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QUESTION OF THE MONTH #48 (December 2004)
Question:
What are the sources of the Epistle and Gospel readings?(R.H., Westfield, NJ)
Answer:
The Epistle Readings are taken from one of the New Testament letters which were written to the early Christian
communities. The Gospel Readings are taken from the gospels of St. Matthew, St. Mark, St Luke and St. John. The Gospel
readings highlight a particular teaching or event in Jesus' life.
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QUESTION OF THE MONTH #47 (November 2004)
Question:
How many Rites are there within the Catholic Church?(P.S., Fanwood, NJ)
Answer:
There are 21 Rites within the Catholic Church. The various Rites are as follows:
1) Eastern Rites of Alexandrian tradition: Coptic, Ethiopic (2)
2) Eastern Rites of Antiochian tradition: Malankara, Maronite, Syrian (3)
3) Eastern Rite of Armenian tradition: Armenian (1)
4) Eastern Rites of Chaldaean or East-Syrian tradition: Chaldean, Malabar (2)
5) Eastern Rites of Byzantine (Constantinopolitan) tradition: Albanian, Belarussian, Bulgarian, Greek, Greek-Melkite, Hungarian, Italo-Albanian, Romanian, Russian, Ruthenian, Slovak, Ukrainian (12)
6) Latin Rite (1)
Please note that all of the Churches and Rites above are part of the "Roman Catholic Church" (i.e. members are governed by the Holy Father, the successor of Peter). The Latin Rite is only one of 21 Rites within
the "Roman Catholic Church".
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QUESTION OF THE MONTH #46 (October 2004)
Question:
What are the Pylypiwka obligations/observances? Is it acceptable for a Ukrainian Catholic school to have a dance during Pylypiwka?(T.H., Manitoba, Canada)
Answer:
Pylypiwka is also known as St. Philip's Fast, the Winter Lent or the Christmas Fast. The reason it is named after St. Philip is because it begins November 15th - the day following
the Feast of St. Philip.
St. Philip's Fast is the 40 day penitential period before Christmas (the Incarnation) and Christ's Baptism (Theophany). It is similar to the Great Fast (i.e. Lent) in that it is 40 days in duration
and it gives us the needed time and opportunity to spiritually prepare ourselves for Christ's Birth and Baptism.
The tradition never fixes what should and should not be eaten. However, since it is considered a "lesser" Lent, a penitential spirit is to be maintained. The Great Fast (i.e. Lent) on the other hand,
is more restrictive and stringent in its dietary regulations.
However, St. Philip's Fast is still a time of fasting, which means that meat is never consumed on Friday (at the very least). In fact, more should be done (e.g. perhaps not eating meat and dairy products
on Wednesdays and Fridays, or not eating meat products on weekdays, or a combination of both). Much is left to the Christian to decide in the matters of the frequency (days) of fasting and from what food products.
The main thing is to be committed to the promise we make at the beginning of the fast and see it through to the end. Remember that the fast is not binding on the weekends because every Sunday is considered a small Pascha
(Day of Resurrection).
The inner joy and sense of celebration that we later experience when we meet the newly-born King of kings fills our hearts and souls so much more than any present or gift we receive. As Christians, we need to
recapture the St. Philip's Fast and truly reinstate it into our yearly Christmas preparations. There is no other way to do this but to FAST. Nothing more, nothing less.
The fast makes total sense especially when we begin to approach Christmas and finally reach Christmas Eve and sing for the FIRST time the pivotal feastday hymn "God is with us" - Christ is born! No longer do we fast
and do penance, rather we celebrate the Birth of Christ. We now begin 40 GREAT DAYS OF CELEBRATION - which balance the 40 days of penance and fasting; thus we sing carols during the 40 day period after Christmas.
Once again this fast needs to be reclaimed and truly observed regardless of the pressures of society with its various pre-Christmas celebrations held all around. Simply inform your friends that this is your faith and practice.
I'm sure that they will be fascinated by this statement while you will stand as a WITNESS to Christ in their midst. I truly believe that by practicing the faith and the traditions handed down to us through time, we, in a small
part, combat the rampant and prevalent commercialism of Christmas.
......Concerning whether it is acceptable to attend a zabava (dance) during the time of Pylypiwka, it depends on one's inner and spiritual makeup and attitude to preparing oneself for Christmas. For example, celebrations can be held within this season like on
the Feasts of St. Nicholas, the Immaculate Conception, the Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary into the Temple and even Thanksgiving Day (the national holiday). These are days that are exempt from the penitential spirit of Pylypiwka.
Does the zabava reflect a sense of thanksgiving to God for His plan of salvation? If the zabava is appropriate spiritually and is a celebration done in a Christian spirit and respect, it's fine. If it is just a dance for the sake of a dance,
I would abstain. Remember one of the characteristics of the Pylypiwka period is patience and a "waiting for" disposition.
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QUESTION OF THE MONTH #45 (September 2004)
Question:
On the altar in the Hillside church, I noticed the letters IC XC NI KA. What do they stand for? (O.S., Hillside, NJ)
Answer:
The letters "IC XC NI KA" are Greek letters that are abbreviations for "Jesus Christ Conquers".
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QUESTION OF THE MONTH #44 (August 2004)
Question:
Why is the Feast of the Assumption of Mary sometimes called The Dormition of Mary?(L.M. NYC, NY)
Answer:
In the Eastern Church, the feast of the Dormition of the Most Holy Mother of God is celebrated on August 15th. The Eastern Catholics believe that
Mary did die and then was Assumed into heaven. The word Dormition emphasises that Mary "fell asleep" (i.e. died) before she was Assumed.
In the Western Church, the feast of the Assumption of Mary is also celebrated on August 15th. The Roman Catholics believe that Mary did not die but
rather she assumed into heaven without dying.
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QUESTION OF THE MONTH #43 (July 2004)
Question:
What is the difference between Transubstantiation vs. Consubstantiation? Which do Catholics believe in?(P.S. Fanwood, NJ)
Answer:
Transubstantiation refers to the belief that, in the Eucharist, Jesus Christ is truly present, body, blood, soul and divinity under the appearance of bread and wine.
