedral, 1607 West Union Blvd., Bethlehem, PA,
on Tuesday, January 3, 2012, at 6:00 p.m. The Funeral Service will be
celebrated at 7:00 p.m. Visitation will resume at 9:00 a.m. on Wednesday,
January 4, at 9:00 a.m., with the celebration of the Divine Liturgy at 10:00
a.m. A Mercy Meal will follow in the cathedral’s Cambanes Hall.
At 3:00 p.m. on Wednesday, a
Panikhida will be celebrated at Saint Tikhon’s Monastery, South Canaan, PA,
followed by interment in the Saint Tikhon’s Cemetery.
Diocesan Assembly to be Held at Holy Cross Church in Williamsport - 12/02/2011
The 48th Annual Diocesan Assembly will be held on Saturday, December 3, 2011 at Holy Cross Orthodox Church in Williamsport. All the reports for the Assembly are available on this website under the "Diocesan Assembly 2011" tab above. All members of the Diocese of Eastern Pennsylvania are encouraged to please read these reports and familiarize themselves with the work of all the departments and ministries of the Diocese.
Much of the Assembly will be devoted to the work of the Revitalization Committee and His Grace has asked for the prayers of all the clergy and faithful so that the necessary work of the revitalization of our parishes might become the focus of our labors in the coming years.
Agia Sophia Coffee House and Bookstore Blessing & Open House: On Sunday, July 31st at 5pm, His Grace Bishop TIKHON will be leading our local clergy and faithful in the blessing of the Agia Sophia Coffee House (225
Market Street, Harrisburg, PA). Please join us in offering thanksgiving
and asking God's blessing upon this Pan-Orthodox ministry. The shop is
slated to open to the public in the first part of August. Please visit
their website at www.agiasophiaharrisburg.com.
Lectures at St. Nicholas Church, Bethlehem + June 29 & July 6 - 06/28/2011
Lecture series at St. Nicholas Church, Bethlehem on the Orthodox Christian understanding of marriage, sexuality, and love.
Part III Wednesday, June 29 Marriage and Monasticism
Part IV Wednesday, July 6 Living and Loving in the Modern World
00592
Diocesan Council Meeting - 05/20/2011
On May 12, 2011, a meeting of the Diocesan Council was held in South Canaan at the Diocesan Center.
His Grace, Bishop TIKHON offered his report on the life of the Diocese, focusing on recent events within the Orthodox Church in America. He reported on his trip to Chicago for the consecration of Bishop MATTHIAS as ruling hierarch for the Diocese of the Midwest and for the subsequent meetings of the Holy Synod (the minutes of the Holy Synod Meeting can be found here, and Metropolitan Council (a summary of the meeting can be found here).
His Grace also announced the formation of a Parish Revitalization Committee as was resolved at the 2010 Diocesan Assembly. Appointments are presently being made and the committee will hold its initial meeting on June 23rd 2011, with the immediate goal of developing and implementing a plan to revitalize one parish within our diocese.
The Extraordinary Diocesan Assembly, originally scheduled for June 25, has been cancelled since, to date, no resolutions have been received by the Diocesan resolutions committee. Those parishes or diocesan institutions that wish to submit resolutions or Statute revisions may still do so directly through the resolutions committee of the OCA, as outlined here.
A motion was approved to change the fiscal year of our diocese to the calendar year (January 1-December 31) to coincide with the fiscal year of the Orthodox Church in America.
The Chancellor, Fr. John Kowalczyk, presented his report, highlighting some of the recent activities of the Bishop and summarizing recent clergy changes. He also presented a draft for proposed Diocesan By-laws relating to the Diocesan Assembly for review and further development.
The treasurer, Fr. Martin Browne, presented his Report and one of the diocesan auditors, Mr. David Yeosock, also presented the semi-annual audit report, including an audit of the insurance fund. Everything was reported to be in good order.
Mr. David Yeosock also presented a report from the Metropolitan Council, adding further details concerning the recent meeting summarized above.
The next meetings of the Diocesan Council were set for August 11th and November 15th. Any of the clergy or faithful of the diocese who might desire further information about the meeting may contact their Diocesan Council Representatives (a list of the members may be found here)
00593
Bishop Tikhon to Serve Vigil Before Relics of St Vladimir - 11/12/2010
On Saturday, November 13 at 6:30 p.m., His Grace, Bishop Tikhon, will concelebrate the Resurrection Vigil at St Vladimir's Seminary together with Seminary clergy and guests.
His Grace was invited to St Vladimir's Seminary on the occasion of the arrival of the relics of the Holy Great Prince Vladimir, Equal to the Apostles. This weekend is the only time that the relics will be available for veneration in the United States.
Bishop Tikhon to offer lecture at Holy Annunciation in Berwick - 11/02/2010
On Thursday, November 4, 2010, His Grace, Bishop Tikhon will offer a lecture entitled: “Christian Worship and Personal Sanctification” at Holy Annunciation Orthodox Church in Berwick.
This lecture is part of the parish’s Fall Lecture series entitled: “Discover Original Christianity” which is being offered through November 18th. His Grace’s talk was rescheduled from October 21st to November 4th.
The lecture begins at 7 p.m. and is open to the public
00595
Town Hall Meeting on OCA Strategic Plan to be held November 6th
A Special Town Hall meeting will be held on November 6, 2010 at St Nicholas Orthodox Church in Bethlehem, PA.
This meeting will provide an opportunity to hear a presentation on the Draft Strategic Plan for the Orthodox Church in America and to provide a forum for discussion. The meeting is open to all the clergy and faithful of the Diocese of Eastern Pennsylvania.
The latest version of the Strategic Plan is available here) and is presented as a working document presently in the discussion and revision stage. His Grace, Bishop Tikhon encourages everyone to attend this meeting so that our diocese might have the opportunity to offer feedback on the Strategic Plan and to ask questions of the members of the Committee who drafted it.
The Town Hall Meeting will take place from 10:00 am to 1:00 p.m. Light refreshments will be served.
00596
IN MEMORIAM: Katherine Matychak - 09/24/2010
Katherine Matychak of St. Vladimir's Church in Lopez fell asleep in the Lord on September 24, 2010. Katherine is the mother of Andrea Anderson, the V. Rev. Andrew Matychak and Mother Christophora, Abbess of Holy Transfiguration Monastery in Ellwood City.
Obituary
Katherine Gulick Matychak, 83, of
Lopez, fell asleep in the Lord on September 24, 2010 at Robert Packer Hospital,
after being stricken in her home earlier that day.
She
was born March 8, 1927, the daughter of William K. and Mary Dzamma Gulick.Katherine was a lifelong resident of
Lopez, having attended local schools and worked briefly before marriage for the
Weldon Manufacturing Company.
Katherine
married Andrew Matychak of Mildred in 1947 and served lovingly and faithfully
as his beloved wife and mother to their three children.She also extended her love to many
around her in the neighborhood, town, her large extended family and her many
friends.Baking was her hobby and
no one left her home empty handed.Neighbors and friends were always welcome to stop by.She considered no one company – all
were family to her.
Katherine
was a member of St. Vladimir Orthodox Church all her life, serving the church
as she was able and in particular as a faithful choir member since her teen
years.For many years she directed
the acappella choir until she was one of the few remaining members.She continued to sing responses
to the church services, often by herself, even on her last Sunday on this
earth.Her love for God and His
Church was coupled with her love for her family and friends.
Katherine
was predeceased by her parents and husband, her brothers:infant Victor, John, William, Stephen
and Leo; and sisters: Olga Vukov, Helen Groshel, Anna Cylvick and Alice
Dworsky.
Surviving
are her children:V. Rev. Gary
Andrew (Georgette) Matychak of Altoona, Rev. Mother Abbess Christophora (nee
Kathleen)of Ellwood City,and
Andrea (Joseph)Anderson of
Denver, PA andgrandchildren and
great-grandchildren: Jon-Paul (Jennifer) Matychak, and their children Abigail
and Andrew of Pittsburgh; Thomas and Kristin (Anderson) Iwancio of Harrisburg
and Joshua and Melinda Anderson of Reading, PA.She is also survived by her brother, Victor, Liverpool, NY,
her sister Julia Rosnick, Lancaster, PA and by all of the nuns of The Orthodox
Monastery of the Transfiguration, Ellwood City, PA, who affectionately called
her their “Grams.”
Katherine
lay at state in her own home, where she was born and where she lived her entire
life, from Sunday afternoon until Monday evening, and was visited by many
neighbors, children and out of town friends.On Monday evening her body was escorted two blocks to St.
Vladimir Church led by the nuns singing various funeral and paschal hymns.That evening a Panikhida was served by
Hieromonk Michael Thier, pastor, V. Rev. Daniel Kovalak, Dean, and her son, Fr.
Andrew.On Tuesday morning
visitation continued before the 11:00 Funeral Service, officiated by Rt. Rev.
Bishop Tikhon of the Diocese of Eastern PA and eight priests.Responses were sung by the sisters of
Transfiguration Monastery.A
homily was offered by Bishop Tikhon with a eulogy by her son.Burial was at St. Vladimir Parish
Cemetery followed by a lovely repast offered at the family home.Katherine’s last baked goods were
among the offerings to all who visited.Sun shone warmly on the burial and afternoon gathering, following a
morning of heavy rain.Funeral
arrangements were entrusted to the Simon S. Russin Funeral Home, Plains, PA.
00597
Spirit of Orthodoxy Choir in Edwardsville + September 26, 2010
In celebration of it's centennial year, St. John the Baptist Church in Edwardsville is hosting the Spirit of Orthodoxy Choir on September 26th at 6pm. Click here to view the flier.
00598
Food festival at St. John the Baptist, Edwardsville + August 21, 2010
ST. JOHN THE BABTIST ORTHODOX CHURCH,93 ZERBY AVE. EDWARDSVILLE
CORDIALLY INVITES YOU TO OUR ANNUAL ETHNIC FOOD FESTIVAL TO BE HELD ON:
SATURDAY, AUGUST 21, 2010 FROM 11:00 AM TO 6:00 PM.
FEATURED WILL BE OUR
FRESHLY GRATED POTATO PANCAKES, HALUPKI, PIEROGI, GOULASH AND CLAM
CHOWDER, HALUSHKI, PORK SANDWHICHES, AND MORE.
