2006 Archived Diocesan News
|
 |
[Archived News] Thursday, December 28, 2006
BISHOP MITROPHAN ATTENDS
TWO WINTER RETREATS IN EASTERN DIOCESE
The Winter Retreat held at Shadeland, in conjunction with the Midwestern Metropolitanate, officially opened Wednesday evening with registration and Vespers. Thursday was the first full day of activities which included talks, arts and crafts, church singing and a slide show of Serbian monasteries. Rev. Aleksa Micich, Rev. Radovan Jakovljevic, Rev. Dragomir Tuba, Rev. Milovan Katanic and Mr. and Mrs. Christopher Radanovic were some of the speakers on Thursday. Also attending the winter retreat from the Midwestern diocese are Deacon Damjan Bozic and Deacon Ivan Gasic.
On Thursday His Grace Bishop Mitrophan attended and took part at the third annual Winter Camp organized by the St. Petersburg Deanery and held in St. Petersburg, Florida. His Grace, the bishop, is expected to take part at the Winter Retreat in Shadeland on Friday. The retreat at Shadeland will conclude with the Divine Liturgy, beginning at 8:00 am, on Saturday morning.
(6 images)
|
|
 |
[ARCHIVED NEWS] Wednesday, December 20, 2006
BISHOP Dr. MITROPHAN VISITED PARISH IN JOHNSTOWN, PA
Johnstown, Pa – On Sunday, December 17, 2006 His Grace Bishop Mitrophan of Eastern America, visited the St. Nicholas Church in Johnstown, Pa., where he officiated at the Holy Hierarchical Divine Liturgy. He was assisted by newly appointed parish priest, Father Dejan Obradovic and diocesan secretary Fr. Deacon Dragoslav Kosic. This was the day that His Grace Bishop Mitrophan officially welcomed Father Dejan to our church and into our diocese. He wished him many, many years of service to God and to the St. Nicholas parish. He said he hoped Fr. Dejan would serve as his predecessors, the late + V. Rev. Radisa Puric, who was well known and respected not only in our church and diocese but also in the community and in Serbia, and the V. Rev. Nedeljko Grgurevich who has served, and continues to serve our diocese as the Episcopal Deputy, an accomplished author who is also known and respected throughout many areas. His Grace indicated that combined they served the parish of St. Nicholas in Johnstown for a total of 51 years adding that hopefully Fr. Dejan will be able to serve this parish for that many years as well.
It was a special day for the parish as the Sunday school children had prepared themselves to receive confession on this day. It was an honor to receive Holy Communion from His Grace, Bishop Mitrophan. A “posno” luncheon was prepared for the children and they were once again delighted to have His Grace bless their food and drink before the luncheon.
The newly appointed parish priest, Fr. Dejan Obradovic, was born in 1971 in Kragujevac, Serbia. He finished Seminary school in Prizren, Kosovo -Serbia in 1991 and his theological studies at the Theological Faculty in Libertyville, IL in 1997. He married the former Marija Domanovic in Kragujevac on November 1, 1998. He was ordained by Bishop Sava of blessed memory, in 1998, in Kragujevac and appointed as parish priest in “Vinogradi” – Kragujevac on January 1, 1999. On January 1, 2000 he was appointed as parish priest in Niagara Falls, Ontario, by Bishop Georgije. He came to St. Nicholas in Johnstown, PA., on November 1, 2006. He and Popadija Marija have been welcomed into the parish family of St. Nicholas, where it is also hoped that they will be 51 years if not more. As His Grace wished Fr. Dejan many years, the same wish came from Fr. Dejan to the bishop, echoed by the church choir and the parish: Mnogaja ljeta to His Grace Bishop Mitrophan and Fr. Dejan and Popadija Marija. Ziveli!
(1 images)
|
|
|
 |
[ARCHIVED NEWS] Monday, December 18, 2006
PITTSBURGH DEANERY HOLDS
CHRISTIAN EDUCATION MEETING
Midland, Pa - On Saturday, December 16th, St. George Parish in Midland hosted the Christian Education Meeting for the Pittsburgh Deanery. Designated speaker was Rev. Father Zivojin Jakovljevic of St. Sava Cathedral in Cleveland, OH.
The meeting began with the Lords Prayer and Blessing of His Grace Bishop Mitrophan of Eastern America. The host Priest, Rev. Fr. Milan Pajic welcomed His Grace and all attendees, with the wishes that the meeting be fruitful. The Dean of the Pittsburgh Deanery, V. Rev. Stavrofor Stevan Stepanov, greeted all participants and introduced Rev. Dejan Obradovic, the new priest of the St. Nicholas parish in Johnstown, Pa. V. Rev. Rodney Torbic, the Christian Education Coordinator, introduced the speaker, Fr. Zivojin Jakovljevic.
In his talk Fr. Zivojin spoke on education in general, as caring for the child in whole; from the Slavonic word Vospitanije, which indicates not only supplying the child with knowledge (education) but their complete upbringing. He based his talk on the teachings of St. John Chrysostom and St. Seraphim of Sarov who spoke extensively on that which is most important in life. A discussion followed.
Afterwards, the parish reports were presented during which different experiences were exchanged which representatives were encouraged to use in their respective parishes.
In addition to this, various good examples were considered as useful in applying to the summer camp in Shadeland. The busy schedules of some parishes such as Aliquippa, McKeesport and Steubenville, did not prevent either the priest or the teachers from these parish from attending the meeting on Saturday. With eleven priests, thirteen teachers and one deacon this was the best attended Christian Education meeting thus far.
A luncheon was served in the parish hall and Fr Rodney commended everyone for attending the meeting and expressed his gratitude to Fr. Milan, the host priest and the parishioners of St. George Church for their warm hospitality.
(2 images)
|
|
|
 |
[ARCHIVED NEWS] Monday, December 11, 2006
FR. VLADIMIR DEMSHUK IS ELEVATED TO PROTOJEREJ
Clairton, Pa – On Sunday, December 10, 2006 His Grace Bishop Mitrophan of Eastern America visited the Church of the Nativity of the Mother of God in Clairton, Pa where His Grace officiated at the Holy Hierarchical Divine Liturgy. Assisting the bishop was parish priest Rev. Vladimir Demshuk and diocesan secretary Fr. Deacon Dragoslav Kosic. In the homily, delivered by Fr. Vladimir, he spoke on the day’s epistle reading and the Apostle Paul’s message for us all to use our timely wisely as the “days are evil.”
To Fr. Vladimir’s surprise His Grace Bishop Mitrophan, during his visit, elevated him to the rank of protojerej. The bishop thanked Fr. Vladimir for all of his work in this parish, where he had been six years, noting that his elevation is only a small gift that is given by men but the true reward we should only await from God.
(0 images)
|
|
|
 |
[ARCHIVED NEWS] Monday, December 4, 2006
CHURCH SCHOOL EDUCATION MEETING HELD IN HERMITAGE
Hermitage, PA – His Grace Bishop Mitrophan of Eastern America gave his blessings and took part in the 20th Annual Christian Education Meeting for the Cleveland Deanery. The meeting was held at St. George Serbian Orthodox Church in Hermitage, Pa on Saturday, December 2, 2006. The meeting began with a presentation given by speaker and host priest Fr. Milovan Katanic. In his talk, titled Christian Education and Children’s Literature, he took a look at the role literature can play in the faith of a child, highlighting some of the Christian themes found in the popular children’s books of C. S. Lewis The Chronicles of Narnia and spoke of Lewis’ intention in writing these stories. Additionally, Fr. Milovan pointed out some books geared toward children which have openly anti-Christian messages, books that our children should avoid and adults should be made aware of.
Following the presentation the clergy and educators submitted their annual reports and spoke of the work of the Church School in their respective communities.
(2 images)
|
|
|
 |
[ARCHIVED NEWS] Friday, December 1, 2006
MONASTERY MARCHA WELCOMES NEW MONASTICS
Richfield, Ohio - In November the St. Archangel Gabriel Monastery, Monastery Marcha, received two new monastics on loan from the Diocese of Ras and Prizren. Hieromonk Fr. Vasiljie and Hierodeacon Ignatije are from Monastery Sopocani.
(3 images)
|
|
|
 |
[ARCHIVED NEWS] Friday, December 1, 2006
SЕRB FEST A GREAT SUCCESS
St. Petersburg, FL - The St. Sava Serbian Orthodox Church held its third annual Serb Fest on November 3-5, 2006.
This year’s Serb Fest was especially festive as our parish hosted the Ensamble of Serbian Folk Dancing Miroslav “Bata” Marcetic from Toronto, Canada. With over 400 people in attendence, these wonderful, talented and enthusiastic dancers opened Serb Fest with a performance in the Palladium Theater in St. Petersburg, which also featured the Paprida dancers from the St. George Greek Orthodox Church in New Port Richey, FL, as well as our very own Serbian Pearl dance group from our St. Sava parish.
