SAINT STEVEN S CATHEDRAL

Transcription

1 The Church is made up of the souls of human beings...that cannot be built by stone or mortar, but rather by the spiritual growth of its members into the full reality of Jesus Christ. -Saint John Chrysostom SAINT STEVEN S CATHEDRAL Alhambra, California ANNUAL REPORT 2009

2 DEAN S MESSAGE As we anticipate the opportunities of the months and years ahead, let us offer our thanks for the completion of another year of our common work here at beloved Saint Steven s Cathedral. Our gratitude is based on the many wonderful things that have happened here, some of which are contained in this report, and all of which instills in us the optimism that we are given in Christ. As He Himself promises us, with faith we know we can accomplish great things and even that which appears to be the impossible. There are always difficulties and challenges to our work. Expanding our educational opportunities is one such challenge on which many things depend. A greater and more active participation in the liturgical and sacramental life of the Church, is the result of a deeper understanding of the basics of our faith. Opening ourselves and our doors to others is a direct result of the proper understanding of the Church as the Body of Christ, who desires that all be saved and come to the knowledge of truth. Many today are searching for truth because there is so much deception and they are searching for substance because there is so much emptiness. Knowing this, it is up to each one of us to find a place in our hearts for Jesus and therefore first find love in our hearts for others. By doing so, we fulfill our commitment to Christ to let our light so shine among men, that they may see our good works, and glorify our father in heaven. Let us always embrace such challenges with enthusiasm, as we witness to how many of our members put their love and whole self into all that they do. I know that if we continue to give ourselves with all our heart to our challenges, we will come out with something that is lasting and strong. The achievements that we have made together open the opportunity to even the greater successes and achievements that await us. Let us remember that our service to the Church is our highest honor and our most meaningful challenge. As we look ahead, let us do so working together to be shapers of events, not mere observers, so that making good use of this moment in time, given to us by God Himself, be a moment for our light to so shine, assuring that we not lose the best possibilities of our future. It is always privilege doing the work of God with all of you, as together we strive to please our Heavenly Father with our personal and corporate life, through humility, obedience, peace, patience, friendship, and love for all. Protopresbyter Stavropher Nicholas Ceko Cathedral Dean

3 2009 BOARD MEMBERS Right Reverend Bishop Maxim, PhD, Bishop of Western America Protopresbyter Stavrophor Nikola Ceko, Dean Presbyter Norman P. Kosanovich Protopresbyter Stavrophor Ilija Daikovich, retired BOARD OF CONTROL: Chairman: Donald Kral Secretary: Paul Kral Gene Bowan Milo Colich Brian Gerich Milan Martich Olga Mitrovich Alexander S. Rados Stephen S. Rados BOARD OF TRUSTEES: President: Tyrone Polich Secretary: George Chumo, Jr. Vice-President: Eugene Bowan Milo Colich Tom Colich Brian Gerich Valerie Glover Donald Kral Paul Kral Mitch Kovacevich John Lovrensky Olivera Lynn Milan Martich Eli Mulkovich John L. Pecel Stephen S. Rados Robert Risher George Salata Marc Salata Robert Sellers Debra Tasic EXECUTIVE BOARD: President: Christopher Savic 1 st Vice President: Valerie Glover 2 nd Vice President : Radmila Burns Secretary: Andreja Rocknage Treasurer: Brian Gerich Financial Secretary: Mercia Martich Auditing Board: Robert Sellers Peter Doder Eli Mulkovich III Brian Bullard Tutori/Greeters & Ushers: Radovan Dajkovich Mitch Kovacevich Jon Savic Robert Sellers Marko Dobrilovic Alternates: Vaso Adzich Alex Brankovic George Chumo, II Milo Colich Marko Cvejic Dragana Djukelic Donald Nikchevich Slobodan Ponjavic Evan Privett Marc Salata Ilija Skundric Cristina Witham 3

