Eparchy of Ss. Cyril and Methodius

St. Nicholas at the Cathedral of the Nativity of Mother of God (Toronto)

2011-12-04T19:00:00.003-05:00

December is the month of many holy days: Christmas, St. Stephen, St. Mary, and of course, the most popular one for children: St. Nicholas. He is also known as Nicholas the Wonderworker. He had a reputation for secret gift-giving, such as putting coins in the shoes of those who left them out for him. Historical Saint Nicholas is remembered and revered among Catholi c and Orth odox Christians. He was the only son of wealthy Christian parents. He was very religious from an early age and according to legend, Nicholas was said to have rigorously observed the canonical fasts of Wednesdays and Fridays. His wealthy parents died in an epidemic while Nicholas was still young and he was raised by his uncle—also named Nicholas—who was the bishop of Patara.

In Slovakia, Mikuláš, is often also accompanied by an angel who acts as a counterweight to the ominous devil . Additionally, children find candy and small gifts in their shoes the evening of December 5th or the morning of December 6th.

The children of our parish must have been pretty good all year round because on Sunday, December 4^th, following the 9am liturgy, St. Nicholas arrived at our church. Children were gathered in the hall prior to that working on crafts, colouring and cutting out images. As soon as they heard the bells, they started singing some Christmas carols and their eyes sparkled when they saw the man, dressed in his Bishop vestments coming down the hall towards them. As soon as he settled in his chair, children began to gather around him and St. Nicholas, with the help of the parish president, Mike Kapitan, began distributing presents. Every child was called to sit on his knee, had a few words with St. Nicholas and received a bag of candies, fruits and nuts as well as a gift selected specifically for them. All the children were delighted with their gifts and the ladies had a hard time getting them to stop playing long enough to have a lunch: hotdogs and french fries as well as donuts and hot chocolate.

All the children had a great time, and all the adults enjoyed the pitter-patter of little feet and all the excitement that the children showed. Good time was had by all.

Thank you to Fr. Andrew for encouragement, the parish for supplying the gifts, the generosity of Mr. & Mrs. Michalik for their donation to St. Nicholas party and to the ladies for preparing the luncheon for the children. We can’t wait for next year to see if St. Nicholas will find his way back to our church and to see if our children will behave throughout the year.

Mary Siroky - Snell

A special day in Windsor at St. Michael's Byzantine church

2011-11-06T23:00:00.001-05:00

Most of you know that in our churches we have annual pilgrimages – odpusts. We have one in August (Hamilton), one in September (Toronto), one in October (Oshawa) and our last one in November (Windsor). We try to attend all of them however the last one always gives us worries and we hold off responding until the latest time possible: what is the weather going to be like that first November Sunday? Will the snow hold off until after that? Will there be fog in London area? Maybe it was because this particular odpust in Windsor was a very special day indeed that the sun was up early in the morning and the drive to Windsor was absolutely beautiful.
The odpust itself is a special day for every parish and for Windsor this one was exceptionally special: it was on this day that Winsen Zouzal, son of the late Very Rev. Anthony Zouzal and Mrs. Mary Zouzal took the first step in becoming a Deacon. This day he received the Minor Orders – the Tonsuring (lector, cantor and candlebearer) and the Subdeaconate.
Parishioners started arriving early and everyone was looking forward to the liturgy. Just before 3pm, the procession entered the church. Right behind the crossbearer, Winsen himself led the procession followed by Rt. Rev. Eugene Halitsky, Fr. Peter Hrycyk, Fr. Ron Comeau, Fr. Albert Sandor, OFMCap & Fr. Phillip Naessens, OFMCap - friends of Winsen Zouzal and family. At the end of the procession, H.E. Bishop John Pazak, C.Ss.R. walked in, bestowing blessings upon parishioners and guests. Fr. Jozef Mucha later joined the clergy at the altar.
First part of the celebration was the actual ordination into the lectorate and subdeaconate: the candidate receives a candle, professes his faith, pledges his obedience to the Bishop and to the church, receives his Epistle book, and finally receives the proper vestments - stikhar with orarion. If you have ever seen a priestly ordination, this is a scaled down version of it. It was a beautiful ceremony witnessed by Winsen’s mom Mrs. Mary Zouzal, Winsen’s wife Susan and their children along with Winsen’s brothers Tony and Karl and their families as well as parishioners and guests. Winsen’s mom was very emotional during the entire ordination and you could tell that she was also a very proud mother of a future deacon. This was also emotional for most of the parishioners and guests who have known the family and who also knew that Winsen’s late father, Very Rev. Anthony Zouzal, served in this church all his priestly life. Winsen grew up in this very church where on this day, he entered into the Deaconate! Indeed a very proud moment for us all. With a lot of hard work on Winsen’s part, and prayers from us all, we may have a continuation of this celebration next year.
Liturgy followed the ordination with a homily from Bishop John. It concluded with mirovanije – blessing with holy oil by Bishop John and all were invited to the banquet in the hall below.
After the introduction of the head table, there were congratulatory letters from Fr. Sipek, former pastor of St. Michael’s and also from Fr. Jaroslav Lajciak and Daniel Cerny, SEOLic, in Rome. Fr. Jaroslav served the parish this past summer and Daniel visited the parishioners in Windsor to gather information for his thesis. Both have come to know Winsen and his family while in Canada. Bishop John blessed the food and everyone enjoyed a wonderful dinner. There were many prizes for winning and it was just after the dinner that Winsen’s mom congratulated her son on this occasion and presented him with a cake. She spoke like a proud mom that she is, from her heart. She thanked all for coming to celebrate this special day with her son and the family and asked that everyone have a piece of the cake.
Winsen also spoke a bit: emotional as he was, he thanked the Holy Spirit for gently guiding him to this day and to his new “position” in church, he also thanked Bishop John for helping him and he promised to serve faithfully and to the best of his ability. He also urged the people to bring their families back to the church, to renew their faith and to be a part of the parish. He said that he “felt” his father was with him since the chalice that was used for communion was his father’s chalice. He knew his father was proud of him and was very much a part of this celebration. He thanked his wife and his family for supporting him and he thanked all for coming to the odpust.
This day could not have been any better: the drive home was excellent and we can only hope that next year’s weather will be just as nice as this year and, God willing, we will be back.

Mary Siroky - Snell

August 21, 2011

2011-08-21T22:00:00.000-04:00

90 years ago, on this day, a baby was born in Beaverdale, PA, USA. Who knew that this little baby would accomplish so much in his lifetime. We are talking about our own Bishop Michael Rusnak.
Throughout his lifetime, he had a taste of life in USA, Canada and Slovakia. Following his education, he joined the Redemptorists. He was persecuted as were many other religious in Slovakia and thanks to his USA birth certificate, he was able to escape and return back to USA and eventually come to Canada. With the help of Fr. Mina he established a number of Slovak parishes and eventually was ordained a Bishop. He was Auxiliary Bishop to H.E. Bishop Isidore Borecky and in 1981 became a Bishop of his own Eparchy: the Eparchy of SS. Cyril & Methodius for the Slovaks of Byzantine Rite in Canada. He was instrumental in building the Cathedral of Transfiguration and after retiring, he spent his life at a nursing home. We often visited him on special occasions and celebrated his milestone birthdays.
And so on this day, August 21,2011- a small group of us gathered at his gravesite and prayed the panachyda. There were: Mrs. Seminsky, Mrs. Bucic, Mr. & Mrs. Revtak, Mrs. & Miss Dribnak, Mrs. Siroky, Mary Snell and leading us was Fr. Peter Pidskalny, C.Ss.R., from Yorkton, Saskatchewan. Fr. Peter knew Bishop Michael and visits his grave every time he is in the area. He was ordained to the sub-diaconate by Bishop Michael and thus has a special connection to him. He spent many of his summer vacations at Nativity of the Mother of God church on Shaw St. Following panachyda, we stayed at his graveside and reminisced about the old times - happy and sad. We thus honoured a man who was a focal point in our lives and in our church.
Vicnaja pamjat, Vladyko.

Mary Siroky - Snell

More photos can be seen on:

https://picasaweb.google.com/danielprorok/2011_08_21#

Odpust in Hamilton

2011-08-14T21:00:00.004-04:00

On Sunday, August 14, 2011, beautiful voices could be heard emanating from the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Slovak Byzantine Catholic Church in Hamilton. Led by Fr. Jaroslav Lajčiak, a visiting Slovak priest from Rome, parishioners stood in front of the icon of Our Lady of Klokočov and sang an Akatist to the Mother of God, “Tebe, Bohorodička, mocná vládkyňa, spievame víťaznú pieseň. - Vyslobodila si nás od zlého, preto ti vrúcne ďakujeme, - hoci sme len nehodní služobníci. Ty si nepremožiteľná, - zbav nás všetkých bied, aby sme ti mohli spievať: Raduj sa, panenská Nevesta! The atmosphere was one of peace and prayerfulness, enabling everyone present to focus on why they had come to Hamilton that day, namely to celebrate the feast day of the Dormition of the Mother of God (the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary). The church was beautifully decorated with flowers and the smell of incense filled every pew. After the Akatist, the Divine Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom began with the entry of the altar servers, the Bishop and many of the priests of the Slovak Eparchy of St. Cyril and Methodius along with visiting priests. Cantor Jozef Ridos led the singing during the first half of the Liturgy with Cantor Mary Seminsky leading the second half. Both were assisted by cantors from Hamilton and Toronto. During the Liturgy, Jozef Ridos chanted the Epistle reading in Slovak. He was followed by eight year old Victoria Rusnak, a new Reader, who read the Epistle in English. The homilies by Bishop Pazak (English) and Fr. Lajčiak (Slovak) focussed on what is truly important for us as followers of Christ, and sought to awaken within our slumbering hearts, our true calling as Christians.
In the church hall at the banquet that followed, parishioners and guests enjoyed a wonderful meal prepared by a small group of dedicated volunteers. Our master of ceremonies introduced the head table and led the prayers along with Jozef Ridos, Fr. Mucha and Bishop Pazak. The annual volunteer award was given out to four members of our parish, who went above and beyond in volunteering much energy and time this past year in helping our church to thrive. A new award, the Msgr. Frantisek Fuga Stewardship Award was introduced, recognizing the outstanding stewardship of founding members of our parish along with current members who embody all aspects of “Stewardship” in our church community. And like the annual volunteer award, new recipients will be announced each year. The day ended with a game exploring our knowledge of our rich Catholic faith and our heritage as Slovak Byzantine Catholics. Congratulations to all who are striving to know their faith, who are keeping our rich heritage alive and who are passing that faith to the generations coming after us.
Thank you to Fr. Mucha and the dedicated volunteers who made this Feast Day such a success. And a special thank you to everyone who attended and participated on this beautiful day. We invite everyone to come and celebrate our St. Nicholas/Christmas Bazaar on Sunday, December 11th. And we would like to invite all parishioners, past and present along with their friends and families to come and join us as we celebrate the 60th anniversary of our parish in the Fall of 2012.
Please check out our website for more information about our liturgy schedule and coming events:

http://www.church.assumptionslovakhall.ca/

Jana-Frantiska

Pascha in Hamilton

2011-04-22T20:00:00.001-04:00

One of my friends asked me what I did during Easter this year. I told him that I spent it in church. Holy Thursday through Easter Sunday, found me living through the Last Supper, the agonizing death and finally the amazing resurrection of Christ. Spending this time in my church, the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Hamilton, immersed in the words sung these last four days, picturing Christ’s journey, his trial, torture, burial, the empty tomb, and joyous resurrection, removed me from the present day and brought me to Jesus’ time, all the while, pointing out to me, that this time that I know as present day, is fully affected by Jesus’ action. His death wasn’t something in history, something before my time for me to simply read about. At the core of my faith is Christ’s death and resurrection. And I need to ask myself, remind myself perhaps, what that means for me as a Christian and specifically as a Catholic living in the 21st century.
Each Sunday I attend the Divine Liturgy with fellow parishioners in a church built by generations before me, a church built through their faith, hard work, sacrifice, the gift of self. Much as Christ gave himself so that we would be saved, former generations gave of themselves, after work, on weekends, during holidays, to build this beautiful church of today that I and my fellow parishioners enjoy. Their faith unified their vision, brought together their talents, filled their hearts with hope, inspired their minds, and enabled them to create a church, a community united to God in the act of giving and receiving, taking and sharing. This past Easter, as I sang the Resurrection Matins, I thought of Christ’s sacrifice and the sacrifice of the generations who came before me, who sat in the very pew I sat in, who left a beautiful legacy for their children and future generations to come. Christ, in dying on the cross and rising from the dead on the third day, left more for us than a legacy. He left behind a way of life, of being, of footsteps to follow. By death He conquered death so that we could have eternal life, so that our sins would be washed away. In Christ, God gave us something so precious that words cannot really capture this incredible gift. He became the door through which we can be saved
On Easter Sunday, I sang, smelled the incense, watched candles being lighted, joined in the profession of faith, was a partaker in communion, saw Easter baskets being blessed, admired the lilies, and participated in the mirovanie at the end of the Liturgy. I realized that this is my tradition, my Byzantine Catholic faith tradition. My parents and their parents had come to know God through this faith tradition. I had been inspired by the strong faith of those of my parent’s and grandparent’s generation. They were builders, very much in the image of Christ. In sacrificing all so that their children would have a better life than they had, they followed in the footsteps of Christ who sacrificed His life for all His children.
Yet the question remains. What have we done with this sacrifice for us, this gift handed to us? I look around me and see my grandparents and parents generation, still faithful, still striving to help, share and give, but I do not see their children, I do not see my own generation that came after their children’s and I do not see the generations coming after me. The single most important event around which our faith rests, the resurrection of Christ, does not seem to touch the hearts or minds of the present day generations. The gift offered is no longer understood or valued. The attitude of what’s in it for me, or what do I get out of it or I’m just coming to make my parents happy seems to permeate present day hearts and minds. Doesn’t “it” mean anything? And by “it” I am referring not just to the building, or the practice, the tradition, but to the faith. Does this faith of our parents belong simply to our parents? What is our faith? Is it our jobs, our houses, cottages, kids, families, vacations, hobbies, sports, movies, parties, politics, cell phones, having a good time, working out in the gym, the newest fad diet, the newest fad in clothes, the latest cause? Do we care to find out? Or is “to have”, and “to be” more important in our lives than to know God, to have Him at the centre of our lives from whom all of what we are, who we are, is found in Him who is all. When we stand still and turn off our phones, computers, and TVs, stop running from place to place, stop trying to keep up with the pace we have set for ourselves, simply stop, quiet our minds and enter this church, we are faced with a Truth, whether we want to accept it or not (yet why not accept it?). This Truth is God’s love, His love revealed through the death and resurrection of His son Jesus who offers us hope, a joyous hope when we ourselves face death at the end of our lives. Is it our fear that keeps us running? Has God not shown us that there is nothing to fear through Christ’s resurrection? Did not the late great John Paul II say to the multitudes: “Do not be afraid”? Easter, the resurrection of our Lord, Jesus Christ, assures us that there is nothing to fear. In following Christ’s footsteps, believing in God’s love, we too can find the everlasting joy we run after each day of our lives.

Jana-Frantiska

Christmas Bazaar in Hamilton

2010-12-12T19:00:00.000-05:00

On Sunday, Dec. 12, 2010, The Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary/Usnutia Bohorodicky, Slovak Byzantine Catholic Church in Hamilton held their Christmas Bazaar. The day began with the Divine Liturgy, which was followed by a luncheon, Christmas carols and raffle in the church hall along with a visit from St. Nicholas. There were cabbage rolls, perohies, dumplings (knedle), pastries and other items on display and available for purchase. Volunteers prepared a wonderful meal with a number of them also baking. The hall was decorated in festive colours. Jan Rinik painted a lovely backdrop depicting St. Nicholas in Slovakia distributing gifts to children dressed in traditional Slovak costumes. And a small town on display brought much excitement and joy to the children who found themselves mesmerized by it. Victoria Rusnak recounted the story of St. Nicholas, the Bishop and Wonderworker of Myra and Michal Cvercko played Christmas carols on his accordion. Two outstanding soloists preformed. Vasek Baliar sang a selection of Christmas carols to the applause of all while Joe Ridos sang a song dedicated to St. Nicholas in honour of the loyal servant of God who had not forgotten our beautiful church and the children waiting patiently for him. At the end Fr. Jozef Mucha thanked everyone for coming together and working so hard to make the day such a beautiful one. He reminded everyone of the coming birth of our Lord Jesus Christ, the present time of St. Philip’s Fast in preparation for Christ’s birth, and our roles as followers of Christ.
As we patiently await the birth of our Saviour and Lord, Jesus Christ in the coming days, we invite everyone to join us during Christmas in our church in Hamilton to joyously proclaim Christos Razdajetsja! Kristus sa Narodil! Christ is Born!

