|
Pastoral Meeting of the North
American Diocesan Clergy with Participation of Laity
By the grace of God, from
February 17-19 (March 2 - 4, new style) 2007, the clergy of the North
American Dioceses of ROCOR(V), with laity, gathered for Great
Lent Services and a Pastoral Conference in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.
Almost all [clergy of the Canadian and American Dioceses] were able to
attend: Bishop Vladimir of San Francisco and Western America,
Archpriest Konstantine Fedoroff, Archpriest Spyridon Schneider, Priest
Eugene Santalov, Priest Christopher Johnson, Priest Kirill
Bartoshevich, Priest Andre Lomov, Priest Andrew Hrycko, Deacons John
Somers, Alexei Fimine, and Sergiy Agou. Also present were Priest Andrew
Kencis, rector of Saint Vladimir's Cathedral, which hosted the
Conference, and Bishop Bartholomew of Edmonton and Western Canada. Also
present were more than a dozen laity and two readers from different
parishes and communities. Despite a snow and ice storm in the
northeastern part of the continent, all arrived in time to take part in
the Conference. Those few clergy, who notified in advance that for
various reasons they would be unable to attend, prayed in spirit with
those gathered for the Conference.
On Friday, in the morning, the day of commemoration of Great Martyr Theodore the Recruit, all gathered at the Cathedral of the Western Canadian Diocese dedicated to the Holy Equal of the Apostles Great Prince Vladimir - the Enlightener of the Russian Land, where Bishop Vladimir served the Molieben for The Beginning of Any Good Work. After the Molieben, those gathered went downstairs to the Trapieza hall, and sang the prayer "O Heavenly King," and both Bishops blessed the conference. Shortly afterwards, Bishop Bartholomew left due to his poor health. In the beginning of the conference, Bishop Vladimir read an opening address where he urged everyone to conduct the meeting in the spirit of Truth and brotherly love and peace. Then the Pastors and representatives of the different parishes shared accounts of the lives of their communities, their difficulties and joys. After these reports on parishes all were noticeably encouraged and moved with the understanding that everyone has managed to conduct a full parish life. In all parishes where there is a Priest present, services are conducted on a regular basis; and in several parishes a full cycle of daily services are served. Parishes consist of people from various ethnic origins: Russians from the different waves of immigrations, Greeks, Bulgarians, Poles, Romanians, Serbians, Orthodox Americans and Canadians, and others. Also, all were glad that North American parishes are rich with talented parishioners, among which there are Readers and Deacons, professional choir conductors, iconographers, candle makers, jewelers, publishers, crafts people and so forth. In just a little less than half of the parishes represented, services are mostly served in the English language. However, as was shown through the course of the conference, and especially in the bilingual church services, language was no barrier between those gathered; nor can there be, for we profess the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit with one heart. After the reports on the parishes, the question on the destiny of ROCOR (V), as the lawful and legitimate continuation of the historical legacy of ROCA was discussed. Father Konstantine Fedoroff gave a report on the traditional direction of the ROCA Church, which was blessed and supported by Metropolitan Philaret, who spoke about two missions of the Russian Orthodox Church Abroad: Firstly, to hold on to what you have - to keep the true Russian Church so to be able to give it back to the Motherland. And the second mission is to bring the light of Orthodoxy to the world that has lost the true faith. Metropolitan Philaret, as well as Saint John (Maximovitch), extended their hands to everyone who wanted salvation, regardless of their origin, for there is neither Greek nor Jew, circumcision nor uncircumcision, Barbarian, Scythian, bond nor free: but Christ is all, and in all, (Col. 3:11). As is known, entire nations have perished if they decided to embrace doctrines that disagree with this understanding. Even in the time of Metropolitan Philaret, there was a false teaching being spread that Russian Orthodoxy is exclusive, that it has nothing to do with Greek Orthodoxy, and in fact, that it is an entirely different church. (For example, today we see the same thing occurring with the Georgian Church.) At that time in the ROCA there appeared an unhealthy tendency, to think that this Church is exclusively for Russians. However, not one Metropolitan, not one of the confessors from the Church Abroad ever supported such a teaching. Saint John of Shanghai, for example, served in English and even in the Chinese language, proving the universal character of the Church, which was