4 2009 SAINT STEVEN S CATHEDRAL AUXILIARY BOARD MEMBERS WOMEN S AUXILIARY Our Women s Auxiliary kept busy organizing the fellowship luncheons each Sunday and parish feast day banquets. The auxiliary also offered support to other parish ministries throughout the year. President: Vera Russo 1 st Vice president: Inge Mijatovich 2 nd Vice President: Svetlana Zivanovic Secretary: Bernadette Polich Financial Secretary: Mildred Kavaya CATHEDRAL S CHOIR Members of the Choir offer their musical talents and gifts to God and help lead us in worship every Sunday. The music ministry is led by our choir director Deacon Christopher Rocknage. In addition to singing at the Divine Services on Sunday and holidays, the choir organized the Mother s Day and Father s Day Luncheons. President: Violet Colich 1 st Vice President: Betty Kovacevich 2 nd Vice President: Donna Katich Secretary: Ann Whelan Treasurer: Romilda Lovrensky Financial Secretary: Mary Ann Sickle SENIOR CITIZEN S CLUB Our Senior Citizen's Club has been meeting once a month for fellowship and lunch. The organization, with numerous members and guests also festively celebrated their Slava, the feast of the Ascension of our Lord, their anniversary picnic, and a joint picnic and trips with Saint Sava Senior Citizens. President: Bernice Ducich 1 st Vice President: Eleanor Samardzich Secretary: Mildred Kavaya Treasurer: Mildred Zotovich/Bessie Ball Financial Secretary: Joy Pizula Corresponding Secretary: Tatiana Budilo RELIGIOUS CULTURAL ASSOCIATION: Our RCA sponsored numerous special events for the children and teens of our Sunday School. In addition to sponsoring and organizing the Winter Camp program, it also provided extra-curricular activities for each age and grade level. President: Vera Keep Vice President: Eliza Dixon Savich Secretary: Dusica Alston Treasurer: Nana Allen Financial Secretary: Nicole Privett 4

5 2009 Parish Statistics Divine Liturgies celebrated 98 Vespers/Vigil Services 69 Special Services 41 Pastoral Meetings with groups/individuals 134 Marriage Enrichment sessions 26 Catechism Sessions for adults 8 Baptisms/Chrismations 21 Marriages 11 Deaths/Funerals 13 Memorial Services 21 Visitations to the sick 58 Students enrolled in Sunday School 100 Adult Study Group Participants 62 Choir Members 33 Senior Citizen s Members 151 Religious Cultural Association Families 80 Sunday School Teachers 24 Women s Auxiliary Members 96 Number of Steward Families 155 This report begins with a comment on what we know to be the anchor of support for our life in the Church and the fulfillment of both the personal and corporate aspects of our life as Orthodox Christians: Liturgy. Again in 2009, we celebrated a very full liturgical life as it always offers us the opportunity to be renewed through the Holy Eucharist in the Divine Liturgy each Sunday and feast day, as also through the Vespers Service celebrated each Saturday and on the eve of all feasts, and the regular Sunday Matins we celebrate prior to the liturgy on Sundays and major feast days throughout the year. We are always pleased and grateful to have so many volunteers who continue to give of their time and offer their talents in various ministries of the parish ranging from outreach to the elderly and feeding the hungry, to parish support through auxiliary and committee work. This report highlights some of the important aspects of all of theses ministries which are vital to our community. As always, we must try to remember that the greatest challenge we face is parish growth, both spiritually and numerically. This is an ongoing effort, which little by little produces good fruit. May we continue our efforts and always remain steadfast in faith and ever grateful to God for all things! 5

6 THE FEAST OF EPIPHANY God is the Lord and Has Revealed Himself! With hundreds in attendance on a beautiful day in January, the Cathedral parish joyously celebrated Theophany, the feast of the manifestation of God. The emphasis of this feast is the appearance of Jesus as the human Messiah and Divine Son of God, one of the Holy Trinity. Following the liturgy, His Grace, Bishop Maxim and the Cathedral clergy and faithful all processed to the front of the church for the outdoor service of the Great Blessing of Water, as a sign of all creation sanctified in the Kingdom of God in Christ and the Holy Spirit. SUNDAY SCHOOL CELEBRATION THE FEAST OF SAINT SAVA, ENLIGHTENER AND TEACHER Saint Steven's Serbian Orthodox Cathedral's Savindan observance and Church school children's Special Feast Day Slava was held on Sunday, January 25, Saint Sava, the first Archbishop and great Enlightener, is not surprisingly the Patron Saint of all Church school children. We began the day giving thanks to God in the Divine Liturgy, receiving the Holy Eucharist, becoming one with Christ and one another. Then we proceeded to the Social hall for the children's program, festivities and fellowship. The Masters of Ceremony who did a great job were high school seniors Aleksandar Milojkovich and Diana Burge. The program featured recitations by over thirty of our Church school children and group performances included: The Preschool and Kindergarten classes singing This is the Day; the First through Fourth Grade classes reciting a presentation called Our Father; and the folklore groups performing wonderful dances. The Sunday School children's chorus performed a popular spiritual song of Saint Nicholai Velimirovich. The program also appropriately included a Teacher Appreciation segment to allow everyone to publically thank our Sunday School Superintendent, Laura Burge and all the Church school and Cultural program instructors for all the efforts they make. Everyone joined in singing the Hymn to Saint Sava as we prepared for the Blessing of the Festal Bread and then the luncheon and fellowship that followed. 6