A Parishioner,
Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary/Usnutia Bohorodicky
Slovak Byzantine Catholic Church
Hamilton, Ontario

http://www.church.assumptionslovakhall.ca/

St. Nicholas at Cathedral of Nativity of Mother of God

2010-12-05T22:00:00.006-05:00

After being absent from the Cathedral for a few years, St. Nicholas once again found his way to visit the good children on December 6th. For a few weeks previous to his visit, there were rumours that St. Nicholas would be stopping by the Cathedral and parents and grandparents were urged to bring their children so they would not miss this occasion. And sure enough, as December 5th came, there was a lot of activity at the church and in the hall: the decorations were in place, the tables were set and the kitchen was in full swing. Following the liturgy, all gathered in the hall. The children were sitting at the back of the hall listening to a story about the Birth of Jesus, when all of a sudden, someone said that the children should start singing some Christmas carols. They had to sing nice and loud so that St. Nicholas would be able to hear them and stop by. After a few carols, St. Nicholas came down the stairs and headed for the group of children. He spoke to them, asked them if they had been good and whether they listened to their parents throughout the year. Having satisfied himself that they were indeed very good, he sat beside the Christmas tree and with the help of a couple of church elders, he handed out present that he brought. Each child picked up his/hers special gift and every child also received a goodie bag filled with chocolates, fruits and nuts – the traditional gift from St. Nicholas. Fr. Andrew must have been good because his name was also called and he received a special gift. St. Nicholas then patiently posed with the children as parents took pictures with this wonderfully caring Bishop who is also a great friend to children throughout the world. Since St. Nicholas had to deliver gifts to other children, he posed for one more group picture, then said good bye and headed out.
The children were then treated to hotdogs, French fries, chocolate milk and timbits. And since St. Nicholas Day is a special day for children, they were also able to make some Christmas crafts: some children created small gift boxes using last year’s Christmas cards, others coloured gingerbread boys and girls and others still made some Christmas wreaths from pipe cleaners and coloured beads. All in all, children were happy because they were able to see St. Nicholas and received gifts, parents and grandparents were happy because their families were in church together and Fr. Andrew was happy because he had so many people in church for the Feast of St. Nicholas.
Big thank you goes to members of Ladies’ Guild who decorated the hall, prepared gifts and prepared the luncheon for our children and parishioners. Also, thank you to the church elders for being St. Nicholas’ helpers. Thank you also to the parents and grandparents who brought the children and grandchildren to this occasion and a special thank you to Fr. Andrew for his special sermon for the Feast of St. Nicholas. It was wonderful to see all the smiling faces: not only the children but also the parents and grandparents. It is heart-warming to see that the tradition continues.

Mary Siroky - Snell

More phots available at:

http://picasaweb.google.com/danielprorok/2010_12_05StNicholasAtCathedralOfNativityOfMotherOfGod#

Odpust in Windsor

2010-11-14T23:30:00.001-05:00

Feast day of St. Michael the Archangel, patron saint of our Windsor parish has been celebrated for more than 50 years. This year, it was celebrated November 14th 2010. After all the preparatory work: cleaning of the church, the rectory and the hall, and especially the decorating, the long awaited day arrived. Everyone looked forward to the arrival of Bishop John, who presided the hierarchical liturgy. Also present was Fr. Deacon Lawrence Hendricks, from the Sacred Heart Parish in Livonia, MI together with his wife Anne. Altar server was Dr. Winsen Peter Cyril Zouzal, son of the late Msgr. Anthony P. Zouzal, who served the parish for almost two decades. Several guest cantors assisted: Mrs. Anne (Siroka) Pawluszka from St. Basil's Church, Detroit, MI, and Mr. Greg and Mr. Nicholas Nagrant Sr. with his son Michael from the Sacred Heart Church, Livonia, MI. The first priest was Fr. Martin Vavrak, pastor of the church. The liturgy started with a solemn procession and the chant "Vosel jesi". In his homily Bishop John’s focus was on the good example of the Merciful Samaritan that we heard about in the Gospel of the Sunday. “Mnoholitsvije” was sung at the conclusion of the liturgy, followed by anointment with the blessed oil. Faithful together with the clergy then moved to the hall where a delicious dinner was served. Rich cultural and spiritual program followed. We were also joined by Fr. Andrej Sipek, who served this parish in the past, and by Fr. Jozef Mucha, pastor of our church in Hamilton, ON. More than 100 parishioners and guests took part in this year’s celebration making it a success once again. In general we consider the odpust of 2010 as a perfect one.
Fr. Martin Vavrak

Photo credits: Mrs. Anka Vavrak

More photos available at:

http://picasaweb.google.com/danielprorok/2010_11_14OdpustInWindsor

Christmas Bake Sale and Bazaar

2010-11-14T23:00:00.004-05:00

We know Christmas is just around the corner when the local churches are starting to advertise their Christmas Bazaars and Bake Sales. Our own Cathedral of the Nativity of the Mother of God on Shaw St in Toronto is one of those churches. A couple of months before the sale, orders started pouring in for holubky and pirohy. Then a month before the actual event, members of the Ladies’ Guild gathered in the church hall organizing and preparing. First they made a couple of thousand pirohy with potato and cheese, cottage cheese and kapusta. When those were all packaged, they found out that they received more orders, so the following week they made another batch of pirohy and then they started on holubky. As it turned out, they had to make holubky three times! They make them so good that people place orders more than once! Their latest session for making holubky was the Saturday before the bake sale and at that time, we made 96 dozens of them. I am not sure about the rest of the ladies however the night before the bake sale I continued making holubky in my dreams!

The day of the sale, ladies started coming in early in the morning to package all the baking that was brought to the hall. Just looking at the rozky, tortes, cakes, rolls, rum balls, knedle, special cheese spreads, bobalky, fudge squares, bacon, cookies, pirohy & holubky made all of us hungry. It was nice to see more people in the church than we normally have – Fr. Andrew had only one liturgy. Everyone came to the hall and all the pirohy and almost all the baking was gone before lunch was served. For lunch, the ladies prepared a very tasty meatloaf, stuffed peppers, potatoes and salad. Coffee and cake followed for deserts. Some of our more talented ladies knitted slippers, made interesting “bunnies” with tea towels and wash cloths, crocheted some beautiful afghans, made bibs for people in nursing homes or hospitals, and other items suitable for stocking stuffers. Tickets were sold for a raffle of beautiful and useful items and many people went home with baked goods and also with items they won in the raffle. Once the raffle was done, some late comers were still able to buy cabbage rolls. This was great because at many of our bake sales, if you are not there early, you get nothing – it’s all sold out. Not this year, we had enough for all who were there.

One thing I noticed at this year’s bake sale and bazaar is that we also had some young people and families who attended and lent a hand in the kitchen – especially washing and drying dishes. Your help was truly appreciated. It was great to see you there and even greater to have you participate. In this day and age, when many churches are closing, it is more important than ever to encourage our young families to attend and welcome their help – they are our future. Thank you all for coming and supporting our Cathedral and we hope you had as much fun buying the items as we had making them for you.

A very special thank you goes to the Ladies’ Guild members and some of our “kurators” who came out to help before, during and after the Bake Sale. We all know that the hall doesn’t clean itself, the tables do not get set up and put away by themselves and the groceries do not walk in and place themselves on the kitchen counter by themselves. Behind all those actions stands either a member of the Ladies’ Guild who is willing to drive from store to store to get the best price for the ingredients or another member of the church who is willing to help out. Thank you for making sure that our sales are always successful. Many thanks also go to Fr. Andrew who faithfully serves us every Friday and Sunday and any other time his services are required.

Mary Siroky - Snell

More photos available at:

http://picasaweb.google.com/danielprorok/2010_11_14BakeSale#

Invitation to Windsor

2010-11-06T09:55:00.002-04:00

St. Michael's Slovak Byzantine Catholic Church cordially invites all to their annual

Odpust

Sunday, November 14th, 2010 at 1PM

Cost: $27 per person, students $17, children $7
Priests and their ladies for free!
For tickets call until Nov. 10th, 2010 Dr. Joe Stasko 1. 519.948.0919 evening

Invitation to Oshawa

2010-09-22T08:00:00.000-04:00

Protection of the Mother of God Catholic Church

cordially invites you to our

PARISH ODPUST

Sunday, October 3, 2010 at 1 PM

464 Ritson Rd. S., Oshawa
(905) 245 0629
(RSVP by September 26)

Divine Liturgy 1 PM
Banquet in Parish Hall 3 PM

Tickets are 20 $
Children under 10 years are free

Shaw Street Odpust

2010-09-12T21:00:00.004-04:00

Sunday, September 12, 2010 was a very special day at the Cathedral of the Nativity of the Mother of God on Shaw St in Toronto. Even though the clouds were threatening, the day was perfect in every way. Members of the Women's Auxiliary arrived early in the morning to make sure the food and the hall was prepared. Guests and parishioners began gathering well in advance of the liturgy. At exactly 1pm, the procession of cross bearer, clergy, novices & Bishop John Pazak, C.Ss.R., entered the church and moved to the front while parishioners and guests sang “Vosel jesi, Archijereju – You have entered, Most Holy Bishop”. Following the blessing from Bishop John with dikirion & trikirion to the four corners of the world, Fr. Andrew began the liturgy at the altar. Fr. Mucha (Hamilton), Fr. Girhiny (Burlington) and Fr. Williams (Oshawa) surrounded Bishop John as he sat in front of the tetrapod. They all joined Fr. Andrew at the altar following the small entrance. The clergy were later joined by Fr. Rybansky (Mississauga). Homilies were given by Bishop John in English and Fr. Mucha in Slovak. The liturgy was in English for the first half and Slovak for the second half. It was so wonderful to see the church almost full. At the end of the liturgy, the faithful received anointing (myrovanie) and all were invited to the parish hall for a delicious meal. The program began with the intermediate dancers from Vychodna Dance Group. They performed 2 dances: Taky som ja parobocok & Karicky. It was wonderful to see the enthusiasm from the young dancers. All this is possible thanks to the dedication of parents, grandparents, instructors and of course, the willingness of the young people. Delicious meal and “out of this world” baking prepared by members of the Women's Auxiliary and parishioners followed. Guests at the head table were introduced and a warm welcome was extended to special guests: Fr. Ray, assistant novice master (Edmonton), Fr. Gary, novice director (St. Louis) and 6 novices: Ashford (St. Lucia), Son (Vietnam), Peter (Scotland), Calvin (Dominica) and David and Anthony (both from New York). These guests were from International Novitiate for the Redemptorists in Toronto – Perpetual Help Residence.

The Feast Day of the Nativity of the Mother of God also marks the priestly anniversary of both our pastor, Fr. Andrew Kormanik and Fr. John Girhiny. This year, they celebrated their 35^th anniversary of priesthood. To honour this day, Madeline Tubaro, a young parishioner, presented Fr. Andrew with a beautiful bouquet of flowers and her brother, William Tubaro presented flowers to Fr. Girhiny. “Mnohaja lit” was sung to both. Fr. Williams extended an invitation to the odpust in Oshawa, October 3^rd, Fr. Girhiny thanked everyone for remembering the anniversaries, Bishop reminded all catholic school board supporters to make sure they know who they are voting in this fall and MC thanked everyone for their help right from cleaning, organizing, cooking and baking. Without all the help, this event would not have been possible. “Mnohaja lit” was also sung for the kitchen staff. At the conclusion of the celebration, MC reminded all that if we want to have our churches filled we need to recognize, listen to, cooperate, communicate with and especially encourage the younger generation to join in our liturgies and special events. As an example, she used the Pilgrimage in Uniontown, PA, where young people participated in every liturgy and every procession, including the beautiful singing of Marian hymns, Christmas carols and other church songs long into the night.

Mary Siroky - Snell

For more photos:

http://picasaweb.google.sk/danielprorok/2010_9_12ShawStreetOdpust#

Photo courtesy: Peter Snell and Andrew Kormanik Jr

Pascha in Windsor

2010-04-04T21:00:00.001-04:00

St. Michael's parish in Windsor, ON, is always happy. to celebrate the Resurrection of Our Lord. That happiness is also visible in the faces of people who come to church early in the morning to be present at the moment when the priest starts the small procession with the shroud, singing the troparion: "When you descended into hades, O Immortal One..." Then, after the transfer of the shroud they sing the troparion with lit candles in their hands: "Your Resurrection, O Christ..." People were eagerly awaiting the victorious Easter troparion: "Christos voskrese iz mertvych...Christ is risen from the dead..." It happened also on April 4th of this year, when we victoriously entered the church' doors, singing joyously. The doors were symbolically opened by knocking on them with the cross, and then we sung the Easter troparion and started Resurrection Matins. Matins were followed by the Divine liturgy and concluded with the blessing of the paschal food. After the annointment with the oil of gladness and greeting each other with the greeting "Christos Voskrese", everyone used the opportunity to wish each other a joyous feast and enjoy the fellowship. They were looking forward to the upcoming Sunday, when the Artos – a large round bread with a cross on the top – is cut and distributed during the mirovanije. We were especially happy to see many people in our church who come rarely or almost never come during the year and we expressed our desire to see them more often among us.

Fr. Martin Vavrak

Photo credits: Vavrak family
More photos available at:
http://picasaweb.google.sk/danielprorok/2010_4_4PaschaInWindsor

Invitation to Oshawa

2010-03-23T16:06:00.004-04:00

Protection of the Mother of God

Catholic Church

cordially invites you to our

Parish Fundraising Dinner

Saturday May 1, 2010 5PM

In the Parish Hall 464 Ritson Rd. S., Oshawa

(905) 245-0629(RSVP by April 28)

Homemade Spaghetti Dinner,Dessert by Mitchel’s Cake and Dessert Company

Entertainment by Luba Goy, Melanie E., Vychodna Dancers

Raffle Prizes donated by Valentino’s Salon, Magic Portraits, and more…

Silpada Jewelry Sale (30% of proceeds to the Church),Bake Sale, Auction, Children’s Activities

Individual $20 Couple $30 Family $40

Everyone Welcome!

Visit of bishop John to the Ascension Church in Montreal

2010-02-21T21:00:00.002-05:00

On a bright and sunny Sunday February 21st, the first Sunday of the Great Fast (Lent), Bishop John visited the Slovak Byzantine Catholic Parish of the Ascension in Montreal, QC. He celebrated the Divine Liturgy with Fr. Roman Lahola who has faithfully served the parish for the past few years.

After the Divine Liturgy everyone gathered downstairs for a lunch served by the ladies of the parish and then a short meeting concerning the sale of the church to the Bethel Pentecostal Congregation was held. After the lunch and prior to the meeting Bishop John reminded the parishoners of their heritage and the work of their families in forming their community despite recent hard times. Fr. Lahola expressed his desire to continue to serve the parish in the future. The meeting and day concluded by singing "Dostojno jest".

Text: Bishop John
Photo credits: Joe Corej

More photos available at:
http://picasaweb.google.sk/danielprorok/2010_2_21BishopJohnSVisitToTheAscensionChurchInMontreal#

Cheesfare (Forgiveness) Sunday at Cathedral of the Mother of God.

2010-02-14T22:00:00.000-05:00

This year, Forgiveness Sunday happened to coincide with Valentine’s Day. Forgiveness Sunday is a very special day and the fact that it fell on Valentine’s Day was indeed appropriate: what is Valentine’s Day about? Love! That is also what Forgiveness Sunday is about: forgiveness, respect, love!

It was on this Sunday that Bishop John Pazak, C.Ss.R. celebrated Pontifical Liturgy at the Cathedral of the Nativity of the Mother of God in Toronto. The Pastor, Fr. Andrew Kormanik, concelebrated and Sub-Deacon Daniel Cerny assisted. The Liturgy was celebrated in English and Slovak and parishioners and guests were reminded of the significance of this Sunday during Bishop John’s homily.

Following the Liturgy, Bishop John introduced Sub-Deacon Daniel Cerny. It was Daniel’s turn do his presentation. Everyone was asked to move to the front pews to create more of a community. Sub-Deacon Daniel thanked everyone for coming and began his presentation by showing us a beautiful icon by Andrei Rublev commonly referred to as “Hospitality of Abraham”. He then proceeded to explain the significance of the icon depicting three figures around an altar with a chalice on it, signifying the fellowship of love that exists in the Holy Trinity. He continued to speak about the three angels, the tree, the house and the rock in the background. He finished his presentation with: “Let us love one another, so that with one mind we may profess Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, the Trinity, one in substance and undivided.”

Everyone was then invited downstairs to the hall for a delicious meal prepared by the Women’s Auxiliary members. Approximately 50 parishioners and guests enjoyed lunch and fellowship. They wished Bishop John Happy Anniversary as he cut his cake. The day continued with a special service: Forgiveness Vespers. Many people went back upstairs to the church and participated in this beautiful service. At the conclusion of the Vespers, Bishop John asked all those present for forgiveness and the service ended with everyone present coming to Bishop, venerating the cross and asking for forgiveness.

Thank you, Bishop John and Fr. Andrew for a beautiful Liturgy and Vespers service. Thank you, Sub-Deacon Daniel, for your presentation which enlightened and inspired us and showed us that Lent should not be something to dread; it should be a time for us to prepare ourselves for the Resurrection. Thank you to everyone who attended. May you have a beautiful Lent and be fully prepared for Eastertime.

