Volume 92 December 2014 Issue #12. The Face of God

Transcription

1 Volume 92 December 2014 Issue #12 In those days a decree went out from Emperor Augustus that all the world should be registered. This was the first registration and taken while Quirinius was governor of Syria. All went to their own towns to be registered. Joseph also went from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to the city of David. He went to be registered with Mary, to whom he was engaged and who was expecting a child. While they were there, the time came for her to deliver her child. And she gave birth to her firstborn son and wrapped him in bands of cloth, and laid him in a manger, because there was no place for them in the inn. (Luke 2:1-7) Each year, these words begin our celebration of the Christmas season. At the beginning of Holy Mass in many of our parishes, the clergy go to the manger and place the image of the Christ child there in the midst of Mary and Joseph, as well as the shepherds and later the kings. This day s solemnity speaks to us all so strongly. Theologians have spoken very eloquently concerning the significance of this event of the Incarnation and Nativity of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, but their words pale in comparison to kneeling before the manger and contemplating within our hearts, that on Christmas day, our Lord and Savior was born as a small child in Bethlehem. As we look at the statue of the small Christ child, our hearts are filled with the realization that the Almighty God and King of the Universe was The Face of God Most Rev. Anthony Mikovsky Prime Bishop born as a small infant in a humble manger in the small little-known village of Bethlehem. We realize the special blessings that Mary, Joseph and the shepherds had on that first Christmas night to look into the face of God and realize that now God is no longer so far away, but rather Jesus is Emmanuel, God with us. Again theologians can speak at length as to why this had to be the case, but nothing compares with the assurance and knowledge that God has come to be with us. Just think of the excitement and longing that is expressed when someone who has been away for a long time comes home again. We know of the stories of a soldier who has been away at war overseas, or even a young man or woman who goes away to college. There is expectation and preparation for their coming. There is joy and love and tears when they finally arrive. Now just imagine the intensity of this experience, when it comes to our Lord Jesus Christ Who now comes to us at Christmas. And of course the thing that we must remember is that this should be a part of our lives, not only for the one day of Christmas, but rather each and every day, each and every moment. We are given the privilege of encountering the face of God, each and every time we gather for Holy Mass and receive Christ present in the Most Blessed Sacrament. We encounter the face of God in Jesus each time we hear the voice of (Continued on Page 2.)

2 2 God s Field December 2014 (The Face of God - Continued from Page 1.) Christ as we receive the Sacrament of the Word of God. But beyond this we also begin to see that the face of God in Jesus Christ is visible to us in those who surround us. We remind ourselves that Jesus said to us, truly I tell you, just as you did it to one of the least of these who are members of my family, you did it to me. (Matthew 25:40) We see then that through each act of love and caring this time of year, we have the opportunity to look into the face of God in following the command of Jesus. We are called to perform these acts of loving kindness especially at Christmas, as the face of the Christ Child is so near to us, but again the challenge in our lives and our faith God s Blessings on the Solemnity of the Nativity of Our Lord. Peace and Blessings in the New Year 2015 is to realize and know that the face of God within the family of Christ is around us constantly, it is up to us, not to lose sight of it. So to my brother bishops, my brothers in the priesthood and diaconate, my dear brothers and sisters in Christ Jesus our newborn Lord within the Polish National Catholic Church, I pray that you will all encounter the face and presence of Jesus Christ, within our Holy Church and within each and every day of your lives this Christmas season and throughout the coming year. I extend to you all my love and best wishes for a joyous and holy Christmas season. May the peace and blessing of Almighty God, the Father, Son and Holy Spirit, descend upon you all. Blessings and Best Wishes for a Joyous Christmas and a Happy New Year! Supreme Council, Polish National Catholic Church The Staff of God s Field Controller: Most Rev. Anthony A. Mikovsky Editor, Secretary to Prime Bishop: Ms. Julie Orzell Treasurer: Ms. Joan Scheuneman

3 Volume 92, Issue No The Birth that Changed the World Most Rev. John F. Swantek Prime Bishop Emeritus There are many great persons who were born in the past and apart from the academic world and in particular localities they have not had a great influence on the world. Yet, Jesus Christ, the Son of God and the Savior of the world has touched people of all ages and in many places throughout the world. Scholars still study His life, and only God knows how many books have been written about Him. Many still follow His teachings, and He has had an effect on the way many live their lives. He is not simply looked upon as a great person in history, but Christians believe that He transcends time and is eternally present here and now. He is encountered in prayer, in the Scriptures, the Sacraments and the Church. Through these means His followers truly believe that they meet Him and He moves their lives even though they may not fully understand how. In his First Letter, St. Peter writes: "Although you have not seen him, you love him; and even though you do not see him now, you believe in him and rejoice with an indescribable and glorious joy, for you are receiving the outcome of your faith, the salvation of your souls." (I Peter 1:8f) As we approach that day on which we celebrate the birth of Christ in an obscure stable in Bethlehem, we observe many getting ready in different ways to commemorate His coming, which has changed the world forever. Choirs are rehearsing special music, children in many groups are practicing for a nativity pageant, women and Church groups are preparing special holiday food, many are sending out greeting cards to relatives and friends. And in this commercialized world, Churches are emphasizing the true meaning of Christmas. Also at this time of year a concerned spirit has permeated our society as groups and individuals have become concerned about the poor and needy. They are working to make Christmas brighter and happier for others. Food is being collected for distribution. Clothes are being donated for those who have need, and toys are being collected for children from poor and unfortunate families, so that they too may have a merry Christmas. Yes, there are good and generous people who are worried about the plight of the less fortunate in society. In these endeavors we experience Jesus' teachings of love being put into practice as many reach out to others. Over two thousand years ago, God entered into space and time in the person of Jesus Christ, Who is the Son of God, the Savior of the world, the Messiah for whom many were waiting for quite some time. This birth was of paramount importance because God announced it to both the Jews and the Gentiles. The Jewish people were made aware of it when the angels proclaimed it to the shepherds as they guarded their sheep in the vicinity of Bethlehem. A new bright star in the heavens made the Gentiles cognizant of this most important event. You and I learned about this most important birth in our homes or in the Church. God in Jesus became a human being so that He could make us like Himself. Jesus' mission is to teach us the eternal truths of God, make us aware of His divine will, so that we will become His exemplary daughters and sons. Lastly, Jesus had come to redeem us from our sins so that someday we will have eternal life with Him. Has the birth of the Christ Child affected you? At Mass on Christmas, we will have the same privilege as did the shepherds on that Christmas night and the Wise Men some time later. We too will be in the presence of the Christ Child of Bethlehem Who will be present under the appearances of bread and wine at Mass, as the Divine Child was present under the appearances of a human being in that manger in Bethlehem, At the moment of Holy Communion, may we ask Christ to make us more like Him, so that He may be born in our hearts and souls, as He was born in that manger in Bethlehem. On that first Christmas, God gave us the first Christmas gift, the Gift of His Son. In his Gospel, St. John tells us why: "For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him may not perish but may have eternal life" (John 3:16).

4 4 God s Field December 2014 Listen to the Voice Resounding Rt. Rev. John Mack, Diocesan Bishop of the Buffalo-Pittsburgh Diocese, P.N.C.C. The Season of Advent is one into which we are called to prepare for the coming of the Christ-child on Christmas Day. We prepare by accomplishing the necessary worldly duties and obligations of the season, but oftentimes fall asleep when it comes to spiritual preparation. One of the hymns the choir sang for the First Sunday in Advent was Spuscie Nam / Send the Savior. The third verse is translated: Listen to the voice resounding: waken, brethren from your sleep! Your salvation now approaches, brightness conquers night shades deep. Then be gone, O works of darkness, incubated in such harshness. Accept God s light as armor, shielding us from pow rs of darkness. What a depth of imagery contained in such a short passage! Do we hear the voice of God resounding in our day and age? What about in our own lives? We know, of course, the story of the voice of angels hovering over the shepherds that first Christmas night. They sing to them: Glory to God in the Highest, and Peace to men of good will. In a familiar carol (Wsród Nocnej Ciszy) we hear the words: leave your flocks, forsake your watching, in a manger wrapped in swaddling, you shall find the Lord. The shepherds hear the voice resounding and hurry to Bethlehem. That same resounding voice will be heard at the Baptism of Jesus and at the Transfiguration. It is notable that in the pages of Scripture when God speaks, people listen. What has happened in the last two thousand years? Perhaps we have fallen victim to spiritual deafness or spiritual sleepiness. The words of the verse implore us to waken from our sleep. Salvation is now approaching. The brightness of God will conquer all darkness. What darkness you might ask? Certainly you re not speaking about me personally are you? Well actually yes I am. It seems that we have become conditioned only to the pow rs of darkness that make the evening news. We fear rising inflation, unemployment, terrorism in all forms and ISIS, but don t see the effects of a sleepy spirituality crouching at our doorstep. We don t see ourselves as being under attack by spiritual powers of darkness. The last line of the verse exhorts us to Accept God s light as armor, shielding us from those very powers. Similar to these words are the words of St. Paul in which he writes, Put on the whole armor of God...and having done everything, to stand firm. (Eph 6:11) Jesus Incarnation or His first coming brought much expectation. The Jews saw His coming as freedom from the hated Roman oppression. Others envisioned Him as a glorious warrior, coming on a white stallion leading legions of men into battle. They were sorely disappointed. His coming as a baby caught many off guard. They hardly noticed He was there. Yet, He chose his twelve and changed the course of human history. He came preaching a Gospel of humility, service, love, acceptance and peace. The most important question however is has he changed me? This is the question that everyone must ultimately answer, not only at Christmas but throughout their earthly journey. I pray that this holy season of Advent has found us taking time to prepare for the coming of Jesus. Have we set aside periods of silence in this busy season in order to listen to that resounding voice? Have we been faithful in our prayer life, sacramental preparations and good works? Have we gathered at table with our families around an advent wreath, listening to the words of Scripture? When we celebrate our wonderful ethnic traditions, breaking Opłatki, sharing a Wigilia meal and many others, will we truly feel the presence of Emmanuel God with us? May the answers to all these be a resounding yes! I close with the words of a devotional I have been reading throughout Advent. Our mission at Christmas is not to get stuff for people to open on Christmas morning. It is to be people of hope who let Jesus light shine through them, who act as His witnesses so that others see Him in us, who offer hope and help, who pray and work so that our world looks more like the kingdom Jesus proclaimed. This is Christmas; God coming to earth as man and we, His followers, seeking to live our lives in the manner that His Son exemplified. On the day His Kingdom is finally realized, we will then experience true Heaven on Earth. God s brightness will conquer all and the gift of that Most Holy Night will be opened and appreciated by all. Until then we wait and watch. Maranatha Come Lord Jesus! May the presence of Jesus shine in your hearts this Christmastide and throughout the coming year. Wesołych Swiąt Bożego Narodzenia Christmas Blessings to All.