The members of the Ensamble of Serbian Folk Dancing Miroslav “Bata” Marcetic enthralled those present with their live music, led by music director Mica Petrovic, beautiful costumes, singing and dancing.
After the performance a large crowd gathered in the church hall for an evening of great food, beverages, dance and song.
Serb Fest continued on Saturday with a large variety of activities for children, who especially liked the walk the moon. There was a pie eating contest, won by Andjelko Krsmanovic & Selena Despotovic, and a pogacha bake-off, won by Kaja Djukic. We tried to set a record for the Guiness Book of World Records for the World’s Largest Kolo Dance, but we fell a little short of the number of dancers needed.
Once again Serbian dancers provided the main entertainment: Our Serbian Pearl dance group started the day of dancing with a wonderful performance of the small and middle groups. Later that afternoon, we were treated to a performance of the Serbian Crown dance group from the St. Petka Serbian Orthodox Church in Orlando, FL.
The evening performance was opened up by the senior group of Serbian Pearl. Once again the highlight of the evening was an encore performance of the Ensamble of Serbian Folk Dancing Miroslav “Bata” Marcetic before an overflowing crowd in the parish hall. The festivites continued into the night with song, dance and fellowship.
On Sunday, Pr. Stephen celebrated the Divine Liturgy with responses sung by our St. Sava Choir, after which Serb Fest concluded after another day of fun, food, music and an encore performance by the small and medium groups of Serbian Pearl.
We would like to thank all of our dancers, cooks, bakers, workers and donors who put in a lot of time and effort to make this year’s Serb Fest celebration a memorable one.
(1 images)
|
|
|
 |
[ARCHIVED NEWS] Tuesday, November 28, 2006
NEW SCHOOL BUILDING CONSECRATED
St. Petersburg, FL - On Sunday, October 15, 2006, His Grace Dr. Mitrophan, Bishop of the Diocese of Eastern America, with the assistance of Protojejrej Stavrophor Milan Stojanovic and Protojerej Stephen Zaremba, celebrated the the Divine Liturgy in the St. Sava Serbian Orthodox Church in St. Petersburg, FL. Immediately following the Divine Liturgy, Bishop Mitrophan consecrated the new multipurpose building, an old house bought in June 2005 to be used for Sunday School, Serbian School, a parish bookstore, meetings and other purposes.
After the rite of consecration, Bishop Mitrophan, Prota Milan and Prota Stephen and a large number of parishioners enjoyed a wonderful luncheon prepared by the Circle of Serbian Sisters St. Petka.
Church Board President Scott Raspopovich thanked the following persons for their help in making this project a success: Mike Babich- who donated all payments for site clearing and grading of the property; Jelena Loncarski- for her donation of $1500.00 towards the landscaping of our grounds; Alex Petrovich- for his $2000.00 donation when we needed it to complete the current work; George Milanovich- for his donation of time and material of our air conditioning unit; Stojan Lukic- for his donation of time and material for the remodeling of our restroom; West Coast Lodge 208- for their donation of $2000.00 from the proceeds of the S.N.F. midwinter golf tournament; Mladen Miljanic- for his donation of all electrical wiring; Dalibor Zolotic- for his donation of all marble window sills; Zeljko Jankovic- for his donation of all communication and cable wiring; Milenko Despotovich- for his donation of all cabinets and countertops; Dr. Mike Bojkovic- for his donation of two air conditioning units for our church hall; Zarko Perucica- for his donation of all the drywall.
Special thanks to Zeljko Sljivic who served as chairman of this project.
The following persons were thanked for the time, skills and labor they invested in the project: Branislav Drazic; Dragan Stanisic; Vojo Pavlovic; Milan Rakovic; Milorad Jovanovic; Dusan Sljivic; Zarko Zdralo; Nedeljko Jankovic; Stevo Karac; Mirko Obradovic; Zdravko Kordic; Brano Skopljak; Milenko Bozic; Slavko Skopljak; Marinko Bozic; Milisav Pavlovic; Marko Kacajeic; Branko Rakovic; Cedo Radovanovic; Thom Chenoweth; Vitomir Andric; Mike Weiss; Zoran Lazic and Scott Raspopovich.
If anyone who worked on this project is not named, the omission is not intentional. We ask that any omissions be pointed and that we may correct them.
This building is an important step in building the future of our parish, especially the children. Everyone’s time, work and donations are still needed to finish an additional classroom, to fence the property in and for landscaping. Of course there is still a mortgage on the property which we need to pay off as soon as we can.
We congratulate Prota Stephen, the Executive Board, teachers, children and all the parishioners of St. Sava for this tremendous accomplishment.
(1 images)
|
|
|
 |
[ARCHIVED NEWS] Sunday, November 26, 2006
PARISH IN SOUTH AMERICA CELEBRATED TWENTIETH ANNIVERSARY
Brazil, South America - The Holy Trinity Serbian Orthodox Church in Brazil, under the omophorion of His Grace Bishop Mitrophan of Eastern America, celebrated their twentieth anniversary in October. The celebration took place October 25-72, 22006 with a special theological seminar organized on the occasion the parish’s jubilee. Special guest and speaker was Fr. Gerasim, Abbot of St. Herman of Alaska Serbian Orthodox Monastery in Platina, California.
This parish was founded by Archbishop Gabriel of the Polish Orthodox Church in 1986. They have been in the in the Diocese of Eastern America of the Serbian Orthodox Church since February 2002.
(3 images)
|
|
|
 |
[ARCHIVED NEWS] Wednesday, November 22, 2006
COLUMBUS PARISH CELEBRATES CHURCH SLAVA
Columbus, OH - The celebration of the feast of the Church dedicated to St.Stevan of Dechani in Columbus OH, began on Saturday, November 18th with the Vespers Service, which was attended by His Grace Bishop Dr. Mitrofan and Rev.Deacon Dragoslav Kosic.On the following day, November 19th, the day of the feast, the The Holy Hierarchical Divine Liturgy was served. The holy Hierarchical Divine Liturgy was officiated by diocesan hierarch Bishop Dr. +Mitrofan. The parish priest, Fr. Isak Kisin, assisted His Grace as well as diocesan deacon, Fr. Deacon Dragoslav Kosic. The church was filled with the honorable faithful who attended the morning's Liturgy, the Ritual of the Slava Kolac was performed in the church following the service.
Gathered in the church hall, the faithful were moved by the inspirational words of Bishop Mitrophan.Rev.Isak Kisin, the executive board president, Mr. David Kos and «Kuma» Kathy Maragos also addressed the faithful. The formal luncheon was prepared by the hard working Kolo Sestara, while the roasted meats were prepared by the "St. George Fellowship".
The honored kumovi were Paul and Kathy Maragos with their children Sophia and Sonja.
Rev. Isak Kisin
(1 images)
|
|
|
 |
[ARCHIVED NEWS] Wednesday, November 15, 2006
CHARLOTTE PARISH CELEBRATES SLAVA
Charlotte, NC - The celebration of the feast of the chapel dedicated to St. Arsenije of Srem in Charlotte, North Carolina began on Thursday with Vespers while on the following day, on the day of the feast, the Divine Liturgy was served.
His Grace Bishop Mitrophan of Eastern America arrived on Friday with his deacon, Fr. Dragoslav Kosic. Vespers were served at the Greensboro parish. On Saturday, November 11, Matins with Hours were served after which the welcome of the Bishop Mitrophan followed. His Grace, the bishop, officiated at the Holy Hierarchical Divine Liturgy. Beside the deacon, assisting His Grace were: Protopriest Fr. Stavros Delber from the Greek Orthodox Church “St. Nektarios” in Charlotte, Fr. Mark Mancuso from Columbia, SC (Russian Orthodox Church of the New Martyr Princess St. Elizabeth), Fr. Sasa Turkic from the Serbian Orthodox Church “St. Apostles Peter and Paul” in Atlanta and Fr. Dragan Lj. Zaric, who, during the liturgical celebration, was elevated by the bishop to protonamesnik. Reader Vladan Gluvacevic with his wife Natasha and family were the hosts, kumovi, from the feasts.
After the cutting of the Slava Kolac and a group picture, a spiritual-cultural program followed. Around eighty guests participated in a rich lunch, auction and popular musical entertainment. That day, over $5,000 was collected which went towards the church mortgage.
Svetozar Postic
(3 images)
|
|
|
 |
[ARCHIVED NEWS] Wednesday, November 15, 2006
ORTHODOX STUDENTS HOLD RETREAT AT UNIVERSITY OF VIRGINIA
Charlottesville, NC - On Saturday evening November 11 and Sunday November 12, 2006, Father Aleksa Micich visited the Orthodox Christian Fellowship chapters of the various colleges in the States of Virginia and Delaware that were meeting in Charlottesville, VA. The retreat was hosted by the OCF chapter at the University of Virginia. Twenty one Orthodox Christian students participated, where they heard presentations from Father Aleksa Micich of St. Luke Serbian Orthodox Church of Metro Washington DC and Father John Manuel from St. Constantine and Helen Greek Orthodox Cathedral of Richmond, VA. Father John spoke to the students about relationships of all kinds Saturday afternoon and Father Aleksa spoke in the evening on
the theme of vocations. The students were very interested in both topics and posed very thoughtful questions. Saturday night's session lasted until 11:30PM, when Father Aleksa ended the question and answer session after his presentation in anticipation of Sunday morning Divine Liturgy.