7 WINTER CAMP 2009 In 2009, camp was planned for February and despite over a foot of snow falling the week before, it took place as scheduled with over a half-foot of snow still on the hills of the campground! Seventh grade camper Andriana Privett recounts the weekend like this: As the bus eased up to Camp Wrightwood s grounds, everyone was excited and eager to get off the bus and see the new layer of fresh white snow on the ground. After getting the luggage off the bus we gathered to hear Director John Pecel announce the staff and explain the schedule. Saturday morning we had Matins then had a wonderful breakfast. Following that, groups of us rotated to different activities: our education class was about how we are the Church by what we believe and do. Following lunch, we got to play in the snow there was so much it was beautiful and some were sledding for three hours even the grown-ups! We dried off, went to Vespers and then had spaghetti and meatballs for dinner. After dinner, there was a lot to do for fun: board games, dancing, table-top soccer, arts & crafts and some of the younger kids watched Finding Nemo on a movie screen. On Sunday morning we had Divine Liturgy. Everyone was so sad that morning that we had to pack and leave. LENTEN RETREAT FOR YOUNG ADULTS The tenth anniversary edition of the Annual Young Adult Lenten Retreat took place March 13-15, 2009, once again at Camp Wrightwood. The retreat theme was Forgiveness: Being Perfect as Our Heavenly Father. It was a topic that everyone admitted to struggling with at one time or another. The presentation began by mentioning that the day before Great Lent is called Forgiveness Sunday. It is a reminder that in order to strive to make things right with God during Lent, we have to start by making things right with each other. The Apostle and Evangelist John wrote: If someone says, I love God and hates his brother, he is a liar (I John 4: 20). Throughout the two Saturday presentations, examples from the Bible and the teachings of the Church Fathers were interspersed with the participants experiences with forgiveness in their lives. After free time for activities in the crisp, clean mountain air, Vespers and dinner, a DVD presentation on the Orthodox Faith led to an interesting question-and-answer session. Participants gathered in front of the outdoor fire pit for a final bit of conversation and the Sacrament of Confession was available in preparation for the Divine Liturgy in the morning. For about the third consecutive year, half of the attendees were first-timers but as always, everyone departed down the hill a bit disappointed the retreat ended so quickly; this year they would continue their Lenten journey a bit more aware of the need to forgive not seven times, but seventy times seven (Matthew 18: 22). 7

8 In the Orthodox Church, the feast of Christ's resurrection is commonly referred to as "Pascha" the Greek term for "Passover." Just as the angel of death passed over the homes of the Iraelites in Egypt, all humanity is delivered from death through Christ's death and resurrection. The reality of Jesus' rising from the dead is the point of reference for all Eastern Orthodox thought and life. As Saint Paul teaches, baptism itself is understood as participation in the Lord's death and resurrection. Every Sunday is dedicated to the resurrection of Christ. And annually, after a period of fasting and spiritual preparation called Great Lent, Orthodox faithful celebrate the greatest of all holy days, Pascha the "Feast of Feasts" praising and glorifying Jesus' life-giving victory over death, from which we receive daily strength, hope and joy. The Feast of Feasts was joyously celebrated at Saint Steven s Cathedral with the Paschal Procession, Matins and Hierarchical Divine Liturgy in the middle of the night and later in the day, the Agape Vespers and afternoon banquet. Some one thousand parishioners and guests joined together in the celebration, repeatedly greeting one another with the joyful words, "Christ is Risen! Indeed, He is Risen!" "The deepest foundation of the hope and joy which characterize Orthodoxy and which penetrate all its worship is the Resurrection. Easter, the center of Orthodox worship, is an explosion of joy, the same joy which the disciples felt when they saw the risen Savior. It is the explosion of cosmic joy at the triumph of life, after the overwhelming sorrow over death - death which even the Lord of life had to suffer when he became man.... All things are now filled with the certainty of life, whereas before all had been moving steadily towards death. Orthodoxy emphasizes with special insistence the faith of Christianity in the triumph of life." + Fr. Dumitru Staniloae, Orthodoxy, Life in the Resurrection 8