5 Volume 92, Issue No Christmas Message Rt. Rev. Bernard Nowicki, Diocesan Bishop of the Central Diocese, P.N.C.C. While I was out and about seasonally, and early, this year, desperately trying to give more thought to everyone s Christmas gifts than I usually do, (I finally remember to buy them on December 23rd), I chanced on a Christmas card of dubious character. It offered the unsuspecting reader this observation on its inner panel: Christmas is just plain strange. What other time of year do you sit around staring at a dead tree in your living room eating candy out of your socks. Hmm. On reflection, I suppose there might be one or two things about Christmas that some might find a bit strange: a virgin teen becoming pregnant, let s say; a baby who would save the world from its sins, most definitely; and then there s a God who wants to become a human being. I suppose these could qualify as conditions and circumstances that are - strange. Surely high on the strangeness quotient would be the experience of those hard working sheep tenders enjoying a calm evening on the gently rolling hills near Bethlehem. I really wonder how many of our Diocesan parishes have ever been assailed by a noisy band of heavenly messengers descending with special and great good news like the one delivered to the shepherds? I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. Today in the town of David, a Savior has been born to you. This will be a sign to you. You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger. (The italics are mine.) And don t miss one other strange point here. The angel s message to the shepherds was that this baby is your Savior, your King, your Christ, your gift straight from God. Just for you. Strange that God wanted them to see the incredibly personal nature of this gift of his this first Christmas gift, ever. It was the first Christmas gift given to them and to each of you reading this message, as well as to everyone one else. And the only gift tag attached to it was the angels songs remembered (and hummed?) by the shepherds on their way to the manger. For the most part, there isn t a Christmas gift you give that doesn t have on it a little gift tag. The tags make it easy to see who a gift is from and who is to receive it when you pass out those yuletide treasures. Had Jesus worn a gift tag in the manger as a baby, the tag would have read TO: Miguel, TO: Irene, TO: Jadwiga, TO: Your Own Name Here..FROM: God. If Jesus wore the gift tag as a man healing the sick, forgiving the wayward, touching the heartbroken again, TO: Fryderyk, TO: Carly, TO: Pablo, TO: Your Own Name Here..FROM: God. And then on the cross, bearing the weight of humanity s sin, the gift tag would have specified no less clearly - TO: Ralph, TO: Boleslaw, TO: Rosina, TO: Your Own Name Here..FROM: God. Jesus is a gift to you from God. Jesus is God s very special and personal gift of grace, forgiveness, healing, hope, eternity offered to you. Of course, a gift received is a gift to be opened. Very soon now in all our parishes you will hear the Nativity narratives proclaiming how Christ came as a baby who was wrapped in strips of cloth and lying in a manger. You will hear the Christmas chronicles heralding how he came as God s Son and as God s gift to you, precious, priceless and generously offered. My prayer and exhortation, then, for the Central Diocese and for the whole of the Church this holy Season is that each priest and parishioner, each parent, teen and child would receive and open that divine gift, accept him who is given you by the Father, and let him find a place to live in your heart, as your Savior and your King and your Lord. To do less would be to devalue God s lavish gift. To do less with this sublime and powerful present would indicate his gift is really of no value to you. My beloved brothers and sisters in the Lord, Jesus is God s present to each of you. Therefore, make your Christmas Communion this year recognizing the glory of this celestial gift, and then - and then, open yourself up to this treasure, and take it in with your whole being. May all of you experience nothing less than the fullest Christmas joy through your faith in God s Infant gift and the deep love of family and friends throughout this Holy Season and into the coming New Year.

6 6 God s Field December 2014 Searching for the Treasures in Christmas Hymns and Carols Rt. Rev. Paul Sobiechowski, Diocesan Bishop of the Eastern Diocese, P.N.C.C. At Holy Trinity Cathedral we have a small group studying Charles Dickens A Christmas Carol This is the first time I ve read the short story. My previous 50 plus years of experiencing it was only what I saw on television. In reading A Christmas Carol for the very first time I find the book far better than the movie. And the way that Dickens weaves the various elements of the story and the nuances expressed in almost every paragraph is astounding. You can t do that in a movie. For example, the first few pages introduce Mr. Scrooge. One aspect to Scrooge s character, the rage that lies within him, is seen when a lone caroler stands at his closed door and intones God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen. He gets as far as may nothing you dismay when Scrooge opens the door and menacingly holding a ruler, frightens the child so much that he runs away. Certainly Scrooge was able to dismay the young lad. This incident might not seem memorable in the larger scheme of the story, but the materials in our study draw attention to the Christmas Carol and presents three verses of the song. It quickly became evident that Dickens chose this hymn because it fits the narrative so well. A Christmas Carol is a story of how life s experiences sucked the very life out of Ebenezer Scrooge, sort of like the death eaters in the Harry Potter novels. The story slowly turns into one of redemption when love penetrates Scrooge s frozen soul that he can experience the joy of life once more. We also realize that others in the story also experienced sadness, disappointment and tragedy, but they did not let these experiences to sour and destroy their own hope and joy. Christmas allows Scrooge to see that the bad experiences of life can be overcome through love and in the end Ebenezer Scrooge is regenerated. God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen reminds us of this aspect of Christmas as well. In each of the seven stanzas of the carol it is always the fifth and sixth lines which are key, (1) To save us all from Satan s power When we were gone astray, (2) The which His mother Mary Did nothing take in scorn., (7) This holy tide of Christmas All others doth deface. In spite of all that Satan throws against the believer, if he/she remains faithful despite life s sorrows there is a great gift that comes from a person s steadfastness. Blessed Mary was undeterred despite the manger birth, the prophecy that her heart would be torn and all the other sadness she experienced as her Son was rejected by the people. Her faithfulness was rewarded in witnessing the Resurrected Christ, the honor shown her by the Church as Theotokos (the Mother of God) and sharing eternity with her Son. Clearly Christ s birth can and does regenerate a person s soul, living and loving in God. In studying the song further, I learned it was first published in 1833, just ten years before Charles Dickens' short story. So it was also a popular, contemporary carol that many English folk would easily relate to. I now have a greater appreciation for this carol that, until now, was just another song to sing at Christmas time. It also has me interested in learning more about the other Carols and hymns that I ve always sung, but have never given a second thought. It s difficult to give everyone a gift at Christmas but I would like to try to give our readers one by inviting them to join me in taking a fresh look at the hymns and carols of Christmas. The internet makes the studying of Christmas Carols very easy and the knowledge we gain will make us appreciate them even more. Who would have thought that God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen is a song celebrating regeneration? So try looking up one of your favorite hymns on the internet and see what depth of meaning you can find. It could bring a new understanding of the joy that was Christ s birth and you too will have a greater appreciation for the hymn or carol. On behalf of all the clergy and faithful of the Eastern Diocese, may I extend to each and everyone a Blessed and Merry Christmas and a grace-filled New Year. Wesołych Świąt Bożego Narodzenia i Szczęśliwego Nowego Roku!