an ornament to ROCA. In 1970, the entire Orthodox world was impressed by the confession of faith that Metropolitan Philaret expressed in his epistle shortly after Constantinople "suspended" the anathema concerning heretics. With his sermon to the world Metropolitan Philaret stated a clear vision of True Orthodox Faith. The sermons of Metropolitan Philaret were full of unconditional love; he appealed to all Orthodox people, as to his own spiritual children. His sermons appealed to and encouraged all the Orthodox to return to the confession of Faith that we inherited from the Holy Fathers. The message of Metropolitan Philaret, as a double-edged sword, divided the whole Orthodox world into two categories: one category of confessors and the other of people who did not want to keep the purity of faith. They were the ones who decided to go on a path of hypocritical compromises. Of this, Metropolitan Vitaly also repeatedly spoke, saying that we walk along the edge of a knife, and that everyone will sooner or later have to choose whether to be with Christ or to go against Him. Then questions on the language of Divine Services were discussed. The opinion was expressed, that, while the Church Slavonic language is consecrated by centuries-old Church history, the English language allows English-speaking parishioners to better understand Orthodox Divine Services. After one gets used to and knows well the service, the language of service has no special value. In many North American parishes the service is conducted in both languages. We reaffirmed that we should preach the Gospel in all languages, to all nationalities and groups. Of course, we must bear in mind that they will believe, regardless of language, only if we preach by the example of how we conduct our lives. There also was a discussion regarding the relationship with Clergy from the Synod of Metropolitan Laurus, who decided not to follow, when they had the opportunity, the path of confession of Blessed Metropolitan Vitaly, and now find themselves in despondency and disappointment, requiring moral support and encouragement. Bishop Vladimir mentioned that in ROCOR (L) there are priests, who do not want to join with the MP and are being openly persecuted because of that. A number of them spoke with Vladika, and the other Priests of our Church. The difficulties for them to come to us are not in regard to Orthodox dogma - for they stand on the same confession as we do, and inwardly they always supported Metropolitan Vitaly, when he was alive. On this subject, Father Konstantine commented, that very often the difficulties that arise for them to leave Metropolitan Laurus are of a material circumstance - that is, a question of housing and monetary dependency on their parishes. Thus, we should pray for them, not condemning them, that the Lord will send them the strength to pull themselves and their flocks out from this ominous web. Bishop Vladimir also pointed out, that this spiritual despondency and being unsettled spiritually, even among these sincere priests, are a manifestation, a sign and a consequence because they have to some degree detached themselves from the Orthodox Faith and the Orthodox Church. Another reason for their spiritual decline is that they are aware, that Metropolitan Vitaly anathematized the Laurus Synod in November 2001 (besides the anathema on Michael Donskoff), when the Laurus Synod started the persecutions against the fourth First-Hierarch of ROCOR. And being part of this synod that was anathematized, truly causes languor in the clergy who in their hearts do not consent with those priests who have strayed. In connection with the question of greeting such priests with the common greeting between priests «Christ is in our midst», Bishop Vladimir said, that this greeting is in fact, a liturgical dialogue, which is possible only after acceptance of these clergymen into communion with us. Therefore it is necessary to be limited to a "missionary greeting," as, for example, "Christ is Risen!" During the course of the discussions the question was also raised on the situation, under special circumstances, of lay people receiving Holy Communion in other local churches. Examples were given, that even recently some of our Bishops and even First-Hierarchs allowed lay people to commune, for example, at Old-Calendrist Greek churches. However, Bishop Vladimir said that that time has passed and now we should not encourage this to occur until a clear decision can be made in a general sobor. As a general rule in response to this question, the Bishop brought forward the following reasoning… If a Pastor can allow a parishioner to commune in this or that local church, then, consequently, nothing should prohibit him to commune and serve there also (that, without the decision of the Sobor on this question, the priest does so independently, certainly, without having the blessing of the hierarchy at this time). Questions