Divine Liturgy was served at St. Nicholas Ukrainian Orthodox Mission in Charlottesville and was well attended by students and regular parishioners. Host priest, Father Robert Holet offered a sermon that was in-line with the presentations that the students heard the evening prior, thereby further feeding the flock. After Liturgy, Father Aleksa presided over the Slava service and cutting of the Slavski Kolac for the University of Virginia chapter, in honor of their patron saints, Sts. Kosmas and Damian, with Father Robert assisting, and the students offering responses. We look forward to meeting with other chapters of OCF throughout the region, as Father Aleksa is the newly appointed chairman of Standing Committee on College Student Ministry of the Serbian Orthodox Church in the United States and Canada.
Father Aleksa Micich
(3 images)
|
|
|
 |
[ARCHIVED NEWS] Monday, October 30, 2006
TWENTIETH ANNIVERSARY
OF THE ST. SAVA THEOLOGICAL SCHOOL IN LIBERTYVILLE
Lansing, IL - The St. Sava School of Theology in Libertyville, Illinois held their twentieth anniversary celebration on Saturday, October 28, 2006 at St. Archangel Michael Serbian Orthodox Church in Lansing, Illinois. The day began with the Holy Hierarchical Divine Liturgy. Serving were His Eminence Metropolitan Christopher of the Midwestern Metropolitanate, His Grace Bishop Mitrophan of Eastern America and His Grace Bishop Maxim of Western America. Also attending was His Eminence Iakovos of the Greek Orthodox Metropolis of Chicago. Thirteen priests assisted the hierarchs at the liturgical celebration, seven of which are St. Sava graduates. Additionally, five deacons served, four of which are St. Sava graduates and Protodeacon Stanimir Spasovic, professor of Canon Law and History of the Serbian Church. Also in attendance were a number of clergy, graduates of this school. The student choir sang the responses at the liturgy under the direction of V. Rev. Milos Vesin professor of Serbian Chant at the theological school.
Following the Divine Liturgy a festive academia was held in the hall. The host priest, Fr. Milos Vesin, emceed the program. Greetings and congratulatory remarks were offered, among others, by His Eminence Metropolitan Christopher, the dean of the school, Bishop Dr. Mitrophan, professor of New Testament, V. Rev. Dr. Nedeljko Grgurevic, professor of liturgics and Metropolitan Iakovos. The program also included selections sung by the student choir. The keynote speaker was Protodeacon Dr. Stanimir Spasovic who, in his address, gave a detailed look at the significant work of Serbian composer Stevan St. Mokranjac, whose 150th anniversary since his birth our Serbian church is commemorating this year. Dr. Spasovic paid particular attention to his great contribution to Serbian chant.
From the inception of this school in 1986 75 students have graduated, from that number 55 are serving the Serbian Orthodox Church, 50 of whom are ordained priests or deacons and the remainder have not been ordained but are continuing their post graduate studies and are in some service to their church.
(6 images)
|
|
|
 |
[ARCHIVED NEWS] Thursday, October 26 2006
THE SECOND ANNUAL
BENEFACTORS DINNER IN CHARLOTTE
Charlotte, NC – On Sunday, October 15, 2006 the second annual Benefactors Dinner of the St. Symeon the Myrrh-Gusher Missionary parish of Charlotte was held at “Il Nido” Italian restaurant. The gathering of the small group of faithful of our small mission parish began that morning with the Holy Hierarchical Divine Liturgy officiated by His Grace Bishop Mitrophan of Eastern America who, in his homily, stressed the significance of the constant strengthening and confessing of our salvific Orthodox faith, which God revealed to simple fishermen who later became His disciples and later apostles – Christian missionaries.
At 6:00 pm that evening a small Italian restaurant was reserved for our Benefactors Dinner. Some forty faithful of our parish as well as friends of our church gathered at the restaurant. The goal of the gathering was to be surrounded in prayer around our Bishop so that we might witness to our heterodox friends of our Orthodox faith, history and Serbian culture.
The program was emceed by Reader Vladan Gluvacevic. In the cultural-musical part of the evening we watched a video prepared by V. Gluvacevic on the architecture of Monastery Hilandar and listened to Bach’s composition for flute performed by Dimitrije Mogilensko, which was listened cautiously by the faithful.
A larger variety of items were available at this year’s auction. Artist Teofana Zaric donated a fresco done on canvas entitled “Christ” which was purchased by Gordana Djuranovic for $700. The painting “Bouquet” was painted by artist Vukica Mijatovic and was purchased for $300 by Stephen Flaherti, president of the parish council of the St. Nectarios Greek Orthodox Church in Charlotte. Decorated Russian eggs and a stamp collection donated by Gordana Djuranovic and Bojana Srtamovic were purchased for a total of $715.
Thank God and to all those who attended that evening’s Benefactor’s Dinner as $10,315 was raised and the mortgage on the church property was decreased to only $45,000.
Organizational Committee
(2 images)
|
|
|
 |
[ARCHIVED NEWS] Friday, October 20 2006
HOLY RESURRECTION SERBIAN CHURCH
CELEBRATES 100 YEARS
Steubenville, OH – The weekend of Saturday 29 through October 1, 2006 marked the 100th anniversary of the Serbian Orthodox Church of the Holy Resurrection in Steubenville, Ohio. The long weekend began on Friday with a stroll down memory lane at the Serbian-American Cultural Center where many artifacts and photos were available from the long history of the Serbian people of this parish. A large map of the former Yugoslavia gave parishioners a visual of the different areas that their ancestors originated from.
On Saturday the parish Men’s Club prepared a reception at the Serbian Picnic grounds which was followed by Vespers later that afternoon at the Serbian Visoki Dechani Church. His Eminence Metropolitan of the Midwestern Metropolitanate attended the evening Vespers service served by former pastor V. Rev. Stavrophor Dr. Nedeljko Grgurevich. Singing responses were the Petar Krstich Choir and, from the cantors’ stand, former pastor Protopresbyter-Stavrophor Vasilije Sokolovic, parish native son Protopresbyter Stevo Rocknage and Pittsburgh’s Fr. Rajko Kosic. Dinner and a rich cultural program followed which, among other things, included performances from the choir and the Holy Resurrection Tamburitzans as well the first showing a DVD showcasing the history of the parish.
On Sunday the Holy Hierarchical Divine Liturgy and church slava celebration marked the highpoint of the weekend. Presiding was His Eminence Metropolitan Christopher and His Grace Bishop Dr. Mitrophan. Concelebrating were former pastors Protopresbyter-Stavrophor Dr. Nedeljko Grgurevich and Protopresbyter-Stavrophor Vasilije Sokolovic, native son Protopresbyter Stevo Rocknage, Carmichael Pennsylvania’s Protopresbyter Dr. Rodney Torbic, Lorain’s Fr. Milorad Orlic, host pastor Prota Rade Merick and Deacon Dragoslav Kosic.
During the Liturgy His Grace Bishop Dr. Mitrophan surprised and humbled Holy Resurrection’s pastor Fr. Rade Merick by granting him the right to wear the pectoral cross, the highest honor given to a married priest in the Serbian Orthodox Church. An inspiring homily was given by His Grace Bishop Dr. Mitrophan. Near the end of the Liturgy the triple church slava Litija procession with the reading of four gospels and the blessing the church’s four walls took place to the pealing of the church’s original 1906 bell from the old church in Mingo Junction, with prayers for all departed members and clergy, and the cutting of the slavski kolac.
The grand banquet followed the liturgy at the Cultural Center. The centennial weekend was a wonderful parish reunion as many former parishioners traveled from all over the country to attend. It allowed parishioners to meet old friends, to reminisce, and to enjoy warm fellowship. Finally, it served as a worthy entry into the parish’s second century of service to God and His people.
(1 images)
|
|
|
 |
[ARCHIVED NEWS] Tuesday, October 17, 2006
NEW TRANSLATION RELEASED
From the Diocesan Office – Recently the Serbian translation of the book The Romanian Patericon II by Hieromonk Joanikije Balan has been released from the printers. This translation to the Serbian language was completed by His Grace Bishop Mitrophan of Eastern America. In the first volume of this patericon, also translated by Bishop Mitrophan, the period from the fourteenth to the nineteenth century is covered, while this newly released second volume contains the venerable fathers from the second half of the nineteenth to the later half of the twentieth century.