7 Volume 92, Issue No Christmas Message Rt. Rev. Stanley Bilinski, Diocesan Bishop of the Western Diocese, P.N.C.C. To my dear collared brothers and the faithful of our Polish National Catholic Church, It is with deep thankfulness that I am able to greet all of you with God s choicest blessings during this holy time now and anticipated. I watched with great excitement in mid-november the landing of the Philae lander on the surface of comet 67P/Churyumov-Gerasimenko. Although the initial mission outline was not met, the data that was able to be transmitted back will keep scientists busy for a while. Why do I mention this in a Christmas edition article for our Rola Boza? It is because this time of our liturgical year moves me to re-acquaint myself with my scientific roots. There has always been much debate as to just what composed the Star of Bethlehem. One speculation was a comet. May I emphasize speculation. Whatever God the Father used to reveal the coming of His Son to earth was, without question, supernatural. To that we can all agree. This, for me, does not take away any of the joy or mystery surrounding the truth of the Incarnational event, it only adds to it. As my eyes are drawn to the heavens, I can through both a spiritual and scientific lens only speculate what treasures God has yet to reveal in the area we call space. As Carl Sagan would always refer to, the billions and billions of stars, the human race has not begun to realize the beauty that the Creator has designed for us. If I have not yet confused you as to my reason for writing this, I merely would like to draw a comparison as to the beauty that the Creator has designed for us as we receive the Gift of His Son, Jesus Christ. We may not ever experience up close the beauty of distant galaxies, but we can experience up close the beauty of a relationship with Jesus Christ, our Messiah. The joy of Christmas is a renewal in the truth of this relationship, given for us to behold. This Gift we shall never grow tired of The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases, his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. The Lord is my portion, says my soul, therefore I will hope in him. (Lamentations 3:22-24, NRSV) In the question of a current commercial, wouldn t it be nice to have Christmas everyday? we can very proudly respond, It is for me. When we accept Jesus, the Gift of God the Father, His mercies are new every morning. The beauty of creation is revealed to us as a gift. The peace and blessing that only Jesus can bring is available to us each new day. May I with the entire community of the Western Diocese share with our Prime Bishop, the Diocesan Bishops, clergy and faithful of the Polish National Catholic Church, and our ecclesial partners the greetings for a most Blessed Christmastide and for a most prosperous New Year. Mogę z całą społecznością zachodniej diecezji akcji z naszej Pierwsz Biskupa, biskupów diecezjalnych, duchowieństwa i wiernych Kościoła katolickiego, Krajowej i naszych partnerów kościelnych pozdrowienia dla Najświętszej Bożego Narodzenia a dla najbardziej zamożnych Nowego Roku. Con toda la comunidad de la cuota Diócesis Occidental con nuestro Primer Obispo, los Obispos diocesanos, sacerdotes y fieles de la Iglesia Católica Nacional Polaca, y nuestros socios eclesiales los saludos para un Santísima tiempo de Navidad y de Año Nuevo más próspera.

8 8 God s Field December 2014 Annual Christmas and New Year Greetings Prime Bishop Emeritus Robert and Florence Nemkovich Cape Coral, Florida We wish everyone a most blessed Christmas and a Happy New Year! Have a Magical Christmas and a blessed New Year! Robert S. Maseychik Agency, Family & Staff 1016 Pittston Avenue, Suite 201, Scranton, PA Very Rev. Stanley Skrzypek SS Peter & Paul Parish Passaic, NJ Towarzystwo Niewiast ANS, Toronto Wesołych Swiąt i SzczęŚliwego Nowego Roku. Regina Lusky, President The United Young Men s Society of Resurrection The Executive Board and Board of Directors Wishing you a Merry Christmas and a Happy, Healthy New Year Chancer of the Western Diocese P.N.C.C. Rt. Rev. Stanley M. Bilinski, Jr., Bishop Ordinary Wishing everyone a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! WISHING ALL A BLESSED CHRISTMAS! CLERGY CIRCLE OF THE WESTERN DIOCESE Eastern Diocese Clergy Koło Kapłanów Rt. Rev. Paul Sobiechowski / Very Rev. Joseph Krusienski, Pres. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! All Saints Cathedral Parish Chicago, IL Rt. Rev. Stanley Bilinski, Pastor May the Birth of Christ Bring Peace & Joy to Us All! Wishing you peace and blessings at Christmas and the New Year. All Saints Sterling Heights, Michigan Annunciation Parish, San Antonio, Texas, USA Rev. Charles Henderson, Pastor May the birth of Christ bring you many blessings. Blessed Trinity Parish, Fall River, MA Fr. Sr. Rob Nemkovich, Pastor Wishing you a Blessed Christmas & New Year. Blessed Virgin Mary of Czestochowa Rev. Mark A. Gnidzinski, Pastor May you have a Blessed Christmas, everyone! Church of Our Saviour, Lawrenceville, NJ Wishing you the Peace, Love and Happiness that the miracle of Christmas brings. Church of Resurrection, Greenpoint, Brooklyn, NY Rev. Jozef Kolek & Parish Committee Greetings for a Blessed Christmas & Peaceful & Joyful New Year. We wish you a Blessed Christmas and Happy New Year! Divine Providence Parish, Norwich, CT Guardian Angel Parish, Los Angeles Fr. Andrew Machowski and Parish Committee May God bless you during this Christmas season and always. May the peace of Christ live with you always! Holy Cross P.N.C.C., Baltimore, MD Rev. Andrzej Bieganowski Pastor Holy Cross Parish Central Falls, RI Fr. Sr. Rob Nemkovich, Pastor May the light of Christ shine upon you. Holy Cross Church 220 Browertown Road Woodland Park, NJ holycrosssite.org / Holy Cross Parish, Ware, MA The Very Rev. Fryderyk S. Banas, Pastor Radosnych Świąt! May Christ s birth fill your heart with Peace! Holy Family Parish 1921 Eden Park Blvd., McKeesport, PA Fr. Bruce Sleczkowski, Pastor Holy Mother of the Rosary Cathedral Rt. Rev John E. Mack, Pastor Parish Board & Parishioners Holy Mother of Sorrows, Dupont, PA Very Rev. Zbigniew Dawid, Pastor, Officers & Parishioners Wesołych Swiąt Bożego Narodzenia i SzczęŚliwego Nowego Roku. Holy Trinity Cathedral, 166 Pearl Street, Manchester, NH Pastor: Rt. Rev. Paul Sobiechowski; Chair: Raymond J. Pieczarka; 1st Vice-chair: Stefan Swiadas; 2nd Vicechair: James Krolikowski; Rec. Sec.: Jo-Ann O Connell; Fin. Sec.: Nancy Reilly Treasurer: Frances C. Dobosz Merry Christmas from Holy Trinity Parish, New Castle, PA Very Rev. John A. Rencewicz II, Pastor; Rose Marie Anthony, Chair; Parish Executive Board & Faithful; Ladies Adoration Society; Parent Teacher Organization, Holy Trinity Youth Group; Lutnia Choir Holy Trinity P.N.C.C. Kewanee, IL Parish Board Ladies Adoration Society Holy Trinity & St. Joseph Parish, Linden, NJ Rev. Jan Kosc, Pastor May you have a blessed Christmas and Happy New Year! Our Lord s Ascension Parish, Bethlehem, PA Rev. Bogdan Jurczyszyn, Pastor May the presence of Christ among us refresh our faith, hope and love! Merry Christmas! Our Savior Chapel in Tripp Park Rt. Rev. Bernard Nowicki, Pastor May the Blessings of Christmas bring you peace & joy!

9 Volume 92, Issue No Our Savior Parish 610 N. Beech Daly, Dearborn Heights, MI Pastor Rev. John Cramer Our Saviour s Parish, Woonsocket, RI Rev. Henryk Wos, Pastor Wishing God s Blessings to All! Providence of God Parish Rev. Walter Placek Best wishes for a Blessed Christmas & a joyous New Year. Sharing with you the Glory, Wonder and Miracle of this Holy Season. Merry Christmas and a Blessed New Year. Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish, Canonsburg, PA SS Peter & Paul Parish, McAdoo, PA Rev. Boguslaw Janiec, Pastor Merry Christmas and a joyous New Year! SS Peter & Paul Parish Passaic, New Jersey Very Rev. Stanley Skrzypek, Pastor St. Adalbert s P.N.C.C. Dickson City, PA Father Senior Chromey St. Barbara Parish, Houtzdale, PA Peace and Blessings to all this Christmas and always! St. Casimir s P.N.C.C., Lowell, MA Father Andrew Tenus May you have a blessed Christmas and a Happy New Year! St. Francis P.N.C.C. East Meadow, NY Fr. Andrej Koterba, Pastor Wishing Everyone a Merry Christmas & Happy New Year! St. John the Baptist P.N.C.C., Frackville, PA Rev. Robert Plichta, Pastor May you have a blessed Christmas and a Happy New Year. St. John the Baptist, Hazleton, PA Rev. Boguslaw Janiec, Pastor May you have a blessed Christmas and a Happy New Year. St. John s Parish of the P.N.C.C., Canada Augustina Domagala, Chair May you have a blessed Christmas & New Year. St. Joseph s Mission Parish, Fairhope, PA Rev. Felix Pyzowski, Pastor May the Child of Bethlehem fill you with His love and peace. St. Joseph Parish, Davie, FL Fr. Krzysztof Mendelewski, Pastor May the birth of Christ bring blessings to us all! St. Joseph s P.N.C.C. Middleport, PA Rev. Richard Wosiak May the Blessings of the Christ Child be with us throughout the New Year. St. Joseph s of Stratford From the parishioners of St. Mary s Parish in Parma, OH Under the spiritual guidance of Rev. Jason H. Soltysiak, Pastor May the Christ Child bring all the utmost joy this Christmas! St. Mary s Polish National Catholic Church West Allis, Wisconsin Wishing everyone a happy holiday season! Wishing all a blessed Christmas! St. Mary Parish South Bend, Indiana SAINT MICHAEL THE ARCHANGEL PARISH Cedar Lake, Indiana REJOICE, OUR SAVIOR IS BORN! St. Stephen the Martyr Parish, Reading, PA Very Rev. Edward D Ratajack, Pastor Let the Love of Christ be in us all! The Most Holy Name of Jesus Parish, Passaic, NJ Rev. Marian Tarnowski, Pastor May you have a blessed Christmas and a Happy New Year! The Parish of Holy Trinity, Washington, PA Father Mark Swoger, Pastor Peace and blessings to us all! Transfiguration of Our Lord, Mt. Pleasant, PA Rev. Father Bruce Sleczkowski - Administrator May the Birth of Christ bring us a renewed peace & love. Transfiguration of Our Lord, Wallington, NJ Very Rev. Gregory Mludzik, Pastor May you have a Blessed Christmas and a Happy New Year! The P.N.U. Board of Directors, Executive Officers and Staff wish everyone a Blessed Christmas and a New Year filled with happiness! PNU District 2 NY/NJ Rev. Joseph Cyman, Chaplain Edmund J. Kotula, District Director Polish National Union District 5 Ted Gibala, District Director Christmas blessings and joy and peace in the New Year. Polish National Union District Six Christine Wachna, District Director, Officers and Members Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