A key point is that there is no longer bread and wine on the altar after the Consecration of the gifts, but the precious Body and Blood of Jesus Christ."
Consubstantiation refers to the belief that, in the Eucharist, that Jesus is present, but the substance of bread and wine remains bread and wine.
Catholics believe in Transubstantiation. Lutherans believe in Consubstantiation.
The Lutherans believe that the Eucharist as a service ("breaking of the bread", as they refer to it) is a memorial of what Christ did at a certain point and place in history.
Catholics hold that Divine Liturgy and Mass are re-enactments, reliving again the main events of the history of salvation --- the Nativity, public mission, Passion, death on the Cross,
His resurrection, Ascension, and even Descent of the Holy Spirit (Pentecost). It is like going back into history and bringing it into our time. This is why Catholics are not spectators of the
Last Supper (as Lutherans believe), but active participants at the Last Supper.
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QUESTION OF THE MONTH #42 (June 2004)
Question:
What are the "7 Deadly Sins"? Also, what is the difference between
Mortal vs. Venial Sins? (D.K. Scotch Plains, NJ)
Answer:
The "7 Deadly Sins", also known as "capital sins" are as follows: Pride; Avarice (greed); Envy; Wrath; Lust; Gluttony; and Sloth (laziness).
These sins were mentioned by the early Fathers of the Church (e.g. Evagrius, Cassian wrote a book A Ladder to Heaven which mentioned these sins).
These sins were highlighted again by Pope Gregory the Great in 604 and extensively analyzed by St. Thomas Aquinas in 1274. These sins are considered "deadly"
since they give rise to other sins.
The following 3 conditions must exist for a sin to be considered Mortal: 1) It must be a serious matter; 2) The person must know it is serious; and 3) The person must commit it freely.
Mortal sins destroy our relationship with God and the presence of sanctifying grace in our souls. Catholics are also not allowed to receive Holy Communion unless they confess their Mortal Sins.
Venial sins are slight sins that wound, rather than destroy, our relationship with God. A person commits a Venial sin out of ignorance and / or involuntarily (not of his or her own will).
Also, everyone should confess both Mortal and Venial sins! No exemptions. Venial sins lead to Mortal sins.
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QUESTION OF THE MONTH #41 (May 2004)
Question:
When I go to the priest for blessing with Holy Oil after certain Liturgies, he says something and I am not sure how to respond.
Could you tell me what I should say? (D.P. Mountainside, NJ)
Answer:
When the priest annoints you on the forehead (in the form of a cross) with the Holy Oil (i.e. Myrovanja), he typically says "Christ is among us". You would respond "He is and He shall be".
During Easter, the priest would say "Christ is risen!" and you would respond "Indeed He is Risen!". During Christmas, the priest would say "Christ is Born!"
and you would say "Glorify Him!".
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QUESTION OF THE MONTH #40 (April 2004)
Question:
What is the reason that we make the Sign of the Cross? (J.S. Union, NJ)
Answer:
Catholics make the Sign of the Cross as a sign of respect to God and also as a means of requesting God's blessings on themselves.
The origin of the making the Sign of the Cross dates back to the 2nd century when it was common for individuals to pay respect to a ruler
by gesturing. Thus, Christians used the Sign of the Cross to honor the Holy Trinity. Additionally, the Sign of the Cross served as a
form of recognition since early Christians were forced to worship in secret.
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QUESTION OF THE MONTH #39 (March 2004)
Question:
Why do we, as Eastern Catholics, celebrate Orthodoxy Sunday? (S.R. Springfield, MA)
Answer:
Orthodoxy Sunday is celebrated on the First Sunday of Lent. On this day, the Church commemorates the victory over the
Iconoclasts (i.e. those that violently opposed the veneration of icons and sacred objects). Around 726, Emperor Leo published
an edict forbiding anyone honoring the icons of Our Lord, the Blessed Mother and the Saints. Almost all icons were destroyed
during the 8th and 9th Centuries due to the Iconoclasts. Many Christians were put in prison or even killed because they kept icons.
During the 2nd Council of Nicea of 787, Church Leaders declared that veneration of holy icons is not idolatry. It is important
to note that the honor given to an icon only "veneration" and NOT "adoration" which is given only to God.
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QUESTION OF THE MONTH #38 (February 2004)
Question:
What is the significance of a Votive Candle? (O.S. Hillside, NJ)
Answer:
Within the church community, a burning candle symbolizes the presence of Jesus. Candles create a prayerful
atmosphere in church. Symbolically, the candles remind us that our prayers should come from our hearts which
are burning full of love for God and they should be directed toward heavan -- just as the smoke rises.
In addition to the above, a Votive Candle symbolizes a continuation of our prayers after we leave the church.
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QUESTION OF THE MONTH #37 (January 2004)
Question:
Is January 1st a Holy Day of Obligation for Catholics? (R.S. Union, NJ)
Answer:
For Roman Catholics, January 1st IS a Holy Day of Obligation. The Holy Day celebrates the
Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of God.
For Ukrainian Catholics, January 1st IS NOT a Holy Day of Obligation. However, for Ukrainian Catholics, January 1st is a Solemn Holy Day
which commemorates the Circumcision of Our Lord. The Circumcision of Our Lord occurs the 8th day from Jesus's birth -- just as is common
in the Jewish faith. For further information on the Circumcision of Our Lord, please see the February 2002 Question of the Month in the archives.
For Ukrainian Catholics, January 1st also marks the Feast of St. Basil the Great, Archbishop of Caesarea in Cappadocia.
To see a listing of the Holy Days of Obligation for Ukrainian Catholics, please refer to the February 2001 Question of the Month in the archives.