Text and photo: Mary Siroky - Snell

More photos available at:

http://picasaweb.google.sk/danielprorok/2010_2_14CheesfareForgivenessSundayInToronto

Seminarian Daniel’s presentation in Oshawa

2010-02-02T23:00:00.004-05:00

Tuesday morning began with a beautiful sunshine and it was a wonderful day for parishioners and guests to gather at an afternoon liturgy in Oshawa. Bishop John celebrated the liturgy and Fr. Williams concelebrated. Anointing by Bishop John followed.

Bishop John then introduced Seminarian Daniel Cerny who had a short presentation on the upcoming season of Lent. He reminded all of us that the time of Lent is not only a time when we give up certain foods; it is also a time when we try to be more like Jesus: kind and forgiving. He also reminded us that in order to do that we need to show kindness to others. This should not be very difficult – sometimes all it takes is a smile to show that we care.

Immediately after the liturgy everyone gathered in the hall downstairs. The parish ladies brought wonderful homebaked goods, coffee and tea was available and Fr. Williams provided vegetables and dip. While we enjoyed the prepared “feast”, Daniel was able to chat with most of the people present and find out if and how each family prepares the typical basket with Easter foods for blessing. The gathering ended with all of us joining Daniel in singing a few Slovak folk songs.

Mary Siroky - Snell

Ecumenical prayer service for victims of the earthquake on Haiti

2010-02-01T22:00:00.004-05:00

Bishop John S. Pazak, CSsR, Eparchial Bishop of the Eparchy of SS. Cyril and Methodius for Slovaks of the Byzantine Rite in Canada represented his flock at this ecumenical prayer service held for those affected by recent earthquake in Haiti. The prayer service was organized by Office for Ecumenical and Interfaith affairs of the Archdiocese of Toronto, and took place at St. Paul's Basilica, the oldest Catholic Church in Toronto. Presiding at the ceremony was H. E. Thomas Collins, Archbishop of Toronto, who also delivered the homily. Memebers of various churches were present as well as civil authorities, including Mr. David Miller, mayor of the town of Toronto. To prove serious commitment and to also show the practical aspect of our faith, everyone present had an opportunity to contribute to a collection for victims, thus participate in the rebuilding of Haiti.

Seminarian Daniel's presentation at The Cathedral of Transfiguration Mission Church in Thornhill

2010-01-30T23:30:00.001-05:00

Finally, Saturday, January 30^th arrived and so did the much awaited visit of Sub-Deacon Daniel Cerny! Bishop John picked him up at the airport and brought him home; that will be Daniel’s base for the duration of his visit. Many of you may remember Daniel from his last visit: summer of 2007. He spent time with us in the Toronto area, attended odpust in Hamilton and the funeral of Msgr Sinal in Montreal.

Sunday morning, Daniel assisted at the liturgy celebrated by Bishop John and concelebrated by Fr. Comeau. Daniel read the Epistle. Following the liturgy, Bishop John re-introduced Daniel to the parishioners. Daniel is here in Canada to do some research for his licentiate, to interview parishioners in our Eparchy and he is here for another important reason - a mission: to run a series of presentations at churches in our Eparchy to prepare us for the upcoming Lenten season. His very first talk was at the Mission church and the topic was: “Our Father”. Daniel asked all those in attendance to come closer to the front so he didn’t have to strain his voice and he also wanted us to feel like a community we are. He asked the children to recite the first line of “Our Father”. He spoke of God as “our” not “mine or yours”. He also asked about the food being spoken of in the prayer: the bread. The bread represents not only food that satisfies our stomachs, but food that also satisfies our spiritual hunger. Daniel concluded with the line that comes right after the daily bread: forgive us our trespasses. We are heading for the time before Resurrection: the time of Great Fast – Lent. This is the time when we need to prepare ourselves for Pascha. One of the ways to do that is to go to confession and to examine our conscience. It’s time to forgive and prepare our hearts for the Resurrected Christ.

All parishioners were invited to Bishop John’s house for coffee, bagels and cake.

Text and photo: Mary Siroky - Snell.

Epiphany in Windsor

2010-01-06T23:30:00.002-05:00

When celebrating the feast of the Theophany, i.e. the baptism of Our Lord God and Saviour Jesus Christ, some of the villages in Slovakia still preserve the custom of blessing rivers or streams,. Most of the parishes however bless the water only in the churches. This same custom of blessing the water in the churches is still kept among our faithful in Canada. Fr. Martin Vavrak was blessing the water in the parish church of St. Michael the Archangel in Windsor, and afterwards the parishioners took the water with them to their homes to use it throughout the year.

Readings for the blessing of the water include also a lecture from the First letter of St. Paul to the Corinthians, where we read: "Moreover, brethren, I would not that ye should be ignorant, how that all our fathers were under the cloud, and all passed through the sea; And were all baptized unto Moses in the cloud and in the sea;And did all eat the same spiritual meat; And did all drink the same spiritual drink: for they drank of that spiritual Rock that followed them: and that Rock was Christ."

So, we are all invited to drink from that very same Rock - Christ, who is the only One, who could satisfy our thirst, a thirst for a life eternal.

Photo credits: Fr. Vavrak's family

St. Nicholas Dinner in Windsor

2009-12-05T23:30:00.001-05:00

December 5th 2009 parishioners of St. Michael, Windsor gathered to celebrate in prayer and fellowship the Heavenly protector of Greek Catjolics - St. Nicholas, the Wonderworker. This year the celebration was enriched also by new text addition to the popular song: O who loves, Nicholas the Saint - compiled by cantor Nick Nagrant and his coworkers. Delicious food as well as something to drink was offered in the hall, so everyone was able to share his joy abundantly, and thus no one, who showed up regretted his or her presence.

Photo credits: Fr. Vavrak's family

Christmas Bake Sale and Bazaar at the Cathedral on Shaw Street in Toronto

2009-11-22T22:00:00.005-05:00

Every year, just before Christmas, people are looking around to make their lives easier. By people, I mean mostly the ladies. Anyone familiar with our customs knows that Christmas, or any other holiday for that matter, means a lot of extra work for everyone: the house needs to be cleaned, the freezers should be filled with baking, meats, pirohy, bobalky, vianocky. All these goodies require lots of work and especially lots of time. That is why most of us working women can’t wait until the bazaars!

The Women’s Guild members started preparing a few weeks before the event. Although small in numbers, those ladies can sure move in that kitchen. They started with “holubky”. Thanks to one member in particular, they had a number of orders from her neighbor and co-workers. The ladies came in Friday and Saturday and made over 1200 holubky. However, that was not quite enough, so they had to dedicate another Friday and Saturday to make 1200 more. The following Friday and Saturday, they gathered to make pirohy: with potato and cheese and also with sauerkraut.

Some of the ladies of the parish are very talented when it comes to crafts and they donated slippers and other items that they crocheted themselves. And many other ladies who were not able to help with cooking and crafts, donated items that were raffled off in a draw. Many of the parish ladies also donated tasty baking that was offered for sale: rozky, cakes, bobalky, knedle, even the ones with lekvar in the middle (just like mom used to make!).

When the day finally came, the church was filled with many people. Following the liturgy, all gathered in the hall and purchased most of the prepared foods. Then they enjoyed a tasty goulash with dumplings, salad, bread and coffee and desert, prepared by the Ladies Guild members. Even the children were able to enjoy this day while their parents shopped: a table was set up for them to do some “Christmas crafts”. They were able to colour pictures of snowmen, Christmas trees, gingerbread boys and girls. They were also able to make Christmas wreaths, Christmas angels and candy canes using beads and pipe cleaners. All in all, everyone enjoyed the Bake Sale and Bazaar, especially us working mothers. Now we can concentrate on other things because some of the food preparations for Christmas have been done for us. I must add that in some cases, I definitely would not be able to make it better than the ladies at the Cathedral. Thank you all the ladies for your hard work. Thanks to you for making it, and thanks to all of us for buying the food. This Bake Sale and Bazaar was another very successful and profitable function; and it brought all of us together.

Text and photos: Mary Siroky - Snell

More photos available at:

http://picasaweb.google.sk/danielprorok/2009_11_22ChristmasBakeSaleAndBazaarAtTheCathedralOnShawStreetInToronto#

Odpust in Windsor

2009-11-08T19:00:00.005-05:00

Sunday, November 8^th 2009 indeed marked a special day in the history of Greek Catholics in Canada, as Windsor parish of St. Michael celebrated its 55^th parish feast day. One special plaque in the church reminds us even today the very first celebration with the date November 7^th 1954 under the spiritual guidance of the late Fr. Krafcik, CSsR; and today, after 55 years it was Fr. Martin Vavrak and his wife, pani Anka Vavrak, together with parish president George Szeman and parishioners of St. Michael, who prepared the “odpust”, and welcomed bishop John and all the guests. Hierarchical liturgy started at 1:00 PM on Sunday, the actual feast of St. Michael and all the heavenly hosts. Procession entered the church, while our cantors, parishioners and guests solemnly sung. “You have entered” filled the whole church. Flu virus and other duties contributed to the fact, that at the beginning of the liturgy, only our eparchial bishop, together with the local pastor were present at the altar. Later on, Fr. Layos Angyal, Hungarian Greek Catholic priest, with his wife, pani Kathy, joined the liturgy. Fr. Angyal and his wife have been ministering in Windsor for almost 20 years. Solemn homily was delivered by vladyka Jan (Pazak), CSsR in English, followed by Fr. Martin Vavrak’s homily in Slovak. Majority of the guests were from Windsor itself and from the immediate areas; it was nice to see quite a lot of people from the Slovak Roman Catholic parish of Ss. Cyril and Methodius, but also traditional guests from Detroit and other places in Michigan in USA, headed by cantor Mr. Nick Nagrant with his wife Marianne and son Michael, several families from Ontario, including Mrs. Mary Snell and Mrs. Siroky from Toronto. Hierarchical liturgy was concluded with singing of the “Many years” and anointing with the oil (mirovanie), followed by a banquet. Delicious food and fun, that also included traditional raffle with almost 50 prizes was provided and financially supported by Dr. Joe Stasko with his family. Parish president, Mr. George Szeman helped as usually with his word as Master of Ceremonies, leading the event and also helping financially. Highlight of the evening was the humour and singing of national and folk songs by best friends, who were also celebrating their names day, Mr. Michal Bural and Mr. Michal Kvolek. They have been performing for our pleasure for 55 years! On occasion of its jubilee of two “fives” we congratulate and wish our parish Gods help and blessings.

Fr. Martin Vavrak

Photo credits: Mary Siroky - Snell & Vavrak family

More photos available at:
http://picasaweb.google.sk/danielprorok/2009_11_08OdpustInWindsorByMary#
http://picasaweb.google.sk/danielprorok/2009_11_08OdpustInWindsorByVavrakFamily#

Invitation to Oshawa

2009-09-19T07:43:00.002-04:00

On behalf of Rev. Stephen Williams, pastor of the Protection of the Mother of God Church in Oshawa and his parishioners we would like to invite you to their annual "ODPUST", that will take place Sunday, October 4th 2009 at 1 PM. Price of the ticket for festive luncheon is 20 dollars. Feel free to join our Oshawa family for their celebration., as they are looking forward to seeing as many of you as possible. More info available at: Protection of the Mother of God Byzantine Catholic Church, 464 Ritson Road S., Oshawa, ON L1H 5J9, Phone 905 245 0629.

Nativity of Mother of God Cathedral Odpust 2009

2009-09-13T21:00:00.005-04:00

This year’s odpust was held on Sunday, September 13^th, 2009. It began at 1pm with a procession into the church. Led by the processional cross and banners, the Bishop and clergy walked into the church while the faithful sang “Vosel jesi, Archijereju”. About 120 parishioners and guests participated in the liturgy, celebrated by H.E. Bishop John Pazak, C.Ss.R. and concelebrated by Fr. Mucha (Hamilton), Fr. Williams (Oshawa), Fr. Girhiny (Welland) and Fr. Kormanik, the pastor of Nativity of the Mother of God in Toronto. The liturgy was celebrated in English and Slovak. Fr. Andrew Kormanik read the Gospel in Slovak and English and Bishop John had the homily. At the end of the liturgy there was mirovanije.

Following the festivities in the church, the faithful gathered in the church hall for a banquet. Fr. Comeau joined Bishop John and the concelebrating clergy at the head table. The banquet started with the singing of “Our Father” and Bishop John blessing the food. Following the introduction of the head table, the delicious meal was served. Between the main meal and coffee and cake, the senior dancers from Vychodna Dance Group performed three dances: Parchovany, Margecany and Trencin. What a talent! It was a very enjoyable performance. Vychodna Dance Group is celebrating their 25^th anniversary and we encouraged all to come and show their support by attending their gala afternoon with guest orchestra Zemplin from Slovakia. Judging from their performance here it will be an excellent show.

After coffee and cakes, Bishop John had a brief speech and so did Fr. Kormanik. Towards the end of the celebrations in the hall, the faithful acknowledged the 34th anniversary of Fr. Andrew Kormanik and Fr. Girhiny by singing "Mnohaja Lita" to the two of them. Guests were also invited to the next odpust, October 4^th, 2009 at 1pm in Oshawa. The MC thanked Bishop John, Fr. Andrew, the priests and their families, parishioners and guests who attended, all those who helped make this odpust a success and especially all the ladies who prepared the delicious meal. Having our spiritual selves satisfied by the liturgy and homily in the church, and having our stomachs filled with the delicious homemade foods in the hall, we all left happy and look forward to the next odpust in Oshawa.

Text and photo: Mary Siroky - Snell

More photos available at:
http://picasaweb.google.sk/danielprorok/2009_09_13OdpustInToronto#

Pilgrims from our eparchy in Uniontown

2009-09-07T21:00:00.004-04:00

This year's Annual Labor Day pilgrimage of the Byzantine Catholic Metropolia in Pittsburgh, organized by Sisters of the Order of St. Basil the Great of Our Lady of Perpetual Help Province was marked with special solemnity, as the pilgrims gathered there for 75th Diamond Jubilee Pilgrimage. As many times in the past, several pilgrims from the Eparchy of Ss. Cyril and Methodius in Canada traveled there to pray and encounter our Lord in peace and spiritual exchange while meeting other faithful. Headed by their shepherd, H.G. Bishop John S. Pazak were present also Fr. Martin Vavrak from Windsor with his wife, Pani Anka, sons Martin, Jr. and Richard, cantor Nikolaj Nagrant, who helps in Windsor, Mr. Peter Snell, Mrs. Mary Snell, Mrs. Zuzana Siroky, Mr. John and Mrs. Irene Revtak, Mrs. Helen Lucky, Mrs. Irene Barbora, Mrs. Gabriela Di Fabio formed the group from our Eparchy. Some of our faithful traveled for seven and half hour one way, so it was a realy spiritual journey, however no one comaplained, as everyone experienced wonderful spiritually enriching weekend. This "odpust" was really like the one in the "Old Country" as it was possible to hear there Rusyn, Saris, Zemplin and also official Slovak there. By far the most moving parts of these pilgrimages are the processions. The Parastas that was celebrated at the tombs of our deceased hierarchs is the most beautiful service and the candlelight procession to and from the cemetery is so uplifting. Sunday night's procession from the Prayer House to the main altar with banners and especially the number of young people is absolutely beautiful. The candlelight procession leaving the altar at the conclusion of services and returning back to the altar is heavenly. The petitions being chanted and the response of "O, Jesus, Lover of Mankind, have mercy on us" is so inspirational. Just close your eyes, listen and respond.

Nice symbol of the unity of the Church was to see all ruling hierarchs of the Pittsburgh Metropolia gathered there including its head, metropolitan Basil Schott, accompanied by bishop John Kudrick of the Eparchy of Parma, bishop William C. Skurla from the Eparchy of Passaic, and bishop Gerald Dino representing the Eparchy of Van Nuys. Each year one hcan also attend the Church Slavonic liturgy being celebrated, and this Fr. Deacon Jaroslav Lajciak from the Eparchy of Kosice participated. This is the heritage of faith brought to the USA and Canada by our ancestors. O Lord, preserve the heritage of our faith!

Fr. Martin Vavrak and Mary Siroky - Snell

Photo Credits: Pani Anka Vavrak and Martin Vavrak, Jr. and Mary Siroky - Snell

More photos available at:

http://picasaweb.google.sk/danielprorok/2009_09_07Uniontown#

http://picasaweb.google.sk/danielprorok/2009_09_07UniontownByMary#

Wedding in Windsor

2009-08-22T22:00:00.001-04:00

Slovak Byzantine Catholic Church of St. Michael in Windsor was a place of great joy, Saturday, August 22nd, 2009. Holy mystery of Matrimony - Wedding was administered to Joseph Timko and Kendall Soucie. Main celebrant was Fr. Martin Vavrak. Every weddding ceremony in Byzantine rite includes chanting of the Gospel about the Wedding in Cana of Galilee. It was there that the Lord made his first public miracle. miraculously changing the water into wine, once the hosts ran out of it. To record that event, our church has a special custom. During the ceremony, the couple shares wine from a common cup, as it is seen in the pictures. We wish the married couple many happy and blessed years! Na mnohaja i blahaja ľita!