10 10 God s Field December 2014 Annual Christmas and New Year Greetings (continued) Polish National Union District 8 Ryta Kasprzak, Director May you have a Blessed Christmas and a Happy New Year! Spojnia Br. 54 District 2 Hawthorne, NJ May your holidays be filled with hope & happiness! Alice Kriskewic Christmas Greetings Branch 4 Y.M.S. of R. Dickson City, PA As we celebrate 100 years, the Pastor, Parish Committee and Parishioners of Holy Trinity P.N.C.C. in Plantsville, CT wish all a Blessed Christmas and a peaceful New Year! Season s Blessed Greetings Br. 115 Branch 155 PNU of America Hazleton, PA Edward Burczy Blessed Christmas! May the Holy Christ Child fill your lives with His Grace & Peace this Christmas & throughout the coming New Year. The Buffalo Pittsburgh Clergy Circle Origins of the Polish National Catholic Church Constitution and Laws Joseph F. Seliga, Chairman, P.N.C.C. Commission on History and Archives How did the Constitution and Laws of the Polish National Catholic Church (P.N.C.C.) come into being? It most likely got its start with the Laws written by Father Francis Hodur and adopted by St. Stanislaus Parish on March 20, 1897, just one week after he assumed the pastorate. These would be the laws by which everyone in the church was governed. It had three articles and a preamble. The preamble was a statement on the need and purpose for the parish. The greater glory of God, one in the Holy Trinity, in honor of the Most Blessed Virgin Mary and St. Stanislaus our patron, we have built a new Polish Church for the people to gather at the foot of the Eternal, and receive there the light of faith and love which are the foundation of life on earth and in eternity. In order that this shrine of the Lord, raised by the hard earned money of its people would not fall into foreign hands, but continue to serve its purpose and remain as a monument for our children and grandchildren and be a witness to the faith of the Polish people in America, we who have been responsible for the building of this temple resolve the following. Article I was a statement that The church will be incorporated as The Polish Catholic Church, dedicated to Saint Stanislaus Bishop and Martyr. It continued with statements of ownership and governance; simple, unequivocal and direct. Ownership of the property will be vested in the parish and the trustees will be elected by members of the parish. Article II begins with a statement that the priest, in matters of faith, his authority is unlimited. This is followed by a statement defining the purpose of the elected parish committee in matters of property and government as being a help to the priest and responsible to the priest and the parish. The rest of the article goes on to describe the composition and duties of the Parish Committee: Chairman, Vice- Chairman, Secretary, and Treasurer. The Controller of the parish is the priest who selects one parishioner to help him. Detailed reports are to be given semi-annually at a parish meeting. The last paragraph in this article identifies meetings of the Parish as being annual, semi-annual and on the demand of a least 50 parishioners. The Secretary s job included not only taking minutes, but keeping a list of all parishioners and records of the income and expense of the Parish. Article III is concerned with the following areas of governance. The first is that members who are current in their dues and assessments (a two month grace period was allowed.), have the right to voice and vote at parish meetings. The next paragraph in the article calls for the collectors receipt of dues, assessments and free will offerings to deposit monies collected with the treasurer at the monthly meetings of the Parish Committee. It notes that the collectors issue receipts for all monies received. The next paragraph states that the bonds of the Parish Committee Chairman, Secretary, and Treasurer requested by the parish and that these documents will be deposited in the parishes fire-proof safe. This is followed by a requirement that each new member pay $5.00 and be bound to pay $0.50 per month Parish

11 Volume 92, Issue No dues. There were three classes of assessments $30.00, $20.00 and $10.00; but there was no description of the three classes. Payments to the Priest are made during the week. The last paragraph says that the Parish Committee meets on Sundays. The first Constitution and Laws of the Polish National Church (PNC) was passed at the First Synod and supplemented at the Special Synod. It was published in the March 1907 issue of Trybuna, the Official Newspaper of the PNC. This Constitution and Laws of the PNC is comprised of a Preamble and ten articles: (1) Authority of the PNC, Legislative and Executive, (2) Privileges and Duties of the Head of the Church, That is the Bishop, (3) Privileges and Duties of the Great Council, (4) Church Communities, That is, Parishes, (5) The Committee, That is, the Parish Council, (6) Duties and Rights of the Committee, (7) Duties of Individual Members of the Church Council, (8) Teacher(s), Organists and Sexton, (9) Parish Meetings, and (10) Members of the PNC. The Preamble has three sections and was written by Bishop Hodur after the Special Synod. It says that (1) all great peoples had national religious guidance and the Poles ought to have it also (2) church property should be in the direct possession of those who build and support the church and management and control of church property belongs to committees chosen by the parishes and answerable to them, and (3) The fundamental religious principal, however, is our teaching that the Church does not save the person, but sanctifies him and gives success in the fulfillment of the will of God, revealed to us by the voice of conscience and the Gospel of Jesus Christ. You can easily see that the St. Stanislaus Laws were revised to incorporate the need for the governance of more than one parish. For that some additions were necessary, (1) meetings of the membership of the entire church, called Synods, (2) a committee for the entire church, in addition to those for a parish, called the Grand Council. Rules for hiring of employees of the Parish, organist, school teachers, and sextons were specified. The rights and duties of each entity of the church were put into separate paragraphs, probably for ease of reference. The Parish Committee was augmented by adding a Financial Secretary and six trustees. I believe that both were added to spread the work of the Committee members. In the St. Stanislaus Laws, there was one secretary to keep track of all records, governance and financial. However, the concepts of the rule of the churches property being vested in the parishioners and governance remained. The Synod had the requirement that in matters of faith and morals, 2/3 of the delegates are needed for a decision, whereas in administrative matters and questions only a simple majority is needed. The first Constitution and Laws also expanded the role of the Bishop so that he is responsible for. The first article identifies that the legislative authority is the Synod, called regularly every five years. Defined is the makeup of the synod and its responsibilities; namely, consideration of the status of the entire PNC, investigation of deficiencies of arrangements, bringing in needed changes, election of a bishop and the authority to remove the governor of the church. It identifies the reasons for removal being (1) If he would create through immoral living scandal for the faithful, and (2) He would join with enemies of the nation to the harm and disgrace of the church. It says that in matters of faith and morals, two-thirds of the delegates are needed for a decision, The executive authority consists of the Bishop and the twelve members of the Great Council, chosen at the Synod, half clergy and half lay representatives. This article is followed by one which identifies the eight Privileges and Duties of the Bishop: appointing, transferring and dismissing pastors (in accordance with the rules specified in this paragraph), visiting parishes and investigating their finances and organization, convenes and presides over Synods and casts a deciding vote if needed, presides over the Great Council, convenes and presides over a yearly clergy retreat, is the guardian of morality of the clergy, controls the organ of the Church, and examines candidates for the priestly state together with a clergy commission. The next article describes the makeup and the two duties of the Great Council, which are to help the head of the church in guiding the church and to prepare material for the next Synod. The article on parishes defines the pastors relationship to the bishop, the salary and living quarters of the pastor, his duties towards the religious education of the parishioners, maintenance of the religious records of the parish, provision of semiannual reports to the bishop and controls property of the church and its finances by having a voice as a (Continued on Page 19.)