This is the ninth translation of His Grace Bishop Mitrophan from the Romanian. In his desire that the reading public, more specifically the theological students of the Serbian Orthodox Church, become more aware of the lives and works of the Romanian Orthodox Church His Grace, the bishop, has already begun the translation of another volume by Fr. Dumitru Staniloe “The Evangelical Image of Jesus Christ”.
Besides his translations, His Grace has also published a number of works including, “The teaching of the holy Apostle Paul on the Church” (in Serbian and English); “The Mystery of Christ in the Epistles of the holy Apostle Paul to the Ephesians, Philippians and Colossians” and his newest work “Introduction to the Holy Bible - New Testament”. Additionally he has also published a large number of articles in various periodicals.
The above mentioned works, along with the translations can be purchased in our diocesan bookstore. The newly released second edition to the Romanian Patericon will be made available the beginning of December.
Deacon Dragoslav Kosic
Diocesan Secretary
(0 images)
|
|
|
 |
[ARCHIVED NEWS] Thursday, October 12, 2006
STEELTON
MOTHERS CLUB CELEBRATES FIFTY YEARS
Steelton, PA
- The Mothers Club of St. Nicholas Serbian Orthodox Church celebrated the 50th
anniversary and Krsna Slava of this organization the Dormition of the Mother of
God on September 10, 2006. His Grace Bishop Mitrophan of Eastern
America celebrated the Hierarchical Divine Liturgy, assisted by
the host priest, V. Rev. Stavrophor Srboljub Jockovich and Fr. Deacon Dragoslav
Kosic.
The Kolac and wheat were blessed after the ambo prayer .The charter members of
the Mothers Club Mildered Petrovih, Olga Klipa and Mara Sunajko turned the
Kolach with the Bishop. The Mothers Club granted the Gramata, the highest award
granted by the Bishop, for the very hard work of this organization for the benefit
of our Holy Church and our youth. The other
recipient of the Gramata was Sam Radanovic for his hard work in church and
helping all church organizations.
After the Liturgy the banquet was held in the social hall, the Choir
Marinkovich sang the Oce nas before the meal and perform several songs, also
St. Nicholas Church Junior Tamburitzan and Youth Choir “St. Sava” perform a
couple of numbers. During the dinner our own orchestra “Sviraj” play as well.
The president of the Mothers Club, Terry Govelovich, thanked His Grace and all
members and people who helped for the banquet and for all who participated in
the program.
The Mothers Club Cookbook is available at $12 they are a great gift and are a
bargain. Mothers’ Club Aprons will be on sale for $10.00. Call Terry Govelovich
at (717) 561-1590.
(2 images)
|
|
|
 |
[ARCHIVED NEWS] Tuesday, October 10, 2006
BISHOP MITROPHAN ATTENDS CHURCH SLAVA
AT RUSSIAN CHURCH
Cleveland, OH – On Sunday, October 8, 2006, the feast of St. Sergius of Radonezh, His Eminence Metropolitan Laurus, first hierarch of the Russian Orthodox Church Abroad, officiated at the Divine Liturgy at St. Sergius Russian Orthodox Cathedral in Cleveland, Ohio, together with His Grace Bishop Mitrophan of Eastern America and His Grace Bishop Peter of Cleveland, Administrator of the Diocese of Chicago and Detroit (ROCOR) and numerous other clergymen of the Church Abroad and of the Serbian Church.
During the luncheon offered by the parish sisterhood, Bishop Peter thanked His Eminence Metropolitan Laurus and Bishop Mitrophan, stressing the fraternal bonds which always existed between the Russian Church Abroad and the Serbian Orthodox Church.
Source: www.rocor.org
(2 images)
|
|
|
 |
[ARCHIVED NEWS] Monday, October 9, 2006
WONDERWORKING ICON VISITS MONASTERY MARCHA
Monastery Marcha - Fr. Ilia Marzev, the dean of St. Sergius Russian Orthodox Church (ROCOR) in Cleveland made a special visit to Monastery Marcha on Monday, October 9, 2006 bringing with him the Wonderworking Kursk-Root Icon of the Mother of God. An akathist was served at the monastery with many faithful from the neighboring parishes in attendance.
(2 images)
|
|
|
 |
[ARCHIVED NEWS] Monday, October 9, 2006
75TH ANNIVERSARY CONCERT IN CLEVELAND
Cleveland, OH - The evening’s program began with a mass chorus of the Our Father then the American, Canadian and Serbian National Anthems were sung. Followed by Tebe Pojem by Stevan Stojanovic Mokranjac. This selection was sung in honor of the 150th Anniversary of the birth of Serbian composor Mokranjac. This year the all Serbs celebrate 150 years of Mokranjac and Nikola Tesla, inventor.
Our Master of Ceremonies was Ms. Jovana Batkovic who introduced our participating choirs including: the St. Nicholas Serbian Cathedral Choir of Hamilton, with directress Mira Stojsavljevic and president George Pejic, the Dr. Laza Kostic choir of Midland, PA, the Kosovo Men’s Choir of Northeastern Ohio, and the St. Theodosius Russian Cathedral choir of Cleveland. SSS Njegos choir president, Mrs. Biljana Batkovic welcomed the guests at the concert and spoke briefly on the history of the SSS Njegos choir.
Because this is a milestone year, many presentations were given this weekend. Honored were our past music directors, past presidents, our Kumovi (sponsors) and many who have helped our choir over the years.
Special recognition was given to our current assistant conductors including: Joan Jakovich, Suzanne Zec, Emilija Tulevski, Amanda Vlainic, Mira Damljanovic, Lindsay Zobenica, and Loretta Knezevic. full text
(2 images)
|
|
|
 |
[ARCHIVED NEWS] Friday, September 29, 2006
BENEFACTORS DINNER HELD IN JACKSONVILLE
Jacksonville, FL – His Grace Bishop Mitrophan of Eastern America visited St. King Milutin parish in Jacksonville, Florida from September 23-24, 2006. One of the reasons for the visit was the Benefactors Dinner organized to held raise funds to pay the mortgage of on their recently purchased property. The evening Vesper service, as well as the dinner following held in the church hall, were well attended. Church board president, Stanko Precanica and parish priest Fr. Stanislav Kravljaca welcomed all the guests. Additionally, the church board president from the neighboring Orlando parish, Jovan Dragosavac, and parish priest Fr. Ljubisa Brnjos, who had at one time been administrator of this parish, also greeted the guests.
The crown of the evening’s affair was the address given by His Grace Bishop Mitrophan. A substantial amount was collected that evening which will go towards the mortgage for which we remain grateful to all those that donated and once again proved their love towards their holy Church. The Holy Hierarchical Divine Liturgy was officiated the following day by His Grace Bishop Mitrophan.
Fr. Stanislav Kravljaca
(2 images)
|
|
|
 |
[ARCHIVED NEWS] Thursday, September 28, 2006
PRESIDENT OF SERBIA BORIS TADIC VISITS BOSTON PARISH
Boston, MA - The first annual Serbian festival in New England was held on Saturday, September 23, 2006 hosted by the St. Sava Serbian Orthodox Church in Cambridge, MA. The goal of the festival was to present to our American friends and neighbors the Serbian culture and tradition through folklore, music, art and the traditional Serbian foods. This was the first festival of this kind in New England. The highlight of the celebration was a visit by President of Serbian Boris Tadic together with the Ambassador Ivan Vujacic from Washington D.C. This visit came after President Tadic’s participation at the General Assembly of the UN and a lecture at Harvard Universtiy on Friday evening.
Upon his arrival President Tadic first visited the church where he was greeted by young girls dressed in traditional costumes that offered him bread and salt, welcoming him. President Tadic and Ambassador Vujacic were interested in the details of the church, which was purchased just ten months ago from the Roman Catholic Church. Fr. Aleksandar and Milica Pogorzelski, Church Board president, gave the esteemed guests a tour of the church and answered their questions.
Afterward, the guests went through the exhibit of icons and frescoes in the parish hall, the work of the students of the Academy of the Serbian Orthodox Church for Iconography and Conservation from Belgrade. The icons are replicas of the frescoes that had been destroyed during the Pogrom in Kosovo in 2003.
President Tadic was led by his hosts to the tent area where he was welcomed with thunderous applause from the parishioners of St. Sava, together with their American friends. Fr. Aleksandar began with a prayer and afterwards, on behalf of the Church Board and all of his parishioners, greeted their prominent guests and called on the president to formally open the festival.
In his address, President Tadic said, among other things: “It is a great pleasure for me to open a Serbian festival in America. This is the first time it has happened to me. Yesterday I had the opportunity to talk with our students, following the presentation that the president of Croatia and I had at the Kennedy School of Government at Harvard. I would like for my stay in Massachusetts and in America in general to be such to improve your life here, and in some way, to live better.
“You know very well that today we are met with very difficult challenges. However, this does not mean, despite all of our difficulties, that we should cease organizing festivals and celebrating. It is of great importance that we do everything in our power to preserve our community and respect our customs...