THE BAKE SALE WILL OFFER
OUR FAMOUS HOMEMADE BREAD, PAGAGH, AND OTHER HOMEMADE TREATS. THEME
BASKETS, PIC-A-TIC, AN ETHNIC BOOTH, KIDS GAMES AND GAMES FOR ALL AGES.
PLEASE JOIN US RAIN OR SHINE UNDER THE BIG TENT FOR FUN, FOOD, AND
FELLOWSHIP.
00599
Family day at St. Mary's Church, Coaldale Rescheduled for August 22, 4 - 8pm
On August 22nd, St. Mary's Church will sponsor a community fun day for children and families from 4pm to 8pm. This is a parish out-reach to the Coaldale community, but all from the Diocese and seminary community are invited and welcome for an afternoon of wholesome family activity. Events include: A Pet Blessing at 6:30, church tours, an Orthodox Christian information table, DJ, children's inflatable adventures, a bungey trampoline, a craft table for kids, 3-point basketball challenge, a cake walk, bake and food sale, snow cones, cotton candy, police bike check and much more. For more information call 570-645-2772.
00600
Port Arthur Icon of the Triumph of the Theotokos - 08/02/2010
On Saturday, September 18th, Holy Cross Church in Williamsport will be hosting an Icon Festival. There will be tours of the church, special speakers, and services. Click here to see the flier for more information.
Holy Trinity Church in Wilkes Barre, will be holding its annual bazaar on Saturday and Sunday, July 24-25th, from 4pm to 10pm. Live music will be provided by Joe Lastavicka. Ethnic food and a variety of other favorite will be served, including: potato pancakes, pierogies, halupki, halushki, hamburgers, hot dogs and fries, sausage & peppers, steak & onion sandwiches, funnel cakes, and much more!
Third Annual Clergy Continuing Education Symposium - 06/01/2010
The third annual Clergy Continuing Education Symposium will be held at St. Tikhon's Seminary, from Tuesday, June 15 through Thursday, June 17.
The theme of this year's gathering is "The 40th Anniversary of OCA Autocephaly." The symposium will feature two very dynamic presenters: the Very Rev. Leonid Kishkovsky, the Director of External Affairs and Interchurch Relations for the Orthodox Church in America, and Alexis Liberovsky, the Archivist and Director of the Department of History and Archives for the Orthodox Church in America. Both of them are well-known speakers, scholars and published authors in their own right. Together they will examine the Autocephaly of the Orthodox Church from historical, theological, canonical and pastoral perspectives.
The cost of the symposium is $50 per participant. This includes registration, accommodations in the Seminary dormitory, and meals at the Seminary refectory. We ask that you kindly bring your own linens, towels, and personal items. Checks should be made payable to St. Tikhon's Seminary and mailed with the pre-registration form by June 9. Click here for registration form and schedule.
00615
Spring Issue of Alive in Christ now available online - 05/04/2010
New videos of the Wyoming Valley Orthodox Choir - 04/20/2010
Videos from the Nativity 2009 Concert at Holy Resurrection Cathedral in Wilkes-Barre are now posted at http://doepa.org/wvoc.html
00617
Bright Tuesday Diocesan Liturgy - 04/04/2010
Bright Tuesday diocesan liturgy will be held at St. Nicholas Church in Bethlehem and will begin at 9:30 am with the entrance of the Bishop at 9:00 a.m. A paschal meal will follow in the parish hall.
00618
PASCHAL LETTER FROM HIS GRACE, BISHOP TIKHON - 03/29/2010
Guest Speaker coming to Christ the Saviour - 03/16/2010
"What's Faith got to do with it?” On Sunday, April 25th at 5pm, Christ the Saviour Orthodox Church (5501 Old Locust Lane, Harrisburg, PA) will be welcoming guest speaker Fr. Victor Gorodenchuk
(Dean of St. Stephen Cathedral in Philadelphia, PA and Soviet educated
physicist). He will be offering an Orthodox response to Atheistic and
Religious world-views, as well as speak about evolution, the big-bang
theory, and biblical criticism. The talk is open to the public and FREE of charge.
This is an excellent opportunity for us to invite family members and
friends who may be struggling with issues of religion and science, as
well as faith and atheism.
00621
Orthodox Spiritual Life and the Environment - 03/10/2010
St. Tikhon's Seminary, the OCA Diocese of Philadelphia and Eastern Pennsylvania, and the Orthodox Fellowship of the Transfiguration will present a two-day dialogue on "Orthodox Spiritual Life and the Environment" on April 16-17.
All are welcome, participation can be for one day or two, and limited accommodations are available in Seminary dormitory space.
"6 Days of Creation" Icon Workshop in June - 03/10/2010
Dates: June 20-26, 2010 Location: St. Tikhon's Seminary in South Canaan, PA Description: In keeping with its name, HEXAEMERON offers the Six Days of Creation Icon-painting Workshops for the beginner and the more experienced, who desire to learn the ancient technique of icon painting in the egg-tempera medium, according to Orthodox Church tradition and ethos. Cost: $1150 For More Information: Visit the Hexaemeron Website where you can fill out an application and see the biography of the instructor.
The conference will be held Saturday, April 17, from 9:30am to 12:30pm at St. Michael's Church in Jermyn. The conference is designed for parish Clergy, Council Presidents, Parish Treasurers, and others interested or involved in parish administration. The workshop portion will discuss and share existing models for more efficient administration, agenda planning, compliance with governing documents, budget preparations and financial accountability. There is no charge for this conference and lunch is included, thanks to the hosting parish of St. Michael's.
Please register by Sunday, April 11 with your parish priest to attend.
00624
New OCA blog for young adults, college students launched - 02/25/2010
Correction in print version of Living Waters - 02/01/2010
Concerning the retreat at Holy Trinity Church in Stroudsburg, it is not limited to only clergy. Please download the flier to view the details of the retreat.
OCA Christian Ed department releases new activity book on saints - 01/29/2010
SYOSSET, NY [OCA] -- The third in a series of activity books for
children and parents is now available for downloading free of charge at
dce.oca.org/page/activity-books.
Developed and written by several members of the Orthodox Church in
America's Department of Christian Education, the book is titled "Saints
Commemorated in the Litiya Prayers." Like earlier books in the series, it contains biographical stories
and iconographic drawings of 12 saints, maps of their travels or the
areas in which they lived, discussion questions, and puzzles and
activities relating to each story. Quotations from or about each saint, photographs of those saints who lived in recent times, and a glossary
round out the activity book.
Among the 12 saints presented in the new volume are the fourth
century Ambrose of Milan and Catherine of Alexandria, the 11th century
Anthony of the Caves in Kyiv, the 15th century Jonah of Moscow, and the
late 19th/early 20th century Nicholas of Japan.
In the book's informative and engaging introduction, the Litiya is
historically defined and described as “a section of Vespers that
culminates in the blessing of bread, wheat, wine and oil for the
strengthening of the faithful who then continue in worship during a
Vigil.” It goes on to read that the selection of saints in this volume
was “specifically inspired by a popular composite of names used during
Vespers in many American Orthodox communities."
"Saints Commemorated in the Litiya Prayers" is geared to pre-teens
and teens, although with parental guidance it also can also be useful
for younger children. Like the first two books, it offers a variety of
ways for young people, with their different learning styles, to get to
know the lives of a very diverse group of saints.
The newly formed Office of Young Adult Activities of the Diocese of Eastern Pennsylvania has a new and improved website! To visit, go to www.ocayouth.org.
00635
Church School Teachers' Meeting - 01/05/2010
The Department of Christian Education will hold a meeting for church school teachers on Saturday, January 16th, at St. Michael's Church in Old Forge. The meeting will begin at 11am. The focus of this meeting will be on developing the curriculum. Anyone who is interested in church school curriculum and wants to share his/her ideas and experience is encouraged to attend. Please contact Maria Proch, mariapr22@hotmail.com, no later than January 14th to RSVP.
00636
Midwinter Festival at Holy Resurrection Cathedral - 01/04/2010
Holy Resurrection, Wilkes Barre, will host it's 17th Midwinter Festival on Saturday, January 30, and an ethnic food festival will be held at Hazelton High school on the 31st. Click here to download the flier.
Wyoming Valley Choir Nativity Concert - 11/24/2009
The Wyoming Valley
Orthodox Choir is pleased to announce the date of its Nativity Concert to be
held Sunday December 20, 2009 at Holy Resurrection Cathedral 591 North Main
Street Wilkes-Barre.The concert
will begin at 2:00 pm with light refreshments to follow.The choir will be collecting canned
food items as the price of admission.All collected food items will be donated to the St. Vincent DePaul Soup
Kitchen in Wilkes-Barre.
This year’s program
will feature various selections from the Orthodox worship services of Vespers,
Matins and the Divine Liturgy including arrangements from noted composers Pyotr
Illyich Tchaikovsky and Vasily
Sergeyevich Kalinnikov as well as
a wonderful selection of Christmas carols from our Eastern European ancestry.
The choir is composed
of individuals from many of the Wyoming Valley and surrounding area’s Orthodox
churches.This year will mark the
return of the choir’s annual Nativity Concert after nearly a two-year hiatus.
The members of the
choir invite everyone who enjoys the beauty and richness of the Orthodox choral
tradition to join us for an afternoon of peace and fellowship as we prepare for
the birth of our Saviour in a most proper and fitting way.Please announce this to your
congregation, mark the date on your calendar and plan to attend!
Wishing you and yours
a reflective and rewarding Nativity Fast and a joyous Nativity Feast.
With Love in Christ,
Reader Matthew Hoidra
Greg Polk
Co-Directors
Wyoming Valley
Orthodox Choir
00642
St. Tikhon's Seminary Quartet to perform in Philadelphia - 11/23/2009
St. Tikhon's Seminary Quartet will be giving a
concert of Liturgical Music in Philadelphia. The concert will take place on
Sunday, Dec. 6 at St. Nicholas Orthodox Church (817 North
7th St., Philadelphia, PA).The concert will begin at 5 PM and will be followed by fellowship
and light refreshments.A free-will
offering in support of St. Tikhon’s Seminary will be taken following the
concert.