12 12 God s Field December 2014 Gift Giving, Acts of Love Most Rev. Anthony Mikovsky, Prime Bishop When [the Wise Men] saw that the star had stopped, they were overwhelmed with joy. On entering the house, they saw the child with Mary his mother; and they knelt down and paid him homage. Then, opening their treasurer chests, they offered him gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh. And having been warned in a dream not to return to Herod, they left for their own country by another road. (Matthew 2:10-12) Although the giving of gifts for special occasions has been around for centuries, the act has been given a specific connection to the birth of Jesus Christ, through this act of the Wise Men as recorded in the Gospel of Matthew. These rare and expensive gifts also have a meaning behind them in representing for us the true identity of Jesus Christ as King and Priest and sacrifice for sins. Now over 2000 years later we still hold on to a bit of this action in our celebration of Christmas as we buy gifts for our loved ones. Although I certainly can decry the over commercialization of the Christmas season, I still buy Christmas presents knowing that they are expressions of the love and caring that I have for those who are important to me within my life. It is also true that this preparation for gift giving takes a lot of time and consideration. And I am sure that the same is true for all of you as well. We need to consider what people might like as well as the reality of factoring in what we can afford. We are always told that it s the thought that counts, but we know that a part of the thought that is put into a gift, is its cost as well as the time it takes to acquire it and the knowledge of the person for whom it is given. So you may now be asking why am I telling you all of these things that you already know and have already done for all of the people who are important within your life? The reason is that each of us also has the opportunity for gift giving that goes far beyond just the Christmas season. Have you ever wondered why the collection at Holy Mass is taken up while we are in Church praying and in fact at the same time that the priest or bishop is offering the bread and wine, the gifts, at the altar? This is because the giving of our own gifts for the work of the Church in the world, is truly an act of sacrifice, an offering, that is joined with the offering on the altar. In times past, these offerings, of produce, money and possibly other things for the use of the Church would be brought forward to the priest at the altar. After receiving these gifts of the people, the priest needed to wash his hands before the holy rites could continue, this washing of hands is still a part of our Holy Mass preparations. The reason that I mention all of this, especially at Christmas time, is that we truly must connect these two concepts together within our religious life at Church. We give gifts because of our love and care, and one way we express this love and care of Christ is through our gift giving when we gather for Holy Mass. And just like the gifts we give to our family and friends, when we offer the gifts of our time, treasure and talent to God for the work of building His kingdom then these gifts should be well considered. We spend a lot of time and effort getting just the right gift for those whom we love at Christmas, but how much time do we spend in consideration of the gifts we give each week to our Lord for the work of His Church. I encourage each and every one of you, especially as we approach the New Year, to give some thought and consideration to the gifts you give to the Lord for His Church now and throughout the coming year. Maybe you can increase the funds you give, or the work you do or the special talent you offer. The Church needs all of these gifts. Most importantly the Church needs you, to be a part of everything that it does in building the Kingdom of God on earth. Let us all remember that it is up to each of us to make sure that the Kingdom of God continues strongly with our own parish community. Remember these words of St. Teresa of Avila in regards to our giving and working for the Church. Christ has no body now but yours. No hands, no feet on earth but yours. Yours are the eyes through which he looks compassion on this world. Yours are the feet with which he walks to do good. Yours are the hands through which he blesses all the world. Yours are the hands, yours are the feet, yours are the eyes, you are his body. Christ has no body now on earth but yours.

13 Volume 92, Issue No The Two Great Commandments and the Renewal of Reverence Rev. Fr. Scott J. Lill But above all these things, put on love which is the bond of perfection. ~Colossians 3:14 Shortly before the adjournment of the 24 th General Synod of the Polish National Catholic Church, as the delegates were considering the initial plan they had collectively formed to chart the future course of the Church s life, Bishop John Mack spoke on behalf of all our bishops in calling for a renewal of reverence within the Church. While those gathered were told that the detailed outline of the other actions would be finalized and sent to all parishes within a few months, this return to reverence, he emphasized, is something so vital to the life of the Church that it should begin in earnest. The knowing looks and nodding heads of all present demonstrated that our bishops were heard and that this work was accepted by the delegates on behalf of the Church. The importance of the bishops charge, itself, argues for a certain haste when responding to it but first for a careful consideration of exactly how to answer this call. We must start by answering these questions: what is reverence and from where does it come? We might be tempted to hurriedly define reverence as the respectful manner in which we ought to pray, participate in the Holy Mass or receive the other Holy Sacraments. Immediately honing in on our external actions, however, sets far too narrow a context for this renewal and does not take us to the true source of authentic reverence. No, the first step on this journey of renewal must be inward as we let Jesus himself teach us how to become more reverent. When our Lord was asked by the lawyer which commandment of the law was the greatest, he could well have chosen from any of the 613 laws that undergirded the way of life for God s chosen people and governed all aspects of their existence. These included rituals for reverent worship, rules for societal and civil interaction and a clear code for their moral behavior. Jesus, however, did not focus on the quality of one s external actions but, instead, distilled down the entire fulfillment of God s law to the disposition of one s heart. He answered the lawyer by providing not one law, but two: the complete love of God above all and the love of neighbors as other selves (Mt 22:34-40). In doing so, the Lord definitively minted the two-sided coin of the Christian love, making service to God and to others inextricably interwoven like a kind of cord as St. John Chrysostom wrote. On one side of this coin, we see the Most Blessed Trinity and reflect upon their call to love and serve them with all our hearts souls minds. We might find such a commandment daunting, wondering how God can ask so much of us. After all, he knows our sinful weakness and the great difficulty we encounter doing anything with such great, complete love. It is at these times that we must remember that God requires nothing from us that he himself has not already given! God asks for complete love because he loves us completely, holding nothing back. He gives nothing less than everything to us; he asks nothing less than everything from us. When we become so discouraged by our failure to live up to this expectation that we are tempted to simply give up or to condemn ourselves as unable to fulfill this greatest commandment, we must instead follow God s own example to us in Jesus and then gratefully reciprocate his love, rejoicing in St. Paul s proclamation that Christ though he was rich became poor that you through his poverty might become rich (2 Cor 8:9). Contemplating the image on the other side of the coin, so to speak, we find the face of God reflected in the faces of his people and hear the call to love them as ourselves. Our service to them springs forth from our complete dedication to our Lord. If the love of God provides the ultimate value and vigor for loving others, then loving our neighbors gives concrete expression to our love for God. The love of others must be humble and selflessly sacrificial again following the example of Jesus himself meaning that we must consistently place ourselves at the bottom of our own priority lists. It must also be pure, which entails that we let all bitterness, wrath, anger, clamor and evil speaking be put away, along with all malice, and that instead we become kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving to one another, even as God in Christ has forgiven us (Eph 41-32). Hearing this exhortation from the Apostle, we arrive at the first step in our renewal of reverence: repentance. We must constantly turn from our sinful ways which always hoist us up to the place of greatest importance, even at the cost of offending the One who loves us more than we can know, while neglecting or even (Continued on Page 14.)

14 14 God s Field December 2014 (The Two Great Commandments - Continued from Page 13.) worse, using the neighbors whom we should venerate as living icons of our God. We can approach this ongoing conversion of heart by a daily examination of conscience, renunciation of sin and firm resolution to return to the ways of love. The most powerful way to do this is through a wholehearted celebration of the Sacrament of Penance which we should seek frequently and for which we should be all be so grateful. As each of us embraces the call of our bishops to work for a renewal of reverence within the Church, we must first start by taking an honest inventory of our own hearts and repenting should we not find God and others residing there because we ourselves are taking up all the space! With the realization that the complete love of God and selfless love of others together form the sole foundation for true reverence, 2015: A Year of Regeneration we must work tirelessly to fortify it through prayer, honest introspection and self-sacrifice. The respectful manner in which pray, participate at Holy Mass or receive the other Holy Sacraments is, quite simply, meaningless if these are not sincere expressions of loving hearts. Reverent worship coupled with hearts that do not love is void of real value and ultimately not pleasing to our God. We need to be consciously aware of this or we run the risk of becoming people who are, as my grandmother used to say, more holy than righteous and who are rightly condemned by Jesus, along with the Pharisees, as hypocrites who make sure to pay tithe on mint and anise and cumin but have neglected the weightier matters of the law: justice and mercy and faith (Mt 23:23). In the end, love must first be the climate of our hearts before reverence can be the hallmark of our actions. The 24th P.N.C.C. General Synod in Erie took time in prayer, reflection and visioning breakout sessions to chart a course for the future direction of our Holy Church. The Supreme Council Future Direction Subcommittee, charged with developing and implementing an action plan, has completed the first of a many-step process by distributing a plan to all P.N.C.C. parishes for 2015: A Year of Regeneration The components of this 2015 action plan include: 1. Universal Welcome Package 2. Greater Understanding of Church Solemnities Brotherly Love Lenten Day of Retreat 4. Implement Commissioning Services 5. Online Education Course for Clergy 6. Database of P.N.C.C. Males for Sacred Vocations 7. Pamphlet for Humble Shepherds Completion of at least two community service projects The action plan provides details explaining each of the eight components, suggestions for implementation, as well as templates to use for developing some of the items required. These templates will also be made available in both Polish and Spanish You will be hearing more from our group sharing additional information with you as we put this plan into action. Please work with your Pastor and Parish Committee to implement the parts of this plan in your parishes as we look forward to new and innovative ways of sharing the Gospel and presence of Christ with others through our Polish National Catholic Church. If you are already doing some of these things, that is wonderful. Always keep in mind the five themes the Synod determined for our future direction: Growth and Membership Increase Spirituality Lifelong Learning Sacred Vocations Community Involvement and Presence The Supreme Council Subcommittee will continue working to develop and implement the work from the synod over the next months and year and plans will be forthcoming for 2016 and beyond. Please feel free to contact our Subcommittee at FutureDirection@pncc.org should you have any questions, concerns or challenges with this plan. Our Subcommittee is here to help you and we look forward to hearing from you.