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QUESTION OF THE MONTH #36 (December 2003)
Question:
What is the difference between Baptism and Christening? (D.K. Scotch Plains, NJ)
Answer:
Depending on your religion, you may have a different answer to the question. From a Catholic perspective,
Baptism is the proper name of the first sacrament that we receive during our Christian Initiation. The word "Baptize" is derived
from the Greek word "baptizein" which means to "plunge" or "immerse". During Baptism, the candidate is either immersed in water or has
water poured over his/her head. For Catholics, Baptism is usually administered to infants.
Christening typically refers to the ceremony when an infant is "named" and introduced to the church. For many Protestants, especially
Evangelicals, the Christening ceremony is administered to infants. However, Baptism is administered to older children or adults.
Thus, while many use the terms "Baptism" and "Christening" interchangeably, Catholics should use the term "Baptism".
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QUESTION OF THE MONTH #35 (November 2003)
Question:
What does the priest do at the little table prior to the Liturgy? (R.R. Landsdale, PA)
Answer:
You are referring to Proskomedia -- which is at the beginning of the Liturgy when the gifts (i.e. bread and wine) are prepared. The preparation occurs
at the little side-altar which reminds the faithful that Jesus was born outside the city of Bethlehem.
There is profound symbolism during the proskomedia. The chalice and the paten represent Jesus' crib. The star over the gifts represent the Star of Bethlehem.
The large Ahnets (i.e. bread or hosts prepared for the Liturgy) represent Jesus. The surrounding hosts represent the Blessed Mother, shepherds and angels who
came to adore Jesus. Additional hosts represent the living and dead faithful.
The large host is pierced with a golden spear which commemorates the piercing of Jesus' heart on the cross. The veil over the gifts is reminiscent of the swaddling
clothes which the Blessed Mother covered Jesus in the manager.
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QUESTION OF THE MONTH #34 (October 2003)
Question:
Sometimes I attend services at St. Rose of Lima church in Short
Hills, NJ. Can you tell me something about St. Rose of Lima? (R.C. Short Hills, NJ)
Answer:
St. Rose of Lima was born in 1586 in Lima, Peru. While Rose was her confirmation name, her baptismal
name was Isabel. She had a great admiration of St. Cahterine of Siena.
Rose worked in the garden all day and sewed all night to help her parents who were struggling financially. Her
parents wanted her to marry, but Rose took a vow of virginity and entered the Third Order of St. Dominic when she
was 20 years old.
Rose was very devoted to her life of prayer and reflection. She even wore a crown of silver lined with sharp studs so
that she could experience what a crown of thorns might feel like. Rose established an infirmary in her house and
provided for poor children, Indians, slaves and older people. She is credited with starting social services in Peru.
Rose died on August 24, 1617 and is the Patroness of Peru and South America. She is the first person of the Americas
to be canonized a saint.
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QUESTION OF THE MONTH #33 (September 2003)
Question:
I always thought the Liturgical Year began at the end of summer.
My neighbor thinks it begins in November. Is either of us right? (L.M. Union, NJ)
Answer:
In the Eastern rite, the New Liturgical Year begins on September 1st. The 1st of September was
adopted as the beginning of the New Liturgical Year at the First Ecumenical Council in Nicea in 325.
In the Western rite, the 1st day of Advent marks the beginning of the New Liturgical Year.
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QUESTION OF THE MONTH #32 (August 2003)
Question:
Who wrote the Bible and when? (A.C., Hillside, NJ)
Answer:
The Bible (which comes from the Greek word "biblia" meaning "books") is a collection of ancient writings about God.
The Bible was written by many different authors. Most of the authors were Hebrew but some of the authors are unknown.
The Bible was written over approximately 1000 years -- from 900 B.C. to 100 A.D.
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QUESTION OF THE MONTH #31 (July 2003)
Question:
Do the angels have titles? (P.S., Scotch Plains, NJ)
Answer:
As you read the Bible, you will find many different titles that are given to angels. The
Eucharistic Prayer of St. Basil mentions nine titles for angels -- divided into the following three ranks:
1. The higher order: cherubim, seraphim, thrones; These are the angels that stand before the
throne of God and ceaselessly proclaim his glory.
2. The second order: authorities, dominions, powers.
3. The third order: principalities, archangels, angels; These are the messengers.
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QUESTION OF THE MONTH #30 (June 2003)
Question:
What percentage of Ukrainians are Catholic? (H.S., Bridgewater, NJ)
Answer:
The religions of Ukraine (1995) have been reported as follows:
Ukrainian Orthodox 70%
Ukrainian Catholic 10%
Protestant 4%
Roman Catholic 1%
Jewish 1%
Muslim 0.5%
Other/non-religous 13.5%
Thus, based on a population of approximately 50 million people in Ukraine, 5 million people belong to the Ukrainian Catholic
Church and 500,000 people belong to the Roman Catholic Church.
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QUESTION OF THE MONTH #29 (May 2003)
Question:
Why does the Easter bread get cut up and distributed the Sunday after Easter? (D.S., Hillside, NJ)
Answer:
On Thomas Sunday (i.e. the Sunday after Easter), the Artos (i.e. the bread blessed on Easter Sunday morning) is distributed after the Liturgy. The bread symbolizes our unity in the Resurrected Christ as
we share in the same loaf of bread.
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QUESTION OF THE MONTH #28 (April 2003)
Question:
I know that God rested on the 7th day in the Creation Story. What did He do on each of the other days? (B.H., Clinton, NJ)
Answer:
You can read about The Creation in Genesis 1. When God began to create the universe,
there was nothing to be seen. However, the Spirit of God was present.
In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth. He said, "Let there be light" and there was light. He separated the light from darkness and hence "day" and "night" were created on Day One.
On Day 2, God created the rivers, oceans and streams.
On Day 3, God created plants and trees.
On Day 4, God created the stars, sun and moon.
On Day 5, God created the fish, birds and all the animals.
On Day 6, God created Adam and Eve. He told them to care for the world He created.
On Day 7, God rested from His work. Because of this, He made the seventh day a holy day of rest.
