Spring 2016 - Fellowship of Orthodox Christians in America

Transcription

SPRING 2016
volume 91 number 1
Also Inside:
• Convention #90 in Chicago
• Our Story: FROC/FOCA History
• IOCC Basketball Clinic in Alaska
The Fellowship and Sports:
2016 National Basketball
(South River)
and
Bowling (Cleveland) Tourneys
C O N T E N T S
OCJ
Orthodox Christian JOURNAL©
SPRING 2016
VOLUME 91 NUMBER 1
FEATURE STORIES
5
Sweet Home Chicago: 90th National Convention in 2016
8
Calling All Youth/Juniors to Chicagoland
COVER STORIES
9
FOCA Summer Sports Tournament 2016 Annual Golf Outing
10 IOCC Basketball Clinic Provides At-Risk Youth with Skills
On and Off The Court
11 South River Hosts 2016 National Basketball Tourney
12 2016 National Basketball Champs and All Stars
13 2016 National Basketball Photo Gallery
14 Our Story: As We Celebrate Our 90th Annual National
Convention, Let’s Remember How It All Began And
Progressed Over The Decades: A Brief History: FOCA/FROC
SPORTS CORNER
18 Cleveland “R” Club Hosts 77th Annual National Bowling Tourney
19 2016 National Bowling Tournament Scores
20 2016 National Bowling Tournament Photo Gallery
21 Transitions: Spring 2016
22 2016 Photo Contest, This year’s Theme is: God’s Creations: Nature
22 FOCA Calendar 2016
Kidz Corner
23 Saint Anna, the Mother of the Virgin Mary
DEPARTMENTS
3
President’s Commentary
4
Editor’s Notes
4
F.O.C.A. Highlights and News-In-Brief
The Holy and Great Council of the Orthodox Church:
Pentecost 2016
Back Cover:
1st FROC Convention, Pittsburgh, PA 1927
Visit Our Website: www.orthodoxfellowship.org
Scan these codes thoughout the pages by downloading
a QR Code reader app to your smartphone to view more
picures and info on the web!
2
Orthodox Christian JOURNAL • Spring 2016
NATIONAL EXECUTIVE BOARD
SPIRITUAL ADVISOR
V. Rev. Theodore Boback
2028 East Lombard Street, Baltimore, MD 21231
Office: (410) 276-3422, Fax: (410) 276-3422
email: tboback@aol.com
PRESIDENT
Marge Kovach
8 Ginesi Drive, Clark, NJ 07066
Tele: (732) 815-9765, Cell: (917) 887-5023
email: mjkovach@aol.com
VICE PRESIDENT
Allison Steffaro
38 Beryl Street, South River, NJ 08882
(732) 698-1952, Cell: (732) 395-1651
email: michael.steffaro@sci-us.com
RECORDING SECRETARY
Tammy Schultz
4877 Founders Drive, Groveport, OH 43125
(614) 830-0492, Cell: (732) 395-1651
email: tammyschultz@att.net
TREASURER
Michael Bowan
2100 Lincoln Park West, #9ES, Chicago, IL 60614-4713
(773) 975-0160, e-mail: mickeybowan@mindspring.com
IMM. PAST PRESIDENT
Becky Tesar
8205 Ivandale Drive, Parma, OH 44129
Res - (440) 884-6662, Cell - (216) 403-4070
email: rjtesar@sherwin.com
NATIONAL ADMINISTRATIVE SECRETARY
Sandy Kapelan
Fellowship of Orthodox Christians in America
FOCA C/O Sandra Kapelan,
892 Scott Street, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18705
Phone: (570) 824-0562
Office E-Mail: orthodoxfellowship@yahoo.com
website: www.orthodoxfellowship.org
To receive membership information contact
the administrative office of the
Fellowship of Orthodox Christians in America.
CALL: (570) 824-0562
OCJOrthodox Christian JOURNAL
©
is the official publication of the
Fellowship of Orthodox Christians in America
Send all articles, photos and information to:
Nicholas D. Ressetar, Editor
1510 Green Street Harrisburg, PA 17102-2511
E-Mail: tsarnick3@aol.com
Phone: (717) 761-2121
MANAGING EDITOR Michael Schultz
LAYOUT EDITOR Michael Schultz
SPORTS EDITOR Sports Department
PHOTOGRAPHER Leon Sheean
Please do not send one-of-a-kind photos to the OCJ,
send a copy. Returned photos are not guaranteed!
The mission of the
Orthodox Christian JOURNAL is to
educate the membership of the Fellowship of
Orthodox Christians in America,
to showcase the talents of its membership
and, in so doing, to propagate the
Holy Orthodox Christian Faith.