“On the other hand, I would like to reiterate that which I said to our students at Harvard yesterday, which is that Serbia today is a land of great opportunity. Despite all of our many hardships I want to believe that Serbia is a land of great opportunity.”
At the end of his address President Tadic proclaimed the festival to be opened. Afterwards, he spent some time with his countrymen that live here, far from their homeland. The Serbian atmosphere was all the more present through the music of the brass band Zlatne Uste from New York. Before departing President Tadic requested they play Tamo Daleko one more time, which they did happily.
Finally the prominent guests bid farewell to their gracious hosts and continued their travels, going to Wentworth Institute of Technology where they were greeted by Dr. Zorica Pantic, the President of this esteemed institution, and in the evening they returned to Serbia.
To the delight of all the parishioners the festival lasted until late in the evening. It was nice to see such a large number of our youth and the children for whom there were special activities. It was noticed how our young Serbian boys and girls proudly wore their Serbian sajkace (hats) which were brought from Serbia for this occasion. The folklore group Gracanica performed in the evening. This was the first festival and it is our desire and hope that each one in the future, with God’s help, be better and more successful.
Protojerej Aleksandar Vlajkovic
www.stsavaboston.org
(2 images)
|
|
|
 |
[ARCHIVED NEWS] Wednesday, September 27 2006
CONGRATULATIONS TO DEACON DRAGOSLAV AND HIS FAMILY
Pittsburgh, PA - We send our congratulations to the Diocesan Secretary, Deacon Dragoslav Kosic and his wife Rosanda and daughter Anastasija on their newest addition:
TEODORA KOSIC
19 inches; 5 lb 11 oz
Born on September 21, 2006 at 8:49 am.
(1 images)
|
|
|
 |
[ARCHIVED NEWS] Wednesday, September 20, 2006
FIRST MEETING FOR ORTHODOX STUDENTS
Cleveland, OH - The greater Cleveland Orthodox Christian Fellowship is underway. Milan and Mira Damljanovic are the program coordinators for 4 universities in Cleveland: Cleveland State University, Case Western Reserve University, John Carroll and Baldwin Wallace.
Our first meeting featured guest speaker Fr. Peter Gillquist of Califonia. There were over 40 people in attendance. There was a great mix of Orthodox students; Antiochian, Greek, Lebanese, Serbian, Russian and others. This is a great way for our Orthodox college students to meet each other and network. The local OCF board includes our own Mayor Georgine Welo and Mr. Alex Machaskee. There are many local supporters from various Orthodox parishes, there are 26 Orthodox churches in greater Cleveland.
If you know of any Orthodox students attending these universities please forward their contact infomation to Mira1@bigfoot.com.
(1 images)
|
|
|
 |
[ARCHIVED NEWS] Monday, September 11, 2006
ST. NIKODIM, ARCHBISHOP OF SERBIA
DIOCESAN CHAPEL CELEBRATION
Mars, PA – On Saturday, September 9, 2006 the St. Nikodim Chapel of the Diocese of Eastern America held its annual Slava celebration. His Grace Bishop Dr. Mitrophan of Eastern America officiated at the Holy Hierarchal Divine Liturgy, assisted by V. Rev. Nedeljko Grgurevic, V.Rev. Dragoljub Malich, V. Rev. Michael Dahulich, V. Rev. Stevan Stepanov, V.Rev. Stevo Rocknage, , V. Rev. Rodney Torbic and Rev. Dejan Obradovic. Also serving was the Bishop's deacon, Rev. Deacon Dragoslav Kosic and Rev. Deacon Zeljko Jurisic. The clergy sang the responses.
In his homily, His Grace spoke of the Serbian Orthodox tradition from the time of St.Sava of building and beautifying churches and monasteries. His Grace said the St.Nikodim Chapel existed for the beautification of the souls of the faithful coming to the Chapel. Citing the Gospel reading at the Divine Liturgy, His Grace emphasized the words of the Lord Jesus Christ to: "Let your light so shine before men that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven."(Mt.5:16)
A highlight of the celebration was the blessing of new frescoes and icons adorning the St.Nikodim Chapel. Also, the icononastasis was expanded and completed. His Grace recognized the work of iconographers Miloje Milinkovic and Paul Adams was also recognized for the work he did on the iconastasis.
The Ritual of the Cutting of the Slava Cake followed the liturgy with honored Slava kuma Mrs. Smilja Sally Stone. A luncheon followed the service, during which His Grace thanked everyone for attending, especially their guest Fr. Michael Dahulich, Ph.D,, Dean of St. Tikhon’s Seminary in South Canaan, Pennsylvania. In his address Fr. Michael mentioned the strong tie between this seminary and the Serbian people as St. Bishop Nicholai Velimirovic had at one time served as dean of this theological institution. In fact, it was at the St. Tikhon Monastery that the holy bishop passed away in the Lord. Fr. Michael welcomed and encouraged His Grace to visit the Seminary as there are a number of Serbian students presently at the Seminary that would greatly benefit from his visit.
(6 images)
|
|
|
 |
[ARCHIVED NEWS] Wednesday, September 6, 2006
100TH ANNIVERSARY AND CONSECRATION
Kansas City, KS - His Grace Bishop Mitrophan of Eastern America joined His Eminence Metropolitan Christopher of the Midwestern Metropolitanate for the Centennial Celebration of the St. George Serbian Orthodox Church in Kansas City from September 1-3, 2006.
This was a milestone in the history of this Serbian parish as it also marked the consecration of their new church in Lenexa, Kansas. Host clergy Fr. Aleksandar Bugarin was joined by visiting clergy in this celebration which began on Friday evening with the Vigil service. Eight priests and one protodeacon served. The following day began with the consecration of the church which was followed by the Holy Hierarchical Divine Liturgy. Serving at the Holy Altar were His Eminence Metropolitan Christopher, His Grace Bishop Mitorphan, assisted by thirteen priests and one protodeacon. Kumovi for the consecration of the new church were Peter and Donna Bajich.
During this most momentous occasion the host priest, Fr. Aleksandar was elevated to the rank of PROTOJEREJ.
Afterwards a luncheon was served, during which there was a perfomance put on by the children, along with folklore and singing. The formal banquet took place that evening at the Doubletree Hotel.
The Holy Hierarchical Divine Liturgy was served the following day with the hierarchs officiating, assisted by five priests and one protodeacon.
(2 images)
|
|
|
 |
[ARCHIVED NEWS] Monday, August 28, 2006
KOLO FEDERATION CELEBRATES SLAVA IN AKRON
Akron, OH – The Federation (Savez) of Serbian Sisters of the Diocese of Eastern America celebrated the Slava of the Federation on Monday, August 28, 2006, the Feast of the Dormition of the Holy Mother of God. His Grace Bishop Mitrophan of Eastern America officiated at the Holy Hierarchical Divine Liturgy, assisted by V. Rev. Peter Burlakov (ROCOR), V. Rev. Dragoljub Malic (Spiritual Advisor of the Federation), V. Rev. Zvonimir Kotorcevic, host priest Protonamesnik Fr. Dragomir Tuba and Fr. Milovan Katanic.
In the church hall the Slava luncheon began with the Cutting of the Slava Kolach. His Grace, the bishop, in congratulating the Sisters on the occasion of their Slava mentioned how many parishes and church organizations move their slava celebrations to the closest weekend and praised the Federation for their lasting tradition of celebrating their Slava each year on the day of the feast.
(4 images)
|
|
|
 |
[ARCHIVED NEWS] Wednesday, August 16, 2006
2006 HEALTHCARE DAY HELD AT
ST. GEORGE IN CARMICHAELS
Carmichaels, PA - The St.George Serbian Orthodox Church in Carmicaels, Pennsylvania held the annual Healthcare Day in conjunction with the commemoration of St.Panteliemon the Great Healer.
During the Divine Liturgy on August 13 prayers were offered for living and departed healthcare workers associated with the parish. St.Panteleimon has been taken as the Slava for the Parish Nurse's Office and a Kolach and Koljivo were blessed.
Prior to the annual dinner and program, a Fayette Emergency Medical Services Ambulance was blessed. Mr.Rick Adobato, Director of Fayette EMS has consistently been supportive of and cooperative with the efforts of the St.George Church in recognizing and expressing appreciation for the important work of emergency medical personnel and individuals employed in the field of healthcare.
Aaron Trincia and Jimmy Shashura were the emergency medical staff of the ambulance at the time of the blessing. Mr.Trincia and Mr.Shashura were told directly of the importance of their work and the appreciation of the St.George Church for their services.
Millicent Mitzie Hunchuck, Parish Nurse Practioner, greeted the parishioners and friends of the parish in attendance for the dinner and program. Nurse Practioner Hunchuck staffs one of two Serbian Orthodox Parish Nurse's office in the Diocese. The first Parish Nurse's Office in the Diocese is part of Holy Resurrection Serbian Orthodox Church in Steubenville, Ohio. Nurse Practioner Hunchuck is available throughout the year for the benefit of parishioners at the St.George Church.