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QUESTION OF THE MONTH #27 (March 2003)
Question:
What is a "Concordance"? Do I need it to help me read The Bible? (B.K., Albany, NY)
Answer:
Webster's Dictionary defines Concordance as "an alphabetical index of the principal words in a book or the works of an author with their immediate contexts." There are
concordances of The Bible (e.g. Strong's Exhaustive Concordance of The Bible) that allow you to look up a word in an alphabetical index and find every verse that the word
appears in throughout The Bible.
For example, by looking up the word "wagons" in the index of the Concordance of The Bible, you will find numerous verses of The Bible that the word "wagons" appears in. Thus,
the Concordance of the Bible is a great tool to enhance your study of The Bible.
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QUESTION OF THE MONTH #26 (February 2003)
Question:
Someone told me that the Christmas Season ends on Stritennia. Can you explain what Stritennia is? (J.R., Maplewood, NJ)
Answer:
Stritennia (the Ukrainian word which means "presentation") refers to the Feast of the Presentation of Our Lord in the Temple which is celebrated on February 2nd.
This holyday is celebrated 40 days after Christmas and marks the end of the Christmas season.
The Presentation of Our Lord in the Temple is a holyday that commemorates the offering and dedication of the baby Jesus to God's service by His mother Mary and father Joseph.
Jewish law mandated that all first-born males of the Jewish faith be dedicated to God's service. Jesus and Mary offered 2 doves as an act of redemption.
St. Simeon was a holy man who lived in the temple of Jerusalem. God promised St. Simeon that he would not die until he saw the Messiah. When St. Simeon held baby Jesus in his arms,
St. Simeon was filled with the Holy Spirit and chanted "Now You can let Your servant go in peace, O Master..."(Lk. 2, 29-32). There was also a widow named Anna who never left the temple but worshipped day and
night with fasting and prayer. She saw the Messiah and announced His coming in Jerusalem.
On this feast, candles are blessed and distributed to the faithful. In homes, the blessed candles are lighted and placed before an icon in times of serious illness or grave danger.
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QUESTION OF THE MONTH #25 (January 2003)
Question:
Our priests have not visited our house for "home blessings" in several years. Is there a prayer that we can say and bless our home ourselves? (L.M. Springfield, NJ)
Answer:
The following "Prayer for The Blessing of Homes" appeared in the Christmas 2002 edition of The Way (Ukrainian Catholic Biweekly):
PRIEST: Let us pray to the Lord.
CANTOR: Lord, have mercy.
PRIEST: O God, our Savior, the True Light, Who was baptized in the Jordan River by John to renew all people by the waters of regeneration, and Who condescended to enter the roof of Zacchaeus to bring salvation to him and all in his house.
We, Your servants, now beseech You: Keep safe from all harm all those who dwell here; bestow upon them Your blessing, purification and bodily health, and grant all their petitions for their salvation and for life everlasting.
CANTOR: Amen.
TROPARION - Tone 1 - At Your baptism in the Jordan River, O Lord, the worship of the Trinity was revealed, for the Father's voice bore witness to You, calling You His Beloved Son, and the Spirit in the form of a dove confirmed the truth of these words. O Christ God, Who appeared and enlightened the world, glory be to You!"
GLORY BE TO THE FATHER, AND TO THE SON, AND TO THE HOLY SPIRIT, NOW AND EVER AND FOREVER. AMEN.
KONTAKION - Tone 4 - You have revealed Yourself to the world today, and Your light, O Lord, has shone upon us. We recognize You and exclaim to You: You have come and revealed Yourself, O Inaccessible Light!
PRIEST: This home is blessed and sanctified by the sprinkling of this holy water, in the name of the Father + and the Son + and of the Holy + Spirit. Amen.
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2002
QUESTION OF THE MONTH #24 (December 2002)
Question:
I remember my grandmother bringing flowers to church to be blessed. When does this happen? (A.B. Union, NJ)
Answer:
The "blessing of flowers" occurs twice a year --- on the feast of the Nativity of the Mother of God (September 8th) and on the feast of the Dormition of the Mother of God (August 15th). The congregation is encouraged to bring flowers, which the priest then blesses, on these holydays.
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QUESTION OF THE MONTH #23 (November 2002)
Question:
Can you help me to understand where the word "Gospel" came from? (M.Z. Basking Ridge, NJ)
Answer:
The word "Gospel" originates from the words "god" (i.e. good) and "spell" (i.e. tell). These are both Anglo-Saxon words. Restated in todays language, Gospel means "Good News".
If you read Luke 4:16-18, you will notice that Jesus used the words "Good News" as he appeared at the synagogue in Nazareth.
The Gospel is the first four books of the New Testament: Matthew, Mark, Luke and John. Each reading relates to either one of Jesus' teachings or to a significant event in His life. When the priest reads the Gospel during Liturgy, it reminds us of the preaching of Jesus.
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QUESTION OF THE MONTH #22 (October 2002)
Question:
Is there any significance to the words used during the beginning of the Liturgy? (L.S., Plainfield, NJ)
Answer:
Yes, the priest begins the Liturgy with the following words: "Blessed is the kingdom of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, now and forever, world without end." The congregation responds "Amen".
This Opening Doxology reminds us that as we worship, we are entering the Kingdom of God.
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QUESTION OF THE MONTH #21 (September 2002)
Question:
Can you explain the holyday Exaltation of the Holy Cross? (C.K., Union, NJ)
Answer:
September 14th is the holyday of The Exaltation of the Holy Cross. After Jesus was killed, his cross was hidden on Mt. Calvary. The pagan Roman emporer Adrian (76-138) built a temple in honor of Jupiter and Venus over the site where Jesus' cross was hidden.
Saint Helen, the mother of emperor Constantine the Great, gave orders for the pagan temple to be destroyed and asked for a search to begin to find Jesus' cross. The cross was found in 326 on Mount Calvary.
The Bishop of Jerusalem, Saint Makary, recognized the cross as a miracle since a dead person rose from the dead after the cross was applied to him. The cross was carried in a glorious procession into Jerusalem and placed in a church. Constantine the Great built a church over the site of Jesus' grave.