Photo credits: Soucie and Timko families and friends
More photos available at:
http://picasaweb.google.sk/danielprorok/2009_08_22WeddingInWindsor#

Uspenije - Odpust in Hamilton

2009-08-16T22:00:00.003-04:00

They predicted a nice day with no rain for the weekend and that’s how it turned out. The day was sunny and became extremely warm and humid as it progressed however that did not deter the large number of people who came to the odpust. Faithful started arriving shortly after noon. The liturgy began at 1pm with a procession from the back of the church. Bishop John Pazak, C.Ss.R. was the main celebrant. He was joined at the altar by Fr. Andrew Kormanik, pastor of the Cathedral Church of the Nativity of the Mother of God (Toronto), Fr. Martin Vavrak, pastor of St. Michael’s Church (Windsor), Fr. Viktor Crissan, Fr. Eugen Rybarsky, assistant pastor of St. Cyril & Methodius Slovak Roman Catholic Church (Mississauga), and of course, Fr. Jozef Mucha, pastor of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary.

The sermons were in English, delivered by H.E. Bishop John and in Slovak, delivered by Fr. Eugen Rybarsky. It is customary for this special day to bless flowers in honour of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Bishop John blessed them and as people came up for mirovanije, all the ladies received one.

After liturgy, all those who had tickets for the banquet went to the parish hall to continue the celebration. Along with celebrating the odpust, there were congratulations and presentations to Bishop John on his birthday, to Fr. Viktor on his birthday and a special congratulation to Fr. Mucha who recently celebrated his 20^th anniversary of priesthood. Good wishes and a congratulatory letter from Sr. Stefania Jurcenko, SSMI and Archbishop Jan Babjak, SJ from the Archeparchy of Presov, Slovakia, were also read. To top it all off, there was a special cake presented to all three: Bishop John, Fr. Mucha and Fr. Crissan.

The cultural program included performances by the extremely talented dancers from Vychodna Dance Group (Toronto) and some readings by parish children, explaining the significance of the Feast Day.

Following the delicious meal, coffee, cakes and the program, there was a raffle. Lots and lots of happy people won some very interesting prizes. Bishop John and Fr. Mucha were also among the lucky winners. Thank you, Bishop John, for sharing your prize (a box of Fereero Rocher chocolates) with us. Everyone loves Ferrero Rocher!

Among the guests at the odpust were Mrs. Anka Vavrak, wife of Fr. Martin Vavrak, and their son Matko.

By Mary Siroky - Snell

Photo credits: Pani Anka Vavrak and Mary Siroky - Snell

For more photos see:

http://picasaweb.google.sk/danielprorok/2009_08_16OdpustInHamilton#

http://picasaweb.google.sk/danielprorok/OdpustInHamiltonByMary#

Funeral of Fr. John Fetsco, CSsR

2009-07-01T20:00:00.001-04:00

Based on the will of the family of Fr. Fetsco, CSsR, bishop John traveled south to celebrate funeral rites for Fr. Fetsco in his home church in Kingston, Pa. In this church, dedicated to Mary, our heavenly mother, Fr. Fetsco, CSsR celebrated his first solemn liturgy after being ordained in 1955 as a priest by late kyr Isidore Borecky in Canada.

At the altar were two bishops, bishop John from Toronto, and ruling eparch of the Eparchy of Passaic, to which Kingston parish belongs, bishop William C. Skurla. Among the priests present was Fr. Comeau from Canada, Fr. Micael Kuchera, SJ, professor at the Pontifical Oriental Institute in Rome, Italy, Fr. James Hayer, editor of the eparchial magazine of the Eparchy of Passaic, called Eastern Christian Life, Mons. John Sekkelick, Fr. Joseph Berta, and many others. Relatives of late Fr. John wer also present, as well as faithful, some even from our Eparchy in Canada.

After the church ceremonies, body of Fr. John was taken to Dallas, Pa, where it was buried in the family grave of Fetsco family, where it will wait peacefully for the second coming of Christ.

May his memory be eternal. Vicnaja jemu pamjat! Vecna mu pamiatka!

Photo credits: Mary Siroky - Snell
More photos available at:
http://picasaweb.google.sk/danielprorok/2009_07_01FuneralOfFrFetsco#

Funeral liturgy for Fr. Fetsco, CSsR in Toronto

2009-06-27T23:00:00.000-04:00

Saturday, June 27th was the last day to bid farewel to the former Apostolic Administrator of the Eparchy of Ss. Cyril and Methodius, Fr. John Fetsco, CSsR. Funeral liturgy presided by H. E. Bishop John Stephen Pazak, CSsR filled the cathedral of the Nativity of the Mother of God in downtown Toronto with clergy of both Byzantine and Latin rites of the Catholic Church, as well as laity, who have had in person of late Fr. John not only spiritual shepherd, but also a friend. Cantors assisted by Fr. Williams joined in prayer clergy from all around the Eparchy, including Fr. Kormanik, pastor of the Cathedral church, Fr. Mucha from Hamilton, Fr. Vavrak from Windsor, Fr. Comeau, and Fr. Girhiny, former pastor of Welland. Representing Slovak Roman Catholic Parish of Ss. Cyril and Methodius in Missisagua was Fr. Vano, and present were many many others.Photo credits: Fr. Martin Vavrak
More photos available at:
http://picasaweb.google.sk/danielprorok/2009_06_27FuneralLiturgyInTorontoForFrFetsco#

Parastas for Fr. John Fetsco, CSsR

2009-06-26T22:00:00.002-04:00

Bishop John S. Pazak, CSsR, priests of the Eparchy of Ss. Cyril and Methodius, as well as those of the Congregation of the Most Holy Redeemer - Redemptorists gathered with the faithful of the eparchy on Friday evening, June 26th in prayer of Parastas for the soul of our beloved departed Fr. John Fetsco, CSsR.

"With the Saints, O Christ, give life to the soul of your servant, where there is no pain, sorrow, nor mourning, but life everlasting."

More photos available at:
http://picasaweb.google.sk/danielprorok/2009_06_26ParastasForFrFetsco#
http://picasaweb.google.sk/danielprorok/2009_06_26ParastasForFrFetscoByFrVavrak#

Photo credits: Mary Siroky - Snell.

Fr. John Fetsco, CSsR passed away

2009-06-24T17:31:00.004-04:00

Fell asleep in the Lord, June 23, 2009 in Unionville in his 80^th year. Fr. John, member of the Congregation of the Most Holy Redeemer (Redemptorist Congregation), was born December 20, 1929 in Pringle, PA, USA. After completing his elementary and secondary education in his hometown, Fr. John made his profession as a Redemptorist August 19, 1950 in Yorkton, Saskatchewan. Fr. John was ordained to the priesthood May 13, 1956 and began his service in the Lord’s vineyard at the Nativity of the Mother of God (St. Mary’s) Byzantine Slovak Church in Toronto. During his priestly life, Fr. John served several Slovak and Ruthenian parishes in USA and Canada. In 1987, Fr. John was appointed the first rector of the Byzantine Slovak Cathedral of the Transfiguration and served there until he retired in 2005. During this time, Fr. John’s responsibilities also included those of being the Apostolic Administrator for the Slovak Eparchy of Saints Cyril and Methodius (1996-2000). Fr. John was a devoted priest and religious who was especially generous and supportive of the then persecuted Byzantine Slovak Church in Slovakia. Fr. John enjoyed the time he spent as a chaplain to the Slovak Sokol and being a member of their bowling team. Many lasting friendships were formed during that time. Fr. John’s enduring enjoyment was his Monday game of golf.

Fr. John was predeceased by his parents Wasyl & Helen, his sister Katerina and his brothers Wasyl, Jr., Demetrius and Harry. Fr. John is survived by his sisters: Margaret, Anna, Mary, Helen, Julia and their families. Fr. John will be missed by his many relatives in USA and Slovakia. Fr. John will be fondly remembered and sadly missed by his Redemptorist confreres, fellow clergymen and his beloved parishioners, who throughout his lifetime became dear friends.

Visitation will take place Friday, June 26, 2009 from 4pm until 9pm with Priestly Parastas at 7pm at the Cathedral of the Nativity of the Mother of God, 257 Shaw St, Toronto. Funeral Divine Liturgy will be celebrated Saturday, June 27, 2009 at 10am at the Cathedral of the Nativity of the Mother of God, 257 Shaw St, Toronto.

Fr. John’s family requested that interment take place at a later date in Dallas, PA, USA.

Vicnaja jemu pamjať! Eternal Memory! Večná mu pamiatka!

Mothers' Day at Shaw St Cathedral

2009-05-10T20:00:00.006-04:00

May 10th was a wonderful day at the Cathedral on Shaw St. Even though it is May, we woke up in the morning to a rather low 2C. It was unusual to see people walking through the park dressed in their "winter" coats and some even with gloves on!

All mothers who attended the liturgy at 9am were greeted by a vase full of beautiful red and coral roses. Most of the mothers had their roses purchased for them by loving family members and those who were not fortunate enough to have roses given to them, bought their own roses. The church was filled by many regular parishioners as well as family members: sons, daughters and especially grandchildren. It was wonderful to see so many happy faces. Fr. Andrew's homily referred to the Samaritan Woman, whose Sunday we celebrated, as well as a very touching story of Monica, the mother of St. Augustine. Augustine's Christian mother, Monica, never stopped praying for him. He emphasized that no mother ever gives up her dreams to raise her children: she devotes her life to raising her children. He wished all the mothers many years of health and happiness.

Following the liturgy, all were invited to the hall and enjoyed a light lunch of open-faced sandwiches prepared by members of the Women's Auxiliary. A nice Sunday of fellowship was enjoyed by all who were present. To all mothers: "Happy Mothers' Day. May God grant you many blessed years". "Mnohaja i blahaja lit".

For more pictures visit:

http://picasaweb.google.sk/danielprorok/2009_05_10MothersDayAtShawStCathedral#

By Mary Siroky - Snell

Pascha at the Cathedral of the Nativity of the Mother of God

2009-04-12T15:00:00.009-04:00

The most awaited day of the year finally arrived. During the day, the weather was nice. Towards the evening, the winds picked up however, it was still nice. Parishioners began arriving well before 6pm. Car after car brought people and Easter baskets. As we arrived inside, the aroma of ham, klobasky, hrudky, eggs, beets with horseradish and yes, even paskas, was very apparent, especially since we were just finishing Lent – a time of fasting to prepare ourselves for this “day of days”. As parishioners and guests arrived, they placed their baskets on the side pews to leave the steps to the altar unobstructed. For those of you who are familiar with our Easter services, you know how beautiful they are. At the altar, Bishop John was the main celebrant and Fr. Andrew Kormanik and Fr. Ron Comeau concelebrated. Fr. Fetsco was also present. Members of the Women’s Auxiliary prepared the altar and the “tomb” for the plascenica. Everything looked beautiful for the arrival of the Risen Christ. Bishop John and the priests changed their vestments from red to “bright” (white) mid way through the service. The ladies also changed altar cloths to white. When Bishop John and the clergy along with the parishioners processed outside, the winter seemed to return. The winds howled and the temperature dropped. However, we braved the weather to sing “Christos Voskrese”, and following Bishop John’s knock on the closed doors to the church, we re-entered the church and continued with the service.

In his homily, Bishop John spoke to us of this most joyous time of our liturgical year and reminded us to continue to live our lives with the Risen Lord as our guide.

The time finally came when everyone brought their baskets to the steps in front of the altar to have our food blessed. Baskets were uncovered, candles lit and Bishop John began the blessing of the food. When he was all done, Bishop John wished everyone a Blessed Easter on behalf of himself, and on behalf of the pastor, Fr. Andrew, and also Fr. John and Fr. Ron. Following the blessing, everyone hurried home to share the Easter meal with families and friends.

Christ is Risen! Indeed He is Risen! Christos Voskrese! Voistinu Voskrese!

By Mary Siroky - Snell

More photos available at:

http://picasaweb.google.sk/danielprorok/2009_04_12PaschaAtTheCathedral#

Pascha in Windsor

2009-04-12T14:00:00.003-04:00

"Christ is Risen, and you, O Death, are annihilated! Christ is Risen, and the evil ones are cast down! Christ is Risen, and the angels rejoice! Christ is Risen, and life is liberated! Christ is Risen, and the tomb is emptied of its dead; for Christ having risen from the dead,is become the first-fruits of those who have fallen asleep. To Him be glory and powernow and forever, and to the ages of ages. Amen." Paschal sermon of St. John Chrysostom (A.D. 347-407), Patriarch of Constantinople.

Pascha is the climax of our church liturgical year, most important festival of our faith. Every other religious festival on their calendars, including Chrismas, is secondary in importance to the celebration of the Resurrection of Jesus Christ. This is also reflected in rich Paschal customs of our church. Everything else shines only in the light of the Resurrection. Pascha (Easter) is the primary act that fulfills the purpose of Christ's ministry on earth—to defeat death by dying and to purify and exalt humanity by voluntarily assuming and overcoming human frailty. This mystery is summarized by the troparion, sung repeatedly during Paschal season: "Christ is risen from the dead! By death he trampled death and to those in the tombs he granted life." Many of our faithful from Windsor gathered in ther Church of St. Michael on Sunday morning, April 12th to celebrate our Risen Lord! To all of them, as well as to those, who are interested and might join the community, as well as to all visitors of our web page is sent the greeting of Fr. Martin: Christos Voskrese!

Photos by: Fr. Martin and Pani Anka Vavrak

More photos available at:

http://picasaweb.google.sk/danielprorok/2009_04_12PaschaInWindsor#

Good Friday in Windsor

2009-04-10T22:00:00.003-04:00

Traditional procession with the epitaphios (Plashchanitsa) around the church with singing the ancient troparion "The Noble Jospeh" concluded the solemn Vespers on Good Friday, and thus symbolicaly represented the funeral of Our Lord, God and Savior, Jesus Christ, whose body depicted on the epitaphios was laid in the symbolic tomb in the middle of our church in Windsor. Father Martin Vavrak, pastor of the church, together with his faithful parishioners gathered in the church and reflected also about their own death and the faith in Our Lord, who promised resurrection to all of us. Great encouragement for everyone was the presence of several children and youth, willing to pray to our Lord.

Photos by: Fr. Martin and Pani Anka Vavrak

More photos available at:

http://picasaweb.google.sk/danielprorok/2009_04_10_GoodFridayInWindsor#

Paschal celebrations around the Eparchy

2009-04-10T16:00:00.000-04:00

Dear brothers and sisters in Christ. In order to allow you to join our communities in prayer for this greatest feast of the liturgical year, here is the list of liturgical celebrations in various our parishes. We are looking forward to pray and celebrate our saving Lord with you, and to sing together also the troparion of the feast, that reveals this great mystery: "Christ is risen from the dead! By death He conquered death, and to those in the graves He granted Life."

Schedule of liturgical celebrations in some of our parishes:

Oshawa, ON - Protection of the Mother of God,
464 Ritson Road S., Oshawa, ON L1H 5J9

Saturday 4 PM Divine liturgy of St. Basil the Great with Vespers and Olivia Paty's Chrismation
Sunday 7 AM Resurrection Matins with Divine Liturgy followed by Pascha Basket Feast in the parish hall.

Windsor, ON - Saint Michael,
2120 Byng Road, Windsor, ON N8W 3E2

Saturday 4 PM Divine liturgy of St. Basil the Great with Vespers
Sunday 9 AM Paschal matins followed by the Divine liturgy of St. John the Chrysostom and blessing of Paschal baskets
Monday 10 AM Divine liturgy
Tuesday 10 AM Divine liturgy

Bake sale at the Nativity of the Mother of God (St. Mary’s) in Toronto

2009-03-29T20:00:00.002-04:00

The traditional and much awaited bake sale at Shaw St on March 29th did not start off great. Since Saturday was a beautiful day, full of sunshine, everyone expected the same to carry over to Sunday. When we woke up Sunday morning and encountered cloudy skies, we still held out hope that the sun will poke through. Unfortunately, the sun decided to shine somewhere else. The morning started with a few rain drops and as the time went on, it began to rain more and more. By the time parishioners and guests arrived at church for the 10 o’clock liturgy, the rain was coming down pretty good. The parish ladies who brought their famous cakes and cookies, rushed in covering the baking with their umbrellas. They must have covered everything well because there was no sign of raindrops on any of the cakes.

The day started with a liturgy celebrated by Fr. Andrew Kormanik, the pastor. The first half of the liturgy was in English and the second half in Slovak. For some of the guests it may have seemed that the liturgy was a bit too long; in fact, the liturgy was longer than normal due to the special prayers that are recited during lent. The most interesting part of the liturgy is always Fr. Andrew’s homily. He speaks from the heart, always refers to the Gospel and makes a connection to real life. This way, everyone understands what the Gospel reading was all about and it stays with us all week.