The Orthodox Christian Mission Center is now recruiting for 2010 Mission Teams. Opportunities exist in several different countries, including Alaska, India, Tanzania, Albania, Romania, and many more locations throughout the world. If you feel called to become a missionary, His Grace, Bishop Tikhon, encourages all clergy and faithful of the diocese to heed that call and apply at www.ocmc.org today!
00644
Pan Orthodox Service of Thanksgiving - 11/16/2009
Pan Orthodox Service of Thanksgiving Served by the local clergy of our Churches, with His Grace, Bishop Tikhon of Philadelphia (OCA), presiding
Wednesday, November 25, 2009, 7:00 pm St. Nicholas Serbian Orthodox Church 601 S. Harrisburg St. Oberlin-Steelton, PA 17113
***All Reports for 2009 Diocesan Assembly now available*** - 11/04/2009
Documents for the 2009 Diocesan Assembly are now available for download. On the home page, click on the link "Diocesan Assembly" in the navigation bar to the left.
Chicken BBQ at Holy Trinity in Wilkes Barre - 09/22/2009
Holy Trinity, Wilkes Barre is having a Chicken Bar-B-Que on Saturday, September 26th from 3-6 PM. Eat in or take out. Tickets: $8.00. Call 825-6540 for tickets.
00654
Holy Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church invites all to roller skating party for children - 09/22/2009
The Holy Annunciation Greek
Orthodox Church in Wilkes-Barre will be hosting a Roller Skating party on Sunday,
October 24, 2009 at 6:00 P.M. at the Rollaway Skating Rink in Dallas. All
are welcome to attend. No reservations are necessary. The cost is
free!
Bishop Tikhon hosts luncheon for Widowed Clergy Wives - 06/11/2009
On Saturday, July 18, 2009, His Grace Bishop Tikhon will host a luncheon for all the widowed clergy wives of the Diocese of Eastern Pennsylvania. The luncheon will take place at noon at the Diocesan Center and will be an opportunity for fellowship and for the sharing of the cares and concerns of the widowed clergy wives.
00671
Edwardsville Annual Ethnic Food Festival - 06/10/2009
St Tikhon's Monastery Annual Pilgrimage - 05/07/2008
The Community of St. Tikhon’s Monastery and Seminary extends a most cordial invitation to all of you to participate in the Annual Pilgrimage to St. Tikhon’s Monastery over Memorial Day weekend, May 23-26, 2008.
On Bright Tuesday, April 29, 2008 The Clergy and faithful of the Diocese are invited to St. Tikhon's Monastery, South Canaan, PA for the celebration of the Divine Liturgy. His Beatitude, Metropolitan Herman, Primate of the Orthodox Church in America, will join His Grace, Bishop Tikhon for the Celebration. The Hierarchs will enter the church at 9:30am, followed by vesting and singing of the Paschal Hours. The Divine Liturgy will begin at 10:00am.
00690
Holy Anointing Service - 04/21/2008
His Grace, Bishop Tikhon will celebrate the Service of Holy Anointing at Holy Trinity Church, Wilkes Barre, PA at 7:00 pm, Wednesday April 23rd. The Frackville Deanery service will be held at 7:00 pm at Holy Ascension Church, Frackville, PA.
00691
Holy Annunciation Church Berwick, PA - 03/07/2008
Holy Annunciation Church, Berwick PA, is offering a paid choir director position. For more information please contact Fr James Weremedic at 570-752-3184 or email frjamesw@hotmail.com
His Grace, Bishop Tikhon has announced the following visitations:
January 13th St John Church, Edwardsville, PA Divine Liturgy
January 20th St Herman Church, Gradyville, PA Divine Liturgy
January 20th, Novogodny Ball, Philadelphia, PA
January 22nd, Annual March for Life, Washington, DC
January 27th St John Church, Dundaff, PA Divine Liturgy
00698
December Parish Visits - 11/30/2007
His Grace, Bishop Tikhon has announced the following visitations:
December 2nd St John Church, Dundaff, PA Divine Liturgy Canceled due to inclement weather
December 8-9th Holy Assumption Church, Philadelphia, PA Vespers and Divine Liturgy
December 9th St Stephen Cathedral, Philadelphia , PA Advent Lecture, Philadelphia Deanery
December 16th St John Church, Dundaff, PA Divine Liturgy Canceled due to inclement weather
December 26- 27th St Stephen Cathedral, Philadelphia, PA Patronal Feast Day
00699
Clergy Retreat - 11/29/2007
His Grace Bishop Tikhon, has announced that there will be a clergy retreat on Tuesday December 11, 2007 at Holy Trinity Orthodox Church, Wilkes Barre, PA. The Retreat will begin with an Akathist to The Mother of God, "She Who is Quick to Hear", followed by talks led by His Grace.
00700
Diocesan Men's Retreat - 11/20/2007
The Diocese will hold it's Annual Men's Retreat at St. Tikhon's Seminary on Saturday, December 1, from 10 a.m. 'til 3 p.m.
The theme for this year's encounter is " Fertility, Medicine and Men." Our guest presenter will be Dr. Leon Sheean, retired Laboratory Director of University Hospitals of Cleveland and Assistant Professor of Reproductive Biology at Case Western Reserve University. Dr. Sheean has authored more than twenty peer-reviewed scientific publications and given a similar number of oral presentations at scientific/medical association meetings. He and his wife Barbara are members of St. Theodosius Orthodox Cathedral in Cleveland.
Please review the schedule for the day. There is a $10 per person registration fee, which includes the cost of the luncheon.
For more information or to register for the retreat, please call 570.937.4411.
00701
Reports from the 44th Annual Assembly - 11/08/2007
Agenda for the 44th Annual Assembly of the Diocese of Eastern Pennsylvania
His Grace, Bishop Tikhon has announced the following visitations:
November 1st St John Church, Edwardsville, PA Blessing of Memorial bricks and Akathist Glory to God for all Things 6:00pm
November 3rd-4th Christ the Saviour Church, Harrisburg, PA Vespers and Divine Liturgy
November 11th St Michael Church, Jermyn, PA Divine Liturgy and Patronal Feast Day Banquet
November 16th-17th Diocesean Assembly, St Nicholas Church, Bethlehem, PA
November 18th St Nicholas Church, Philadelphia, PA Divine Liturgy and Anniversary Banquet
November 21st Holy Apostles Mission, Mechanicsburg, PA Service of Thanksgiving, 7:30 pm
00703
California Fire Information - 10/26/2007
During this past week many have seen the devastation of the wild fires that have spread through California. His Grace Bishop Benjamin has asked the Diocese of the West to establish a fund to aid all that have suffered losses. His Grace Bishop Tikhon is encouraging the Clergy and the faithful of the Diocese of Eastern Pennsylvania to offer their support through prayers on behalf of all those affected by this tragedy and through donations to this fund. More information about the relief fund is available here.(PDF format)
00704
Financial Report and Proposed 2008 Budget - 10/19/2007
Below please find the links to the financial report and proposed 2008 budget for review before the Diocesean Assembly.
Holy Synod and Metropolitan Council to Meet - 10/12/2007
The Holy Synod of Bishops and the Metropolitan Council of the Orthodox Church in America will be holding meetings from October 16th-18th. During this time, we ask the faithful of the Diocese of Philadelphia and Eastern Pennsylvania to offer prayers for the continued work of the Church and that the Holy Spirit will guide all during the meetings.
00706
October Parish Visitations - 10/01/2007
His Grace, Bishop Tikhon has announced the following visitations:
October 7th SS Peter and Paul Church, Uniondale, PA Divine Liturgy
October 14th St Tikhon's Monastery, South Canaan, PA Divine Liturgy and Annual Founders Day Dinner
October 20th St Vladimir Church, Lopez, PA Divine Liturgy and Anniversary Celebration
October 21st St Michael Church, Old Forge, PA Divine Liturgy
October 28th Holy Cross Church, Williamsport, PA Divine Liturgy and Anniversary Celebration
His Grace will also be attending the meeting of the Holy Synod of Bishops from October 16th-18th at the Chancery offices, Syosset, NY.
00707
Diocesan Council Meeting - 10/01/2007
The Diocesan Council will hold a meeting on Thursday, October 11, 2007, 10:30am at St Tikhon's Seminary, South Canaan, PA.
00708
Pastoral Letter from Bishop Tikhon - 09/26/2007
September 14, 2007
The Exaltation of the Precious Cross
To the Venerable Pastors, God-loving Monastics and Devout Faithful of our Diocesan Family:
Christ is in our midst!
On September 1st, we celebrated the beginning of the Ecclesiastical Year with the prayer that our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ would make all things new by His Divine Grace.For the Orthodox Church in America, the past year has been full of turmoil and struggle, and so we should offer even more fervent prayers that the merciful Lord would grant us the newness of His Grace and the wisdom and strength to pass through the coming year with faith, with courage and with hope.
The revelations of financial impropriety within the central administration of the Church, as well as the ensuing controversies that have spread throughout the Church, have scandalized, hurt and saddened all of us. Our faith has been overshadowed by doubt, our courage has given way to faintheartedness and our hope has been clouded by the events of the past months. Some of us have been further hurt and frustrated by the long process that has brought these problems to light and the slow path to their resolution.
In all of these temptations, we can truly say that we have endured much humiliation in the eyes of the rest of the Orthodox world, in the eyes of the secular world, and in our own eyes. However, our task now is to respond to this humiliation in the most spiritually beneficial way.The Holy Fathers of the Church remind us that temptation and humiliation can lead either to despair or to humility.The way of the world leads to despair, the way of Christ leads to humility.I am therefore calling upon everyone within our Diocese of Eastern Pennsylvania to follow the way of Christ and not to follow the way of the world.
·Let us strive for love and not for justice.We can most truly fulfill the law of Christ by bearing one another’s burdens. The justice of the world can never comprehend the depths of Christian love, which assumes responsibility even for the sins and mistakes of others. If we blame ourselves, we preserve the unity of man through love; if we blame others, we become slaves to the justice of the world.
·Let us work towards the reconciliation of our wounded family by overcoming our own passions. In a family, conflict can either bring about the destruction of unity and love or it can conversely bring about healing and reconciliation.The most direct path to this healing and reconciliation is the nurturing of the virtues within our hearts and in our actions.