9 2009 PARISH CHRONICLE THE FEAST OF THE ASCENSION, OUR SENIOR CITIZEN S CLUB SLAVA AND 30TH ANNIVERSARY On Pentecost Sunday, June 7, 2009, the Church school year came to a close with the Annual Bible Bowl Quiz Show. All Grades PK through 12 th participated, as well as the more than 200 in attendance at the festal banquet who enjoy trying to guess answers to the questions directed towards the class teams. Also for this year's feast day, the Cathedral welcomed Protopresbyter Vladan Perisic, PhD., Vice-dean and Professor of Patrology and Christian Anthropology at the Faculty of Orthodox Theology, University of Belgrade. Fr. Vladan concelebrated the Divine Liturgy with the Cathedral clergy, immediately followed by the three kneeling prayers of the Pentecost Vespers service. The Feast of the Ascension of our Lord is one of the great feasts of the Church, and special to our Senior Citizen s Club. Following the liturgy, the Seniors gathered for the Slava Festivities and lunch. On Sunday, August 2, 2009, the St. Steven s Cathedral Senior Citizen s Club celebrated their 30 th anniversary. After the Divine Liturgy, a delicious luncheon was prepared and everyone in attendance joined in wishing the seniors many more years in fellowship. The nine original members still living were honored (Diana and Milan Cheyovich, Judy Jeremias, June Kurilich, Violet Lovrensky, Ann Polich, Boyann Putnick, Smilka Radjenovich, Luba Tomich), with six of them in attendance. Some wonderful gifts were available during a silent auction that concluded the afternoon s festivities. PENTECOST ANNUAL BIBLE BOWL 9

10 2009 PARISH CHRONICLE VIDOVDAN ENDOWMENT RECOGNITION DAY WOMEN S AUXILIARY SLAVA A special feature of our Vidovdan Observance this year was a performance of an excerpt from the stage play "Reinventing Tesla." In spite of corporate opposition, Nikola Tesla, with over 100 US Patents, laid the electrical foundations on which the world still stands. At one time the most famous man in the world, Tesla remains the unsung architect of our collective future. Portraying Nikola Tesla, the charismatic visionary who was equal parts showman and scientist, Reinventing Tesla features a worldclass creative team and boasts a solid-state musical Tesla Coil courtesy of KVA Effects. Audiences have been astounded at the electrifying display of Tesla's Coil, the basis for all wireless communication. Theatre and technical audiences around the world have praised Reinventing Tesla 's dynamic visualization of the inventor's seminal discovery of the rotating magnetic field, which makes possible our global system of Alternating Current (AC) electricity. This spellbinding portrayal dramatically brings to life Tesla's poignant struggle to harness the forces of nature to serve humanity. This moving production resonates with modern audiences of all ages. Endowment Recognition Day was established as a way of recognizing the importance of this vital program, and those whose generosity make it possible. Endowment Recognition Day is the last Sunday of June. The feast of Saint Anastasia, mother of the patron saint of our Cathedral is the special feast celebration by our women's auxiliary. In one way or another, everyone at Saint Steven's has been touched by the sweet charity of the ladies of the Cathedral Women's Auxiliary. Faithful to the spirit and warmth of their patron, Saint Anastasia, this gathering of wives and mothers, daughters, sisters and grandmothers, whose zeal and perseverance have contributed so much to the Cathedral's success, has given its steadfast support to all our endeavors. 10

11 2009 PARISH CHRONICLE VACATION CHURCH SCHOOL From Monday, August 3 through Thursday, August 6, 2009, the annual Vacation Church school took place on the Cathedral grounds with over twenty children in attendance each day. The busy schedule included a morning prayer service, snack, religious education class, music, playground time, lunch, arts & crafts and water activities to cool everyone off at the end of the day. In education class the students were like detectives, learning the importance of peoples names in the Bible, what they meant (example: Abraham means father of many ), how that clue could help them remember Bible stories. In music class, students learned to sing We Gather Together and Saint Nicholai s spiritual song Pomozi nam visnji Boze (help us, God above all). Special thanks go out to all the volunteers, especially the junior and senior high school students who served as counselors and coordinators all week! VISIT OF SAINT INNOCENT ACADEMY STUDENTS AND STAFF FROM KODIAK, ALASKA TO ALHAMBRA, CALIFORNIA! Early Saturday morning on September 13, 2009, the gates slowly opened to greet the students from St. Innocent Academy. Weary and uncomfortable after the long bus ride from Arizona, this talented group of teenagers and staff did not show any hint of displeasure. Rather, they greeted St. Steven's Cathedral with awe and wonder. This incomparable group of high school students and their staff came with a purpose: to spread the message of Christ's Love throughout the Orthodox Churches in the lower 48. And spread this Gospel they did! They began their ministry by replenishing their spirit. A little sightseeing, and a lot of rest brought them refreshed back to St. Steven's on Sunday morning for Matins. One felt the gentle rocking of the Holy Spirit move in the antiphonal swaying of their male and female choirs, when they began to sing the Resurrectional Hymns. This tiny sway built up momentum through their beautiful voices and kept up an organic movement in praising God in song throughout the Divine Liturgy. The beauty of their voices was only overshadowed by their humility of person. After Liturgy, St. Innocent's Academy regaled the luncheon crowd with a folk concert featuring American, Irish, Italian, and Yupik cultures. The parish took a special collection in order to help support the miraculous work of this mission, and gave a financial gift to supplement this collection. Father Nick also presented them with an icon of Christ to remember their visit. Lest one misunderstand, these children are not monastic. They are living a repentant life enlivened by the Holy Spirit. Many come from troubled homes and paths that led away from Christ. Yet, each has chosen to turn from that path and return to Christ. We can all learn from their marvelous example, as we too struggle to live a life in Christ! 11