Following the liturgy, all were invited downstairs to the hall for lunch and to buy the goodies. A few weeks before the sale, the Women’s Auxiliary ladies gathered in the hall and made pirohy: some were made with potato and cheese, others with sauerkraut. They also met Friday and Saturday immediately before the sale to make dozens and dozens of cabbage rolls. Then one by one, Sunday morning, the ladies brought their special cakes: cheese cakes, honey cakes, rozky, babovky, fruit cakes, and even some paschas for Easter. There were also some knedle for sale as well as cheese balls. It was not long before parishioners and guests returned to their tables and it was time for lunch. Fr. Andrew led us in “Our Father” and asked the Lord to bless the food and the hands that prepared it. The ladies in the kitchen outdid themselves again: they prepared an absolutely delicious gulash and served it with potatoes, vegetables, a side order of salad and a slice of bread. That was followed by a serving of carrot cake and coffee. And just to raise a little more for the Women's Auxiliary, everyone had a chance to buy a ticket or two for a 50/50 draw!

Even though the day started off with some rain, by the time everything finished, the sun did shine and everyone was able to carry out their purchases without worrying about getting wet. It was a very successful bake sale and the nice thing about all this was everyone’s cooperation. It warms the heart when you see the young and the not so young working together towards a common goal: the good of our church and making sure that it continues to flourish. Thank you to all the ladies who prepared, baked and cleaned. A special thank you to all parishioners and guests who bought baked goods, luncheon tickets and draw tickets. You all contributed to a worthy cause. May God bless you and keep you. Wishing you all a Blessed Easter!

Christos Voskrese! Voistinu Voskrese! Christ is Risen! Indeed He is Risen!

More photos available at: http://picasaweb.google.sk/danielprorok/2009_03_29BakeSaleAtShawStreet#

Text and photos by: Mary Siroky-Snell

“Krestupoklonna Nedila” - Sunday of the veneration of the Holy Cross at the Cathedral Mission Church

2009-03-15T22:00:00.004-04:00

Our liturgy started with Bishop John carrying the cross, adorned with roses and ivy, around the altar and placing it on the tetrapod. With the singing of “We bow to Your cross..”, we all made the prostrations. The church had a few more parishioners join us on this day; we had three young ladies visiting with their grandparents. It was nice to see the girls eagerly follow the liturgy, singing responses and paying attention to the liturgy.

The beautiful red vestments that Bishop, Fr. Ron & Fr. Peter wore added to the solemn atmosphere at the church. Before starting his homily, Bishop John introduced our special guest, Fr. Peter Pidskalny, C.Ss.R.. Fr. Peter is a fellow redemptorist. He is also a former classmate of Bishop John. Fr. Peter is the pastor of St. Mary’s Ukrainian Catholic Church in Yorkton, Saskatchewan. He is no stranger to our community: as a seminarian, he spent his summers at the Nativity of the Mother of God on Shaw St in Toronto. He was with us at Bishop John’s ordination and he always makes an effort to visit with us whenever he is in our area and his busy schedules permits him to do so. Bishop John then had a very inspiring homily. At the conclusion of the liturgy, we once again sang “We bow to Your Cross..” and after prostrations, everyone came forward for individual adoration of the cross and to say a silent prayer.

All the parishioners were then invited for coffee and fellowship. It was a very special coffee hour, since we were also able to meet and spend some time with Fr. Peter. It’s always nice to have guests with us, especially ones “whose smile lights up the whole room” – as one of the parishioners described it.

More photos availabe at:

http://picasaweb.google.sk/danielprorok/2009_03_15_RichmondHill_Krestupoklonna#

By Mary Siroky - Snell

Theophany with bishop John

2009-01-11T22:00:00.005-05:00

H.E. Bishop John Pazak, along with Fr. Comeau, celebrated the Divine Liturgy at the little church as every other Sunday. There was a slight difference this time: following the liturgy, Bishop John blessed the water to be used throughout the year. In the very first pew, the children eagerly waited and watched as Bishop John started with the prayers, the tropar and the kondak. He then blessed the water with the trikirion, followed by breathing into it, and finally by using his hand: making the sign of the cross with each action. All these were done three times: Bishop John, Fr. Ron and Bishop John once again. Once the water was blessed, Bishop John took a cup of newly blessed water and had a drink. He then asked Fr. Ron to do the same and once he was done, the parishioners were encouraged to do the same one by one. Parishioners brought their own containers and once everyone had a drink, they filled their own containers to take home with them and use whenever needed.

Photos from the celebration:

http://picasaweb.google.sk/danielprorok/2009TheophanyRichmondHill#

Text and photos: Mary Siroky - Snell

Theophany in Windsor

2009-01-06T22:00:00.007-05:00

January 6th was marked with freezing white winter, which affected the attendance of parishioners of St. Michael in Windsor, as majority of the parishioner are elderly and bad visibility and roads are problems when it comes to going to church, but as always, some courageous did it and came to remember their own baptism and to relive again also the Baptism of Our Lord. This feast is always associated with the Great blessing of Jordan water, and we were all very pleased to see our youngest parishioners, the children being so involved in the ceremony, who observed and prayed with great curiosity this rite of blessing of water and eagerly awaited the moment, when the priest sprinkled them and the whole congregation in the church. After the anointing and singing of „Many years" people went home taking with them a deep experience of the faith and experienced a greater understanding of spiritual rebirth in holy mysteries of baptism and chrismation, and carried home also new Jordan water. The Priest encouraged everyone to be more zealous and to indeep their faith. The people went forth joyfully into the cold to their homes which the priest will visit soon to bless in the days to come.

Photos from the feast in Windsor:

http://picasaweb.google.sk/danielprorok/TheophanyWindsor#

Fr. Martin Vavrak

Photos: Pani Anka Vavrak

St. Nicholas celebrated in Thornhill

2008-12-07T21:00:00.004-05:00

Sunday, December 7th was a special day for the children of the Cathedral Mission church in Thornhill. Following the liturgy, while the faithful sang the beautiful hymn "O kto, kto, ......", Bishop John "played" St. Nicholas and with a basket in hand, walked down to the children and gave out typical St. Nicholas goodies. There were 4 children present and they received oranges, nuts, candies, chocolates, colouring books and stickers. You could see the children's eyes sparkle and they all had smiles from ear to ear as soon as they saw Bishop come around with the basket. Seeing the faces of the children makes the work that goes into preparing the gifts all worthwhile.

Submitted by: Mary Siroky - Snell

St. Nicholas in Windsor

2008-12-06T22:00:00.004-05:00

Even despite freezing and snow in Windsor, we were able to meet and celebrate the feast of St. Nicholas, Saturday evening, December 6th at 5.00 PM in the church of St. Michael, where there was special social held after the liturgy and mirovanije in the hall under the church edifice. While Fr. Martin Vavrak celebrated the liturgy, St. Nicholas went to hall to left some goodies for everyone, including four children present. Others are probably already grown up, or maybe were too shy to come, who knows? Everyone, who came to celebrate together St. Nicholas, had wonderful time and unspeakable atmosphere, especially when singing the song „O kto, kto, Nikolaja ľubiť.“ We keep on singing this song many times during the evening refreshments and distributing the gifts. We hope to have more participants next year, including more children and youth. This was one of the petitions addressed to St. Nicholas.

Fr. Martin Vavrak,
Photo: Pani Anka Vavrak

Photos from the event at:

http://picasaweb.google.sk/danielprorok/2008StNicholasInWindsor#

Invitation to Night of Christmas Music

2008-12-01T01:30:00.004-05:00

A Night of Christmas Music
At the
Protection of the Mother of God Catholic Church
464 Ritson Rd. South, Oshawa

Thursday, December 18th, 7:30 PM

Come and join us in a Festive night of Song! It will be a great night of music and singing followed by hot chocolate and other goodies in the parish hall afterward. Featuring Soloists: Melanie E, Pastor Jamie, Olivia Paty & Connor Lyn, Beverly Hilton & Special Guests. Everyone is Most Welcome!

For more information, call Fr. Stephen at (905) 245-0629

Christmas Bazaar and Bake Sale

2008-11-18T16:06:00.000-05:00

The Christmas Bazaar and bake sale, held on Sunday, November 16, 2008 at the Nativity of the Mother of God Church, 257 Shaw St, Toronto, were a great success. The event started at 10 am with the English/Slovak liturgy celebrated by H.E. Bishop John. Fr. Andrew Kormanik, the pastor, concelebrated.

Following the liturgy, some 80 parishioners and guests gathered in the hall below and were excitedly waiting for lunch. The wonderful aroma from the kitchen did not make it easy! There was lots and lots of pastry for sale, some knedle, pies, even some cheese spread. Of course, the ladies made cabbage rolls and pirohy as well, however, those were sold by orders placed in advance. Raffle tickets were also sold. Unbelievable number of gifts were donated - 44 in all. When everyone finished their shopping, Bishop John said grace. Lunch was served by the members of Ladies' Guild. Oh, and how wonderful it was! They prepared tasty goulash poured over slices of knedliky, served with a side order of salad and delicious rye bread for anyone wishing to have some. As a tribute to the cooks, several guests went up for seconds! I heard one guest say: "This goulash is like the one my mom used to make. I have not had any since she died. I wish I could get it more often."

After lunch, slices of black forest cake and coffee were placed on the serving table and guests were asked to help themselves. While guests were savouring coffee and dessert, the raffle draw started. There were about 33 happy winners. As you can see, the number of winners did not match the number of prizes: that's because some people won more than once! Bishop John and Fr. Andrew were also among the winners. Everyone had a great time, the Ladies' Guild raised some much needed money and we all went home happy. So, to the ladies, who prepared, cooked, served and cleaned up afterwards: "You did an awesome job. Thank you."

Submitted by Mary Siroky-Snell

More photos from the day:

http://picasaweb.google.sk/danielprorok/2008ChristmasBazaarAndBakeSale#

St. Michael the Archangel – Odpust

2008-11-09T18:00:00.001-05:00

Sunday, November 9th, was a great Feast Day for the parish of St. Michael in Windsor. This Byzantine Catholic church is located in the southern most part of Ontario. Many weeks prior to odpust, parishioners together with the pastor prepared feverishly for this great day. God blessed them with good weather so that they were able to work around the church, especially the church entry way. This work took several months to finish. Thus, after replacing the entire roof and eaves, installing new windows at the back of the rectory, painting of rectory, church and the hall, work that took over a year to bring to fruition, everyone was able to sing the solemn hymn, “Vošel jesy Archyjereju” – at 2pm as H.E. Bishop John entered our church. Bishop John blessed our newly renovated church on our Feast Day - the Feast of St. Michael the Archangel. With Bishop John as the main celebrant, several priests from the surrounding area concelebrated the Hierarchical Divine Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom in Church Slavonic and English. The priests who concelebrated were: Fr. Andrew Sipek, past pastor of St. Michael’s, Fr. Layos Angyal, Hungarian Byzantine priest from Windsor, Fr. Robert Barter from St. Nicholas Church, Detroit, Mi, USA, Fr. Joseph Marquis, Sacred Heart Church, Livonia, Mi, USA and the present pastor, Fr. Martin Vavrak. Fr. Martin came to Windsor from the Mukacevo Eparchy in the Transcarpathian part of Ukraine. The day of odpust marked the second anniversary of his arrival to Canada. Homilies were delivered in Slovak and English and reflected the common theme of bodiless heavenly powers, and also about the afterlife. The day was dominated by St. Michael the Archangel, prince of heavenly armies, as well as Mary, Mother of Perpetual Help, honoured and loved especially by her sons, the Redemptorist Fathers – the order to which our own Bishop John, C.Ss.R. belongs. “Myrovanjie – anointing” and “mnoholitsvije – many blessed years” followed the Holy Communion. After the liturgy, clergy, parishioners and guests went downstairs to the beautifully decorated hall and a delicious dinner. In our Eparchy, St. Michael is the last Feast Day of the year and thus Bishop John wished all our faithful a blessed “Filipovka - St. Philip’s fast” and a blessed upcoming Feast of the Nativity of Our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ.
Pani Anna a Fr. Martin Vavrak

For more photos from the event click here:

http://picasaweb.google.sk/danielprorok/2008OdpustInWindsor#

Submitted by: Pani Anna and Fr. Martin Vavrak

Protection of the Mother of God, Oshawa

2008-10-19T18:00:00.009-04:00

Success! A great day. We started off with something completely different—Morning Praise led by Pastor Jamie Legault of My Father’s House Christian Fellowship. Bishop John blessed our new parish sign, and then celebrated the Divine Liturgy, after which we feasted in the Parish Hall. We were graced by the presence of Bishop John, Fr. Andrew Kormanik, Fr. Jozef Mucha, Fr. Ron Comeau, and Fr. John Fetsco. Irena Revtak and her crew, Irena and Gabriella, put on an amazing feast with the addition of many ladies who contributed their baking for our fabulous dessert section. For the finale, Lucia Williams organized a raffle with some great donations from the community: an Israeli art school, the Slovak Community Circle of Oshawa, Luba Henderson, Sheridan Nurseries, Scholar’s Choice. The prize table was also adorned with some of Lucy’s own sladkosti and children’s gifts for the hordes of kiddies. The proceeds from the ticket sales and the raffle, combined with our summer Rummage Sale, have given us a great beginning towards paying for the new sign. We’re growing in Oshawa! Come for a visit, check out our new sign, and meet our new parishioners. We’d love to see you some Sunday morning for Morning Praise at 9:30 and the Divine Liturgy at 10:00.

Photos from the event are available at:

http://picasaweb.google.sk/danielprorok/2008OshawaOdpust#

Fr. Stephen Williams

Nativity of the Mother of God Feast Day - Odpust

2008-09-14T01:00:00.005-04:00

Each year around the beginning of September, we look for good weather. We hope for good weather so that the clergy, followed by our Bishop, can process from the rectory to the church. This year, on September 7th the weather did not cooperate. Since it was raining on and off, the decision was made to gather at the back of the church and only have the procession from the back door to the altar. However, even if the weather was not exactly great, the church was full of parishioners and guests.Bishop John was preceeded by clergy of our Eparchy: Fr. Andrew Kormanik, Fr. John Girhiny, Fr. Martin Vavrak and Fr. Ron Comeau. They were joined by Fr. Martin Huk, C.Ss.R., a latin rite Redemptorist from Bratislava Vice Province. Fr. John Fetsco, C.Ss.R was waiting for them at the altar. Following the duties at their own parishes, Fr. Stephen Williams and Fr. Jozef Mucha later joined their fellow clergymen at the altar. Among the guests were: the wife of Fr. Andrew Kormanik (Mrs. Margaret Kormanik and their son), the wife of Fr. John Girhiny (Dr. Valerie-Dawn Ruddell Girhiny), the wife of Fr. Martin Vavrak (Mrs. Anka Vavrak and their 2 sons) and the wife of Fr. Stephen Williams (Mrs. Lucia Williams with their daughter and son) and several members of the Knights of Malta with their wives.

Divine Liturgy began with HE Bishop John Pazak, C.Ss.R. blessing the east/west/north/south with the dikirion and the trikirion; then Fr. Andrew began the litanies. Just before the sermon, Fr. Andrew welcomed Bishop John and the visiting clergy as well as all the parishioners and guests from near and far, and asked Bishop John to deliver the homily in English. We had the honour of listening to Fr. Martin Huk as he delivered the homily in Slovak. His sermon was inspiring and he reminded us what love really is by using the examples of children’s definition of love. We later learned that Fr. Martin Huk is in Canada visiting his sister: Mrs. Anka Vavrak.

At the end of the liturgy, we sang “Mnohaja lita” to two of the clergy: on this day, 33 years ago, Fr. Andrew Kormanik, Pastor of Cathedral of the Nativity of the Mother of God, and Fr. John Girhiny, were ordained to the priesthood by the late Bishop Michael Rusnak, C.Ss.R.

Following anointing (mirovanije) all guests moved to the church hall. Parish ladies prepared a delicious meal for everyone to enjoy. Thus another annual odpust came to an end and we look forward to 2009 and hope for a lot of sunshine so that the procession can actually be around the outside of the church.

By Mary Siroky Snell

More photos avialable at:

http://picasaweb.google.sk/danielprorok/NativityOfTheMotherOfGodFeastDayOdpust

And at:

http://picasaweb.google.sk/danielprorok/NativityOfTheMotherOfGodOdpustMorePhotos#

Dormition Odpust in Hamilton

2008-08-17T18:00:00.001-04:00

Year passed quickly again, and all those who wished to celebrate our Lady of Klokocov for the feast of her Dormition gathered again in the beautiful church at Barton Street in the city of Hamilton. Our flock led by bishop John Pazak, CSsR thus showed, that this tradition of August pilgrimage within Canadaian Eparchy of Ss. Cyril and Methodius is still alive. Special concelebrant at this liturgy was Fr. Pavol Tomko, CSsR, who once ministered in this Eparchy and to many of these people. Parishioners of Hamilton did nice job with hosting clergy and pilgrims from around the Eparchy, and festal banquet followed Divine Liturgy. Everyone is hoping for many more pilgrimages to come.