Parish Executive Board President Stan Brozik greeted the attendees and spoke of the importance of Healthcare Day in the parish. Sonia Janson, St.George Choir and Circle of Serbian Sisters President emphasized the importance and value of praying to St.Panteleimon.
Orthodonist Dr.Dan Pyevich, President of the Serbian National Federation, made a surprise visit to St.George Church to attend the Divine Liturgy. As a healthcare professional, it was fitting for Dr.Pyevich to be in attendance at the blessing of the ambulance, the dinner and the program.
Dr.Pyevich spoke of the prayers offered at the St.George Church for the benefit of the Serb National Federation and of an enjoyable visit previously for a St.George picnic. He spoke of his familiarity with Executive Board President Brozik, Mr. Brozik having participated in SNF activities for many years.
Djelosh Jerry Milosevich, Aaron Carson, George Ben Gapen, Maria Djonovich, Mildred Bezjak, Linda Porter and Dr.Anatoli Peredera read of the lives of saints relevant to the Healthcare Day. Readings included the lives of St.Panteleimon(July 27/August 9), St.Luke(October 18/31) and the three sets of Sts. Cosmas and Damian.(July 1/14, October 17/30, November 1/14).
Father Dimitre Dimitrov of Nativity of Blessed Virgin Mary Orthodox Church in Masontown, Matuska Dimitrova and son Kyril, came to St.George Church for the blessing of the ambulance, the dinner and program. Father Dimitre joined in the blessing of the ambulance, the blessing of the dinner and greeted the attendees in behalf of the Nativity of Blessed Virgin Mary Orthodox Church.
Greetings were received for Healthcare Day from Ashley Newton, Project Coordinator and Manager, on behalf of The EMMES Corporation, a data and statistical research firm for biomedical and clinical research, located in Rockville, Maryland; Larisa Demshuk, MSW Clinical Social Worker, Cedars-Sinai Outpatient Cancer Center at the Samuel Oschin Comprehensive Cancer Institute; Fayette EMS paramedic Tom Kornick and Forbes Hospital Ambulance Dispatcher and speech therapist graduate student and Scott Newton, RN, BSN, CCRN, EMT-P Supervisor, Critical Care Transport Team,University of Maryland Medical Center, Baltimore, Maryland. Luann Yancich, RN working in a major hospital in Houston, Texas expressed her hopes that Healthcare Day was a success.
The development of a healthcare library at the St.George Church has been enhanced by a recent contribution in memory of Sally Bosnic Honsaker.
Parishioners of the St.George Church with a history of work in healthcare in addition to Mitzie Hunchuck include Paulette Radock, Christiana Sivak, Norma Hickman, Pearl Zivkovich, Linda Porter, Mildred Bezjak, and Mildred Zorman. Dr. Louis Yanchich, Dr.John Yanchich and Luann
Yancich are two brothers and a sister, all involved in healthcare maintaining a connection to the St.George Church.
Jennifer Kornick and husband Tom Kornick were married in the St.George Church during Healthcare Week two years ago. The Kornicks have been consistent supporters of the Healthcare Day. Dorothy Bozick, Kathryn Sage and recently departed Dolores Zivkovich logged many hours of volunteer services at Brownsville Hospital.
With the Archpastoral Blessings of Diocesan Bishop, His Grace Bishop Dr.MITROPHAN, each year since 1999 in conjunction with the commemoration of St.Panteleimon, the St.George Church has paused to express appreciation for the men and women working in the field emergency medical services and healthcare generally. Throughout the year, medical services are needed by parishioners and at times on an emergency basis. We need to regularly thank these men and work for their hard and dedicated work and for the development of skills that can be life saving. "And one of them, when he saw that he was healed, returned, and with a loud voice glorified God, and fell down on his face at His feet, giving Him thanks."(Lk.17:15-16)
Father Rodney Torbic
Parish Priest
(2 images)
|
|
|
 |
[ARCHIVED NEWS] Friday, August 11, 2006
19th TRIENNIAL SABOR HELD IN DETROIT, MICHIGAN
Detroit, MI – Read more about the 19th Triennial Sabor held in Detroit on the website of the Serbian Orthodox Church in America and Canada.
(31 images)
|
|
|
 |
[ARCHIVED NEWS] Friday, August 11, 2006
CLERGY BROTHERHOOD OF US AND CANADA MEET IN DETROIT, MICHIGAN
Detroit, MI – On Tuesday, August 9, 2006 the Clergy Brotherhood of the Serbian Orthodox Church in the United States and Canada held their annual meeting at the Cathedral of the Holy Prince Lazar the Great Martyr in Detroit, Michigan.
The day’s events began early in the morning with the morning Matins service which was followed by a breakfast. Joining the clergy were His Eminence Metropolitan Christopher and the newly enthroned Bishop Maxim of Western America. His Eminence opened the morning session welcoming special guest His Eminence Metropolitan Isaiah of the Greek Metropolis of Denver. Metropolitan Isaiah began the first part of the annual clergy gathering with a lecture on the theme taken from St. Paul’s words “Consider your call brethren…” (I Cor. 1:26). Many aspects from the everyday life of the clergy were addressed which in the end brought forth a lively discussion.
Following the luncheon the clergy gathered once again for the second part of the day’s agenda, the annual meeting. Metropolitan Christopher opened the meeting with his words of welcome to attending hierarchs and clergy. Joining the bishops for the afternoon session was Bishop Mitrophan of Eastern America. The meeting was run by assembly President V. Rev. Nedeljko Lunich and was conducted in brotherly love. The clergy touched on many issues and the discussion carried them until the late afternoon hours when the meeting was closed and the hierarchs and clergy proceeded to the church for Vespers.
The following day the 19th Triennial Church Assembly-Sabor of the Serbian Orthodox Church in the US and Canada officially began.
[For the Eastern Diocesan Website, Rev. Milovan Katanic.]
(6 images)
|
|
|
 |
[ARCHIVED NEWS] Monday, August 7, 2006
DIOCESAN DAYS WEEKEND AT SHADELAND
Shadeland, PA - With the arrival of His Grace Bishop Mitrophan of Eastern America at Shadeland on Saturday, August 5, 2006 the third annual Diocesan Days for the Diocese of Eastern America officially began.
The first day began with lectures presented to both children and adults. Camp director, Fr. Zivojin Javkovljevic filled in for slated speaker Milena Bizic. Following this presentation V. Rev. Stevo Rocknage also spoke, giving a very energetic talk on spirituality to the children.
V. Rev. Stavrofor Mateja Matejic gave a detailed and thought provoking lecture on Orthodoxy and Serbian culture and history. This was followed by a talk given by Fr. Aleksa Micich.
Rev. Zoran Radovic served the Vespers service later that afternoon. He was assisted by Rev. Deacon Milan Medakovic. The choir Serb Wings from Steelton, PA sang the responses. Following the dinner the Serb Wings choir began the evening's program with a mini concert which was enjoyed by all. The campers treated all those in attendance with a fabulous play dealing with the Battle of Kosovo.
Sunday’s schedule of events began with the morning’s Holy Hierarchical Divine Liturgy. Joining Bishop Mitrophan was His Grace Bishop Longin of the New Gracanica Diocese. Assisting the two hierarchs at the liturgical celebration were seventeen diocesan clergy and two deacons. Also serving was Hierodeacon Fr. Seraphim of the New Gracanica Diocese. There other diocesan clergy were present at the liturgy but did not serve. The Serb Wings choir piously sang the responses. At certain parts in the liturgy they were joined by the St. Sava campers who, under the Serb Wings choir director Nina Radanovic, filled the church with their young, talented voices.
Following the liturgy the hierarchs led the campers and all the faithful to the newest addition to the Shadeland complex, the new cabins, which were blessed by Bishop Longin. After lunch the campers put on their traditional program showcasing their many musical talents in playing traditional Serbian instruments as well as singing and dancing. At the beginning of the program
Bishop Mitrophan addressed all those in attendance reminding them of the holy gospel that was heard at the morning’s liturgy in which Christ fed the five thousand with five loaves and two fish. The bishop pointed out that this miracle Christ performs every day and at every hour when He gives us His air to breathe and His water to drink and all the many blessings we receive somewhat unnoticeably. In this same way the bishop pointed out that everything we have in Shadeland is our gift from God. He thanked all those who helped in running the camp season, from the Sisters, the priests, camp director Fr. Zivojin Jakovljevic, the counselors and most especially all the many campers gathered there that hot afternoon saying that without them all of this would be empty.
(20 images)
|
|
|
 |
[ARCHIVED NEWS] Thursday, August 3, 2006
BISHOP MITROPHAN VISITS SHADELAND CAMP
FOR THE FEAST OF ST. ELIJAH THE PROPHET
Shadeland, PA - On Wednesday, August 2, 2006, on the feast of the Holy Prophet Elijah, His Grace Bishop Mitrophan of Eastern America attended the Divine Liturgy at Shadeland Camp. Serving the Divine Liturgy were the clergy assigned for the third week of camp, Fr. Milovan Katanic and Fr. Isak Kisin. Also serving was Fr. Deacon Dragoslav Kosic. The children sang the responses at the liturgy.