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18 18 God s Field December 2014 From the National Youth Chaplain First off, I d like to thank His Grace, Prime Bishop Mikovsky for his trust in me in continuing in this position for our Holy Church. I am challenged to provide assistance for youth workers in the P.N.C.C., including my brother clergy. Having just returned from the annual National Youth Workers Convention, I will be sharing with you my notes of the lectures and seminars I attended and the digital downloads of those I could not. Again, I hope that the following may be of some help in your programming for youth. I d like to offer a short presentation this edition concerning an area you might be facing in your planning for youth work in your parish that has taken on this vitally important ministry. It is working with different personalities in a small group. This information comes from a study of contemporary dialogues based on this group dynamic. You know what it s like watching the individual personalities in a small group emerge - even if the small group is a family. Your challenge as a smallgroup leader is to learn to work with the personalities in your small group and help all your students grow individually even as they learn to function as a group. Community building is of the utmost importance in a group of any size, but especially in the small group. Certain personalities can either hinder or enhance this dynamic in your goal to provide a very safe, growthinducing group; and can t we agree that this is fundamentally the key issue in our groups (SOCL, catechism, youth group, parish committees???, et al.) Here are six types of student personalities. The aim is not to stereotype students, but to help you anticipate common traits and characteristics you ll encounter in your small group - and then to help you find ways to minister more effectively to the kids: The Talker This is the student in your small group who never stops talking, who always has a comment for everything. You re tempted to apply duct tape, but don t - there are more productive ways to handle this student. First, position the Talker next to you when you begin your group, which reduces eye contact with her when you ask a question - and, when she interrupts someone, lets you reach over and touch her arm (usually a silent but effective cue.) If you have a whole group of Talkers, you may want to try the ground rule that stipulates the small group must circulate an object - a stuffed animal, Nerf Ball, spit wad, whatever - and that a student must possess it before speaking. This will help Talkers wait their turn. Chances are the Talker has some natural leadership ability that you should encourage. So let her lead the small group now and then. This can help her appreciate what you endure as a leader, and she just may become more supportive when you lead. If the problem persists, get some time alone with her and talk with her about giving others a chance to answer the questions. Help her feel that she s on your team, and that the two of you need to work with each other to encourage the other students to respond. The Thinker This student is quieter (and usually shier) than the others, with a tendency to get drowned out by the louder personalities in your group. So bring him out more by positioning him across from you, thereby increasing the chances of eye contact with you. You can also use the tried and true method of occasionally directing questions to specific students, thereby eliciting responses from the Thinker. If the Thinker is particularly shy, spend one-on-one time with him to discover what he s interested in - and so you can create the kinds of questions that will bring him into the discussion. Use the positive reinforcement of affirming him on those occasions when he actually does respond publicly. And when he lapses back into silence, don t interpret that silence as something that needs to be fixed. Some kids learn best by listening and watching - and there s a good chance he s one of them. The Church Kid This kid has already spent more hours in this church than you probably have. She s progressed from the church nursery to the high school room in the course of her 14 or 15 years there. She consequently knows more about the Bible than any other kid in your group, not to mention her small group. Of course, her knowledge may or may not indicate spiritual depth. Church Kids can be the hardest to reach because they ve heard it all, and therefore feel they have nothing to learn. One way to challenge them is by not being satisfied with pat answers. Always ask why. Or play against her squeaky-clean, correct

19 Volume 92, Issue No answers with provocative arguments from the other side of the issue. Such strategies usually force a Church Kid to think more deeply about her answers instead of just rattling them off. Ask her help you create questions for a Bible study - or even let her lead the small group once in a while. In any case, avoid asking questions that invite a right answer. Opt instead for questions that leave room for a variety of valid responses. The Distracter This is the student who can t sit still and ends up distracting everyone in your small group - including you. Rather than constantly stifling him, direct his energy toward productive ends: Ask him to help you pass out Bibles, lessons, pencils, set up chairs, serve refreshments. Or ( and this is good advice for all small groups, with or without Distracters) do some active-learning experiences with your small group - such as object lessons or field trips - instead of just sitting and talking week after week. You may better understand this student (and where his energy comes from) if you get together with him outside of your small group. Even a Distracter can be good for your small group, if only because he doesn t let you get by with boring lessons. (Remember that when you re really tempted to quit). Really - your leadership skills will be sharpened as you find ways to engage him as well as the tranquil students in your class. The Debater She irritates you by challenging every point you (or anyone else) tries to make. Sure, she brings a creative energy to the group sometimes - but she often stifles the other kids by making them feel too threatened to voice their opinions or feelings. Deal with the Debater by establishing ground rules for your small group, the first (and perhaps the only) being: It s okay to disagree with opinions, but it s inappropriate to attack or put down other small-group members, if their opinions differ from yours. A second ground rule may be that only one person may talk at a time. Ground rules like these help make a Debater s criticism less caustic and restrain her from interrupting others in order to make her point. The good news: Once Debaters understand and abide by such rules, their input can actually enliven your discussion. Just remember that your goal is to direct, not stifle, their participation. The Crisis Producer This student is in perpetual crisis - and lets your small group know about it every meeting. He s often self-absorbed and therefore unable to participate in the discussion, except when it s focused on him. So get together with him before your small group begins in order to talk through his problems with just you instead of bringing them to the small group. (Lucky you.) Or begin your small group discussion with the assurance that everyone will have a chance to share problems, prayer requests, et al., at the end of the group. This helps members - and especially Crisis Producers - stay focused on your lesson. Whatever your strategy with your Crisis Producer, your long goal is to help him see past his crises to some solutions, and to participate in your small group without having to constantly bring the focus back to himself. What about a student who raises a legitimate crisis during these discussions? Be flexible enough to postpone your study and deal with the issue at hand. Have others in your group you d like to describe?? - let me know about them!! Perhaps we could brainstorm on some strategies to help you engage that student in a more productive participation for both him and yourself. Remember however, just thank the Lord for those kids you have coming. There is a great multitude out there that needs to be given what you re offering your kids. Celebrate them! And I continue to celebrate you for whatever you do for God s kids. A fellow Thinker, Bishop Stan Bilinski Origins of the Constitution & Laws Continued from Page 11.) member of the Parish Committee and at Parish meetings and access to the secretary s and treasurer s books. The members of the Parish Committee are defined as Chairman, his deputy, secretary, financial secretary, treasurer and six trustees. Their duties are established in the paragraph which follows. The first of these duties was the application for charter. Their duties, once a church has been organized are: to assist the pastor in everything which leads to the elevation of the glory of God and the benefit of the Polish Nation in the Parish. This article would not have been possible were it not for translations of the St. Stanislaus Laws by Rt. Rev. Anthony Rysz and the First Constitution and Laws of the Polish National Church, translated by Dr. Joseph Wieczerzak.

20 20 God s Field December 2014 The Mass Begins to Develop Most Rev. John F. Swantek, Prime Bishop Emeritus After Jesus had given the Holy Eucharist to the Apostles at the Last Supper, He gave them this mandate: Do this in remembrance of me. He did not tell his followers how often He expected them to celebrate the Last Supper event. He did not tell them how He wanted them to celebrate it. He left this to their discretion and to the Church, which would be guided by the Holy Spirit. Although the Apostles were faithful followers of Jesus and committed to the salvific and redeeming Gospel our Lord taught, they still considered themselves Jews who had to observe the teachings and practices of their Old Covenant faith. This is clear in the Acts of the Apostles where we learn that the followers frequented the Temple liturgy during the day, and in the evening they celebrated in their homes the Last Supper Liturgy, prayed, and listened to the teachings of the Apostles. At this time the Eucharist was celebrated in conjunction with a meal in someone s home. This the same Mass we celebrate today, but it is in a very early stage of development. The practice developed in this early period of the Church to celebrate the Eucharist in the evening in someone s home. The faithful would bring food for the meal, which came to be called the Agape, love feast. The food was usually pooled so that all could share in this holy event based on the Last Supper. The wealthy, the poor and even slaves would be at this repast. For some, the poor and the slaves, this would be the only decent meal they would have during the day. After the meal, the Eucharist was celebrated and all went to Communion. It would be quite sometime before the Church would have buildings designated for worship, where the Mass would be celebrated. Until that time came, the Christians would continue to meet in private homes, perhaps owned by some wealthy person. In the Jewish tradition meals often had a religious significance for family members as well as for friends. There were designated blessings and prayers that would be read during the meal in which God was blessed and thanked. These meals created a bond with all who were present. As I previously stated, in those early days of the Church, it was appropriate that the faithful assembled to share a meal in one s home, and this would be followed by the Eucharist. This seemed to reflect the Last Supper, for the Eucharist was instituted in the course of a meal. At this time the groups that gathered together were not too large, but as the Church began to grow this could create problems in the future. In the First Letter to the Corinthians, St Paul mentions the problems that began to occur in the homes where the Eucharist was being celebrated. Some of the wealthy members of the Church began to gather in their own groups, while some were reluctant to share their food with the less fortunate. What should have been a sacred encounter and beautiful evening of Christian fellowship turned into class conscious groups separating themselves from poor fellow Christians. Unfortunately some at the meal also drank too much and became inebriated. It was within this kind of community that the Eucharist was being celebrated. As we know the Church is a body of men and women, rich and poor, healthy and sick, who are united to Christ and to each other by the Holy Spirit Who was received at Baptism. As time went on tensions began to surface in the synagogues and Temple, and eventually the Jewish leaders forbid the disciples and other followers of Christ from participating in the synagogue service, which consisted of prayer, readings from the Prophets and Laws, and a homily. To the early Jewish Christians these services were sacred.