·Let us think positively and not negatively. As a result of the financial scandal, many good measures have been implemented to allow for honest and open discussion of the life of our Church. This discussion should be carried out in a spirit of mutual love and respect and not in a spirit of suspicion and anger. Just as the words of the Gospel are meaningless if we do not act upon those words through our life of virtue, so “Best Practices” and other such tools are useless if they are not used with a discerning mind and a pure heart.
·Let us not become paralyzed by our current financial troubles, but let us rather be inspired by the Precious Cross of Christ by which our Holy Church has always overcome temptation.The Lord of Glory Himself was nailed to the Cross and we should not imagine that it is possible for us to attain His Glory without bearing our own cross, nor should we fear that the enemy of mankind can separate us from Christ, Who has overcome the world.
·Most importantly, let us work: let us recall the rich history and tradition of our own Diocese, and of the Autocephalous Orthodox Church in America and continue to offer of our time and our talents for the spiritual growth of our families, our parishes and our deaneries. The spreading of the Gospel of Jesus Christ is the responsibility of all within our Diocese. We must begin with repentance in our own hearts and with love for God, which will bear fruit in our love for our neighbor.We must support our own parish priest and his family in his ministry; we must work to bring back the lost sheep of our parishes; we must offer hospitality to those who are seeking the True Faith; we must increase our inter-parish cooperation and come together as often as we can within our deaneries; we must support our diocesan programs and departments and our seminaries as they work towards increasing our missionary and educational activities.
Finally, as we make our way through this new Church year, let us strive to be watchful rather than judgmental; let us strive for honesty and truth in all things, without descending to the level of gossip and slander; let us strive for true humility, which is not defined as unquestioning acceptance, but rather as the boldness before the Lord in seeking our salvation and the salvation of our brother. Above all, let us show our love for one another through our prayers for one another: let us pray for our Metropolitan, let us pray for the Hierarchs of the Holy Synod, let us pray for the Members of the Metropolitan Council, let us pray for our clergy and our faithful and for one another at all times, so that we may indeed receive God’s mercy and His grace. For it is only by the power of Almighty God that we will find rest and peace from our earthly struggles and from the tempest of life. May this be so by God’s great and abundant love for mankind.
The 37th Annual Adult Education series, sponsored by St Tikhon's Seminary and the Diocese of Philadelphia and Eastern Pennsylvania will begin on Tuesday, September 18th. The theme for this year is "Wisdom from the Hierarchs". All Lectures will begin at 7:00pm followed by a Question and Answer period. For additional information please call the Seminary at 570-937-4411.
Tuesday, September 18, 2007 –
“What Does Pop Culture Have to Do with the Gospel?”
His Grace, the Rt. Rev. Bishop SAVAS
Titular Bishop of Troas and Chancellor,
Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America
Tuesday, September 25, 2007 –
“Holy Nation, Holy Diaconate, Holy Priesthood, and Holy Episcopate”
His Grace, the Rt. Rev. Bishop JOSEPH
Bishop of Los Angeles and the Diocese of the West,
Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America
Tuesday, October 2, 2007 –
“Persecutions of the Early Christian Church”
His Grace, the Rt. Rev. Bishop PETER
Bishop of Cleveland and Vicar of the Chicago Diocese,
Russian Orthodox Church Outside of Russia
Tuesday, October 9, 2007 –
“The Three Levels of Prayer”
His Eminence, the Most Rev. Archbishop LAZAR
Retired Archbishop of Ottawa,
Orthodox Church in America
00710
30th Anniversary Holy Cross Church - 09/10/2007
Holy Cross Orthodox Church, Williamsport, PA has annouced a week of events marking their 30th anniversary. The schedule is:
Thursday September 13th Vespers 7:00pm
Friday September 14th Divine Liturgy 10:00am, Patronal Feast Day
Saturday September 15th Festival of Icons 10:00am-4:00pm
Sunday September 16th Divine Liturgy 10:00am followed by an Open House until 2:00 pm
Monday September 17th Journeys to Orthodoxy 7:00pm
Tuesday September 18th Lyra Concert 7:00 pm
The Church is located at 1725 Holy Cross Lane, Williamsport, PA. For more information please call 570-322-3020.
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September Parish Visitations - 09/05/2007
His Grace, Bishop Tikhon has announced his scheduled Parish visitations for the month of September. The schedule is as follows:
September 9th, St Mary Church, Coaldale PA Divine Liturgy and Parish Annual Dinner
September 16th, Holy Trinity Church, Catasaqua, PA Divine Liturgy
September 23rd, St Mark Church, Wrightstown, PA Divine Liturgy
September 29-30th, St Michael Church, Wilmington, DE Divine Liturgy
His Grace, will also be in attendance on September14th at St Vladimir's Seminary for the Instalation of The Very Rev. Dr Chad Hatfield as the new Chancellor and the Rev. Dr John Behr as the new Dean of the Seminary.
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44th Annual Diocesan Assembly - 09/04/2007
The 44th Annual Diocesan Assembly will be held on November 16-17th, 2007 at St Nicholas Orthodox Church, Bethlehem, PA. More information will be added as it becomes available.
00713
New Summer Camp Photos - 08/24/2007
The summer camp photo section has been expaned to three slide shows. Our thanks to all who attended camp, both staff and campers.
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Vacation Bible School - 07/18/2007
Vacation Bible School will be held at Holy Annunciation Church, Berwick, PA from Sunday July 22nd-Thursday July 26th. The classes will be from 6:00pm-8:00pm, and will focus on the life of St Paul. During the week there will also be a presentation on Project Mexico. For more information call 570-752-3184.
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North American Saints Activity Book - 06/22/2007
The North American Saints Activity Book is the newest online resource from the Department of Christian Education of the Orthodox Church in America. It offers biographical information about twelve saints whose lives and witness built up the Church in America.
The annual Women's Retreat will be held at St Tikhon's Seminary on Saturday August 11th, 2007. This years speaker will be Mother Raphaela, from Holy Myrhbearers Monastery, who will speak on "The Most Holy Theotokos, Our Travel Guide for Life" and "Mary and Martha, Which One is for You?" Registration deadline is August 4th, 2007.
On Thursday, August 16th, the Diocesan Council will meet at 10:30 am at St Tikhon's Seminary, South Canaan, PA.
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St. Tikhon's Summer Camp - 06/20/2007
St. Tikhon's Annual Summer Camp is being held this year from Sunday, July 8th through Saturday, July 14th. For information regarding the camp, please contact, Martin Paluch, Diocesan Youth Director, 570-937-4411.
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5/8/2007 Diocesan Council Meeting - 04/26/2007
On Tuesday, May 8th, the Diocesan Council will meet at 10:30 am at St Tikhon's Seminary, South Canaan, PA.
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Valaam choir to visit parishes - 04/18/2007
Thursday Apr.19-Concert performance at 7:00pm at Holy Annunciation Orthodox Church in Berwick. A Choir from the Island of Valaam, Russia will be singing a repertoire of songs including Orthodox spiritual singing, classic, folk music and contemporary songs. A free will offering will be taken for the benefit of the choir. Light refreshments will be served following the concert in our church hall.
Friday Apr. 21 _ The choir from Valaam will offer a concert of Valaam Chants and Paschal Music at St. Herman of Alaska Church in Gradyville at 5pm. Following the Liturgy on Sunday, there will be a banquet and another concert offered by the choir (free will offering for the banquet is $7 for adults, $3 for children
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Bright Tuesday Divine Liturgy - 04/02/2007
On Bright Tuesday, April 10, 2007 The Clergy and faithful of the Diocese are invited to St. Tikhon's Monastery, South Canaan, PA for the celebration of the Divine Liturgy. His Beatitude, Metropolitan Herman, Primate of the Orthodox Church in America, will join His Grace, Bishop Tikhon for the Celebration. The Hierarchs will enter the church at 9:30am, followed by vesting and singing of the Paschal Hours. The Divine Liturgy will begin at 10:00am.
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Lenten Clergy Retreat - 03/01/2007
His Grace, Bishop Tikhon has announced that on Thursday, March 15th, a lenten retreat will be held at St Tikhon's Seminary for the Clergy of our diocese. Dr Harry Boosalis will offer a presentation on "The Joy of Knowing God" followed by a discussion led by His Grace.
The Diocesan Council will meet on Tuesday February 6, 2007, at 10:30 AM. The meeting will be held at St. Tikhon's Seminary.
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12/14 Clergy Retreat - 12/07/2006
His Grace Bishop Tikhon has announced that there will be a clergy retreat held on Thursday December 14, 2006 at Holy Trinity Orthodox Church, Wilkes Barre, PA. The Retreat will begin with an Akathist to St Herman of Alaska, followed by talks led by His Grace Bishop Tikhon.
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12/3 Akathist to St Nicholas - 11/28/2006
There will be an Akathist to St Nicholas the Wonderworker on Sunday November 3rd, at St Michael the Archangel Orthodox Church, Old Forge, PA. The service will begin at 3:00pm, followed by a visit from 'St Nicholas'. All Children present will receive a special treat from 'St. Nicholas'. This event is being sponsored by the Department of Christian Education and the Wilkes Barre Deanery. Please plan to attend and bring your family and friends.
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11/11 - Men's Retreat: "Faith and Science" - An Orthodox Doctor's Perspective - 10/31/2006
The Diocese of Eastern Pennsylvania will host its Third Annual Men's Retreat at St Tikhon's Seminary on Saturday, November 11, 2006 from 10am -3pm. The Theme for this year's encounter will be "Faith and Science." An Orthodox Doctor's Perspective Our Guest presenter will be Nicola Nicoloff, M.D., F.A.C.C., renowned cardiologist in greater eastern Ohio area, choir director of St. John's Church in Campbell and a member of the Board of Trustees of St. Tikhon's Seminary.
On Friday, November 17th and Saturday, November 18th, the Diocese of Eastern Pennsylvania will hold its Diocesan Assembly at St. Nicholas Church in Bethlehem, PA.
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9/30/06 - Skills Conference for Christian Education and Youth Ministries - 08/28/2006
The Department of Christian Education of the Diocese of Eastern Pennsylvania, in conjunction with the National Church, will be sponsoring a skills conference on Saturday, September 30, 2006, at St. Tikhon's Seminary. The conference is entitled "Building Skills for Christian Education and Youth Ministries: Equipping the Saints".
On Tuesday, June 27th, the Diocesan Council will meet at St. Tikhon's.