In the Ukrainian Catholic Rite, the holyday is a strict fast. A cross, adorned with flowers, is exposed on the tetrapod for 7 days as people venerate it as a symbol of their faith and a means to their redemption.
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QUESTION OF THE MONTH #20 (August 2002)
Question:
I have been to many Ukrainian Weddings and would like
to know about the tradition of offering the newly
married couple gifts as they enter their reception.
What is offered to them and what is the meaning of
each gift? (K.M., Livingston, NJ)
Answer:
The Bride and Groom are greeted at the reception door
as husband and wife for the first time by their
parents. Traditional gifts of salt, bread and wine
are presented by both sets of parents and has the
following significance:
Salt - a necessary ingredient for life
Bread - represents nature's bounty
Wine - used in the first toast to the couple and
celebrates happiness and unity.
The Godparents will then carry in the Korovay which is
a traditional wedding bread. The Korovay has the
following symbolism:
Round shape - symbolizes the sun which is a giver of
life
Birds - represent the bride and groom
Flowers - represents the female friends of the bride
Center of the Korovay - contains a figurative tree of
life
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QUESTION OF THE MONTH #19 (July 2002)
Question:
Does the word "Alleluia" have any particular meaning? (E.C., Bridgewater, NJ)
Answer:
"Alleluia" was used by the Jewish people as a cry of praise and joy to God. It translates as "Praise the Lord!" Prior to the priest reading the Gospel during Liturgy, the congregation sings "Alleluia" to express their joy in soon hearing the Word of God.
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QUESTION OF THE MONTH #18 (June 2002)
Question:
During the Divine Liturgy, what does the Thrice Holy
Hymn signify? (JD, St. Louis, MO)
Answer:
The Thrice Holy Hymn, also known as The Trisagion
Hymn,is the song that the angels sing before God in
Heaven. It is a short hymn in honor of the Blessed
Trinity. During the Liturgy, the faithful sing this
hymn as they await the Word of God (i.e. The Gospel).
The Hymn is worded as follows:
Holy God, Holy Mighty One, Holy Immortal One, Have
Mercy on us. (Thrice)
Glory to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy
Spirit, now and forever and ever, Amen.
Holy Immortal One, Have Mercy on us.
Holy God, Holy Mighty One, Holy Immortal One, Have
Mercy on us.
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QUESTION OF THE MONTH #17 (May 2002)
Question:
At the beginning of each of the 12 Gospel readings during Passion Service on Holy Thursday, 6 members of the congregation come forward and hold candles during the reading. I very much enjoy this opportunity to participate actively in the service, but wonder what the symbolism is behind this. Could you explain? (JP, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada)
Answer:
Many parishes have different traditions in celebrating the Holy Thursday evening service. In some parishes, a candelabrum is used to hold 12
candles -- which are lit one by one after each Gospel. In other parishes, the entire congregation is invited to hold lighted candles. In your particular parish, you have a different custom -- which is probably designed to increase the participation of the congregation.
You may have noticed that candles are common in each of the traditions.
Candles remind people of the Word of God -- hence, the Light of the World!
The Passion Gospels is a beautiful service which begins with Matins, Psalms,
verses and then continues with the 12 Gospels. On this evening of Holy
Thursday, we recall how Jesus was betrayed, arrested and crucified.
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QUESTION OF THE MONTH #16 (April 2002)
Question:
I've noticed in the Ukrainian Catholic Church the priest faces the altar
during much of the service, while in the Roman Catholic Church the priest
faces the congregation. Why is there a difference? (Student, USA)
Answer:
In the Ukrainian Catholic Church, the ancient Christian tradition of facing
EAST in worship was followed. Since the churches were typically oriented
so that the altar faced EAST, the priest faced the altar in order to face
the EAST. The EAST was symbolic since the sun rises in the EAST and this
symbolized Christ's Resurrection.
From this tradition, the priest in the Ukrainian Catholic Church faces the
altar -- however, he turns and blesses the congregation numerous times
during the Liturgy. Even if the church was built so that the altar is not
facing East, the priest still faces the altar and is said to be facing
"Liturgical East".
With respect to the Roman Catholic Church, after Vatican II, the priests
began to face the congregation during Liturgy. The following two reasons
are often cited to explain this practice:
1) In the Early Church, people gathered around a table to celebrate Mass.
Thus, the priest would face the congregation in a table setting.
2) At St. Peter's Basilica in Rome, the altar at the center faces West.
This is the altar that the Holy Father uses to celebrate Mass. In order to
face EAST, the Holy Father faced toward the congregation.
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QUESTION OF THE MONTH #15 (March 2002)
Question:
What is the "Liturgy of the Presanctified Gifts"? (T.B., Westfield, NJ)
Answer:
The "Liturgy of the Presanctified Gifts" is a special form of the Liturgy
celebrated during weekdays of Lent -- typically on Wednesday and Friday
evenings. In this Liturgy, the Eucharistic Gifts are presanctified (i.e.
the Eucharist is consecrated beforehand).
The ordinary Divine Liturgy (e.g. the Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom) is
considered a joyous celebration since it commemorates the resurrection of
Jesus. Since Lent is a time of repentance and mourning, the ordinary Divine
Liturgy is typically only celebrated on weekends. Hence, the "Liturgy of
the Presanctified Gifts" is celebrated during the weekdays of Lent.
The "Liturgy of the Presanctified Gifts" is comprised of three sections:
Vespers; Liturgy of the Catechumens; and the Holy Communion.
*****************************************************
QUESTION OF THE MONTH #14 (February 2002)
Question:
How did Jesus get his name? (C.B., Cranford,
NJ)
Answer:
The name Jesus means "the Lord saves", in Hebrew
Yehoshua. According to Jewish custom, Jesus received His name on
His eighth day from His birth and at the same time of His
circumcision. The eighth day is significant because it welcomes a
new era after the seven days of creation.
The angel of the Lord gave this name to Joseph in a dream:
"Joseph, descendant of David, do not be afraid to take Mary to
be your wife. For it is by the Holy Spirit that she has conceived.