21 Volume 92, Issue No Buffalo-Pittsburgh Diocese Have you ever gone through a change in your life and wondered how in the world everything would work out? That's how I felt on August 26, 2014, my first day of high school. People tell you, "Don't worry! You'll do fine!" and "Oh, it's not as bad as you think!" Those comments turned out to be true for the first day because I did not get lost finding my assigned rooms and I ended up with a good group of teachers and kids in my classes. The one thing people didn t tell me was how hard it would be mentally. On a good day you might only want to scream twice. I have to admit that it's really tough with all of this pressure put on students by family and peers; and sometimes it seems that there are more bad days than good days. One thing that you always have to God Has a Plan for Us Nursing Home Visitation Holy Family Parish, McKeesport, PA remember is, it is all going to be okay. Jeremiah 29:11 says, "'For I know the plans I have for you,' declares the Lord,' plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.'" This Bible verse reminds us that God has a plan for each and every one of us - whether it is the way we wanted it to be or not, everything will turn out okay in the end. So in this approaching New Year, instead of focusing on changing all of the negative things that happened this year, focus on all of the positive things, like the good things that you did this year. Then, make it your number one goal to do those good things again into the next year, and spread the love of Jesus. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! April Horency, Secretary, Buffalo-Pittsburgh UYA Several Chopin Choir Members from Holy Family Parish in McKeesport visited the Briarcliff Nursing Home recently in North Versailles, PA. They visited with Dr. Donald Mushalko, Chopin Choir Director and Mrs. Eleanor Sharik, parish parishioners who are in residence in the facility. The choir performed Traditional Polish Folk Songs for the patients and staff in attendance. Under the direction of Mrs. Carol Davelli (acting Holy Family Choir Director) and Mrs. Wendy Blotzer, Parish Organist, the Choir provided an afternoon of entertainment and fun. Submitted by Rev. Bruce Sleczkowski Mrs. Carol Davelli and members of the Chopin Choir. Dr. Donald Mushalko directing the audience in a sing-a-long

22 22 God s Field December 2014 Making a Promise and Making a Difference All Saints Parish, Carnegie, PA Have you ever made a promise? Did you keep that promise? All Saints Parish in Carnegie made a promise to a group known as Family Promise. This is a non-profit organization that assists folks who, for whatever reason, have lost their housing and are housed by the participating churches in the area for 1 week. The families are rotated each week to other churches. We as a parish provided a place to sleep, a homecooked dinner each evening and some social time with the families. During the day the children attend their school or daycare and the parents go to work or search for work with the help of the staff at Family Promise. The families return to the parish around dinner time each day Sunday thru Saturday. These are families of various make-ups: Some are two parents with children, one parent with children or a grandparent with children. We only know their first names and if they may have any food or other allergies which may affect their time at our parish. We had a very large committee of volunteers from our parish as well as a few from Sacred Heart in Canonsburg, led by Karen Seiler and seven sub-committee chairpersons. Karen was the go to person and the liaison to work with the coordinator of the non-profit. Each sub-committee chair was responsible for his or her particular group. Considering it was our first time participating, it seemed as if everything worked like a well-oiled machine, as if we had done this type of thing before! At first this was a very overwhelming concept. The families would be sleeping in the SOCL classrooms on blow-up mattresses provided by the organization. We were responsible for sheets, blankets, towels, snacks, toys, high chairs, meals in the evening and food for lunches during the week and multiple pantry items for their stay. We had donations from parishioners, family and friends for the needed items to stock all of the needs. We received all of what was asked for and more! The day had arrived to welcome our guests. After prayer, we received some education by the director for the workers, and then more prayers were said. We met the four families that we would be hosting during our first week. It was in January 2014, the 2nd coldest week of the winter, and we had 16 people at our parish. The set-up crew worked after Mass to make the SOCL classrooms homey. There were towels near each restroom. The largest classroom became the dining room. The nursery classroom became the playroom. The meals were well received; the families were so kind and appreciative. We all breathed a sigh of relief and said a prayer of thanks. After each of the 3 of 4 times we have been hosts for our families, we had little or few issues. They were handled quietly and without fuss. Our final hosting time this year is during the week of Christmas. What a beautiful gift we can give these folks! We will be doing His work for the least of our people. Isn t that what we are all called to do? This was a huge parish-wide undertaking (with extra help from some neighbors and our sister parish Sacred Heart of Jesus) which was by no means easy, but was one of the single-most fulfilling activities our parish had ever done. There was no financial or monetary gain. There was the tremendous satisfaction that we helped someone else. However, doing something like this brought us close to those who are in need, not by choice but by circumstances, and to realize that so many of our neighbors and friends or we ourselves could possibly be in the same situation. We agreed as a parish community to support the efforts of the volunteers for this project and we kept our promise. Submitted by Lydia Hohn, All Saints Parish

23 Volume 92, Issue No Holy Family Parish and Transfiguration of Our Lord Parish Happenings McKeesport, PA & Mount Pleasant, PA Prior to the October 19th 9:00 A.M. Sunday Mass, Fr. Bruce Sleczkowski blessed Joseph S. and Rosetta M (Brewer) Zurovcik on the occasion of their 60th Wedding Anniversary in front of the Holy Family Congregation. Joseph and Rosetta (Rae) were married on October 16, 1954 by Fr John Tokosh in the Sts. Cyril & Methodius Slovak National Catholic Church in McKeesport, PA. A family dinner was hosted by their children, Lynda Rae Witherspoon, Susan Anne Shelley and Michael Andrew Zurovcik at the Red Lobster Restaurant in Pleasant Hills, PA. Nemec (sponsor Ted Gibala), Francis XAVIER Szatkowski (sponsor Matthew Dillon), and Robert STANISLAUS Szatkowski (sponsor Frank Szatkowski). The Confirmation Class hosted a Coffee and Cake reception for the parishioners and guests who attended Mass. Special thanks to Mr. David Kost, the class's confirmation instructor under the guidance of Fr. Sleczkowski. Bishop Mack in a group picture with the Confirmation Class, Confirmation Sponsors, Fr. Bruce Sleczkowski and Acolytes Recently the SAMBS women of Transfiguration of our Lord Parish from Mount Pleasant PA and women Holy Family Parish, McKeesport, PA spent the Sunday afternoon in fun and fellowship with a special Glassware Project Program. A small luncheon was provided. The Glassware program is where old discarded dishes are used to make decorative outdoor garden and lawn accessories beautifying the front or back yard. It was a great opportunity for both societies to come together and make new friends. The afternoon was so successful that plans for future gatherings are in the making. Joseph and Rosetta (Rae) Zurovcik and Rev. Bruce Sleczkowski On Sunday, October 26th, the Sacrament of Confirmation was conferred upon 8 Candidates by the Rt. Rev. John E. Mack, bishop of the Buffalo- Pittsburgh Diocese in Holy Family Parish McKeesport, PA. during the 9:00 A.M. Mass. Those confirmed were: Abbey Lynne ANIELA Foster (sponsor Jenna Foster), Hannah GRACE Jobes (sponsor Patricia Bagshaw), Jeffrey RAPHAEL Love (sponsor Edward Cheek), Justin LUKE Nemec (sponsor David Kost), Matthew ANTHONY Nemec (sponsor Matthew Kijowski), Robert EZEKIEL Some of the finished product from the Glassware Program Submitted by Rev. Bruce Sleczkowski

24 24 God s Field December 2014 Canadian Diocese Prime Bishop Anthony Mikovsky visits St Mary s Parish in Winnipeg, MB November 22 and 23, 2014 saw a historically significant visit by Prime Bishop Anthony Mikovsky to St. Mary s Parish in Winnipeg. This visit comes after a prolonged absence of a Prime Bishop to the parish; the welcome extended to him was appropriately warm and enthusiastic truly a time for the congregation of our churches to come together and celebrate. Prime Bishop Mikovsky, who now serves dual roles - as Bishop of the Canadian Diocese as well as Prime Bishop of the Church in North America took time to meet with the parish council on November 22, to discuss the impacts of recent changes to the diocese and what will be the expectations for the diocese and these parishes going forward. On Sunday, the Prime Bishop served Mass and delivered a sermon, after which a dinner in the church basement was served to over 80 members of the Winnipeg, Libau and Beausejour congregations. Prime Bishop Anthony s approachable, informal style encouraged attendees of all ages to take advantage of this historic event, extending personal greetings, receiving blessings or asking questions about his role in Scranton. While it was a very busy weekend, all who attended would agree the events were very well received and will be remembered for years to come. Prime Bishop also committed to visiting the parish more frequently, and expressed an interest in a visit accompanied by his wife at a more temperate time of year something we look forward to with great anticipation. Submitted by Rev. Tadeusz Czelen Photographic Highlights of Prime Bishop s Visit to Winnipeg

25 Volume 92, Issue No Central Diocese Parish Happenings at Holy Cross Woodland Park, NJ On Sunday, November 2, 2014 the Holy Cross Church in Woodland Park, NJ celebrated very joyful and special occasion. Alexander Michael Lambright, son of Nathan Lambright and Rachel (nee Merson) received the Sacrament of Baptism. Proud godparents are David Merson and Jill Merson. Baptism is the sacrament of initiation into the life of the children of God; It configures the person to Christ and obliges the Christian to share in the Church's apostolic and missionary activity. We congratulate parents, godparents, family members and friends on this special event. The Holy Cross Church, Woodland Park, NJ celebrated the Sacrament of Confirmation on Sunday Nov. 9 Confirmands: Lina Dian Savina Abdelfatah Patron Saint name - Bl. Savina Petrilli Sponsor Angela Sanita-Soto Pamela Michelle Angela Caceres Patron Saint name - St. Angela Merici Sponsor Juan Pablo Caceres Anthony Steve James the Greater Caceres Patron Saint name - St. James the Greater Sponsor Sabina Duma Ned Elias Leo the Great Kiame Patron Saint name- St. Leo the Great Sponsor Angel Aldas Kimberly Vanessa Elizabeth Matute Patron Saint name - St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Sponsor Manuel Chunchi Celebrant - Rt. Rev. Bernard J. Nowicki Bishop of the Central Diocese P.N.C.C. Fr. Joseph R. Cyman, Pastor The Sacrament of Confirmation is a very important step in your youth s religious education. Confirmation is the sacrament through which we receive gifts of the Holy Spirit to make us soldiers of Christ, ready to profess our faith in word and deed. The minister of confirmation is the bishop. The bishop confirms by laying hands on the person to be confirmed and anointing the forehead in the form of the cross with Holy Chrism. The bishop says: I sign you with the sign of the cross and I confirm you with the Chrism of Salvation in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. (Catechism). The confirmation imprints on our soul sacramental character, which entitles us to the strength needed to show our faith in word and deed. The Sacrament of Confirmation is the completion of baptism, because we are strengthened to live a Christian life within the Church and defend its truths. Submitted by Rev. Joseph Cyman