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6/18/06 - Bp. Tikhon to visit All Saints Church in Olyphant, PA - 06/10/2006
On Sunday, June 18th, Bishop Tikhon will visit All Saints Church in Olyphant, PA. On the eve of the first day of Great Lent, March 5th, a fire broke out which damaged parts of the 105 year old structure.
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St. Tikhon's Summer Camp to be held July 9-15, 2006 - 06/10/2006
St. Tikhon's Annual Summer Camp will be held this year from Sunday, July 9th through Saturday, July 15th. For more information, please contact:
The schedule of Lenten Vespers services in the Diocese of Philadelphia and Eastern Pennsylvania is as follows.
All services will be celebrated at 5:00 p.m. unless otherwise noted.
On Sunday, March 12, the Triumph of Orthodoxy Vespers will be celebrated at Holy Resurrection Cathedral, Wilkes-Barre, PA. His Grace, Bishop Tikhon of Philadelphia and Eastern Pennsylvania, will be the celebrant and homilist.
On the evening of Palm Sunday, April 16, Bishop Tikhon will be the celebrant at Bridegroom Matins at St. Tikhon of Zadonsk Monastery Church, South Canaan, PA.
The schedule for individual deanery Vespers is as follows.
FRACKVILLE DEANERY
Sunday, March 12 Triumph of Orthodoxy Vespers Holy Resurrection Cathedral, Wilkes-Barre, PA. His Grace, Bishop Tikhon of Philadelphia and Eastern Pennsylvania, celebrant and homilist.
Sunday, March 19 St. Herman of Alaska Church, Shillington, PA. The Very Rev. Daniel Ressetar, homilist.
Sunday, March 26 SS. Peter and Paul Church, Minersville, PA. Bishop Tikhon, celebrant. The Very Rev. Michael Evans, homilist.
Sunday, April 2 Holy Trinity Church, McAdoo, PA. The Very Rev. Michael Hatrak, homilist
Sunday, April 9 St. Michael Church, Mount Carmel, PA. The Very Rev. John Onofrey, homilist.
Great and Holy Wednesday, April 19 Holy Unction Holy Ascension Church, Frackville, PA.
PHILADELPHIA DEANERY
Sunday, March 12 Pan-Orthodox Triumph of Orthodoxy Vespers St. Vladimir Ukrainian Orthodox Cathedral, Philadelphia, PA. A presentation will be made by Daniel Christopoulos.
Sunday, March 19 Evangelismos Greek Orthodox Church, Philadelphia, PA. The Very Rev. Matthew Searfoorce, homilist.
Sunday, March 26 St. John Chrysostom Church [OCA], Philadelphia, PA. Homilist to be announced.
Sunday, April 2 St. George Greek Orthodox Cathedral, Philadelphia, PA. Homilist to be announced.
Sunday, April 9 St. Mark Church [OCA], Wrightstown, PA. Bishop Tikhon, celebrant. The Rev. Victor Gorodenchuk, homilist.
WILKES-BARRE DEANERY
Sunday, March 19 St. Michael Church, Old Forge, PA. Bishop Tikhon, celebrant. The Very Rev. John Kowalczyk, homilist.
Sunday, March 26 Holy Annunciation Church, Berwick, PA. The Rev. Paul Fetsko, homilist.
Sunday, April 2 St. John the Baptist Church, Edwardsville, PA. Bishop Tikhon, celebrant. The Very Rev. David Shewczyk, homilist.
Sunday, April 9 All Saints Church, Olyphant, PA. The Rev. John Russin, homilist.
Great and Holy Wednesday, April 19 Holy Unction St. Michael Church, Jermyn, PA. Bishop Tikhon, celebrant.
Coming October 22, 2016! The Fourth Annual Rusyn Genealogy Conference, “Understanding the Rusyn Heritage” Come join us on Saturday (10/22/2016) from 9AM-4PM at King’s College Campus Center, Wilkes-Barre, PA. Speakers include Dr. Paul Best (“ The Lemkos”) Tom Peters (“I am a Rusyn, Let My Journey Begin”), Jim Huratiak (“DNA and Rusyn Genealogy”) and Gabriel Koljesar (“Vojvodina”). All are welcome to bring documents for interpretation. This conference costs $40.00 and includes a breakfast buffet and lunch. Merchandise will be available for purchase as well as a basket raffle. This event is sponsored by the Eastern PA Chapter of the Carpatho-Rusyn Society. Please RSVP by October 15th to Sharon Jarrow (shangp@rcn.com • call 610-759-2628) or mail check made to C-RS Eastern PA to Sharon Jarrow~599 Fehr Rd. ~Nazareth,PA 18064.
Holy Apostle's Mission Ground Blessing and Cross Planning Invitation
Holy Apostle's Mission, Mechanicsburg, PA will be conducting ground blessing and Cross planting for their new building on Sunday, October 13, at 2PM. A flyer with directions and other details can be found HERE.
Holy Ascension Orthodox Church announces plans for 100th Anniversary • Lykens
Holy Annunciation Orthodox Church in Lykens will be celebrating their 100th Anniversary on Sunday, October 6, 2013. An invitation to this event can be found HERE.
Veronica Olynik, mother of Matushka Martha Moser (wife of Deacon Gregory Moser of St Mark's Church in Writghtstown) fell asleep in the Lord on Saturday, September 17. Funeral services will take place in Crossingville, PA on Sept. 20. May her memory be eternal!
September 16, 2011, Friday St. Sophia’s Greek Orthodox Church 325 Waring Road Syracuse, NY 13224-2254 (315) 446-5222 Great Vespers and Akathist, 6:30pm
September 17, 2011, Saturday St. Sophia’s Greek Orthodox Church 325 Waring Road Syracuse, NY 13224-2254 (315) 446-5222 Orthros, 9:00am Divine Liturgy, 10:00am
Protection of the Mother of God Russian Orthodox Church 100 Stanford Drive Rochester, NY 14610 (585) 224-0554 Moleben and/or Akathist, 4:00pm
September 18, 2011, Sunday St. John the Baptist Russian Orthodox Cathedral 700 Hill Street Mayfield, PA 18433-2015 (570) 876-0730 Divine Liturgy, 9:30am
Russian Orthodox Church of the Entrance into the Temple of the Holy Virgin 607 Tecumseh Road Jamesville, NY 13078-8706 (315) 446-1781 Moleben and/or Akathist, 6:00pm
October 1, 2011, Saturday Holy Cross Russian Orthodox Monastery 505 Holy Cross Road Wayne, WV 25570 (304) 849-2072 Great Procession and arrival of the Holy Icon, 2:30pm Trapeza, 4:30pm Vigil and Litia, 6:00pm
October 2, 2011, Sunday Holy Cross Russian Orthodox Monastery 505 Holy Cross Road Wayne, WV 25570 (304) 849-2072 Hierarchical Divine Liturgy with the Metropolitan, 9:30am
October 3, 2011, Monday Three Hierarchs Eastern Orthodox School (T.H.E.O.S.) 1819 Ellsworth Ave. Heidelburg, PA 15106 (412) 278-3333 Visitation with the Children, 9:30am
Holy Trinity Serbian Orthodox Cathedral 450 Maxwell Drive Pittsburgh, PA 15236 (412) 882-3900 Akathist, 7:00pm
October 4, 2011, Tuesday Nativity of the Theotokos Greek Orthodox Convent 121 St. Elias Lane Saxonburg, PA 16056 (724) 352-3999 Divine Liturgy, 8:00am
St. George Antiochian Orthodox Cathedral 3400 Dawson St. Pittsburgh, PA 15213 (412) 681-2988 Akathist, 3:00pm
Holy Virgin Dormition Russian Orthodox Church 330 Shaw Ave. McKeesport, PA 15132 (412) 469-8879 Moleben and/or Akathist, 7:00pm
October 5, 2011, Wednesday Monastery of the Transfiguration (OCA) 321 Monastery Lane Ellwood City, PA 16117 (724) 758-4002 Akathist, 8:00am (Visitation till 1:00pm)
Ss. Peter and Paul Orthodox Church (OCA) 2238 East 32nd Street Lorain, OH 44055 (440) 277-5281 Moleben and/or Akathist, 6:00pm
October 6, 2011, Thursday (4th Anniversary of the Finding of the Hawaiian Iveron Icon) St. Sergius Russian Orthodox Cathedral 6520 Broadview Road Parma, OH 44134 (440) 382-9763 Divine Liturgy, 9:00am
St. George Serbian Orthodox Church 4667 Applegrove St. NW North Canton, OH 44720 (330) 499-8623 Visitation, 12:30pm
St. George Serbian Orthodox Church 296 Old Rt. 21 Road Carmichaels, PA 15320 (724) 966-7428 Akathist, 6:00pm
October 7, 2011, Friday St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Cathedral 419 Dithridge Street Pittsburgh, PA 15213 (412) 682-3866 Akathist, 8:00am (Visitation till 2:00pm)
St. Basil the Great Russian Orthodox Church 1149 Ridge Road Belle Vernon, PA 15012 (724) 341-1607 Moleben and/or Akathist, 7:00pm
October 8, 2011, Saturday Christ the Savior Carpatho-Russian Orthodox Cathedral 300 Garfield Street Johnstown, PA 15906 (814) 539-8086 Moleben, 4:00pm (Visitation till 7:30pm)
October 9, 2011, Sunday St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church 1607 West Union Boulevard Bethlehem, PA 18018 (610) 867-1327 Divine Liturgy, 9:00am Paraklesis, 2:00pm
St. Nicholas Orthodox Church (OCA) Lackawanna St & Gravity Ave Olyphant, PA 18447 (570) 489-3891 Moleben and/or Akathist, 5:30pm
October 12, 2011, Wednesday St. Tikhon’s Russian Orthodox Monastery (OCA) St. Tikhon's Road South Canaan, PA 18459 (570) 937-4067 Divine Liturgy, 6:00am
October 13, 2011, Thursday Holy Protection Greek Orthodox Monastery (Aghia Skepi) 1 St. Joseph's Way White Haven, PA 18661 (570) 443-2220 Paraklesis, 3-5pm
Holy Apostles Orthodox Mission (OCA) 5006 East Trindle Road Mechanicsburg, PA 17055 (717) 458-8063 Moleben and/or Akathist, 7:00pm
October 14, 2011, Friday Holy Trinity Russian Orthodox Monastery 1407 Robinson Road Jordanville, NY 13361 (315) 858-0940 Divine Liturgy, 9:00am
All Saints Orthodox Church (OCA) 210 Susquehanna Avenue Olyphant, PA 18447 (570) 489-0942 Moleben and/or Akathist, 7:00pm
00752
Archpastoral Letter from His Grace, Bishop Tikhon on the Flooding in Eastern Pennsylvania
Russian Days Festival, Bethlehem + Sept. 9 - 11, 2011
Mark your calendars for the annual Russian Days Festival--the 30th
year of celebration--an annual gathering to enjoy neighborly fellowship,
ethnic foods, baked goods and crafts.