12 FESTIVAL 2009 SerbFest! September 19-20, 2009 was memorable and enjoyable for all of the volunteer workers and visitors to this year's parish festival. Guests from throughout California came to enjoy the good food, entertainment and fellowship hosted by Saint Steven's Cathedral. This annual event offers the greater community around the Cathedral an opportunity to learn about our Orthodox Christian faith and heritage through the Church tours, book and icon vendors, and friendly conversations. Of course there were many fun activities including the children's arcade and spectacular folk dance performances from Saint Steven's and visiting dance troupes. We thank all our many volunteers, generous sponsors, and guests as we look ahead to Festival 2010! THE FEAST OF SAINT JOHN CHRYSOSTOM, CHOIR SLAVA Offering Thanks unto the Lord! On November 22, 2009 our Cathedral Choir festively joined the parish community in observing the feast of Saint John Chrysostom. Following the Divine Liturgy and blessing of the festal bread, the Choir offered a special concert of liturgical music for everyone to enjoy during the luncheon. The choir s patron saint is known throughout the Christian World for his ability to preach the Word of God both effectively and beautifully. For this reason, he is given the title, Chrysostomos, which means, Golden-Tongued. Similarly, the Troparion (or hymn) dedicated to him which the choir so beautiful performed, describes this Golden-Tongued Preacher as having Grace shining forth from his lips. 12

13 2009 PARISH CHRONICLE The cool October air enveloped the Cathedral, yet could not shake the warmth from the festivities surrounding St. Steven's Day. Sunday, October 11, 2009 marked the 63rd celebration in Christ's Communion of the Saint Steven's Serbian Orthodox Cathedral, and the excitement was electric. The St. Steven's community was rejuvenated in soul, body and mind as the sumptuous spiritual, physical and mental feast was laid out before them. Resurrectional Matins began the spiritual portion of the feast, with angelic responses provided by those in attendance. Divine Liturgy followed with an inspiring homily given by the Honored Guest, Fr. Kevin Scherer of the Orthodox Christian Fellowship. After many came forward to receive the Body and Blood of Christ, all joined in a Festal Procession and Slava Service around the Church. The Women's Auxiliary provided an inspired ministry of their own, with the physical portion of the Slava Feast. A delightful meal ensured that no one went home hungry. The celebration continued with the mental portion of the feast, as Fr. Kevin enlightened those in attendance with Connecting Young People to Christ and His Church. His keynote address highlighted the importance of encouraging our youth and young adults to experience Christ's Church as a safe haven as a calm harbor against the storm of the secular academic society they will encounter in college. This idea provided the framework of his speech, culminating in three main points upon which all were called to take to heart: 1) Provide a safe place for our young adults and college students to come home to. Do not judge them. One doesn't have to approve, but one cannot judge. 2) Expect that young adults will make mistakes but don't over-react to them. Allow the understanding of your reaction to be influenced by how you want your relationship to be with them in thirty years. 3) Understand that doubt is an integral part of the growing process as an Orthodox Christian. Celebrate that doubt and encourage the young adult to seek out the Truth. There is only one Truth, and that is Jesus Christ. THE FEAST OF SAINT STEVEN SIMON THE MONK Saint Steven's Day Feast at the Cathedral provided sustenance for Soul, Body and Mind. The soul was fed by the Word of God, and the Body and Blood of Christ; the body by the delectable dinner prepared by the Women's Auxiliary; the mind, by the inspiring insights of Fr. Kevin into the issues facing our young adults in today's secular culture. All who came were satisfied on many levels because Christ was present in every portion served! 13