She will give birth to a son and you will name him Jesus - because
he will save his people from their sins."(Matthew 1:20-21)
The angel Gabriel also said to Mary:
"You will become pregnant and give birth to a son, and you will
name him Jesus". (Luke 1:31)
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QUESTION OF THE MONTH #13 (January 2002)
Question:
I have always been confused by the different
ways that the Ukrainian Catholic Church celebrates Epiphany as
compared to the Roman Catholic Church. Could you clarify? (M.D.
Detroit, Michigan)
Answer:
On January 6th, the Ukrainian Catholics celebrate
Epiphany (also known as Theophany). Epiphany translates as
"Manifestation from above" (Epi - above; epiphaneia -
manifestation). Theophany translates as "Manifestation of God"
(Theos - God; epiphaneia - manifestation). Manifestation is
defined as "the act of being easily understood or recognized by
the mind".
For Ukrainian Catholics, the feast of Epiphany/Theophany
commemorates the baptism of Jesus in the Jordan River and the
manifestation of the 3 divine Persons -- the Father, the Son &
the Holy Spirit. At Jesus' baptism, the Holy Spirit appeared in
the form of a dove over Jesus and then God in Heaven said "This is
my beloved Son in whom I am well pleased". Thus, on this day (i.e.
when Jesus was baptized at the age of 30), He made Himself known
to all and revealed the mystery of the Holy Trinity.
On the eve of Epiphany/Theophany, Ukrainian Catholics celebrate
with a traditional supper known as "Schedry Vechir". Instead of
Christmas carols, "schedrivky" are sung which are special songs
that extend good wishes of health and good fortune. During church
services on Epiphany/Theophany, a ceremony to bless water is
performed. The priest incenses the water to signify the descent of
the Holy Spirit upon Jesus and His baptism. The priest also
immerses three special candles into the water which signifies that
our sins are destroyed and forgiven through Christ's baptism. The
congregants then take some of the water home with them to sanctify
their homes or to save for times of illness or adversity.
Beginning on Epiphany/Theophany and extending over the next few
weeks, the priest visits the parishioners to bless their homes
with Holy Water.
Although the history is a little complicated, I will attempt to
explain the difference in how the Eastern and Western Churches
celebrate Epiphany/Theophany. During the early days of our Church,
the following four manifestations of God were recognized:
1) The Nativity of Our Lord
2) The Visit of the Magi
3)
The Baptism of Christ
4) The Miracle of the Wedding Feast of
Cana
Obviously, the "Nativity of Our Lord" is primarily now
celebrated on December 25th (or January 7th for those following
the Julian calendar). However, the Armenians still celebrate the
"Nativity of Our Lord" and the "Baptism of Christ" on January
6th.
The Western (Roman Catholic) Church decided to focus on the
"Visit of the Magi" as the manifestation associated with
Epiphany/Theophany. The Eastern Church decided to focus on the
"Baptism of Christ" as the manifestation associated with
Epiphany/Theophany.
Thus, the key link to the different Epiphany/Theophany customs
is that they relate to one of the four manifestations listed
above.
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2001
QUESTION OF THE MONTH #12 (December 2001)
Question:
I remember my Ukrainian grandmother celebrating Christmas with many unique customs, especially with the Christmas Eve Dinner. Can you provide some
information on these customs? (K.D. Ocean City, NJ)
Answer:
The preparation for Christmas begins with "Pilipiwka" which is translated as "St. Philip's Fast". This time of penitence, also known as Advent, begins
the day after St. Philip's Day (i.e. on November 15) and lasts for 40 days
until Christmas Eve. Acts of penance (e.g. prayer, fasting and charitable
works) are encouraged during this period.
Celebrations begin on Christmas Eve and end on January 6th with the feast of
Theophany (Epiphany). Since I believe your question mostly focuses on the
Christmas Eve customs, I'll focus on them below.
On Christmas Eve, the family joins together for the traditional "Holy
Supper" (Sviata Vecherja). Once the first star in the sky is spotted, the
ancient rituals begin. The dining table is lightly covered with hay or
straw and then covered with a white linen. This symbolizes the swaddling
clothes worn by the infant Jesus. A braided loaf of bread, with an
inserted candle, is located at the center of the table. The bread
symbolizes the newly-born Savior who called Himself the "Bread of Life" and
the candle symbolizes the "Star of Bethlehem".
With respect to seating at the table, an empty seat is always reserved with
a complete place setting. This empty place setting is symbolically
reserved for an "unexpected guest" which is typical of Ukrainian
hospitality. Additionally, many Ukrainian Catholics reserve the empty
place setting for all deceased members of their family. Thus, deceased
relatives are able to spiritually celebrate with their families at "The Holy
Supper".
The actual Christmas Eve meal begins with the head of the family sharing
"prosphora" (a piece of bread) dipped in honey. The sharing of prosphora
symbolizes Jesus sharing His life and the honey symbolizes God's blessings.
A total of 12 meatless dishes are served throughout the meal commemorating
the 12 apostles. Some of the dishes include the following:
*kutia (boiled wheat with honey, nuts & poppy seeds)
*borsch (beet soup)
*holubtsi (cabbage rolls)
*pyrohy (dough with filling)
*fish
After each dish, Christmas carols are sung. The mood is solemn yet festive.
With regards to fasting on Christmas Eve, the Pastoral Guide of the
Ukrainian Catholic Church in the United States of America, promulgated 8
November 1999, Art. 471-475 states "Abstinence from meat, and one full meal
and a snack (milk products allowed according to local custom) is permitted
on Christmas Eve." In addition to abstaining from meat the entire
Christmas Eve, most Ukrainian Catholics will abstain from dairy products
until dinner (i.e. "The Holy Supper").