Enjoy delicious ethnic foods, decadent home-baked goods, polka music and dancing, and vendors selling hand-made crafts.
Open to the Public daily at 11:00am
Church tours daily at 2:00pm (except on Sunday) and 5:00pm
Sunday Prayer Service (Molieben Service) for the 10th Anniversary of 9/11 @ 2pm
Jolly Joe Timmer (Polka Music)
Friday, Sept. 9 @ 6pm - 9pm
The Occasions (Polka Music)
Saturday, Sept. 10 @12pm - 3pm
Sunday, Sept. 11 @ 12pm - 3pm
Sunday, Sept. 11 @ 3:30pm - 7pm
Pennsylvania Villagers (Polka Music)
Saturday, Sept. 10 @ 4pm - 7pm
Festival Closes on Friday @ 9pm, Saturday @ 8pm and Sunday @ 7pm
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Akathist to the Theotokos, Holy Resurrection Cathedral, Wilkes Barre + August 14
On Sunday August 14th at 6:00 p.m., there will be an Akathist Service in honor of the Dormition of the Theotokos before the Holy Shroud at Holy Resurrection Orthodox Cathedral, 591 N. Main Street, Wilkes-Barre, PA. Area clery are all invited to participate in this service and to invite their faithful to attend.
00761
Healing Service in Berwick + July 27
On Wednesday, July 27, Holy Annunciation Church in Berwick will be having a healing service with the oil from the relics of St. Panteleimon. The service will start at 6pm.
Location: 1228 2nd Ave Berwick, PA 18603
00762
Children & Family Festival, Coaldale + August 15
Children and Family Festival St. Mary's Church, Coaldale
MONDAY, AUGUST 15TH 4-8:30pm
Please join us for a time of fun and fellowship with our local community! We will have Church Tours, a pet blessing, challenge games, food, a magician, and much more…
00763
Mysteries of the Jesus Prayer showing, Coaldale + July 19
"Mysteries of the Jesus Prayer"
A documentary about a pilgrimage to the Heart of Ancient Spirituality
Discover the ancient and powerful Jesus Prayer. Known by generations of eastern Christians, this mystical prayer has been in use since the apostles, but remains largely unknown in the west. Travel with us to the far reaches of the Middle East, Mediterranean and Eastern Europe to discover the Jesus Prayer first hand with Emmy award winning theologian and author Dr. Norris Chumley, and renowned historian and priest, Very Reverend Dr. John A. McGuckin. Discover with us the ancient Christian wisdom and prayers, still in use today. See some of the world’s oldest treasures of religious art and sacred iconography as well as holy altars—hidden away in monasteries and chapels—off limits to the outside world…until now.
The movie will show on Tuesday, July 19 at 7:30pm on the big screen in the Parish Hall. There will be a short discussion following and light refreshments will be served.
00764
St. John the Baptist Church, Edwardsville celebrating 100th Anniversary + June 17-18
100th Anniversary Schedule:
Friday, June 17 6m Great Vespers
Saturday, June 18 9:30 Hierarchical Divine Liturgy 1:00 Banquet at Appletree Terrace in Newberry Estate, Dallas 6:00 Vespers and Confessions
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Bishop Tikhon's Schedule & Upcoming Events
June 17-18 St. John the Baptist, Edwardsville 100th Anniversary
June 21 Lesser Synod Meeting
June 25 Revitalization committee meeting
July 3-9 St. Tikhon's Summer Camp
July 10 Uniondale Dinner
August 11 Diocesan Council Meeting
00766
Holy Trinity Russian Orthodox BAZAAR Festival + July 31
Saturday, July 30 at 4:00pm - July 31 at 10:30pm
Holy Trinity Russian Orthodox Church
401 East Main St.
Wilkes-Barre, PA
This year’s bazaar will be held on July 30th
and July 31st. Holy Trinity will feature all of your favorite foods including...
Potato Pancakes Pierogies Halushki Wimpies Cheesteaks Sausage & Peppers Hamburgs Hot Dogs French Fries Funnel Cake Lots of delicious homemade baked goods Ice cold drinks Beer & Lots More!
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Chicken BBQ at Holy Resurrection, Wilkes Barre + June 17
Chicken BBQ at Holy Resurrection Cathedral in Wilkes Barre will be held between 3pm and 6pm.
00768
June 30th - Fr. John Kowalczyk, Diocesan Chancellor, to Speak in Toronto
June 30th, Fr. John Kowalczyk will be representing the seminary community
at the Prison Fellowship International that will be held this year in
Toronto Canada. Fr. John is on the Board of Directors for the Orthodox
Christian Prison Ministry (OCPM).
In Toronto Fr. John will be
presenting a lecture on : The Ministry of Presence as a Means of
Integrating Inmates Into Family, Church and Society."
-Ethnic Greek Products (t-shirts, aprons, professional prints, and more) -Tours of the Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church (upon clergy and church staff availability)
-Daily Specials Available (in addition to those listed on the festival menu)
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St. Tikhon's Monastery Pilgrimage + May 27-30
This Memorial Day weekend St. Tikhon's Monastery will have the great honor and
blessing to have in our midst Fr. Archimandrite Zacharias of Essex
Monastery who will be the guest homilist for the Memorial Day Pilgrimage
weekend and the commencement speaker for the Graduating class of 2011.
All are welcome to come hear and meet this truly venerable disciple of
Fr. Sophrony of Essex, the disciple of St. Silouan. The Weeping Icon of
St. Anna will also be visiting with us throughout the Memorial Day
weekend Pilgrimage which begins on May 27th at 3:30 p.m. until May 30th
at 4 p.m. Visit the monastery website to download the full schedule.
To read a message by His Grace, Bishop Tikhon, concerning the 2011 Pilgrimage click here.
00773
Fr. Victor to speak in Berwick + May 25, 2011
Holy Annunciation Orthodox Church in
Berwick will host a lecture on Wednesday, May 25 at 7 P.M. by Father Victor
Gorodenchuk entitled "Creation Story: the Book of Genesis and Contemporary
Science. Light refreshments will be served following the lecture.
Fr. Victor is the rector at St.
Stephen Orthodox Cathedral in Philadelphia.
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International Food Festival, Wilmington + May 21, 2011
St. Michael the Archangel Orthodox ChurchInternational Food Festival
WHEN:Saturday, May 21, 2011
9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
WHERE:2300 W. Huntington Dr. & Kirkwood Hwy.
Wilmington, DE19808
Come
and enjoy a variety of different ethnic foods such as pierogies, German
bratwurst, Russian beet salad, kebabs, hot dogs, hamburgers and fresh
baked goods.Eat-in or take out available.
Vendors
and crafts, Sea World inflatable, face painting, manicures, plant and
book tables, flea market, music and other children’s activities.Fun for the entire family!
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Flea Market at St. Michael's Church, Jermyn + May 14, 2011
On Saturday, May 14, St. Michael's Church in Jermyn will be having an indoor/outdoor flea market in the church hall from 7am to 3pm. If you would like to purchase a table, contact Mat. Cathy Kowalczyk at 876-1241.
The Wilkes Barre Deanery will be celebrating St. Alexis on Saturday, May at Holy Resurrection Cathedral. Divine Liturgy will be at 9:30am with Bishop Tikhon and deanery clergy. Click here to view the flier for more information.
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New book published by Rev. Joseph Lucas
Priest
Joseph Lucas, pastor of St Basil the Great Church in Simpson, has
published a new book. "Prayer of the Publican: Justification in the
Desert Fathers" examines the understanding of justice/righteousness in
the Sayings of the Desert Fathers. Additional information is available here.
00779
Mother's Day Dinner in Dundaff + May 7
St. John's Church in Dundaff will be hosting their annual Mother's Day Dinner on Sunday, May 8th at noon. There will be Barbecued chicken and holupki. Takeouts are scheduled from 11am to 11:45am. Cost is $10 for adults and $5 for children. Call 222-3293 for questions.
00780
Men's Retreat at All Saints Church + April 29, Bright Friday
REAL MEN DIE EVERY DAY: An Evening Retreat for Men, at All Saints Church, Willow & Grant Streets in Olyphant, Bright Friday 4/29, 6:00-9:00 PM. Dinner, a Fast-Free Friday Feast, will be from Five Guys Burgers,
followed by a talk with Fr. Alexander Atty, Dean of St. Tikhon's
Seminary. Fr. Alexander will explain what it means for Christian men
to "die daily" (1 Cor 15:31) in leading our wives, families, friends,
enemies, and selves toward the Kingdom - and why dying daily
to our own desires is a non-negotiable necessity for our salvation!
Dinner is $7.00; please contact Fr. David Cowan at 698-7825 or frdavid@allsaintsolyphant.org if you are coming.
00781
OCCGH Golf Tournament + May 21, 2011
The Orthodox Christian Charities of Greater Harrisburg (OCCGH),
the non-profit organization that is developing the Agia Sophia Coffee
House and Bookstore in Harrisburg, PA, is having their inaugural Golf
Tournament and Sports Auction on Saturday May 21st, 2011 at Mayapple
Golf Club in Carlisle, PA. The online Sports Auction featuring over 50 items will go "live" on April 1st, 2011 at http://occgh.org/and will continue until the eve of the tournament (May 20th). Note: Final bids will be taken at the event on May 21st.
The Golf Tournament is a shotgun scramble format (8am tee time) and is open to all foursomes as well as individuals, please visit our website at http://occgh.org/ for golfer registration and sponsorship information.