Mission Statement of the
Fellowship of Orthodox
Christians in America
PRESIDENT’S COMMENTARY
Marge Kovach
43rd National FOCA President
TO WITNESS
OUR FAITH
BY
CHARITABLE
WORKS
THROUGH
FELLOWSHIP
Twitter: @FellowshipOCA
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Instagram: FellowshipOCA
Orthodox
Christian JOURNAL (ISSN
15247562), is published four times a year [Spring,
Summer, Winter, Fall] by the Fellowship of
Orthodox Christians in America, c/o 892 Scott
Street, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18705.
District & Chapter News: All copy must be
typed and sent to the Editorial Office.
“On The Road Again”
In my younger days, I often joked that the FOCA
should adopt the song that Willie Nelson made
famous as our second anthem. “On The Road
Again” accurately describes the sentiments around
this busy time of the FOCA year. As is routine
around the Fellowship, the joyous celebration
of Pascha is followed closely with our thoughts
turning toward our upcoming tournaments and
national convention.
On May 20th, FOCA faithful were “On The Road
Again” to South River, New Jersey for a National Basketball tournament.
Although a change of date may have created a conflict for some, we still
managed to host a fantastic weekend filled with competition, fellowship
and worship. Several groups, who traveled a distance, arrived a day or two
early and played tourist in “The Big Apple”. Many came just to enjoy the
weekend even though they weren’t playing.
Two weeks later, many FOCA faithful were “On The Road Again” to
Cleveland, Ohio for the National Bowling tournament. Bowlers of all ages
and skill levels had a wonderful time coming together for singles, doubles,
team bowling, fellowship and worship.
And now we look forward to July 22nd and the 90th National Convention.
You guessed it, many FOCA faithful will be “On The Road Again” to Chicago.
I hope you are one of those faithful who will make it a priority to be there!
Lastly, I want to thank each and every one of you for the genuine
expression of sympathy and support offered to my family following the
recent passing of my father. The number of cards and messages we received
from FOCA friends was truly awesome.
National Basketball
Tourney Photo Gallery
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3
EDITOR’S NOTES
Nicholas D. Ressetar
Editor, Orthodox Christian JOURNAL
As we ease into the summer months, the latest issue of the Journal is
available for your reading pleasure. This is our annual sports edition, featuring
both the national basketball and bowling tournaments. Basketball this year
was sponsored by the South River “R” Club and held at the outstanding
facilities on the Rutgers campus in New Jersey. Allison & Michael Steffaro
chaired the event and, though teams were down mostly because of a lastminute scheduling snafu, the enthusiasm and sportsmanship were as great
as ever. Congrats to new sports director Melanie Clark for her efforts and
we’re pleased to bring out of semi-retirement the venerable Ken Baron (who
assisted in running the games) for the write-up (and thanks to Allison for the
photos). Btw, the buffet at the Portuguese club was incredible! Speaking of
basketball, IOCC sponsored a clinic for at-risk youth in Alaska recently and we
have the story.
Cleveland hosted this year’s bowling tourney (the 77th) and #4/6 did an
admirable job as always. Bowlers mostly from Ohio and some from nearby
East Coast states participated in a weekend filled with fellowship. Thanks to
Melissa & Becky Tesar for chairing the event --- the spread at St. Michael’s
Shandy was most delectable. Our own Leon Sheean took the photos and
does whatever it takes, whether crouching in the gutter at the lanes to get
National Prez Marge Kovach’s first ball or standing on chairs during the awards
banquet for the group pics! And this year’s summer sports golf outing is
sponsored by Ambridge in the Meadville, PA area in August – this issue has
the promo details.
In honor of our 90th national convention (thanks to God for this milestone!),
we’re including a brief, select history of the Fellowship/Federation since 1927
together with some historic photos, mostly from old Journals. The back cover
features two iconic photos from the very 1st convention at St. Alexander
Nevsky on Pittsburgh’s North Side along with the roster of original delegates.
Let’s celebrate and remember our glorious past as we plan for the future!
Chicago-land and its chapters will proudly host this year’s historic
convention on July 22-25 in suburban Rosemont, IL. Shirley Bryar and Jackie
Justice return in this edition with even more details on the scheduled events
and many things to see and do. A “shout out” to all Juniors/Youth to participate
in the special program co-sponsored by the national OCA youth department
(under Andrew Boyd), Bishop Paul and the OCA Midwest Diocese and the
FOCA. These kids are the Fellowship’s future!