Of course, many Ukrainian Catholics attend midnight Liturgy to meet Emmanuel
"God is with us". Before the Liturgy, a celebration of the Great Complines
is sung -- thus preparing us for the coming of Jesus our Savior. The Great
Complines begin with a somber recitation of particular Psalms and then
suddenly the choir erupts in the joyous singing of the Song of Isaiah "God
is with us" (Z namy Boh). Thus, the birth of our Savior is proclaimed!!!
Throughout the Christmas season, people greet each other by saying "Christ
is Born!" (Khrystos Razhdayetsia!) and the response is "Glorify Him"
(Slavyte Yoho!).
*****************************************************
QUESTION OF THE MONTH #11 (November 2001)
Question:
Who is the Patron Saint for November in the Ukrainian Catholic Church? (D.L.
Union, NJ)
Answer:
St. Josaphat of Polotsk is the Patron Saint for November in the Ukrainian Catholic Church. His feastday is celebrated on November 12.
Josaphat Kuntsevych was a Ukrainian archbishop who was born around 1580.
He is held up as a martyr to church unity because he was killed trying to
unite the Orthodox Church and Rome. He suffered martyrdom on November 12,
1623. His prayer for unity, "Let there be one fold and one shepherd,"
(John 10:16) has been recognized by the Second Vatican Council as the true
spirit of modern ecumenism.
It is worthy to note that the Jewish people of Vitebsk risked their lives
trying to rescue Josaphat's friends and servants from the mobs. Through
their intervention, many lives were saved.
In 1867, Josaphat became the first saint of the Eastern church to be
formally canonized by Rome.
*****************************************************
QUESTION OF THE MONTH #10 (October 2001)
Question:
I noticed that people in your church make the sign of the cross
differently from the way I learned as a Roman Catholic. Is there any
reason for this? (T.S. Hillside, NJ)
Answer:
Making the Sign of the Cross is one of the most richly symbolic expressions of our faith and belief in God.
Ukrainian Catholics place the first three fingers of the right hand
together (beginning with the thumb) and fold the remaining two
fingers. The first three fingers remind us that God is ONE yet God is
also THREE DIVINE PERSONS (i.e. God the Father, God the Son, and God
the Holy Spirit). The folded two fingers remind us that Jesus Christ
is both God and man.
Additionally, while Roman Catholics cross themselves from the left
shoulder to the right shoulder, Ukrainian Catholics cross themselves
from the right shoulder to the left shoulder.
*****************************************************
QUESTION OF THE MONTH #9 (September 2001)
Question:
My daughter asked me what was the purpose of the
Divine Liturgy. I responded that the purpose is to worship God. Is that the correct answer? (C.B. Chicago, IL)
Answer:
The Divine Liturgy is offered to God for four purposes.
1) ADORATION - The people come together to glorify
their Creator and speak with one voice as they praise
Him. The priest offers the Eucharistic Sacrifice (the
Body and Blood of Jesus), in Christ's name, to God.
2) THANKSGIVING - We thank God for all His blessings
and benefits. During the Liturgy, Christ offers
Himself as a gift of thanksgiving to His Heavenly
Father in return for all the benefits given to all His
children.
3) PROPITIATION (ATONEMENT) - The Council of Trent
expressly stated that the Divine Liturgy is a true
propitiatory sacrifice whereby we are reconciled to
God and regain His favor. The Liturgy has the power
of satisfying temporal punishments which, after the
pardon of mortal or venial sins, would otherwise have
had to be undergone either in this world or in
purgatory. This is the reason why the Church
encourages us to have Liturgies celebrated for our
sins or for those who have passed away.
4) PETITION - The Divine Liturgy is the most powerful
form of petition. It is essentially a prayer in which
we ask God to bestow upon us the riches of His graces
and blessings.
*****************************************************
QUESTION OF THE MONTH #8 (August 2001)
Question:
Why does the priest hold up a cloth during the
Nicene Creed? (C.L. Westfield, NJ)
Answer:
During the Nicene Creed, the priest lifts up the
veil (known as the vozdukh) and keeps it before his eyes. This
reminds the congregants that many "articles of faith" are
mysterious and are "dark to our weak mind". Therefore, we must
accept the "articles of faith" based on the infallible word of
Christ. This also helps us to renew our faith before the
Transubstantiation occurs.
*****************************************************
QUESTION OF THE MONTH #7 (July 2001)
Question:
Why is June 29th a Holyday of Obligation? (K.P.
San Jose, CA)
Answer:
June 29th is indeed a Holyday of Obligation. It
commemorates Saints Peter and Paul. It is believed that St. Peter
and St. Paul died on the same day -- thus their feast is kept on
the same day.
Saint Peter is known as the "prince of the Apostles" and "Vicar
of Christ on earth". The Lord told Peter (Peter means ROCK in
Greek): "Thou art a rock and upon this rock I shall build my
Church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. And I
will give thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven; and whatever
thou shalt prohibit on earth shall be prohibited in heaven, and
whatever thou shalt permit on earth shall be permited in heaven."
(Mat. 16, 18-19)
Thus, Peter was the 1st Pope. Peter remained in Rome for 25
years ruling the Christian communities until he was crucified on
the Vatican Hills at Rome during the persecution of Nero, the
Roman Emperor around the year 67. Thus, successive Popes have
resided in Rome where Peter was Bishop.
St. Paul, formerly known as Saul, was at first a great enemy of
Christ. He felt that to accept Christ required him to give up the
faith of his ancestors, the faith of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob.
Saul was thrown off his horse and was blinded on his journey to
Damascus. He then had a vision of Jesus Christ. After that
incident, Saul converted to Christianity and became known as Paul.
He became the greatest preacher of the Gospel.
St. Peter and St. Paul had a profound impact on Christianity.
Thus, in the Ukrainian Catholic Rite, the feastday of St. Peter
and St. Paul is celebrated as a Holyday of Obligation.
*****************************************************
QUESTION OF THE MONTH #6 (JUNE 2001)
Question:
I remember that the church used to be decorated
with green branches sometime during the spring. Is there some
significance to this and when does it take place? (C.B. Roselle
Park, NJ)
Answer:
The Holyday you referred to is Pentecost which
comes on the 50th day after Easter. Pentecost commemorates the
"visible descent of the Holy Spirit" upon the Apostles.