JOHNSTOWN, PA [OCA] -- His Eminence, Metropolitan Nicholas
[Smisko] of Amissos of the American Carpatho-Russian Orthodox Diocese of
the USA fell alseep in the Lord at Windber Hospital Hospice on the
Sunday of Orthodoxy, March 13, 2011.
Metropolitan Nicholas, 75, had waged a courageous battle with cancer.
Additional information will be posted as it becomes available. A special web page has been established by the ACROD at www.metropolitan.acrod.org.
May Metropolitan Nicholas' memory be eternal!
00784
Sunday of Orthodoxy Pan-Orthodox Service, Harrisburg + Sunday, March 13
On March 8th, Matushka Olga Kovach
fell asleep in the Lord. Her husband of 67 years, the V. Rev. Dr. Michael Kovach and their daughter Helene were
with M. Olga, as she closed her eyes to this world and opened them to
eternity. May her memory be eternal!
Funeral arrangements are as follows:
Friday, March 11th
Viewing from 8am-9am at Christ the Saviour Orthodox Church (Harrisburg, PA)
Funeral Service at 9am at Christ the Saviour Orthodox Church (Harrisburg, PA)
Burial will follow at St. Tikhon Orthodox Monastery (S. Canaan, PA)
Olga Hubiak Kovach of Millersville, 87, died
Tuesday, March 8, at Moravian Manor in Lititz. She suffered from
Alzheimer's for several years.
Born abroad in former
Czechoslovakia, she was the daughter of the late missionaries, Father
Afanasy and Susan Wanchisen Hubiak. She grew up in Akron, Ohio, and
graduated from East High School.
Olga worked as an executive
secretary at Hamilton Watch Company. She was a member of Christ the
Savior Orthodox Church and its Altar Guild Society, the Millersville
University Book Club, the University Campus Club and a member of the
Cliosophic Society.
Her hobbies were cooking, sewing, arts and
crafts, gardening and reading. She also loved to attend music and
theater events and travel. Olga attended Millersville State University
as an arts major.
Surviving are her husband, Father Michael, to whom she
was married 67 years. She is also survived by her daughter, Helene
Dmochowski, her son, Ivan,
wife Jane and children, Oliver and Penelope, and her daughter, Sasha.
Others
surviving include Olga's brother, Father Daniel, and wife Dunia, sister,
Sophie and husband, Father Theodore, sisters-in-law, Eva Hubiak, Ann Hubiak
and Verna Papinchak and brother-in-law, Steve Kovach and his wife, Jean.
Several nieces and nephews also survive.
Funeral services will
be held at Christ the Savior Orthodox Church at 5501 Old Locust Lane,
Harrisburg on Friday, March 11, at 9 AM. Viewings will be held one hour
before the funeral service and Thursday evening from 6 to 7:30 before a
parastas service.
Interment will be at St. Tikhon's Monastery in South Canaan, PA.
In her memory, in lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to her church in care of Father Stephen Vernak, pastor.
Lenten Retreat, Christ the Saviour, Harrisburg + March 12
Christ the Saviour Orthodox Church is pleased to invite our local Orthodox community for a special Lenten Retreat with V. Rev. Dr. Michael Oleksa,
Chancellor of the Diocese of Alaska (OCA) and an eminent theologian and
public speaker. His topic "Christianity and the Environment" is a
worthy theme, as we enter our Great Lenten journey and contemplate our
own stewardship of all that God has entrusted to our care (our souls,
bodies, families, parishes, as well as our environment). Click here to view the flier.
00792
5th Annual Young Adult Retreat, Mechanicsburg + March 5
The Church as Spiritual Hospital with keynote speaker Fr. Hector Firoglanis
Saturday, March 5th 10am-4pm Holy Apostles Orthodox Mission 5006 E. Trindle Rd., Suite 101 Mechanicsburg, PA 17055
For young adults about 18-35 years of age. $10 suggested donation, payable on the day of the retreat. Includes lunch. Registration by Feb. 26 is appreciated, not not required. Please email philipgraybill@gmail.com with your name and the number attending in your group.
Schedule: 10:00 Divine Liturgy 11:30 Lunch & Registration 12:30 Session 1 1:30 Break 1:45 Session 2 2:45 Q&A 3:15 Akathist of Thanksgiving DINNER for those who would like to extend the fellowship, we will be going out to dinner at a local restaurant following the retreat. Please bring money. All are also welcome to attend Vespers at Holy Apostles at 6pm.
Email Phil at philipgraybill@gmail.com for more information.
Sponsored by the young Adult Fellowship of the Orthodox Council of Churches of South-Central PA
Fr. Theodore Petrides to Give Lecture at St. Tikhon's Bookstore Museum
On February 25th at 7:00 p.m., Fr. Theodore Petrides will give a talk
about the life and spirituality of his spiritual father, the Athonite
Elder Amilianos of Simonos Petras. The talk will be in the Museum above
the bookstore and is open to the general public.
00795
Bishop Tikhon to celebrate Hierarchical Liturgy at Georgian Monastery
His Grace Bishop Tikhon will celebrate the Divine Liturgy on Sunday, February 6 at the Georgian Monastery of St David the Builder in Ashley, PA. The following link contains details about the event as well as the address of the Monastery.
His Grace, Bishop Tikhon has announced the publication of a Monthly
Bulletin for the Diocese, which will serve as a means of communications
to supplement the diocesan website and the diocesan magazine, Alive in Christ, both of which will continue as usual. The January Monthly Bulletin can be accessed here.
00797
Central FOCA Basketball Team Forming
The FOCA Junior O's are forming a basketball team to compete at the FOCA National Tournament this April 29th-May 1st in Cleveland, OH. Youth between the ages of 15 and 18 who love basketball, and would like to play on a highly competitive, well-coached team are encouraged by apply. Participants must meet the following requirements:
1. Must be member of an Orthodox parish and from the
Central PA FOCA- this means if they are not already a member they will
need to register through their parish FOCA chapter, or as an 'at large
member' (essentially 5$ per year and your registration makes you a
member).
2. Be available to practice on Saturday or Sunday evenings
between now and April 29th in Coaldale, PA. (this will be announced
formally in the coming days- practice will be once a week) 3.
The cost is approximately $60 per student for the tournament (this will
include transportation, lodging and food for the three days)
4. Be available to participate in any fundraisers in the coming months to defray above costs. 5. Fill out all the appropriate permission slips and insurance information.
For more information please call Fr. Daniel Mathewson at 570-645-2772.
00798
Chancellor interviewed by Scranton Times
Fr. John Kowalczyk, rector of St. Michael's Church in Jermyn and Chancellor of the Diocese, was interviewed by the Scranton Times Tribune concerning the March for Life event tomorrow. Click here to read the article.
00799
Retreat on Church Growth led by Fr. Alexander Atty + Jan. 22
Revitalize: A Retreat on Church Growth and Administration
Saturday, January 22 at 1pm
at St. Michael the Archangel Orthodox Church 2300 West Huntington Dr., Wilmington, DE
Sponsored by the Philadelphia Deanery
Presented by the Very Reverend Fr. Alexander Atty Dean of St. Tikhon's Orthodox Seminary
Everyone is invited to attend and parish council members are encouraged to attend
RSVP to St. Michael's Rectory (302) 995-6775 or email frjamesw@hotmail.com by January 20th
00800
March for Life Press Release
Plans underway for Orthodox Participation in the Annual
March for Life on Monday, January 24th
Orthodox Christians
everywhere -- especially those within driving distance of the US capital
-- are being encouraged to bear witness to their faith at the annual
March for Life on Monday, January 24, 2011.
As in years past, His
Beatitude, Metropolitan Jonah expressed his desire to see as many youth and
young adults as possible to join him in proclaiming that all life is indeed a
gift from God.
The faithful are
asked to gather by 12:30 p.m. under the "Orthodox Christians for
Life" banner to the left of the stage at the Ellipse, between the
Washington Monument and the national Mall. Metropolitan Jonah will be one of
several speakers to address the public at the pre-March program.
His Grace, Bishop
TIKHON, of Philadelphia, together with Bishop Michael of New York, Bishop
Melchizadeck of Pittsburgh, and Bishop Elect Mathias are expected to attend and
participate in the March.
Seminarians from both
St. Tikhon’s and St. Vladimir’s Seminary are also planning to participate.
This year, the Very
Rev. John Kowalczyk, a Pro-life Activist and involved in the March for Life for
over 25 years, has been asked to give the final benediction at the formal
program prior to the March. At the conclusion of
the March, Metropolitan Jonah will offer prayers for the victims of abortion.
On Sunday, January
23, the eve of the March, the faithful are encouraged to join Metropolitan Jonah
for Vespers at Saint Nicholas Cathedral, 3500 Massachusetts Ave. NW, at 6:00
p.m. A reception will follow.
On the morning of the
March, Metropolitan Jonah will preside at the celebration of the Divine Liturgy
at the cathedral at 8:00 a.m.
Following the March,
Metropolitan Jonah will attend the annual Rose Dinner at DC's Hyatt Regency
Hotel.
While additional
details concerning the Orthodox Christian witness at the March will be
forthcoming, general information on the March may be found at www.marchforlife.org.
00801
Blessing of Waters in Harrisburg + January 9
On January 9th 2011 at 1:30pm, the clergy and faithful of the Orthodox Christian Churches of Greater Harrisburg will gather at City Island Park to perform the service of the Great Blessing of the Waters in conjunction with their celebration of Theophany.
From the press release:
Participating in the service this year for the first time will be His Grace Bishop Tikhon of Philadelphia and Eastern Pennsylvania. The following local parishes will participate in the event:
Christ the Saviour Orthodox Church in Harrisburg Holy Annunciation Orthodox Church in Steeleton Holy Apostles Orthodox Mission in Mechanicsburg Holy Trinity Orthodox Cathedral in Wormleysburg (Camp Hill) St. Nicholas Orthodox Church in Oberlin
This ceremony has a rich tradition, dating back to the earliest days of Christianity. The hymns for the service were written by St. Sophronius of Jerusalem in the mid-seventh century. This had been an annual event in the life of the local Orthodox churches of Harrisburg for over 30 years (the Patriot News covered this event in 1935). Each year over 100 people brave frigid temperatures to witness to their Faith and ask God's blessing upon the cities most prominent landmark.
All are invited to attend this event!