Photo credits: Pani Anka and Fr. Martin Vavrak

More pictures are available at:

http://picasaweb.google.sk/danielprorok/2008OdpustInHamilton#

Welland Greek Catholics gathered in museum

2008-06-28T20:00:00.001-04:00

On June 28, 2008 Holy Ghost Slovak Greek Catholic Church officially transferred its essential artifacts to the Welland Historical Museum. At that location the work of the Slovak people in Welland will be recognized for the generations to come.

The space in the museum takes its external shape from the (originally Slovak) Latin Rite Church in Welland whose ceiling is an inverted ark. Under this ark are placed the “icons”, an altar, a fully vested “priest”, and other significant objects taken from the Holy Ghost church building for preservation purposes. The result is a miniature version of Holy Ghost Slovak Greek Catholic Church.

The Slovak Ambassador, H.E. Stanislav Opiela, officiated at the opening of the exhibit and Slovak sweets were prepared and served by the ladies. Many dignitaries were also present and spoke of the contributions of the Slovak people to Canada.

Many people thought of the day as a moving and spiritual pilgrimage especially when the afternoon was concluded with the celebration of the Divine Liturgy by the Right Reverend Mitred Archpriest, Dr. John Girhiny, who has been pastor for the parish for the last twenty years. All the parishioners who were physically capable were present at this “relocation” of the parish and what now appears to have been the last service of Holy Ghost Slovak Greek Church. Also in attendance were Slovaks from other parishes and locations, many who had become “friends” of the parish, as well as a number of people who were able to see the beauty of a Byzantine service for the first time. The service was sung in English and Old Slavonic and, through technology, the moving force for the past 15 years of the parish, John Ferko, was able to be present for this last service as he so much wanted to be.

May God grant to him and all the other deceased members of the parish eternal memory and may those who still are present on earth be granted peace, health and happiness for many years.

While still nominally the pastor until the bishop makes a decision about the future, Fr. John has been authorized by Bishop John to return to his duties as President of the St. George Mission Society.

By Fr. John Girhiny

Photo credits: Fr. and Mrs. John Girhiny, M. Hudak.

For more photos visit the gallery: http://picasaweb.google.sk/danielprorok/WellandGreekCatholicsGatheredInMuseum#

Rummage and bake sale in Oshawa

2008-05-09T01:51:00.003-04:00

Dear brothers and sisters in Christ!

Rummage and bake sale is happening Saturday, May 31st, starting at 7am at Protection of the Mother of God, 464 Ritson Rd. S., Oshawa, ON.

Any specialty Slovak baked contributions (spring cleaning discards) are greatly appreciated.

Any money raised will go towards our new sign.

Fr. Stephen and his parishioners are looking forward to see you there !

Odpust in Montreal

2008-04-30T08:05:00.003-04:00

Our parish of the Ascension of our Lord in Montreal is celebrating their patron feast this Thursday, May 1st. May our sisters and brothers in Montreal know, that their joy is our joy too.

Address: 45 Legendre Str. West, Montreal, QC H2N 1G9
Established as parish: 1930 Sunday Services: 10:00

"You were taken up in glory, O Christ our God; you gladdened the disciples with the promise of the Holy Spirit. By blessing them, you confirmed that you are the Son of God, the Redeemer of the world." - Troparion, tone 4.

Photo credits: Fr. Martin Vavrak

For photos from the funeral of Msgr Sinal in September 2007 please visit:

http://picasaweb.google.sk/danielprorok/FuneralOfMsgrSinal

Eternal Memory - Fr. Andrew Krafcik, CSsR

2008-04-22T08:42:00.000-04:00

Today, April 22nd just few minutes after the midnight, Fr. Andrew passed away in Michalovce, Slovakia.

Father Andrew was born in Michalovce, Slovakia in 1919. After theological studies in Uzhorod (Ukraine), Olomouc (Czech Republic) and Budapest (Hungary) was ordained a priest by blessed bishop Paul Peter Gojdich at famous pilgrimage shrine in Lutina (Slovakia) in 1945. After his ordination served as secretary to the bishop in Prešov and later in pastoral life in Jastrabie and Trebišov.

In 1951 left his native land and ministered among Ukrainian refugees in camp Kufstein. For a shrot time stayed in Rome and afterwards came to Canada in 1952 and immediately started with organizational work for establishment of Hungarian and Slovak Byzantine Rite parishes in Windsor. He was one of the priests, who celebrated the first Byzantine liturgy for Slovaks in Hamilton on December 12th 1952.

Using the gifts God given him was the first editor of the magazine Maria. After the death of Fr. Chanath in 1957 it was his task to minister in Welland. He joined Redemptorists of the Yorkton province and with approval of his provincial made his vows to the hands of Fr. Michael Rusnak.

His later assignments included: Gary, Indiana 60-61; Shaw St., Toronto 61-63; Roblin, Manitoba Assistant Pastor, 64-68; Wynyard, Sask., 69-70, Ituna; Sask.,70-72, Washington, D.C. 73, Newark & Wilkes-Barre, PA 74-84, Yorkton, Sask Missions 84-95 while also serving in Slovakia; Cathedral of the Transfiguration 95-03 Markham, ON; 03-07 in retirement in Yorkton, Sask, He returned to Slovakia in May, 2007 to Michalovce, where he spent his final months with his Redemptorist brothers.

May his memory be eternal!

Vičnaja pamjať!

Blessing of the water in Welland

2008-01-06T14:35:00.005-05:00

The Right Reverend Mitred Archpriest Dr. John Girhiny celebrates the feast of the Theophany on January 6, 2008 at Holy Ghost Parish in Welland, Ontario by blessing the water.

"At Your baptism in the Jordan, O Lord, the worship of the Trinity was revealed, for the voice of the Father bore witness to You by calling You His beloved Son, and the Spirit in the form of a dove confirmed the certainty of these words." - Troparion, Tone 1.

Photo credits: Valerie - Dawn Girhiny

Odpust in Windsor

2007-11-11T09:26:00.005-05:00

St. Michael the archangel is the heavenly protector of our church in Windsor, Ont. Many odpusts have been in this church since its founding in fifties of the last century. Windsor used to be a place, where our bishop Michael of blessed memory always liked to visit, and where he wanted to stay after his retirement, but was unable to do so.

It was traditional not only to commemorate all the Michaels of the parish and among people present, but first of all to worship God, who is always the one, who is our guardian number one. He is the one, who assigns each of us, his angel to watch over us.

Sunday, November 11th 2007 bishop Pazak was invited by Fr. Vavrak with hif family and parishioners of St. Michael to be the main celebrant for their annual odpust. With him were at the altar also Fr. Vavrak, Fr. Angyal (Hungarian Byzantine Catholic in Windsor), Fr. Barter from St. Nicholas parish in Detroit, USA, Fr. Mucha from Hamilton and a visiting priest.

Voices of the people followed cantors from Canada and USA and helped make this day a special one. The liturgy concluded with mirovanije but the joyous atmosphere continues at banquet downstairs in the hall.

Photo credits: Fr. Martin Vavrak.

Odpust in Oshawa

2007-10-01T08:15:00.002-04:00

One of the oldest parishes in our Eparchy is the parish of the Protection of the Theotokos in Oshawa. This parish was established due to the initial sacrifices of Fr. Michael Rusnak, CSsR (later bishop Michael) and 38 families in 1952. The church itself was built during the year 1955 and dedicated by Most Reverend Isidore (Borecky) from Toronto.

Throughout the years it become a custom to gather here on first Sunday after the feast of the Protection on October 1st. However, this year it was a little change in the date in order to have our hierarch, bishop John attending.

Our Oshawa folks are always attending our major eparchial pilgrimages in Hamilton, and Toronto, and now, it was their turn to welcome guests at their odpust.

Parish is currently served by Fr. Stephen Williams.

We wish our parishioners in Oshawa many more odpusts to come!

Photo credits: Mary Snell - Siroky.

For more photos please visit:

http://picasaweb.google.sk/danielprorok/OdpustInOshawa

Funeral of Msgr. Andrej Sinal, STD

2007-09-13T09:15:00.002-04:00

September 6th 2007 was indeed an sad day for our Eparchy. Msgr. Sinal, pastor emeritus of the Ascension parish in Montreal passed away.
He was born in Osikov near Bardejov in Slovakia in 1927. Following the start of his seminary stuides, he was chosen to go to Rome, where he was ordained a priest in 1951. After serving for several years in Italy in parishes and seminary, he decided to work among our faithful of Byzantine rite in Canada.
He arrived to Canada in 1965 and was covering for the parish in Welland in 1965 - 1966 during the illness of Fr. Russin. Afterwards he was appointed to Montreal, position he kept till 2006.
He received his doctorate from Lateran university in Rome, and was a member of the comission for the revisal of the Eastern Canon Law Code. His work was awarded with the title Monsignore in 1978.
Funeral services started on September 12th with the prayer of Parastas in funeral home celebrated by H. G. John Pazak, CSsR, eparch, and priests of the eparchy. Next day was funeral liturgy with rites of the burial in the Ascension church with bishop John presiding and fathers Fetsco, Dolinsky, Vavrak, Mucha and Comeau assisting.
May his memory be eternal! Večná mu pamitka! Vičnaja pamjať!

Monsignor in the casket

Photo credits: Fr. Martin Vavrak

For more photos visit:

http://picasaweb.google.sk/danielprorok/FuneralOfMsgrSinal

Odpust in Toronto

2007-09-09T15:20:00.002-04:00

Sunday, September 9th was the traditional odpust at Shaw Street parish. Many pilgrims, from all around the Eparchy gathered here to join in prayer. Before the liturgy was moving prayer of Akathist, sung in Slovak, which prepared faithful for the hierarchical liturgy, which followed, and which was celebrated in both English and Slovak.

Main celebrant was the eparchial bishop John S. Pazak, CSsR, concelebrating were fathers Fetsco, Dolinsky, Mucha, Girhiny, Williams, Vavrak, Comeau, Vano (Slovak Roman Catholic parish Hamilton) and Nowicki (Slovak Roman Catholic parish Missisauga).

Banquet after the liturgy icluded many delicious food prepared by the ladies of the parish, and we thank God, Fr. Pavol and his wife Adriana and their parishioners for this wonderful day of prayer.

Photo credits: Fr. Martin Vavrak

Odpust in Hamilton

2007-08-19T05:19:00.002-04:00

Sunday after the Feast of the Dormition of the Theotokos is in our Eparchy always celebrated with great joy at splendid shrine in Hamilton. This church is famous for its odpusts in honor of the weeping icon of Our Lady of Klokočov.

Shrine was built during the tenure of late pastor Rt. Reverend Mitred Archpriest Francis Fuga, who came to Canada in 1954 and immediately started his zealous ministry among our faithful. He passed away in 1987

Iconography of the church was designed and performed by Russian iconographer Igor Suchacev, who needed fourteen years between 1970 and 1984.

Main celebrant of the 2007 odpust was His Grace, bishop John (Pazak), who was assisted at the altar by fathers: Fetsco, Mucha, Dolinsky, Girhiny, Vavrak, Comeau, Williams, Vano (Slovak Roman Catholic from Hamilton) and visiting seminarian from Slovakia.

After the liturgy was the traditional banquet in the hall under the church, where everyone had opportunity to socialize with all our sisters and brother in faith. We are looking forward for next odpust!

Photos from the odpust avialable at: http://picasaweb.google.sk/danielprorok/OdpustInHamilton2007#

Transfiguration at Shaw Street

2007-08-06T09:14:00.005-04:00

Feast of the Transfiguration is one of the greatest feasts in our church calendar. On August 6th 2007, bishop Pazak came to pray with his people in downtown Toronto at Shaw Street. He was accompanied at the altar by Fr. Pavol Dolinsky, pastor and Fr. Fetsco, former apostolic administrator of our Eparchy.

After the ambon prayer was the traditional blessing of fruits, which people brought with them to be blessed. This is nice custom, still kept by our faithful throughout the Eparchy.

Photo credits: Yakov (Cornelius) Krissilas

Odpust in Welland

2007-05-27T04:02:00.000-04:00

Welland parish has seen many odpusts throughout their history. In late fifties was their odpust also an place of priestly ordination of already departed Fr. Alan Borsuk ordained by late Isidore Borecky. Even today is the odpust visited by our hierarch, Most. Rev. John Stephen Pazak, CSsR. Present pastor is Fr. John Girhiny assisted by his wife, Valerie-Dawn. For parishioners is their odpust always a joyous moment, reminding them the gifts God is giving us each day.

Same joy happened also this year 2007, when bishop Pazak visited this smallest, but sil vivid community of our Eparchy. May the Lord God grant to all his faithful in Welland many happy and blessed years!

Photo credits: Valerie-Dawn Girhiny

Christmas Matinee at Shaw Street

2006-12-17T22:00:00.005-05:00

“Christmas Matinee”, organized by Mrs. Adriana Dolinská and Jan Vaculík on December 17th 2006 at the Greek Catholic cathedral at Shaw Street in downtown Toronto was a real success. Famous songs composed by classic and modern composers, as well as christmas carols, both English and Slovak attracted and filled the church to its capacity. Musical accompaniment was done by Marta Laurincová, Milan Brunner, Bohdan Turok and Andrej Šaradin. Christmas poems were recited by Oľga Turoková in Slovak and by Veronika Ivanová in English. Everyone, who joined the community of the Nativity of the Mother of God parish was absolutely sure, that this was surely an unique and heart - lifting event in order to prepare for the coming of the One, who descended to earth and became man so that man can ascend to heaven.

Photos by: Cornelius "Yakov" Krissilas

First liturgy of Fr. Vavrak in Windsor

2006-11-18T08:38:00.005-05:00

Father Martin Vavrak is a native of Kosice, Slovakia, who was ordained a priest in 2003 in the Cathedral of Kosice by His Grace, bishop Milan Sasik, CM of Mukacevo. Afterwards, he started his pastoral ministry in the eparchy of Mukacevo, mother of all our eparchies. Besides parish ministry helped also teaching at the seminary.

He was there well liked by the people, but after a three year tenure, he came to help our church in Canada.

After initial stay in Toronto, he was introduced by bishop Pazak to the parish family of Windsor, where he came together with his wife, and two sons.

Faithful together with the pastor, Fr. Igor Zdravecky welcomed our new laborer in the vineyard of Christ and wished him many happy and blessed years!

Photo credits: Fr. Igor Zdravecky.

Clergy meeting in Hamilton

2006-11-15T09:01:00.001-05:00

Our parish in Hamiton hosted in the fall of 2006 our biannual clergy meeting. At this meeting were present bishop John Pazak, CSsR, eparchial bishop of the Eparchy of Ss. Cyril and Methodius, Fr. Joseph Mucha, chancelor of the same Eparchy and hosting pastor, Fr. John Girhiny (Welland), Fr. Pavol Dolinsky (Toronto), Fr. Stephen Williams (Oshawa), Fr. Ron Comeau, Fr. Igor Zdravecky (Windsor) and newly arrived Fr. Martin Vavrak.

After the common liturgy at the altar of the magnificent church in Hamilton was more formal discussion between the bishop and his priests, and also official welcome to Fr. Vavrak, who joined the Eparchy.

Photo credits: Fr. Igor Zdravecky

Bishop John's 60th birthday

2006-08-13T04:53:00.001-04:00

His Excellency, Bishop John Stephen Pazak was born on August 13th 1946 in Gary, Indiana as the oldest child of late Johanna (nee Henessy) and late Stephen Pazak. He was baptized and chrismated on September 8th 1946 at St. Michael's Church in Gary, Ind.

He made his first vows as a Redemptorist on the Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross, September 14th 1965. He attended St. Alphonsus College in Suffield, Conn. and St. Pauls University in Ottawa, Ont.

Our beloved Bishop Michael Rusnak, CSsR ordained him a deacon on May 21st 1972. Later that year, on August 27th, he was ordained a priest by Bishop Emil Mihalik in his home parish in Gary, Ind.

His ministry included parish of Ss. Peter and Paul in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, St. Vladimir’s College in Roblin, Manitoba, parish of St. Mary’s in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania and also St. Joseph's parish in Winnipeg, Manitoba.

His episcopal motto is the quotation from Prophet Isaiah, 40:3, "Prepare the way to the Lord."We congratulate Bishop John on his jubilee and wish him many more happy and blessed years!Eis polla eti, Despota! Na mnohaja ľita Vladyko!

Photo credits: Mary Snell - Siroky.

50th Anniversary of Priestly Ordination of Fr. Fetsco

2006-05-10T04:37:00.005-04:00

May 13, 1956 – Mothers’ Day – was a special day for more than one reason. That’s the day that Fr. John Fetsco, C.Ss.R., was ordained to the holy priesthood. Most people stay in their job a few years, then try something else. They move from place to place wherever their career takes them. Fr. John has moved from place to place a few times but his career stayed the same: he “is a priest forever, according to the order of Melchisedek”, as we read in the Bible.

To celebrate this joyous occasion, May 10th was decided upon. In the early afternoon, guests started to congregate in the beautifully decorated Slovak Cathedral of Transfiguration. This being Fr. John’s golden jubilee, the church was full of greenery with yellow blooms. Fr. John and his sister Margie Fetsco, from Pringle, Pennsylvania, wore yellow corsages with gold ribbons.