were brought forward regarding Church dialogue through the Internet and the creation of a North-American diocesan website. It has been decided, that this question will be resolved in the near future, however it is necessary to give attention to the official website of our Church, which requires thorough and extensive updating, and then to consider work on other projects. In connection with the Internet an opinion was expressed, that, despite the pious character of some discussions that the faithful engage in, there exists a risk for this to become a distraction taking the faithful away from what should be the center of their personal lives- prayer- both corporate and private. However, all have agreed, that for the faithful dispersed all over the world, in particular those who live far away from a priest, the Internet can be and is very often the only method of communication with their brethren in Christ. The use of the Internet is appropriate and does serve as an aid for missionary purposes and the saving of human souls. The first day of the conference concluded with a prayer to the Most-Pure Mother of God. A lenten meal followed. Then all went upstairs to the Church for the Service of Holy Unction. For many years the faithful did not participate in this beautiful Sacrament in its fullness - that is, with seven priests serving as prescribed by the typicon. On this occasion the assembled clergy including the bishop exceeded this number. Thus, the Sacrament was performed in all its magnificence and completeness. The Sacrament and the joyous celebratory spirit of unity that was present visibly inspired the clergy and assembled parishioners. Bishop Vladimir read the Canon in Church Slavonic, and the choir sang the Odes and sticheras in English. The Prayers and Gospels were read in turn by all the priests, starting with the Bishop. Some were read in English, others in Church Slavonic. [The Epistles were read and three deacons intoned the Ectenias in turn, according to rank, seamlessly alternating between English and Slavonic.] Having received anointment for the healing of soul and body, all were noticeably peaceful. With renewed spiritual strength the faithful listened to the sermon of Bishop Vladimir concerning the Sacrament of Holy Unction and after a light tea, retired for the night. Beginning early (four o'clock) on Saturday morning, the day the Church commemorates Saint Leo the Great, Pope of Rome, Matins and the Divine Liturgy was served. After a light breakfast, participants of the conference again gathered in the Cathedral's dining hall. Having prayed for Divine help with the hymn, O Heavenly King, the meeting began for the day. The decision was made to hold pastoral meetings annually on the weekend of the second Sunday of Great Lent, rotating among all the parishes of North America. The time of Great Fast was selected for many reasons. Predominately, this is a time when our spiritual strength is marshaled which is so necessary when important conciliar decisions are to be made. The Sacrament of Holy Unction is a special one that usually takes place during Great Lent. Because it ideally requires seven clergymen, convening a clergy conference at this time makes it more possible to have the full number of clergy participating. In addition, the Parish that hosts the conference will receive this benefit. The next conference planned will be in Montreal at Saint Seraphim Sarov Parish. The necessity of organizing summer camps for youth was then discussed. Father Konstantine spoke of his experiences in Russia. In his summer camps, at least twice a day, conversations are held on the Law of God. The children live in tents. Liturgies are served often, as well as the all-night vigils, and morning and evening prayers are read daily. Father Andrew Kencis also spoke about the possibility of organizing a summer youth camp in Edmonton, hosted by the St. Vladimir parish. However each parish should consider and decide what are their specific needs and goals for such an undertaking. It was suggested that the prayer of New Hieromartyr Joseph of Petrograd *) be adopted for use during the Divine Liturgy. However, inserting this Prayer into the rubrics of Divine Liturgy falls under the charge of the Sobor of Bishops. Nevertheless, it certainly is permissible to use during Molebens and at prayers at home. Under the initiative of Father Andrew Kencis the question of the local veneration of Metropolitan Philaret in North American parishes was raised. Father Andrew showed photos of the incorrupt relics of Metropolitan Philaret. All over the world, many miracles have occurred as a response to prayer to the Metropolitan, and many of the faithful believe him to be a Saint. Archpriest Konstantine showed and distributed paper icon prints of Metropolitan Philaret. Local veneration of Saints in the Orthodox Church usually concerned local righteous people, blessed ones, and fools-for-Christ. But