The Holy Spirit appeared in the form of the "parted tounges of
fire". This represents the role of the Apostles to preach the
Gospel to all nations, continents and races.
In our Ukrainian Catholic Rite, Pentecost is also known as
"Zeleni Sviata" which literally translates to "Green Holyday".
During Pentecost, our churches and private homes are decorated
with green branches and green flowers. This custom is traced to
the Jewish custom of adorning their homes in rememberance of the
Law which God gave them on Mount Sinai via Moses.
Pentecost Monday (or the Holyday of the Holy Trinity) is
celebrated on the Monday following Pentecost. This Holyday reminds
us that the Holy Spirit is equal to the Father and the Son. Thus,
there is only one God but He has three divine persons (i.e. the
Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit).
*****************************************************
QUESTION OF THE MONTH #5 (MAY 2001)
Question:
While I attended Resurrection Liturgy on Easter
in your Hillside parish, I noticed that the congregation did not
kneel. Could you explain why no one kneeled during the
Consecration and Holy Communion? (O.S. Short Hills, NJ)
Answer:
During the Easter Season (i.e. the 50 days between
Easter and Pentecost), it is a custom of the Ukrainian Catholic
Church to stand while praying. Symbolically, we stand erect in the
Presence of our Lord. This is a visible sign of the Happiness we
experience due to Jesus' Resurrection.
The Council of Nicea (325 AD) provided the following
wording:
"Since there are some who kneel on the day of the Lord
and during the season of Pentecost, for the sake of uniformity in
all eparchies, the Council decrees that during that time prayers
be offered up to God while standing". The 6th Ecumenical Council
(681 AD) issued a similar decree.
*****************************************************
QUESTION OF THE MONTH #4 (APRIL 2001)
Question:
Although I am Roman Catholic, I enjoy attending
the Easter Liturgy in the Ukrainian Catholic Church. However, can
you tell me the significance of the procession and the Easter
bread? (R.K. Wildwood Crest, NJ)
Answer:
The procession around the church commemorates the
procession of the Myrrh-bearing women to the tomb of Jesus and His
resurrection.
The Easter bread, or Paska, represents Jesus Christ. Thus, the
congregation can symbolically participate in Jesus' resurrection
by consuming the Paska. The Paska is blessed by the priest at the
end of the Liturgy.
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QUESTION OF THE MONTH #3 (MARCH 2001)
Question:
What fasting practices are required during
Lent? (G.H., Scotch Plains, NJ)
Answer:
For Ukrainian Catholics, the following regulations
are binding for the Great Fast:
- 1st Day of Lent (February 26, 2001) - Strict
Fast (abstinence from meat & dairy products)
- Good Friday
(April 13, 2001) - Strict Fast (abstinence from meat & dairy
products)
- All other Fridays during Lent - Regular Fast
(abstinence from meat)
- Holy Saturday - Regular Fast
(abstinence from meat)
While some people view fasting as a burden or
inconvenience, it is important to recognize its positive
aspects. Through fasting, we have a tool which
allows us to embark on a journey of spiritual renewal.
This tool should be used with personal soul-searching through
prayer, works of mercy, reading and meditating on God's
Word. Thus, we will be better prepared spiritually to
embrace the Risen Lord.
*****************************************************
QUESTION OF THE MONTH #2 (FEBRUARY 2001)
Question:
Is there a list of Holy Days of Obligation
that are to be observed by Ukrainian Catholics? (M.R., Hillside,
NJ)
Answer:
Coincidentally, this issue was addressed in a
recent parish bulletin. I will repeat the answer below:
According to the decisions of the Ukrainian Bishops' Synod held
in September 1997, in Lviv-Krekhiv, Ukraine, the following are the
HOLY DAYS of OBLIGATION in the Ukrainian Church worldwide. Besides
each and every Sunday of the Year, the faithful are to participate
at Divine Liturgies on the following days:
THEOPHANY OF OUR LORD (EPIPHANY) - January 6th
ANNUNCIATION
OF THE MOTHER OF GOD - March 25th
ASCENSION OF OUR LORD - 40
days after Easter (always falls on a Thursday)
SAINTS PETER
& PAUL - June 29th
DORMITION OF THE MOTHER OF GOD - August
15th
NATIVITY OF OUR LORD (CHRISTMAS) - December 25th
Please note, that the dates referring to the above Holydays of
Obligation are based on the Gregorian calendar. If you observe the
Julian calendar, the dates will be different.
******************************************************
QUESTION OF THE MONTH #1 (JANUARY 2001)
Question:
I have heard people explain the Immaculate
Conception as when Mary conceived Jesus without original sin and I
have also heard an almost equal number of people explain
Immaculate Conception as when St. Anne conceived Mary. Could you
clarify this? (JS, Whippany, NJ)
Answer:
Surprisingly, many people misunderstand the true
meaning of the Immaculate Conception Holyday. The correct answer
is that the Immaculate Conception Holyday refers to when St. Anne
conceived Mary. Undoubtedly, the root of the confusion stems from
the fact only two people were not stained with "original sin" –
namely, the Blessed (Virgin) Mother and Jesus. The dogma of the
Immaculate Conception indicates that God exempted Mary’s soul from
"original sin" when Mary was conceived in the womb of St. Anne.
From a practical standpoint, the feast day of the "Immaculate
Conception", celebrated on December 8th is 9 months before the
feast day "Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary" which is
celebrated on September 8th.
It is interesting to note that the Eastern Rite Churches have
celebrated Immaculate Conception as a Holyday since 1166, although
it was previously known as "Conception of St. Anne" (i.e. when St.
Anne conceived Mary). While the Immaculate Conception is
celebrated in many lands and in many cultures, it is probably most
celebrated in Spain. Mary, specifically the Immaculate Conception,
is the primary patron of Spain. In Spain, December 8th is also
celebrated as Mother’s Day. | 