26 26 God s Field December 2014 Investiture of the Very Rev. Zbigniew Dawid Holy Mother of Sorrows Parish, Dupont, PA The Right Rev. Bernard Nowicki, Bishop Ordinary of the Central Diocese installed the Very Rev. Zbigniew Dawid as Administrative Senior Priest of the Scranton Seniorate of the Central Diocese of the P.N.C.C. on the 15th of November 2014 at Holy Mother of Sorrows Church, Dupont, PA. Bishop Bernard was also the homilist for this ceremony (beautiful sermon on priesthood). The Most Rev. Anthony Mikovsky, Prime Bishop of the Polish National Catholic Church was the Mass Celebrant. Fr. Michał Gitner (Stratford, CT) and Fr. Joseph Cyman (Woodland Park, NJ) were chaplains for Fr. Sr. Zbigniew Dawid. Fr. Carmen Bolock (Duryea, PA) served as the Master of Ceremony. Other Clergy in attendance: Prime Bishop Emeritus John Swantek, Bishop Emeritus Anthony Rysz, Fr. Robert Plichta (Frackville, PA), Fr. Sr. Marian Pociecha (Rome, NY), Fr. Jozef Kolek (Brooklyn, NY), Fr. Andrzej Bieganowski (Baltimore, MD), Fr. Boguslaw Janiec (Hazleton, PA), Fr. Ryszard Wosiak (Middleport, PA), Fr. Lucjan Urbaniak (Edwardsville, PA), Fr. Sr. T. Dymkowski (Wilkes- Barre, PA), Fr. Sr. W. Chromey (Dickson City, PA), Fr. Walter Placek (Scranton, PA), Deacon Jim Konicki (Schenectady, NY), Fr. Joseph Verespy (Sacred Heart of Jesus, Dupont, PA ). Church was filled by many parishioners and friends, who came to celebrate and witness the investiture of their pastor. Parish Committee members welcomed all the bishops with the bread and salt, shortly after the procession. Y.M.S. of R. members served as the ushers at the ceremony. A.N.S. members carrying the candles led all in the procession. Altar Servers help at the liturgy. Lectors for this event were: David Fritz Jr. and Jack Wall Sr. Josh Carey was the cantor. Scranton Seniorate Choir Circle under the direction of organist Jan Cwikla provided beautiful music. Carol Bondurich was in charge of preparing refreshments in our parish hall. Paul Kaspriskie Jr., Chairman of the Parish Committee welcomed all at the Banquet Dinner at VFW, Dupont, PA. Opening prayer was offered by Fr. Joseph Cyman. Hon. Fred Pierantoni was the Toastmaster at the reception. Remarks were given by Prime Bishop Anthony, Bishop Bernard and Fr. Sr. Zbigniew. Fr. Robert Plichta concluded this beautiful fellowship with the benediction. Submitted by Very Rev. Zbigniew Dawid

27 Volume 92, Issue No Eastern Diocese On Saturday, November 15, 2014 an organizational meeting was held of the Convo 2016 Committee at Blessed Trinity Parish in Fall River, Massachusetts. We had 20 that attended this meeting and Fr. Sr. Rob, Convo 2016 Chaplain, began with prayer. The youth then selected the officers for their Convo 2016 Committee, they are: President Eric Nemkovich Vice-President Abby Nelson Secretary Erin Tudryn Treasurer James Nelson The committee reviewed a timeline of what needs to be completed in preparation for planning this National Youth Convocation. The first item to tackle is the site and date for Convo After a good discussion several colleges and universities were selected to be contacted by the committee. This will be done before Christmas. The youth are now beginning to brainstorm and think about possible Convo 2016 Committee Organizes Convo themes and activities they would like to plan for the Convo. The next meeting of the Convo 2016 Committee will be held on Saturday, March 21, 2015 at Holy Trinity Parish in Webster. Massachusetts. The meeting will begin at 11 am and reports will be heard from the colleges and universities contacted for Convo The committee will also begin the process of selecting a Convo theme. We encourage all youth, adults and clergy of the Eastern Diocese to join us in this exciting work to plan Convo Bishop Paul asked all our youth to come prepared with many ways to reach out to all our P.N.C.C. youth about the Convo and then offered the Benediction. Thanks is given to Blessed Trinity parish for hosting the meeting and providing the preferred youth meal of choice pizza and donuts. Submitted by Very Rev. Robert M. Nemkovich, Jr. Convo 2016 Officers: Fr. Sr. Rob Nemkovich, Convo Chaplain; James Nelson, Treasurer; Eric Nemkovich, President; Abby Nelson, Vice-President; Erin Tudryn, Secretary and Bishop Paul Sobiechowski.

28 28 God s Field December 2014

29 Volume 92, Issue No Operation Christmas Child Efforts Blessed Trinity and Fall River Parishes This fall parishioners and friends of Blessed Trinity Parish in Fall River, MA and Holy Cross Parish in Central Falls, RI again participated in the Operation Christmas Child effort as recommended by our P.N.C.C. National United Youth Association. We are excited that more than 90 shoe boxes were shipped to Children in Need in our world from this endeavor. Following Holy Mass on Sunday November 16, 2014 these boxes were blessed by Fr. Sr. Rob Nemkovich and our parish youth gathered around to send them off with love from our children to those children who need our love, prayers and hope as they live in poverty and terrible conditions. Go to for more information on this wonderful program. Just a small effort can mean so much to one who is in such great need. Submitted by Very Rev. Robert M. Nemkovich, Jr. Operation Christmas Child Efforts

30 30 God s Field December 2014 St. John s Parishioners Join in Manchester Interfaith Thanksgiving Service Manchester, CT Father Henry Smolinski [above with multi-colored shawl] joined 6 other clergy from Manchester at 4:30 p.m. Nov.23 to revive a former city tradition of an Inter-faith Service on the Sunday before Thanksgiving. Martha LaFranchise. Maureen Johnson, and Agnes Simpson, also from St.John s, were among the 150 or more people who gathered at Temple Beth Sholom for the Service. In the back row of the photo above, 3rd from the left, Mayor Jay Moran read a City Council Proclamation marking the revival of this gathering of Christians, Muslims and Jews, giving thanks for our blessings. Rabbi Richard Plavin, 4th from the left in the photo s back row, welcomed all the attendees and emceed the Program. After some hymns led by choirs from 3 different congregations (Jewish, Unitarian, and Christian), brief intercessory prayers were offered by clergy from the Methodist, Episcopal, Unitarian, Catholic and Lutheran churches. The people responded to each petition with a sung, brief Hebrew line from the Psalms. Scriptures were read from the 3 Abrahamic faiths represented: Deuteronomy 8:7-10 in English by Phil Susag; Psalm 100 read in Spanish by the pastor of Casa Ebenezer; Arabic verses from the Qur an read and translated by Imam Tarek Ambia; Psalm 92 read in Hebrew by a member of the synagogue; and Philippians 4:4-6,8-9 in English by a member of Emanuel Lutheran Church. After the Rabbi delivered a brief keynote address, a collection was taken for the Emergency Food Pantry of the Manchester Area Conference of Churches. All exited to the singing of America the Beautiful, and convened in the synagogue s hall for desserts and Jewish wine. Submitted by Rev. Henry Smolinski

31 Volume 92, Issue No Western Diocese This is the third year that the employees of Graphic Sciences, Inc. in Madison Heights, Michigan have donated food to families in need at Thanksgiving. This year the recipients of the food baskets were parishioners of All Saints P.N.C.C. in Sterling Heights, Michigan, who greatly appreciated the generosity of the employees. Pennie has worked at Graphic Sciences for 6 years. All Saints Happenings Sterling Heights, MI Vice President Tom Liebold, Pennie Drada, Fr. Raymond Drada, and President Greg Colton with turkeys and food donated by employees of Graphic Sciences, Inc. On Saturday, November 21 ST, over 20 members and friends of All Saints spent a couple of hours in community outreach and support at the Gleaner s Food Distribution Center in Warren, Michigan. The group, which included a couple of individuals, a Baptist Church and All Saints, put together 800 bags of nonperishable food for Senior Citizens who live in the Warren area. We thank all those who came out on a very icy day and supported the needs of Gleaners. We plan on going back during the Season of Lent to give a couple of hours to the good work that Gleaners do for all our neighbors. If you can make a cash donation to this very important organization, please do, or donate 2 1/2 hours of your time. Participants in the Gleaner s Community Outreach Project May God bless them all! On Sunday, November 30, 2014 the Parish Family of All Saints welcomed new souls to the Body of Christ. Following the homily, Fr. Raymond Drada, Pastor blessed the new members to the Body of Christ. Following Mass, the Chairperson of the All Saints Mission & Evangelism Committee, Mrs. Gloria Bawol introduced the new families and presented each family will a gift bag with Holy Scripture and other goodies. After Mass in the Parish Hall, fellowship, coffee and a special cake for the occasion was enjoyed by the congregation. Welcome! New Members of the All Saints Parish Family Submitted by Rev. Raymond Drada