14 DAY OF REMEMBRANCE: HIS HOLINESS, PATRIARCH PAVLE On Sunday, November 15, 2009, after receiving Holy Communion, His Holiness Pavle, Archbishop of Pec, Metropolitan of Belgrade-Karlovac and Serbian Patriarch fell asleep in the Lord. Marking this loss, the faithful at Saint Steven s Serbian Orthodox Cathedral set aside A Special Day of Remembrance, to commemorate the forty days since His Holiness, Patriarch Pavle of blessed memory made his Pascha from death to Eternal Life. The moving, sober, yet joyful celebration began with the Divine Liturgy, followed by a fellowship Luncheon prepared for all. After lunch, Fr. Nikola Čeko displayed an uplifting and rejuvenating DVD presentation, highlighting key moments and memories of the Patriarch s life. Most significant amongst these moments for many, was the Divine Liturgy that manifested the reunification, through Holy Communion, of the Serbian Orthodox Church in North and South America in The final administrative reunion occurred seventeen years later, at the historic Sabor held in Canton, OH in August of 2009, just three months before the repose of the saintly Patriarch. The DVD presentation came to a close as it revealed the saint-like piety of this holy man. All in attendance were able to express their heartfelt love, grief and admiration at the loss of such a blessed soul. 14

15 SAINT STEVEN S ENDOWMENT FUNDS FATHER VLADO & BESSIE MRVICHIN SCHOLARSHIP Income from this fund awards scholarships to outstanding graduating high school seniors who have participated in church and school life at St. Steven s. The 2009 Mrvichin Scholars were Diana Burge and Alexandra Sellers. CLERGY RETIREMENT FUND Income from this fund is transferred on an annual basis to the Cathedral s General Fund to help defray clergy pension and insurance expense. LIFE MEMBERSHIP FUND Income earned by the fund is also transferred annually to the General Fund. MEMORIAL ENDOWMENT FUNDS The purpose of these funds is to provide a lasting memorial to the deceased individual (s) and to provide income exclusively for the perpetuation of Saint Steven s Cathedral. It requires a minimum contribution of $3,500 and may be established in two ways: 1. In the event the fund is established within six months after date of death, memorial contributions received during that period will be applied towards the $3,500 minimum. 2. Fund may also be established at any time after the six-month period has elapsed; however, those contributions made during the six-month period would not apply to the minimum. Contributions then made to establish the fund would have to be made within a period of 30 days. Once a Memorial Endowment Fund has been established, it may later be merged with another Memorial Endowment Fund for the purpose of creating a joint Memorial Endowment Fund; however, it may not be transferred or combined into another Endowment Fund unless income from the new Endowment Fund is used exclusively for Saint Steven s Cathedral. When an existing Memorial Endowment Fund is to be transferred or combined to create an Endowment fund, the original basis of the total of the two merged funds must equal a minimum of $10,000. ENDOWMENT FUNDS Some of these funds are unrestricted as to the use of income, others provide that income may be used for various purposes, and others allow use of income only for specific, earmarked needs. A minimum of $10,000 is required to establish an Endowment Fund, which may be established in one of two ways: A minimum initial contribution valued at $10,000. An Endowment Fund may also be established with memorial donations made to Saint Steven s during the six-month period immediately following the date of death. A minimum initial contribution valued at $10,000 is required. STEWARDSHIP ENDOWMENT FUNDS The purpose of these funds is to provide Saint Steven s Cathedral with an endowment that generates income to be transferred annually to the Cathedral s general operating account to defer operating expenses. 15

16 CATHEDRAL MINISTRIES WORSHIP Altar Service Saint Steven s Altar Service is open to Orthodox Christian boys who would like to learn more about the worship services and assist as helpers to our priests. There are a total of 32 altar boys who serve on a regular basis as scheduled. Greeters and Ushers On Sundays, our dedicated ushers, both men and women, greet parishioners and visitors at our front doors, answer questions and help dismiss the faithful in an organized manner. They are our ministers of good faith to our parishioners and visitors; their kindly smiles are the first thing people see when they come to Church at Saint Steven s. Thus, as with all of our parish ministries, the stewardship of time to our Church is truly invaluable. Cantors and Readers Our music ministry includes a small group of children and teens who regularly participate in the reading of Psalms and chanting of hymns at Matins, the Divine Liturgy and special services on feast days. With the assistance of Fionn Lemon, we also continue to develop our Cantor s ministry, encouraging the seven regular participants to learn the special tone melodies of Orthodox Byzantine and Serbian chant. Our epistle readers number 15 and include men, women and teens. Feast Day preparation The Orthodox services are solemn and beautiful and always reflect the celestial beauty of the Kingdom of God. Special attention was paid to adorning the Tomb of Christ on Good Friday and the sanctuary for Easter. CHRISTIAN EDUCATION Bible Study and Christian Education for adults The topics of study during the year focused on the Revelation of God in the Prophets, Parables and Church Symbols during the first part of the year and on the Beatitudes: Living the Blessings of the Kingdom, during the second part of the year. There are some 50 active participants in these groups. In 2009 we began a new series of Tea and Study for Orthodox Christian women, organized by Vera Russo and Bernadette Polich. Through this ministry, the women of our parish have the opportunity to regularly meet for presentations and discussions on various aspects of the Orthodox Christian faith. We also successfully conducted our first annual Advent Conference Mary: The Great Example which was a one-day reflection on the feast of the Entrance of the Theotokos and her significance in the spiritual life of all Christians. 16