00802
Kurst Root Icon to visit St. Michael's, Jermyn + Jan. 28 and Holy Trinity, Wilkes Barre + January 29
St. Michael Church, Jermyn: Friday, January 28 Greeting of the Icon and Akathist will start at 6pm. There will be a light reception afterwards.
Holy
Trinity Church, Wilkes Barre: Saturday, January 29. The greeting of the Icon will take place
at
6pm with an Akathist to follow.
A unique photo montage of the historic
visit of the Kursk
Icon to Russia in September 2009 as well as photos of the
icon's travels is
planned following the Akathist at this time.
Kursk Root Icon to visit St. Stephen Cathedral + Dec. 27th
The Miraculous Kursk Root Icon of the Mother of God will be visiting St. Stephen Cathedral on Monday, Dec. 27th. The Hierarchical Divine Liturgy will begin at 9:30am. Click here to download the flier.
The FOCA Central PA District is sponsoring a St. Andrew's Day Event at Holy Annunciation in Berwick, PA Sunday December 12th at 430pm, featuring Fr. Daniel Ressetar's St. Andrew monologue and 2 sketches from St. Mary's FOCA youth "Maximime" group. Refreshments to follow.
00809
St. Nicholas Celebration, Forest City + December 12
St. Basil's Church in Simpson would like to extend an invitation to the St. Nicholas Day Celebration in Forest City on December 12 at 1pm, on Main Street. St. Basil's is involved with the planning, and will provide a St Nicholas look-a-like for the festivities. Parish rector, Fr. Joseph Lucas will be speaking on the life and times of the saint. Additionally, St. Tikhon's Mission Choir will sing carols and traditional Nativity hymns. Around 3 PM, St Nicholas will lead a parade down Main Street.
00810
Spiritual Retreat, St. Nicholas Church, Philadelphia + December 4th
A meeting of the Diocesan Council for the Diocese of Eastern Pennsylvania was held on October 12, 2010 at the Diocesan Center in South Canaan. The meeting opened at 10:40 a.m. with the singing of O Heavenly King…
Bishop’s Report
His Grace, Bishop Tikhon, summarized some of his recent activities, including his participation in the joint Holy Synod and Metropolitan Council Meeting and Retreat on September 20-23 and the joint meeting of the OCA/ROCOR (Russian Orthodox Church Outside of Russia) commissions on October 5 and 6. His Grace indicated that he is preparing a five-year review of the life of the diocese as well as a five-year plan for the future to be presented at the Diocesan Assembly on November 19 and 20.
His grace noted the four areas of concern that he felt need to be addressed by the Diocese: Administrative Housekeeping, Parish Health, Clergy Health and Education. Following on the last item, a discussion was held on the various means of educating our children and youth within the diocese and suggestions were made that His Grace will be presenting to the Office of Church School and Curriculum.
Chancellor’s Report
The Chancellor, Father John Kowalczyk, reported on • preparations for the upcoming Diocesan Assembly • recent clergy movements • Diocesan census figures • recent travels and pastoral visits of Bishop Tikhon Father John highlighted His Grace’s participation at the Orthodox Christian Prison Ministry (OCPM) conference which was held in Philadelphia.
The Diocesan Council encouraged his Grace to seek support from the hierarchs of the OCA as well as the Episcopal Assembly for the important pastoral work of ministering to those in prison and those seeking re-integration following incarceration.
Fr. John also presented an update on the level of parish compliance with the Policies, Standards and Procedures concerning Sexual Misconduct of the Orthodox Church in America. He noted that it is extremely important for every parish council (as a group and individually) and every person working with children in the parish to acknowledge and accept these Policies.
Following this report, the following motion was made and carried: That parishes which are not in compliance with the sexual misconduct policy by November 1, 2010 will be subject to further hierarchical action.
Another motion was adopted by the Diocesan Council asking for the compliance report concerning sexual misconduct be expanded to include parish meeting minutes and the annual budget from each parish of the diocese. At the direction of the Bishop, it was agreed that those parishes failing to be in compliance would not receive hierarchical approval of Parish Meeting minutes and election of officers.
Treasurer’s Report
Father Martin Browne presented the financial report for the diocese and also introduced the proposed budget for 2011. The proposed budget reflects no change in the level of assessment and includes new line items for stipends for Deans and parish assistance.
Metropolitan Council Report
Father David Mahaffey and David Yeosock gave a report on the recent Metropolitan Council Meeting, including discussions on the OCA budget, upgrades to the OCA website and plans for the next All American Council in Seattle. A report on the Pension Plan was also presented and a motion was made concerning the newly reconstituted Orphanage Board for a member of the Diocesan Council to be included on this Board.
New Business
A resolution from the Philadelphia Deanery concerning the funding of the diocese was received by the Diocesan Council for presentation at the Diocesan Assembly in November.
The meeting adjourned at 4:00 p.m. with the singing of It is truly meet…
00813
BISHOP TIKHON’S SCHEDULE
NOVEMBER 2010
Thursday, November 4 Lecture at Holy Annunciation Church in Berwick
Saturday, November 6 Town Hall Meeting at St Nicholas Church in Bethlehem
Sunday, November 7 Divine Liturgy at St Michael’s Church in Jermyn Vigil for Archangel Michael at St Tikhon’s Monastery
Monday, November 8 Divine Liturgy for Archangel Michael at St Tikhon’s Monastery Ordination of Deacon Zachary Lynch to the Priesthood Ordination of Ian Shipley to the Diaconate
Saturday, November 13 Divine Liturgy at St Tikhon’s Monastery Ordination of Deacon Thomas Langdon to the Priesthood Vigil at St Vladimir’s Seminary, Crestwood, NY with the relics of St Vladimir
Sunday, November 14 Divine Liturgy at St Nicholas Church in Bethlehem Burning of the Mortgage
November 16-18 Fall Session of the Holy Synod, Oyster Bay Cove, NY
November 19-20 Annual Assembly of the Diocese of Eastern Pennsylvania St Nicholas Church in Bethlehem
November 20-21 Vigil and Divine Liturgy at St Stephen’s Cathedral for the Feast of the Entrance of the Mother of God
Wednesday, November 24 Akathist of Thanksgiving at Holy Apostles Mission, Mechanicsburg
Monday, November 29 Roundtable Discussion on Religion and Politics at Kutztown University
Thanksgiving Dinner, Minersville + November 7, 2010
SS. Peter and Paul Church, Minersville, will hold its Annual Thanksgiving Dinner on Sunday, November 7th, at 12 noon. Tickets are $9.00 for adults and $4.50 for children. Call the rectory, 570-544-2690 if interested in attending.
St. Tikhon's Seminary and the Diocese of Eastern Pennsylvania present a lecture entitled: "Difficult Decisions: Beginning and End of Earthly Life" by Fr. Theodore Petrides. The lecture will be at All Saints Church in Olyphant on Oct. 19th at 7pm.
“The Words of the Lord after the Fall of Adam and Eve”
A three part lecture series by Fr. Victor Gorodenchuck, rector of St. Stephen's Cathedral in Philadelphia, will be broadcast on the diocesan website (http://doepa.org/livevideo.html) on October 7, 14, and 21, starting at 7:30pm. In this series we will explore, in much detail, the account of the Fall of Man and its consequences as it is described in the 3rd Chapter of the Book of Genesis.We will try to understand how temptation came in Paradise to the First-Created man and woman and what the words of God after the Fall of Adam and Eve mean for our salvation in this fallen world.We will concentrate on understanding of the Biblical text of Septuagint with the help of commentaries from the Fathers of the Church.We invite those residing in the Philadelphia area to come and join us for the discussion at St. Stephen’s Cathedral and those who will be viewing these lectures online to ask questions about this topic in the chat room. To have an ongoing dialogue on this topic, questions and comments can be submitted between each lecture on the Diocesan Blog (http://doepa.wordpress.com/).
00822
St. Tikhon's Seminary Founders Day Dinner + Oct. 9
"Christmas in September" at St. Michael's Church, Jermyn + September 26, 2010
CHRISTMAS IN SEPTEMBER An exceptional display of items from around the world, featuring Father John (QVC) and his treasures. Gemstone jewelry, silver antique icons, toys, collectibles, dolls, scarves, ornaments, paintings, items from the holy land, items from Italy, Poland and Ireland and more.
Ethnic foods including Stuffed Cabbage, Pierogi with 16 different fillings, Blintzes with 10 different fillings, Strudel, Breads and much more
This year, Holy Cross Church in Williamsport will be having its fall lecture series beginning on October 4th. Lectures begin at 7pm. More information can be found on the Holy Cross website.
00828
Russian Days Festival Bethlehem + September 12, 2010
From Friday, September 10th to Sunday,September 12, St. Nicholas Church in Bethlehem is having it's annual Russian Days Festival. The miracle working icon She Who is Quick to Hear from St. Tikhon's Monastery will be present on Friday and Saturday while special services are held in honor of 9/11.
00829
Improving Stewardship in Your Parish + Sept 9 7PM CDT (8PM EST)
The Diocese of Eastern Pennsylvania is pleased to announce that one of her own is preparing to become a long-term OCMC missionary to Romania. Christina Semon, a parishioner of All Saints Orthodox Church in Olyphant, has been selected to work at the St. Dimitrie Program and Protection of the Theotokos Family Center in Romania.
Please offer her your prayers and financial support in this God-pleasing work. To do this, and for more information about Christina, click on the following link: http://ocmc.org/missionaries.php?sub=missionary&id=38
00832
St. John the Baptist Church, Edwardsville, holding 10th annual ethnic food festivall
June 1:Sunday of the Blind Man – Divine Liturgy at St Tikhon’s Monastery
June 5:Feast of the Ascension – Divine Liturgy at Holy Ascension Church in Frackville
June 8:Sunday of the Fathers of the First Ecumenical Council – Divine Liturgy at Holy Annunciation Church in Berwick
June 15:Feast of Holy Pentecost – Divine Liturgy at the Monastery of St Tikhon of Zadonsk
Blessing of new Cemetery Archway at St. Michael Church in Jermyn
June 17:Divine Liturgy at Holy Transfiguration Monastery in Ellwood City on the occasion of the first anniversary of falling asleep of Archbishop Kyril.
June 22:Sunday of All Saints – Divine Liturgy at Holy Trinity Church in Pottstown for the 80th Anniversary of the parish.
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