At 3pm, fourteen priests and 2 Bishops, led by three altar servers, processed down the centre isle to the altar. Fr. John, accompanied by his long-time friend, Rt. Reverend John Tataryn, preceded the two bishops: H.E. John Pazak, C.Ss.R. and H.E. Cornelius Pasichny, O.S.B.M.

What a beautiful sight: at the altar, Fr. John was the main celebrant at the beginning, then H.E. Bishop Pazak took over as the main celebrant and had Fr. John on his right and H.E. Bishop Pasichny on his left. All around the altar, was a sea of white, gold, and light blue vestments. On the left side, there were Rt. Rev. John Tataryn, Fr. John Girhiny, Fr. Yaroslaw Dybka, Fr. Peter Pidskalny, Fr. Ron Comeau, Fr. Leslie Tamas, and Fr. Stephen Williams concelebrating. On the right side there were: Fr. Pavol Dolinsky, Fr. Stanislav Takac, Fr. Miroslav Vercimak, Fr. Jozef Mucha, Fr. Andrew Kormanik, Fr. Mark Zazula and the rector of the cathedral, Fr. Miroslav Cajka.

Following the liturgy, the bishops and most of the clergy, along with several guests, proceeded to the other half of the celebration. It was held at the Premiere Ballroom and Convention Centre in Richmond Hill. The guests arrived to a beautifully decorated hall with blue napkins (Fr. John’s favourite colour!) and tying in with the decorations at the cathedral, the centrepieces were yellow tulips in vases tied with gold ribbon. As the guests started arriving, they were all treated to hors d’heurves and punch and they had a chance to socialize, congratulate Fr. John and just enjoy each others’ company. Among those who attended, we had Fr. John’s sister Margie and Fr. John’s Redemptorist confreres from Winnipeg and Saskatchewan. We also had the pleasure of having with us Fr. Stanislav Takac, from the Archdiocese of Kosice in Slovakia, who is visiting his cousin. Mr. Jozef Breda, from Michalovce, Slovakia, who is here visiting his sister, was also one of the guests.

Following a short welcome, blessing and a toast to Fr. John by H.E. Bishop Pazak, and a tasty meal, the head table guests were introduced, as well as other distinguished guests sitting at individual tables. We were all reminded of Fr. John’s life and his achievements. As a wonderful tribute to him, there were many greetings. The most cherished greeting came in a form of an Apostolic Blessing from Pope Benedict XVI – a gift from the Cathedral Ladies’ Guild. Then there was a greeting from H.G. Luigi Ventura, Apostolic Nuncio in Canada. Greetings from the Redemptorist Provincial of Yorkton Province, Fr. John Sianchuk, C.Ss.R., were read by Fr. Peter Pidskalny, C.Ss.R.. Fr. John is a member of that Province. The MC read the rest of the greetings from Bishop Hrynchyshyn in France, Msgr. Sinal in Montreal, Bishop Kuchmiak, C.Ss.R., in Newark, NJ (he was ordained together with Fr. John and the late Fr. Perejda, C.Ss.R.), Fr. Sandor, H.G. Archbishop Schott, OFM and H.E. Bishop Chmilar. Greetings from Vladyka Jan Babjak, SJ and Vladyka Jan Hirka from Slovakia, arrived the next day.

Fr. John then thanked all those who came to celebrate with him, and all those who organized the celebration and worked hard to make it a special day. H.E. Bishop Cornelius concluded the celebration by having all guests join him in reading the “Thou art a priest forever” prayer on the back of the programs. Fr. John cut his special anniversary cake and distributed it to everyone. The guests were then free to sign the guest book, congratulate Fr. John and have pictures taken with him.

Thank you to Bishop Pazak for his direction, to the concelebrating priests for taking time to be here, to all those volunteers who cleaned the church, decorated it and helped out wherever necessary. And thank you to all those who showed respect and support for Fr. John and his 50 years (most of them spent here among us in Canada) by being part of the liturgy in the afternoon and the banquet in the evening. You are the reason that although he was very tired, there was a constant smile on Fr. John’s face all day long!

May God keep you among us in good health for “many, blessed years!” Mnohaja lit, Fr. John! A job well done!

By Mary Siroky-Snell

Photo credits: Mary Siroky - Snell.

For more photos please visit:
http://picasaweb.google.sk/danielprorok/50thAnniversaryOfThePriesthoodOfFrFetsco

New priest ordained for the Eparchy

2006-01-15T14:08:00.004-05:00

Magnificent shrine of the Mother of God of Klokocov in Hamilton, ON was the site of the first presbyteral ordination performed by bishop John S. Pazak, CSsR, when he ordained deacon Stephen Williams into presbyterate. Pilgrims, as well as clergy and religious from all around the Eparchy, as well as from United States gathered and prayed during the hierarchical liturgy, where after the Great Entrance, was then deacon Stephen presented to bishop John by Fr. Joseph Mucha, hosting pastor. Fr. Stephen did part of his studies at the Byzantine Catholic Seminary in Pittsburgh, PA and the seminary was at his ordination represented by Fr. Jack Custer, academic dean. Fr. Stephen received minor orders on June 24, 2005 at the cathedral church in Markham, and was ordained a deacon June 29, 2005 in the Nativity of the Mother of God Church on Shaw Street.

Photos by: Ivetka Vasil, with permission from Fr. S. Williams.

Minor orders conferred at the cathedral

2005-06-24T22:00:00.003-04:00

Cathedral church of the eparchy of Ss. Cyril and Methodius was a place of joyous celebration this day. Stephen Williams was ordained into minor orders by laying of hands of his Excellency, Bishop John Stephen Pazak, CSsR. Fr. Miroslav Cajka, CSsR served as Master of Ceremonies, assisting bishop John, who conferred minor orders of Reader, Cantor and Candlebearer, as well as Subdeaconate upon our brother in Christ, Stephen Williams. Among the clergy present were Fr. Pavol Dolinsky, pastor of the Nativity of the Mother of God Church in Toronto, as well as Fr. Ron Comeau, and of course the family of Mr. Williams, especially his wife Lucia. For many and blessed years!

Photos used with permission from Fr. Stephen Williams.

Golden Jubilee of the Holy Ghost Slovak Greek Catholic Church

2005-05-15T09:30:00.007-04:00

On Pentecost Sunday, Holy Ghost Greek Catholic Church on Golden Boulevard celebrated its Golden Jubilee with Divine Liturgy concelebrated by Bishop John Pazak, Fr. John Girhiny, pastor and Fr. John Fetsco, Dean.

The church was filled with current and returning parishioners, their families and friends. People travelled from many parts of southern Ontario. One person drove from Pittsburgh.

A banquet in the church hall followed where John Maloney M.P., PeterKormos M.P.P. and Mark Dzugan, City Councillor made presentations to the church and the pastor. A citation was given to Fr. John to recognize his 17+ years of volunteer service to the parish. A visual trip down memory lane, using big screen technology, was an emotional experience for all. The celebration concluded with a performance by the Bratislava Dancers of Welland.

Holy Ghost Slovak Greek Catholic Church Golden Jubilee. Fifty yearmembers pose with the pastoral team. Left to right Back row: Rev. Dr. John Girhiny, Pastor; Bishop John Pazak; Fr. John Fetsco, Dean. Middle row: George and Julie Macko, Ann Petro, George and Anna Michal, Dr.Valerie-Dawn Girhiny, Mary Fedor, Margaret and Frank Genco. Front row: Susan and Steve Horni, John and Katie Ferko. Absent for health reasons - Mary Macko, Mike Terpak, Mary Dudas (missing members photos are the insets)

Photo credits: Valerie - Dawn Girhiny.

For more photos click at http://picasaweb.google.sk/danielprorok/GoldenJubileeOfTheParishInWelland

Good Friday in Windsor

2004-04-09T22:00:00.000-04:00

Good Friday is in our churches commemorated each year with symbolic burial of the shroud depicting our Lord (plascenica). This is the day of strict fast during all the day. It is also recommended to devote this day to the spiritual readings and prayer. In 2004 were those special Vespers with procession celebrated with the begining at 3.00 in the afternoon. Father Igor vested in the black did the service, assisted by his parishioners. Everyone went home in great expectation for the Sunday of the Resurrection of Our Lord.

Photos: Fr. Igor Zdravecky

Good Friday in Windsor

2003-04-18T22:00:00.002-04:00

"The Noble Jospeh took down Your most pure body from the cross and, anointing it with fragrant spices, he wrapped it in a clean linen and put it in a new tomb." - Singing of this special ancient troparion filled the church of St. Michael in Windsor on Good Friday, April 18th 2003. Father Igor Zdravecky, pastor of the church, together with his faithful commemorated the death and the burial of our Lord, God and Savior, Jesus Christ. As we, Eastern Catholics keep saying - One can not divide the reality of the Cross from the reality of the Resurrection, and thus was everyone eagerly waiting for the morning of the Sunday to celebrate the victory of Life over the death.

Photos: Fr. Igor Zdravecky

Funeral of Kyr Michal Rusnak, CSsR

2003-01-25T06:35:00.006-05:00

Bishop-Emeritus Michael Rusnak, C.Ss.R., First Eparch of the Slovak Byzantine Catholic Eparchy of SS. Cyril and Methodius, Most Reverend Michael Rusnak, C.Ss.R., was called to the Lord on January 16, 2003, after a long illness.

Bishop Michael was born on August 21, 1921 in Beaverdale, Pennsylvania, to Slovak immigrants, Andrej and Maria (nee Sotak). During the 1920’s economic depression in the US, his family returned to Slovakia. After attending high school, Michael Rusnak was accepted into the Redemptorist novitiate and made his religious profession as a Redemptorist in August of 1942. He pursued his philosophical and theological studies at the Theological Faculty of SS. Cyril & Methodius at the Slovak University of Bratislava and in Oboriste, Bohemia. On July 4, 1949, Michael Rusnak was ordained a Redemptorist priest in Presov, by the recently beatified Blessed Paul Gojdic, OSBM.

Soon after his ordination, Fr. Rusnak, C.Ss.R., was arrested and put into a concentration camp along with other Slovak Byzantine and Latin Rite Catholic priests who refused to collaborate with the Communist regime in Czechoslovakia. 14 months later, he was able to escape. Being an American citizen by birth, he obtained a passport from the US Embassy in Prague, and fled his homeland. After a short time recuperating in the US, he arrived in Canada in 1951. Fr. Michael Rusnak, C.Ss.R., was one of the first priests who left Slovakia due to religious persecution by Communists, and laid a new foundation for the Slovak Byzantine Catholic Church in Canada.

Together with Fr. Ludovit Minya, C.Ss.R., he established parishes in Toronto, Hamilton, Oshawa and Welland. In 1953, Fr. Rusnak, C.Ss.R., founded the Canadian Slovak Byzantine Catholic publication, “Maria”. He also published a collection of religious songs, “Chvalite Hospoda” – “Praise the Lord”.

In 1957, Fr. Rusnak, C.Ss.R., was named Dean of Slovak parishes of the Byzantine Rite in the Ukrainian Catholic Eparchy of Toronto. On October 7, 1964, Pope Paul VI appointed Fr. Michael Rusnak, C.Ss.R., Titular Bishop of the ancient Diocese of Cernik, Auxiliary Bishop to the Ukrainian Eparch of Toronto, and Apostolic Visitator for the Slovaks of the Byzantine Rite in Canada. Fr. Rusnak, C.Ss.R., was ordained Bishop on January 2, 1965, in St. Michael’s Cathedral, Toronto.

With the establishment of the first Slovak Byzantine Catholic Eparchy in North America by Pope John Paul II, - Eparchy of SS. Cyril and Methodius - Bishop Michael Rusnak, C.Ss.R., was enthroned as the First Eparch (Bishop) on February 28, 1981.

During Pope John Paul II’s visit to Canada, Bishop Michael was privileged to have the Holy Father visit the Slovak Cathedral of the Transfiguration in Markham and bless its cornerstone and plaques.

As member of the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops, Bishop Rusnak, C.Ss.R., served on the CCCB Ad Hoc Committee for Inter-ritual Discipline from 1968 until 1970 and was a member of CCCB Episcopal Commission for Christian Education from 1973 until 1983. At the Vatican, he was a member of the Congregation for Oriental Churches from 1968 until 1975 and a member of the Pontifical Commission for the Reform of the Oriental Code of Canon Law from 1973 until 1978.

Bishop Rusnak, C.Ss.R., kept close ties with his people. He served as a spiritual leader and advisor to various congregations and groups. Giving religious instructions to children, youth and adults, he always stressed the importance of understanding the meaning of Christ’s Church and one’s relationship with God, encouraging the fullness of Eastern Catholic spirituality.

Throughout his life, Bishop Rusnak, C.Ss.R., did not forget the church in Slovakia. In 1990, he was able to return to Slovakia for the first time in forty years. On February 17, 1990, he acted as a co-consecrator of the new Bishop of Presov, Jan Hirka. In 1992, he was present at the Episcopal ordination of Milan Chautur, C.Ss.R., as auxiliary Bishop of Presov.

Bishop Michael is survived by his sister Mary Katchmar and her family in Whiting, INDIANA, brother Nick and El Nora and their family in San Diego, CALIFORNIA, and numerous nieces and nephews in the United States.

VEČNÁ MU PAMIATKA - VIČNAJA PAMJAŤ - ETERNAL MEMORY

On Thursday, January 23, 2003, Bishop Michael’s remains were brought to his beloved Nativity of the Mother of God Slovak Byzantine Catholic Church in Toronto, the church that was home to Bishop Michael for so many of his years on earth. A Parastas service was led by His Grace, Metropolitan Michael Bzdel, C.Ss.R..accompanied by eparchial and visiting clergy. The church was filled with friends, young and old, many of whom had been with Bishop Michael right from the time that church had been started. Their voices, resounded throughout the church with the beautiful melodies of our Parastas service.

Following the service in the church, all were invited to the parish hall, where the ladies of the parish, prepared snacks, coffee and cakes.

A vigil was held at Bishop Michael’s side until 9pm, at which time, his remains were transferred to the Slovak Cathedral of the Transfiguration in Markham.

Bishop Michael’s body was received at the front door of the Cathedral by Bishop John Pazak, C.Ss.R., together with Fr. John Fetsco, C.Ss.R., Msgr. Andrej Sinal, S.Th.D. and Fr. Pavol Tomko, C.Ss.R. The vigil, which lasted until the Funeral Liturgy on Saturday, began after the Panachida.
On Friday evening, a Parastas service was celebrated at the Cathedral presided by Bishop Pazak, C.Ss.R., accompanied by Metropolitan Michael Bzdel, C.Ss.R., Metropolitan Basil Schott, OFM, Bishop Cornelius Pasichny, OSBM, Bishop Severian Yakymyshyn, OSBM, Bishop John Kudrick, visiting Roman Catholic bishops, and eparchial and visiting clergy. Following the Parastas, the vigil continued with Bishop Michael’s nephews, nieces and niece-in-law taking turns throughout the night.

Early Saturday morning, the church started filling with parishioners from the parishes in the Eparchy. They came from Hamilton, Toronto, Oshawa, Welland, Windsor, Markham and Montreal. The Funeral Divine Liturgy was celebrated by Bishop John Pazak, C.Ss.R, and the Eastern Catholic Archbishops and Bishops from the previous evening, in the presence of His Eminence, Aloysius Cardinal Ambrozic, Archbishop of Toronto. Bishops Clune and Lacey from Archdiocese of Toronto, and Rt. Reverened Arthur Brown, representing the Anglican Archbishop of Toronto, were also present. Representing the Embassy of the Slovak Republic in Ottawa was Dr. Rastislav Puchala with his wife. From the Town of Markham, Mr. Frank Scarpitti, deputy mayor, and Councillor Joseph Virgillio were present. Also in attendance were Mr. John Stephens, honorary consul of Slovak Republic, with his wife, and Dr. Mark Stolarik, President of Canadian Slovak League, and his wife.

At the conclusion of the Funeral Liturgy, all were invited to a memorial meal for Bishop Michael, in the Cathedral hall. Interment took place at Holy Cross Cemetery in Thornhill, following the meal.

Mary Siroky - Snell

Photo credits: Mary Siroky - Snell

For more photos please visit:

http://picasaweb.google.sk/danielprorok/FuneralOfBishopMichaelRusnakCSsR

Odpust in Hamilton

2002-08-18T05:25:00.013-04:00

Beautiful day of August 18th 2002 was the day of annual odpust in Hamilton. Bishop Pazak was the main celebrant, alongside with concelebrating priests Fetsco, Mucha, Zdravecky, Girhiny, Cajka and Crisan.

It was indeed good to see clergy and faithful of the eparchy gathered in one prayer and fellowship afterwards.

Tradition of odpusts is a nice custom of our communities, creating not only communion with the Lord, but also with one another. So, even despite the fact, that we are small in muber, we care for each other, and God cares for us.