the role of Metropolitan Philaret has Church-wide, universal value; as he was the Prelate who had impact on the whole Orthodox world. The participants of this meeting expressed the hope that the entire Church will unanimously accomplish his glorification. All of those assembled believe, that Vladika Philaret is a confessor in an age of apostasy, that he is our defender and intercessor, glorified by God with incorrupt relics, and we have no doubt that if the entire Sobor of Bishops would be present here, we could glorify him in a spirit of love, peace, unanimity and brotherhood. Father Konstantine Fedoroff confirmed that in Russia, the faithful are ready for such a glorification. Thus, this Pastoral meeting decided to petition the Sobor of Bishops for the Glorification of Metropolitan Philaret, the third First-Hierarch of ROCOR. Also the question on the Calendar was discussed. Recently in various Church calendars there are recent additions of new saints, some of which raise doubts and others were "glorified" by the Moscow Patriarchate only. It may be that some of these new additions really are saints, but the Church should not blindly accept anyone until a Hierarchal Sobor makes a decision. It has been decided in North American parishes to use as a guide the saints listed in calendars published by ROCOR up to 1999. After the conclusion of Saturday's meeting, the evening Vigil was served. On Sunday, in commemoration of Saint Gregory Palamas, the Divine Liturgy of Saint Basil the Great was served with full hierarchal ceremony. Again the service had a grace-filled, peaceful effect on all present. And again, regardless of the service being served in two languages (Church Slavonic and English), unity was felt by all. During the Small Entrance, Bishop Vladimir bestowed a purple Skufia on Father Eugene Santalov for his dedicated service to the Church of Christ, in the San Francisco and Western American Diocese. Father Eugene, before the split in ROCOR had finished first in his class, with distinction, from the Holy Trinity Theological Seminary, and holds a Bachelor's Degree in Divine Studies. He has served for over seven years as Priest in the Russian Orthodox Church Abroad. At the end of service with a blessing from the Bishop, Father Konstantine consoled all with an inspiring sermon on repentance. During the celebratory meal, Bishop Vladimir and attending clergy greeted and thanked the sisterhood and brethren of the Cathedral of Holy Equal of the Apostles Great Prince Vladimir for their generous service to the Holy Church, their cordial welcome and hospitality. After the meal, Father Spiridon Schneider presented a slide show from his trips to Esphigmenou Monastery on Mount Athos. Dr. Igor Sobolev, a parishioner of St. Vladimir's, gave a slide presentation of Old Calendar Serbian monastics [who have left the ecumenist Serbian Patriarchate]. The Bishop and Fathers answered many questions from the parishioners. On this note the conference was concluded. The guests began to depart to their respective parishes, to bring to their faithful a message of unity and mutual love among the North American Clergy. Henceforth, may our Lord God grant us to live our lives in this spirit of brotherhood and with love towards our Lord Jesus Christ, in the Spirit of Truth, for only He will set us free, both now and ever unto the ages of ages. Amen. Edmonton, Canada, 2007 Participant of Pastoral Meeting *) PRAYER FOR THE CHURCH BY ST. JOSEPH OF PETROGRAD O All-Merciful, Almighty and Most Man-befriending Lord, Jesus Christ our God, Founder of the Church and its Preserver, look down with Thy benevolent eye upon the Orthodox Church, which is fiercely warred against by a storm of misfortunes. For Thou hast said, O Lord: I shall build My Church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. Remember Thine unfailing promise: Behold, I am with you always, even until the end of the age. Be with us and never depart from us. Be merciful to us, Thy much-suffering Church beseeches Thee. Strengthen us in the right faith and in love for Thee. By Thy grace and love convert the erring, soften the hardened hearts of the apostates, and correct every corruption and life that is not in accord with Christian piety. Grant that we may all live in holiness and purity, and that the saving faith may be firmly rooted and bring forth fruit in our hearts. Turn not Thy face away from us; be not wroth with us to the end, O Lord! Give to us the joy of Thy salvation. Wipe away the tears from the eyes of those who weep. Relieve every need of Thy people and console them in their sorrows. By Thine almighty power guard us from all attacks, persecutions and bitterness, from expulsion and imprisonment. So that saved by Thee, we may attain to Thy haven in the heavens, and there with the most pure heavenly powers may glorify Thee, our Lord and Saviour, with the Father and the Holy Spirit, unto the ages of ages. Amen. |