17 CATHEDRAL MINISTRIES Sunday School Our Christian Education programs, under the guidance and leadership of Father Norman, continue be improved. In 2009, we had 100 children registered in our school with 23 wonderful and self-giving volunteer teachers assisting him and our Superintendent, Laura Burge. As a supplement to our Sunday School, our 4 kolo dancing Instructors and 44 students, representing 4 grade levels receiving instruction in kolo dancing. In order to keep the Liturgy and Christian Education the top priority for our children, we continue to insist on the policy that only those Sunday School students who maintain attendance in Liturgy and Church School are eligible to participate in our cultural programs and classes. Living Water Bookstore Our bookstore, located in the main social hall foyer, has acquired a wonderful selection of books, icons and jewelry for purchase. Volunteers have a wonderful time each Sunday helping out in the bookstore and are always welcome and needed. In 2009, as a learning and service project, we incorporated the High School Students of our Sunday School into the staff of the bookstore. On a rotation basis, these students regularly staff the bookstore and assist the RCA with its further growth and development. Publications Working with the clergy, the committee for parish publications works creatively to produce quality parish bulletins, the Cathedral Messenger News Magazine, together with various brochures, articles and booklets on the Orthodox Faith. Summer Camping Program In July and August, children and teens from our parish joined others for the camping program sponsored by the Western American Diocese at the Saint Sava mission in Jackson, California. The theme this year was I am the True Vine: Branching out into the Orthodox faith. The goal of the theme was to awaken the desire among the campers to more activity participate in the liturgy and bear fruit, living the life in Christ. Many campers from our parish participated in the program. Thirteen staff members and forty-six campers during the camp season were from our Saint Steven s parish. Summer Day Camp Vacation Church School Another successful Vacation Church School session was held in August 2009, for PK through 6 th grade children on the theme of Names in the Bible, with a total of 40 children grades PK-6 participating each day, and 4 teen helpers. There was a full program of education and fun, including time spent with our new bishop, His Grace, Maxim. The week concluded with the children presenting a wonderful program to their families. SERVICE Board of Trustees The Cathedral Board of Trustees held 6 regular meetings in 2009, overseeing the management, use, upkeep, repair, assisting the clergy in programs and ministries for the faithful. The newest member elected to the board in 2009 was Valerie Glover. Executive Board This Board has been responsible for the daily workings of our Cathedral. In addition to the week to week needs of the parish, the executive board focused on the parish banquets and overseeing the annual Parish Festival. Each was very successful and much fun for all. 17

18 CATHEDRAL MINISTRIES Stewardship and Gift Giving This invaluable committee works to spread the word about the need for stewardship, the many ways to give, and the joy of supporting our church. Volunteers are always needed and we are grateful to the many who are able to dedicate such valuable time and talent to our parish ministries. Giving of one s time, talent and treasure are essential ingredients for Christian stewardship. In 2009, we had a total 249 individual stewards from 155 Cathedral parish families. We continue to discuss ways to increase stewardship awareness and the pledge program of the parish. Our stewardship program continues to be the greatest resource for our parish, both in terms of volunteer efforts and financial contributions on the part of parishioners. The effects of the economic crises in 2009 was felt mostly in our endowment funds which were not able to produce income to offer support to the ministries of the parish. However, by the grace of God, and through the generosity of one of our parishioners, Catherine Manion, who left the Cathedral substantial assets from her estate, we were able to expand our endowments and also meet our operating expenses. This was a God given gift to help us during this time as we search for more long-term solutions to meeting our annual operating expenses. The task force that we created in 2009 also addressed ways towards parish growth. Property Building and Grounds Care This team of volunteers regularly inspect our church property and make recommendations to the Board of Trustees as respects to any needed repairs, improvements, or replacements. They also arrange for immediate repairs of an urgent nature and normal repairs and alterations for which budget funds have been allocated. Young Adult Fellowship Our Ministry to Young Adults was revitalized in 2009 and brings together young men and women ages who are by this fellowship are being integrated more into the life of the parish. The activities in 2009 included encouraging college-age young adults participation, the formation of an OCF at UCLA and USC, an Annual Lenten Retreat, and the ongoing community service of the parish monthly participation at the Pasadena Shelter for the homeless. Cathedral Auxiliaries Another area of accomplishments during the year was through our parish auxiliaries and ministries. Some 200 volunteers continue to offer their time and talents in various ministries ranging from outreach to the elderly and charitable outreach to the community to parish support through auxiliary work. Saint Steven s Endowments Our Endowment Mission consists in promoting and supporting the ministries of the Church; maintaining and beautifying our Cathedral facilities; offering meaningful charitable contributions to those in need; and giving for the glory of God by providing strength and stability to our Cathedral parish, while extending Christ s love wherever it is needed. To learn more about our Endowment Program, you may contact our Cathedral Office at FELLOWSHIP MINISTRIES Hospitality Ministry The Hospitality ministry of our Women s Auxiliary involves greeting members and visitors, providing information about the parish and organizing teams of volunteers who prepare and serve the weekly Sunday fellowship luncheons. Annual SerbFest Parish Festival The 2009 Cathedral Festival again featured delicious Serbian cuisine, Cathedral tours, entertainment dancing, carnival-style games for the kids, and a host of other activities. This was not only a celebration for our community to enjoy within itself, but also a vital opportunity to reach out to the neighborhood and general Southern California community--sharing our faith, cultural backgrounds and communal spirit with all of our guests. Pan-Orthodox Work We work closely with the other Orthodox Churches in the area, and our Dean is a member of the Pan-Orthodox Bishops/Deans Council which meets regularly to facilitate joint efforts in education and liturgical celebration. 18