Photo credits: http://slovakac.homestead.com/

52nd anniversary of the priestly ordination of kyr Michael

2001-07-04T22:00:00.003-04:00

Fiftysecond anniversary of the priestly ordination of beloved bishop Michael was celebrated July 4th 2001 with Divine liturgy in splendid chapel of the nursing home in Etobicoke, where bishop Michael was living his retirement. Bishop John S. Pazak, CSsR was here along with the fathers of the Eparchy: Fetsco, CSsR, Tomko, CSsR, Cajka, CSsR, Krafcik, CSsR, Zdravecky and several faithful. All of them wished and sung "Many years" to bishop Michael, followed by singing of national anthems of the United States and Canada, as well as some religious songs. Small refreshment followed.
Photos: Gift from Mrs. Magda Suchy.

Ordination and enthronement of Bishop John S. Pazak, C.Ss.R.

2001-02-14T22:00:00.004-05:00

It was almost 20 years ago, February 28, 1981, that Bishop Michael Rusnak, C.Ss.R., now Bishop Emeritus, was installed as the First Eparch of the newly created Eparchy of Saints Cyril and Methodius for Byzantine Slovaks in Canada. On February 14, 2001, Feast of St. Cyril, almost twenty years later, Bishop John S. Pazak, C.Ss.R., was ordained and enthroned second Eparch of the Eparchy of Saints Cyril and Methodius for the Byzantine Slovaks in Canada, in a Decree by His Holiness, Pope John Paul II.

Episcopal ordination and enthronement took place at the Slovak Cathedral of Transfiguration in Markham, just north of Toronto. Consecrating Bishop was H.E. Archbishop Metropolitan Michael Bzdel from Winnipeg, and co-consecrating Bishops were H.E. Bishop Basil Schott (Parma) and Vladyka Milan Chautur, Exarch of Kosice, Slovakia. Vladyka Milan had a homily in Slovak and Bishop Schott in English. The Decree from the Holy See was read by His Grace, Archbishop Paolo Romeo. The concelebrating clergy were led by Fr. John Fetsco, C.Ss.R., Msgr. Sinal from Montreal, Fr. Krafchik from the Cathedral, Fr. Girhiny from Welland, Fr. Cajka from Toronto, Fr. Tomko from Oshawa, Fr. Mucha from Hamilton, Fr. Jurcenko, Vice Provincial of Slovak Redemptorists for Michalovce Vice Province, Slovakia, Fr. Kamil Drab, Fr. Vladimir Tomko and Fr. Petro-all of Slovakia. They were followed by the newly appointed Bishop John Pazak, and the concelebrating Bishops: Pasichny (Toronto), Yakymyshyn (New Westminster, B.C.), Huculak (Edmonton), Wiwchar (Saskatoon), Pataki (Passaic, N.J.), Hrynchyshyn (France) and Bishop Hirka, Bishop of Presov, Slovakia, who, by the way, celebrated the eleventh anniversary of his Episcopal ordination among us here in Canada, on February 17th.

Next in the procession was His Grace, Archbishop Paolo Romeo, Apostolic Nuncio for Canada, and Aloysius Cardinal Ambrozic, Roman-catholic Archbishop of Toronto.

His Excellency, Bishop Emeritus, Michael Rusnak, C.Ss.R., observed and participated in the entire ceremony from the right hand side of the altar, next to Cardinal Ambrozic. Masters of ceremony were our Fr. Igor Zdravecky from St. Michael’s Slovak Byzantine Catholic Church in Windsor, and Fr. Bohdan Lukie from St. John’s Church in Newark.

Canonical installation and enthronement was performed by His Grace, Archbishop Paolo Romeo, who said that "by the grace of God and with the blessing and wishes of the Holy See, I have the authority to install you as Bishop of the Eparchy of Saints Cyril and Methodius for Byzantine Slovaks in Canada". When the Nuncio asked Bishop John if he was "prepared to accept the pastoral and juridical responsibilities of shepherding the Slovak faithful of the Byzantine Rite in Canada", Bishop John responded: "With the grace of God, I am prepared to do so." Bishop John’s motto "Prepare the way of the Lord", is incorporated into his crest.

Following the ceremony and the group picture in front of the altar, more than 300 guests gathered at the Premiere Ballroom to pay tribute to the newly installed bishop and hear congratulatory messages from the bishops and clergy present.

God grant you many blessed year, Bishop John!

Mary Siroky - Snell

Ordination of bishop Hirka in Slovakia

1990-02-17T23:00:00.003-05:00

After the fall of Iron curtain, Bishop Michael was blessed to see the freedom for his beloved Greek Catholic Church in Slovakia. Apostolic Administrator of the Eparchy, Fr. Jan Hirka was named as seventh residential bishop for the seat of Presov and Bishop Michael traveled to Slovakia to take active part in the ordination and enthronement ceremony. Main celebrant of the liturgy and principal ordaining Bishop was Jozef, Cardinal Tomko, prefect of the Congregation for Evangelization of People. This was the third time, that Bishop Rusnak was helping with ordaining a bishop after Bishops Dudick and Mihalik. The other ordaining bishop was Bishop Slavomir Miklovs, from Krizevci. Moving ceremony, with thousands of people, hundreds of priests and tens of bishops took place in the sports hall of Presov on February 17th 1990. Bishop Rusnak was back in his homeland after almost 40 years of absence.

Ordination of first permanent deacon

1989-05-07T07:01:00.003-04:00

Ascension of Our Lord was in 1989 celebrated in Montreal with special solemnity. Patron feast of the church in Montreal was that year marked also with special event - deaconal ordination of the first permanent deacon for the Eparchy. Bishop Michael came from Toronto already on Saturday afternoon, May 6th accompanied by Fr. Miroslav Cajka and during the liturgy conferred minor orders - Tonsuring and Subdeaconate on Mr. Ladislav Sedivy, local parishioner. During the hierarchical liturgy on Sunday was he finally ordained a deacon. Ordination prayers were ministered in English, and liturgy chanted in Church Slavonic. Liturgy was concelebrated by local pastor, Fr. Andrew Sinal, STD and also Fr. Jiří Novotný, SJ. Fr. Deacon Sedivy thus became the first real permanent deacon of the Eparchy, and helped Fr. Sinal not only on Sundays, but also during weekdays liturgies.

After the fall of iron curtain and all those changes in Europe, Fr. Deacon Sedivy went with family back to then Czechoslovakia and finished his seminary education in Presov, where he was ordained a priest. He ministered in both rites in several places of Slovakia and Czech Republic, where he died in 2004.

We pray for the abundance of the vocation int priesthood, deaconate and monastic life.

Photo of the church in Montreal thanks to Fr. Vavrak, photo from the ordination was received from Mrs. Suchy. Many thanks!

Odpust at Shaw Street

1987-09-13T20:00:00.007-04:00

Traditional odpust in Toronto at Shaw Street was celebrated on September 13th 1987, starting with the hierarchical liturgy at 11.00 AM. Bishop Michael was presiding, and concelebrating were Frs. Leso, SJ (pastor) and John Stephen Pazak, CSsR (later bishop of the Eparchy). English sermon was delivered by Fr. Fetsco, CSsR and Slovak one by kyr Michael. Liturgical ceremonies were adorned by the performance of the cathedral choir under the direction of Mrs. Marika Oláh. Banquet following the liturgy was moderated by Mrs. Snell, and it was there, when kyr Michael announced the fact, that parish vocation, seminarian Igor Zdravecky is leaving for Rome to continue his studies and formation.

Photos: Gift of Mrs. Magda Suchy

Blessing of bells

1986-08-10T22:00:00.005-04:00

Feastday of the Cathedral of the Transfiguration of Our Lord in 1986 was highlighted by solemn blessing of bells. August 10th, the crowd gathered to witness the blessing of bells conducted by Roman Catholic Cardinal Carter of Toronto. Bells were cast in France by famous company Paccard and their weight was of 37 000, 21 000 and 13 000 pounds respectively. Their were named in honour of St. Stephen, St. Anne and prophet Daniel; and they actually represent the biggest bell trio in the world. February 13th 1986 bishop Michael wrote a letter to the famous Mother Theresa of Calcutta inviting her to the ceremony. She answered him, that even though she would not come, she will remember that event in her prayers. Many Slovaks and other faithful helped with expenses for the bells, and list of donors was regularly published in the Maria magazine.

Priestly ordination of Fr. George Bubanko

1984-09-30T21:00:00.002-04:00

Two weeks after chanting the litany for the pope during his Canadian visit, Fr. Deacon George Bubanko was ordained a priest by Bishop Michael (Rusnak). The ordination took place during the 11.00 AM liturgy at Shaw Street that also celebrated the upcoming Feast of the Holy Protection. Fr. George is a native of Port Colbourne, ON, and belonged to the Holy Spirit parish in Welland. He is the son of George Bubanko, originally from Croatia and Helen Mary Marko, originally from Beloveza in Slovakia. After preliminary studies in Canada, he was sent by Bishop Michael in 1981 to Rome, where he studied theology at the University of St. Thomas Aquinas - Angelicum. June 5th, 1983, Bishop Michael ordained him a subdeacon, and May 13th, in the chapel of the college of St. Josaphat in Rome, a deacon. During the Great Entrance Fr. George carried a liturgical veil over his head, representing himself as an offering to God. At the end of the liturgy everyone from the congregation was able to approach him and received for the first time his priestly blessing. A festive banquet with cultural programme followed the liturgy in the hall underneath the church.

More photos available at:
http://picasaweb.google.sk/danielprorok/1984_09_30OrdinationOfFrGeorgeBubanko#

Odpust at Shaw Street

1984-09-09T22:00:00.000-04:00

Sunday, 9th of September 1984 was the day of joyous celebration of the feast of the Nativity of the Mother of God, commemorated as traditional odpust among the parishioners of the church on Shaw Street. Hierarchical liturgy was presided by bishop Michael Rusnak, CSsR and concelebrated by pastor of the parish, Fr. Peter Jelenic and Fr. Vincent Danco, SJ. Beauty of the liturgy was underlined also by the presence and singing of Father Deacon George Bubanko, native of Port Colborne, and vocation from the Holy Ghost parish in Welland, ON. Weather was also nice, and thus were all able to participate in the procession around the church after the liturgy. After the end of the celebration were all heading home in expectation of the visit to the Eparchy by the Holy Father John Paul II, which happened one week later.

Photos: Gift from Mrs. Magda Suchy

Cardinal Rubin visited our Eparchy

1983-06-12T00:00:00.001-04:00

Second half of May and first half of June of 1983 was marked in Canada by the visit of Eastern catholic communities of Canada by His Eminence Wladyslaw Cardinal Rubin, Prefect of the Congregation for Eastern Churches. His visit to our Eparchy started on May 15th in Montreal, where he celebrated Divine Liturgy together with Bishop Michael, and fathers Šinaľ, Novotný SJ, and Mondok. This liturgy was in fact the "odpust" liturgy for their parish feast of the Ascension. Our special guest was present in the cathedral of Toronto on June 11th 1983 and very next day visited also the magnificent shrine of Hamilton. Cardinal Rubin was born September 20th 1917 in the Polish town of Toki, and finished his theological studies in Lebanon. He was ordained a priest on June 30th 1946. His ministry included rector of the Polish college in Rome in 1953 – 1958, representative of the Primate of Poland for emigrants, ordaining bishop in Gniezno, Poland and titular bishop of Serta between the years 1959 – 1964, General secretary of the Synod of Bishops between the years 1964 – 1979. Holy Father John Paul II appointed him as Prefect of the Congregation for Eastern Churches on June 28th 1980. He resigned from this position on October 30th 1983 and died November 28th 1990.

Article by: Daniel Černý, photos from the archive of the author. Author wants to express his warmest thanks for donation of this photos by Mrs. Suchy.

Liturgy with hierarchs at the cathedral

1981-03-01T22:00:00.004-05:00

Following the solemn celebrations previous day, first in St. Nicholas church, followed by dinner and banquet, some of the hierarchs stayed within our faithful aslo for the Sunday liturgy day after. This liturgy was celebrated at Shaw Street - cathedral church of the Eparchy of Ss. Cyril and Methodius for Slovaks of the Byzantine rite in Canada and presided by eparchial bishop - Most Rev. Michael Rusnak, CSsR, D.D. Fr. Richard Boyle, first rector of the cathedral church served as Master of the Ceremonies. Several bishops and priests concelebrated and thus paid honor to the efforts and sacrifices of many. It was a nice liturgy, and the first one for bishop Michael in his own cathedral after the solemn enthronment as the head of his flock.

Photos: Gift of Mrs. Magda Suchy.

Enthronement of bishop Michael Rusnak, CSsR

1981-02-28T02:20:00.001-05:00

Saturday, February 28th 1981 was definitelly a solemn day for our church in Canada. That day apostolic pronuncio Angelo Palmas enthroned bishop Michael Rusnak, CSsR as the first bishop of the newly created Eparchy of Ss. Cyril and Methodius ofr Slovaks of the Byzantine Rite in Canada.

Magnificent ceremony took place at St. Nicholas church at the corner of Bellwoods Avenue and Queen Street West. Hierarchical liturgy with Enthronement started at four in the afternoon. Main burden of the preparations laid on the shoulders of Fr. Richard Boyle, assisted with many parishioners from all around the Eparchy.

Liturgy was preceeded by the procession of parochial communities, youth in national costumes, carrying banners, both national and religious, and clergy. Procession started quarter to four from nearby church led by our altar servers, followed by approximately 200 kids, youth and members of dancing groups. Those carried sixteen falgs, representing Canada, Slovakia and the pope. Youth group from Shaw Street carried banners of apostles and saints . This part of he procession was concluded by religious, seminarians and clergy.

After the banners of Ss. Cyril and Methodius were walking kids with flowers and icons of Our Lord and Our Lady, and afterwards two subdeacons holding ripidions. Then concelebrating priests and bishops. At the very end were bishops Borecky and Rusnak, metropolitans of USA and Canada and apostolic pronuncio. Procession was concluded by knights of Malt and Alhambra.

Concelebrating priests included pastors of the eparchial parishes along with Fr. Vincent Danco, SJ and Michael Lacko, SJ from Rome, who helped a lot with creation of this Eparchy.

After the arrival of the church were bishops traditionaly welcomed with bread and salt by Mrs. Ann Belas and John Telepčák, representing the founders of the cathedral at Shaw Street. After short speech from kyr Borecky were the rites of Canonical erection of the Eparchy and Ethronement of bishop Michael, presided by apostolic pronuncio. Papal decrees were announced in English by Fr. Boyle, who served aslo as Master of Ceremonies and in Slovak by Fr. Lacko, SJ. Gospel at the liturgy was chanted by Fr. Fuga and sermons were delivered by bishop Grutka from Gary, Indiana and bishop Rusnak respectively.

Totally, there were approximately 1800 people present at thie memorable day. A movie AXIOS was recorded from the event.

Festive banquet started at 6.30 PM, and food was served for approximately 600 people.

Everyone was looking and longing for bright future.

May God grant many years to all those, who sacrifice their lives in order to spread His Kingdom here on he earth!

Photo Credits: Maria magazine, May 1981.

Our Eparchy

1980-10-13T12:00:00.001-04:00

Dreams of the Slovaks of Byzantine Rite in Canada became a reality on October 13th 1980, when the Holy Father John Paul II (now of blessed memory), erected the Eparchy of Ss. Cyril and Methodius for the Slovaks of Byzantine Rite in Canada.

First waves of Slovaks coming to Canada began in the 1880s, however the first Slovak Greek Catholic parish was founded much later in 1921 in Lethbridge, Alberta. This parish is now under the Ukrainian Catholic Church. Another parish was founded in Montreal in 1930. After WWII more priests (Rusnak, Mina, Krafcik, Chanath, Fuga, Fetsco, Zouzal and others) joined our faithful and started to minister in Canada. This led to more parishes established in Toronto, Oshawa, Hamilton, Welland and Windsor. In 1957, all Slovak parishes belonging to the Ukrainian Catholic Eparchy of Toronto and all Eastern Canada were formed into newly- established Slovak deanery, with then Very Rev. Michael Rusnak, CSsR as the first dean. In 1964 Holy See made a further announcement: Fr. Rusnak was appointed an auxiliary bishop to Bishop Borecky of Toronto with rights to be the Apostolic Visitator for all Slovaks of Byzantine Rite in Canada. This remained until October 13th 1980, when the Holy See completed the canonical development of the church structures for Slovaks in Canada by creating an independent Eparchy (eastern equivalent to a diocese). This Eparchy is subject directly under the Holy See. Bishop Rusnak was named the first Eparch. Everyone was filled with joy and gladness that we were recognized before God as another flock of His chosen people. Creation of the Eparchy in those days was also like building a lighthouse for all Greek (Byzantine) Catholics in Slovakia, who were suffering for their faith.

The Eparchy of Ss. Cyril and Methodius has jurisdiction over all Slovaks of the Byzantine Rite in all of Canada, thus being one of the largest church eparchies in the world.

O taste, and see that the Lord is sweet: blessed is the man that hopeth in Him!