Following the service His Grace, the bishop, visited with the children. There were sixty eight campers the thrid week of camp.
(1 images)
|
|
|
 |
[ARCHIVED NEWS] Monday, July 31, 2006
MONASTERY MARCHA CELEBRATES SLAVA
Richfield, OH – On Saturday, July 29, 2006 the Monastery of the Holy Archangel Gabriel, Monastery Marcha in Richfield, Ohio festively celebrated their Slava. His Grace Bishop Mitrophan of Eastern America officiated at the Holy Hierachical Divine Liturgy, assisted by a number of diocesan clergy.
Savo and Marsha Cugalj of the St. Stephen the First Martyr parish in Lackawanna were kumovi. Savo is the Vice President of the Diocesan Council.
(2 images)
|
|
|
 |
[ARCHIVED NEWS] Thursday, Julyl 27, 2006
NEW CHURCH AND PROPERTY IN NORTH CAROLINA
Kernersville, NC – His Grace Bishop Mitrophan of Eastern America visited the parish of St. Vasilije of Ostrog in Kernersville, North Carolina on Wednesday, July 26, 2006. The purpose of the bishop’s brief visit to this parish was to view the new property and the proposed plans for the church building.
Parish priest Fr. Dragan Zaric and parishioners were recently approached by developers interested in purchasing their current property. Having made an offer on the church property an agreement was finally made for the St. Vasilje parish to move from their current location to another location, also owned by the aforementioned developers, and according to the agreement, the developers would, in addition, build them a church.
During his brief stay Bishop Mitrophan viewed the new property and the church plans for which he gave his archpastoral blessings. Construction on the church is slated for this fall.
(0 images)
|
|
|
 |
[ARCHIVED NEWS] Friday, July 24, 2006
CAMP FULL FIRST WEEK
Shadeland, PA - The Diocesan Camp of St. Sava in Shadeland, Pa began with a full plate. A total of 72 children signed up for the first week. Three priests were assigned that week - Fr.Djokan Majstorovic, Fr. Rodney Torbic and Fr. Aleksandar Vlajkovic. Eight counselors were on hand to work with the kids while ten volunteers stayed to help in the kitchen and around the camp.
As usual, His Grace Bishop Mitrophan of Eastern America made his weekly visit to the campers. His visit on the first week was early in the morning. He attended morning prayers with the children, breakfast and stayed for the religious classes where His Grace was on hand to answer the campers questions.
(27 images)
|
|
|
 |
[ARCHIVED NEWS] Friday, July 21, 2006
ATLANTA PARISH CELEBRATES CHURCH SLAVA
Atlanta, GA - The Serbian Orthodox Church of Sts. Peter and Paul in Atlanta, Georgia celebrated their Church Slava on Sunday, July 16, 2006. His Grace Bishop Mitrophan of Eastern America officiated at the Holy Hierarchical Divine Liturgy. Assiting His Grace were Fr. Milovan Katanic, the former priest of this parish, and the host clergy Fr. Sasa Turkic.
The kumovi and hosts of this year's Slava celebration were parishioners
(1 images)
|
|
|
 |
[ARCHIVED NEWS] Friday, July 7, 2006
FRESCOE EXHIBIT AT ST. SAVA CHURCH IN BOSTON
Boston, MA - With the blessings of His Grace Bishop Mitrophan of Eastern America an exhibit of frescoes and replica-frescoes from the Serbian monasteries of Kosovo and Methohija was held at St. Sava Serbian Orthodox Church in Boston, MA.
It was yet another traditional frescoe exhibit of the students of the Serbian Orthodox Church Academy for the Arts and Preservation of Professor Goran Janicijevic. Thanks to the efforts of parish priest V. Rev. Aleksandar Vlajkovic and the Boston parishioners, this exhibit was made possible for the first time in Boston, after being in Belgrade and Munich.
The exhibit was formally opened on Friday, June 30, 2006 as Fr. Aleksandar Vlajkovic welcomed the guests from Serbia. Afterwards, Professor Goran Janicijevic spoke of the Academy of the Serbian Orthodox Church, of the exhibit dedicated to Kosovo and Metohija as well as the efforts of the students and professors of the Academy in the field of iconography, renovation and preservation of frescoes. Finally, Mrs. Silvana Hadzi Djokic spoke of the work in renovating the destroyed and damaged churches and monasteries in Kosovo and Metohija and the efforts taken by both the Serbian Church and State. As the representative of the Ministry of Culture of the Government of the Serbian Republic Mrs. Hadzi Djokic answered many questions after her lecture. Following the lecture the Boston parishioners were able to view the exhibit and speak with the professors about contemporary Serbian iconography.
The dean of the Academy, Protojerej-Stavrophor Radomir Popovic served Vespers on Saturday evening. On Sunday Fr. Radomir and Fr. Zeljko Djuric con-celebrated with Fr. Aleksandar at the Divine Liturgy. A parastos for all Serbian soldiers since the Kosovo Battle was served following liturgy. Fr. Zeljko Djuric spoke of the necessity of knowing the theological significance of the Kosovo Testament and cited the Gospel text that was directly connnected with it.
Following the service Fr. Radomir gave a lecture in the church hall on the history of the Serbian Orthodox Church with special mention of the Battle of Kosovo and the period of Turkish rule on Serbian lands. Fr. Radomir spoke of the martyrdom of Prince Lazar and the Serbian nation all of which he tied with the Christ's suffering and His resurrection. At the end of the lecture, Fr. Radomir mentioned that the answer of contemporary Christians to the challenges of this day must be evangelical since Christ is the same yesterday, today and unto all the ages of ages.
The representatives of the Academy are grateful to their hosts Fr. Aleksandar Vlajkovic, his Protinica Vera and the entire Boston parish for their Christian welcome and hospitality.
The frescoe exhibit is moving to New York where it will formally open on the Feast of the Nativity of St. John the Baptist, Friday, July 7, 2006 and last until Sunday, July 9th.
Ivica Cairovic
(1 images)
|
|
|
 |
[ARCHIVED NEWS] Friday, July 7, 2006
CONGRATULATIONS TO FR. DRAGOMIR AND FAMILY
Congratulations to Fr. Dragomir, Popadija Kristina Tuba and their family on the newest addition to their family:
LAZAR TUBA
9 lbs; 20 1/2 inches
Born: Thursday, July 6, 2006
(1 images)
|
|
|
 |
[ARCHIVED NEWS] Wednesday, July 5, 2006
NEW FRESCOES AT DIOCESAN CHAPEL
Mars, PA - Work on the frescoes at the St. Nikodim Diocesan Chapel are in progress. Iconographer Miloje Milinkovic has completed three frescoes over the weekend: the Theotokos "wider than the heavens", St. Sava and St. Nikodim. Miloje is assited by Milos Markovic, seminarian from St. Sava School in Libertyville.
(4 images)
|
|
|
 |
[ARCHIVED NEWS] Tuesday, July 4, 2006
WASHINGTON DEANERY CLERGY DISCUSS CHRISTIAN EDUCATION
Elizabeth, NJ - Priests of the Washington Deanery met at St.George Serbian Orthodox Church in Elizabeth, New Jersey on June 24, 2006. The meeting was scheduled and attended by His Grace Bishop Dr.MITROPHAN, Diocesan Bishop. The Divine Liturgy was celebrated before the meeting.
Dean Protopresbyter Stavrofor Srboljub Jockovich and host priest Father Zoran Radovic graciously welcomed the Deanery priests in attendance.
Protonamesnik Ivan Marjanovic from the Synaxis of Serbian Saints Mission Parish was designated by His Grace Bishop Dr.MITROPHAN to be the speaker on Christian Education.
Following discussion of Father Marjanovic's presentation, reports from the following parishes were reviewed: Synaxis of Serbian Saints-Portland, Maine; St.Sava-Boston; St.Sava-New York City; St.John the Baptist-Paterson, New Jersey; St.George-Elizabeth, New Jersey; St.Nicholas-Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; St.Nicholas-Steelton, Pennsylvania; St.Luke-Washington D.C.
Washington Deanery priests in attendance in addition to those mentioned
were: Protopresbyter Djokan Majstorovic, Protopresbyter Toma Stojsich, Protopresbyter Sinisa Jocic, and Reverend Father Aleksa Micich.
Protopresbyter Stavrofor Predrag Micic, a Dean of the New Gracanica Metropolitanate also was an active participant.
Protonica Jockovich, Popadija Marjanovic, and Popadija Radovic were present as were parishioners from the parish in Elizabeth. Popadija Slavojka Micich and Popadija Savka Micich also came to the St.George Church.
Christian Education is very important in the Eastern American Diocese.