19 CATHEDRAL MINISTRIES CATHEDRAL CHARITIES In 2009, Saint Steven s Cathedral made regular contributions to Saint Vladimir s Seminary, assisting the seminary in meeting some of its regular expenses in the education of priests and lay leaders in the Church. Another of the institutions that we supported in 2009 was Saint Innocent Academy in Alaska. The staff and students visited the Cathedral in September. Their visit was memorable and certainly one of the highlights of our year. Father Kevin Scherer, executive director of Orthodox Christian Fellowship (OCF), was our Slava keynote speaker and gave an inspiring presentation titled: Connecting young people to Christ and His Church. Following the presentation, we helped establish the new OCF at UCLA in Los Angeles and gave financial support to this National OCF ministry. Project Compassion Ministry to the Elderly Family is very important to all of us. Families provide stability, inclusion, conversation, advice and generally we feel connected to each other within our family. Similarly, we try to treat our church family with the same compassion, respect and tenderness. That is why Project Compassion our phone ministry led and organized by Veronica Nikcevic, is so important. Some people in our church are no longer able to attend services regularly. Therefore, we try to keep in touch by phoning them to let them know they are missed and still very important to all of us. A phone call is not intrusive, but it allows people to feel included without physically being there. To inquire about a parishioner s well being, to catch up on church news, or just to chat sometimes it makes a person s day to hear from a friend. What a simple way to say you are family! If you would like to help out with this important ministry, please feel free to join our team. The Saint John the Merciful Charity and Cathedral Emergency Need Program This group of volunteers works in conjunction with the Cathedral Dean and provides needed assistance to families and individuals. Earmarked endowment funds and special Sunday collections support this fund. In 2009, our Saint John the Merciful Emergency Need Program, in addition to supporting our ministry to the homeless at the Union Mission in Pasadena, also offered personal financial assistance to 17 individuals and families. This financial assistance was for such things as rent and mortgage payments, medical expenses, groceries and other household needs, and temporary housing. Three Angels Ministry Hospitality to the Homeless In April of 2009, the Three Angels Ministry under the leadership of our young adult fellowship group began its ninth year of regular service at the Pasadena Union Station Mission, where groups of parishioners were organized each month by our young adult fellowship to prepare and serve dinner to the hungry and homeless. Serbian Orthodox Clergy and Clergy Widows In 2009, as every year since 1991, Saint Steven s Cathedral has supplemented the financial support given to the widows of clergy who have served the Serbian Orthodox Church in North and South America. To date, we have contributed a total of $95,000 to this fund. In 2009, we also helped provide some financial assistance to clergy families who were in need, assisting primarily with medical expenses. OUTREACH AND INTERNET Internet Ministry The Cathedral Internet Ministry, continues to provide a valuable service to the parish by maintaining its web site, providing weekly spiritual messages, responds to requests and through the weekly E-Bulletin, communicates news and events taking place at the Cathedral to the E-addresses on the parish mailing list. Marriage and Family Enrichment Our program for engaged and newly married couples is dedicated to growing in the faith and growing in the S acrament of Marriage. In 2009, there were 26 sessions for couples on the Orthodox Christian teaching on marriage and family. The Annual Newlywed s dinner was held on November 14, It was another wonderful gathering for discussion and fellowship of those married at Saint Steven s during the year. 19

20 Saint Steven s Serbian Orthodox Cathedral A Parish of the Western American Diocese Serbian Orthodox Church in North and South America 1621 West Garvey Avenue Alhambra, California