Meetings are scheduled by His Grace Bishop Dr.MITROPHAN on a regular basis in the various Deaneries of the Diocese to improve and strengthen existing efforts.
Father Rodney Torbic
(3 images)
|
|
|
 |
[ARCHIVED NEWS] Monday, July 3, 2006
FIRST ST. PETERSBURGH DEANERY MEETING ON CHRISTIAN EDUCATION
Jacksonville, FL - His Grace Bishop Dr.MITROPHAN scheduled the First Annual Deanery Meeting on Christian Education for the St.Petersburg Deanery to be held on Saturday July 1 at St.King Milutin Mission Parish, Jacksonville, Florida.
The day began with the very well attended Divine Liturgy. Following the lunch in the church hall, host priest Father Stanislav Kravljaca warmly welcomed the attendees.
Protopresbyter Stephen Zaremba, Dean of the St.Petersburg Deanery was assigned by His Grace as the designated speaker on Christian Education for this first Deanery Meeting.
The St.Petersburg Deanery consists of parishes in Jacksonville, St.Petersburg, Orlando and North Miami, Florida; Atlanta, Georgia; and Greensboro and Charlotte, North Carolina.
Reports were received from each of the parishes on the plans and programs for Christian Education.
Priests in attendance in addition to Proto Zaremba and Father Kravljaca, included Father Dragan Zaric, Father Ljubisa Brnjos, and Father Sasa Turkic. Protnica Zaremba, Popadija Brnjos and Popadija Kravljaca attended.
Teachers and interested individuals present at the meeting were very attentive.
His Grace Bishop Dr.MITROPHAN made the long journey from the Diocesan Center in Mars, Pennsylvania demonstrating by His presence and participation the importance of Christian Education in the St.Petersburg Deanery and throughout the Diocese.
Father Rodney Torbic
(0 images)
|
|
|
 |
[ARCHIVED NEWS] Monday, July 3, 2006
HELPERS AT MONASTERY MARCHA
Richfield, OH - Mother Ana and Sister Barbara at Monastery March in Richfield, Ohio were grateful to receive both visitors and helpers on Saturday, July 1, 2006. Everyone gathered in the holy church in the morning for the Divine Liturgy served by Fr. Milovan Katanic and Fr. Drazen Tupanjanin. A small, pious group of faithful attended the Divine Liturgy where they partook of the Holy Gifts.
Following the service a small group of hard working parishioners from the Holy Trinity Orthodox Church (OCA) in Cleveland came to work on small projects around the monastery including painting and light carpentry around the house. The group included children from the Sunday School. They have plans on coming back to the monastery to do more work.
(3 images)
|
|
|
 |
[ARCHIVED NEWS] Saturday, June 10, 2006
FROM CHILDREN IN STEELTON TO THE CHILDREN OF KOSOVO
Steelton, PA - Congratulations to the Church School students for exceeding their goal! The Church School raised funds during the Lenten Season to assist other children needing assistance in Kosovo. The total amount raised was $1633.59!!! WOW!!!
The students raised this money through money jars placed in the Church School classrooms and a luncheon at the church. Mr. Luke Jacob’s class collected the largest amount of money in their jar. Congratulations for a job well done!
The original goal of the students was $500. This goal was immediately met and raised to $1000 when the students prepared and served a luncheon to the parishioners. The students made over $700 at this event.The students did an excellent job from preschool to high school. Our high school students prepared the meal, whilethe preschoolers greeted everyone at the door to take their free-will offering. They were the perfect door greeters!Our grade school students assisted with preparation, setting the tables, preparing the dinner and serving the meal toour parishioners. They are certainly ready for the catering business! In addition, our St. Sava Youth Choir sang The Lord’s Prayer with Father Srboljub’s blessing of the meal. Their angelic voices added so much to the atmosphere of the event. If you have not yet heardthem sing during the year, you have missed a great group that will soon be the future of our church!Thank you to all of our students, families and parishioners for supporting this worthy cause to help these desperately needy children of Kosovo.
V. Rev. Stavrofor Srboljub Jockovich
Church School Students
Church School Teachers
(1 images)
|
|
|
 |
[ARCHIVED NEWS] Friday, June 2, 2006
75th CHORAL FESTIVAL HELD IN DETROIT
Detroit, MI - The 75th Annual Choir Festival was held last weekend, May 26-28, 2006 in Detroit, Michigan, home of the S.S.F. headquarters and library. Of the twenty-eight choirs in attendance ten were from parishes of the Eastern Diocese: Canton, Cleveland, Steubenville, Aliquippa, Atlanta, Midland, Johnstown, Monroeville, Pittsburgh and Tzar Lazar.
Special recognition was given to the S.S.S. Njegos Cleveland choir as well as their choir director Milan Damljanovic.
For full article click here.
(3 images)
|
|
|
 |
[ARCHIVED NEWS] Monday, May 8, 2006
HERMITAGE PARISH CELEBRATES SLAVA
Hermitage, PA – On Sunday, May 7, 2006 the St. George the Great Martyr Serbian Orthodox Church in Hermitage, PA celebrated their Patron Saint, their Church Slava. Divine Liturgy was celebrated by the parish priest Fr. Milovan Katanic who was assisted by Fr. Deacon Milan Medakovic of the St. Sava Cathedral in Cleveland, Ohio. The Slava procession, Litija, followed the liturgy after which the parishioners enjoyed the Slava luncheon which officially began with the Cutting of the Slava Kolach. Kumovi were Milovan and Kata Ivanovic.
(5 images)
|
|
|
 |
[ARCHIVED NEWS] Friday, May 5, 2006
SCOBA AT ST. SAVA CATHEDRAL IN NEW YORK
New York, NY – On Tuesday, May 2, 2006 the St. Sava Cathedral in New York was honored to host the annual SCOBA Meeting, the gathering of the hierarchs of all canonical Orthodox Churches in America.
Attending this event were: Greek Orthodox Archbishop Dimitrios, Serbian Orthodox Metropolitan Christopher, Romanian Orthodox Archbishop Nicolae, Ukrainian Orthodox Archbishop Anthony, Bulgarian Metropolitan Joseph, Antiochian Orthodox Bishop Basil (filling in for Metropolitan Philip), representative of the Orthodox Church of America (OCA) V. Rev. David Brum and the general secretary of SCOBA Bishop Dimitrios Xantos.
Besides the regular business, the hierarchs were briefed on the theme, lecturers and coordinators of the upcoming conference of all Orthodox Bishops in America, scheduled for October 3-6, 2006 in Chicago, IL.
The hierarchs touched on a number of topics ranging from missionary work, Pan-Orthodox activities and con-celebrations. Another topic discussed was the plight of the suffering Serbian people in Kosovo and Metohija to which His Eminence Archbishop Dimitrios mentioned the recent visit of the official delegation of the Serbian Orthodox Church to the United States and their visit with members of SCOBA during their stay here.
The host of this gathering, His Eminence Metropolitan Christopher of Midwestern America welcomed all the hierarchs and thanked the dean of the St. Sava Cathedral V. Rev. Djokan Majstorovic and Rev. Zivko Velimirovic as well as the Church Board for their warm welcome.
A tasty luncheon with Serbian specialties was served by the Serbian Sisters following the meeting. At the end Fr. Djokan thanked all the hierarchs for this great honor that was bestowed upon the St. Sava church in New York which is temporarily being renovated. Afterwards, he led the hierarchs to the church where he gave them a brief history of the church and the Serbian community in New York.
(2 images)
|
|
|
 |
[ARCHIVED NEWS] Monday, May 1, 2006
STUDENT CHOIR IN CLEVELAND
Cleveland, OH – On Thursday, April 27, 2006 the St. Sava School of Theology Student Choir performed at St. Sava Cathedral in Parma. They performed sacred church music in the church which was followed by a dinner in the main hall sponsored by the Kolo Sisters.
V. Rev. Milos Vesin, the director of the choir and Professor of Serbian Chant, announced the program. There were sixteen students all together which were housed by the parishioners. Host clergy, Rev. Zivojin Jakovljevic announced the group and gave background information and introduced and welcomed special guest His Grace Bishop of Eastern America Dr. Mitrophan. Other clergy in attendance were Rev. Milan Zobenica, Protojerej-Stavrophor Vasiljie Sokolovic, V. Rev. Janko Rajlic, Rev. Dragomir Tuba and Fr. Peter Burlokov from St. Sergius Russian Church of Cleveland. Also attending were Mother Ana and Sister Barbara from Monastery Marcha.
The dinner was well attended with some 100 parishioners present at both the concert and dinner. The president of the Church-School congregation Dr. Branimir Simic Glavaski spoke as well as His Grace, the bishop. Over $7,000 was collected by the generous attendees of the dinner.
The following morning the group had coffee and refreshments at Fr. Zivojin’s house and spoke of their many experiences at Libertyville. The faithful of St. Sava in Parma are hopeful that this talented group of young seminarians, future priests.
(1 images)</ | | |
|