In Kidz Corner, Matushka Theodora brings us an activity on Saint Anna,
the mother of the Virgin Mary and what grandmothers are called in different
languages; be sure to enter this year’s photo contest (details inside); and we
include a short piece on the Holy & Great Council of the Orthodox Church
taking place in Crete. Finally, in transitions, we congratulate Deacon Joe
Shaluha and family on his ordination (Axios!) and remember the life of
Stephen Cimbolic, a longtime active member, husband of Marge and father
of Marge, our national president (Memory eternal!) – our condolences to
them and their family. Looking forward to celebrating our 90th in Chicago
with everyone next month, and we’ll return with all the convention coverage
in late summer .... till then, enjoy the Fellowship you find on these pages!
2016 Articles Deadline for the OCJ:
Summer due August 15th
Send all material to our Editor: Nicholas D. Ressetar
1510 Green Street Harrisburg, PA 17102-2511
Phone: 717-761-2121
WORD attachment articles work best within an E-mail: tsarnick3@aol.com
Please do not send one-of-a-kind photos to the OCJ, send a copy.
\Returned photos are not guaranteed!
4
F.O.C.A. HIGHLIGHTS
AND NEWS-IN-BRIEF
The Holy and Great Council
of the Orthodox Church:
Pentecost 2016
After over 50 years of planning and preparation, the PanOrthodox Holy and Great Council convened at the Orthodox
Academy of Crete, Chania, Crete, Greece after the celebration of
Divine Liturgy on the feast of Holy Pentecost (Sunday, June 19th)
by Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew and Primates of most other
Orthodox Churches; it closed on the Sunday of All Saints (June
26th). Fourteen Orthodox Church delegations were to participate;
however, for various reasons, the Churches of Antioch, Bulgaria,
Georgia and Russia have decided not to attend. (Editor’s note:
the Orthodox Church in America (OCA) was not invited even as an
observer although several clergy/laity went as consultants to other
churches). Presiding is the Ecumenical Patriarch with the Primates
seated to his right and left. Each Church delegation consists of its
Primate and 24 bishops.
At the Synaxis of the Primates at Chambesy in January 2016,
two agenda topics were removed from the Council: the question of
autocephaly and the manner of its proclamation and the question
of the diptychs. These topics were deferred to another, subsequent
Council. Also, it was decided to remove the calendar issue from
the agenda because some local Orthodox Churches stated that
they did not desire and were not ready for calendar reform. The
Synaxis then considerably reworked the text on the impediments
to marriage that is now entitled “the sacrament of marriage and its
impediments.” This text was not signed by the Churches of Antioch
and Georgia. The Church of Antioch also did not sign the decisions
of the Synaxis of 2016. The following are the 6 items remaining on
the Council’s agenda: 1) the mission of the Orthodox Church in the
contemporary world; 2) the Orthodox diaspora; 3) autonomy and
the manner of its proclamation; 4) the sacrament of marriage and
its impediments; 5) the importance of fasting and its observance
today; and 6) the relationship of the Orthodox Church with the rest
of the Christian world. “The merit of [the Council’s] methodology
– the consensus method (that is, decisions taken unanimously),
which has also been the main difficulty, assures that the Council
will be the manifestation of the unity of the Orthodox Church, and
not the occasion of schisms or divisions.”
– from www.holycouncil.org (the Council’s official website)
FEATUREstories
CHICAGOLAND TO HOST THE FOCA’S 90TH NATIONAL CONVENTION
by Shirley Bryar
The big weekend is almost here! The Chicago-area
chapters of the Fellowship are both honored and pleased to
host the FOCA’s historic 90th annual national convention
in Rosemont, an idyllic suburb of Chicago itself. If you
haven’t already done so, we hope that you will soon do the
following:
• Check your mail – the second mailing has gone out to
all FOCA members (note: if you can’t find
yours or didn’t get it, the mailing’s contents are at
www.orthodoxfellowship.org
for downloading)
• Complete and mail the ticket order form to
Judy Krajewski, 10562 B Palos Place, Palos Hills,
IL 60465-1963
Convention Events Schedule
FRIDAY: Following breakfast, book our 9:30 a.m. Trolley
Tour. It leaves from our hotel right into the city to see the
sites that Chicago is famous for, including Millennium
Park, Navy Pier (the new Ferris Wheel opened Memorial
Day weekend), Riverwalk, Hancock Center and the “Tilt”,
Willis Tower and the “Ledge”, and so much more. The tour
is 4 hours long, door-to-door and a restroom stop at Museum
Campus. Cost is $35 per person. President’s Golf Open
– for the golfers, the annual convention golf outing will
be played at White Pines Golf Club in nearby Bensenville
• Complete
and
submit
your
Sponsorship
contributions
to
Toni
Dorosh,
4917
N. Ravenswood, Unit 14, Chicago, IL 60640
• Our convention hotel is Loews Chicago
O’Hare, 5300 N. River Road, Rosemont,
IL – be sure to make your hotel reservations
by calling 877-868-9134 and mention “FOCA
2016
Convention
Group”
or
online
at
h t t p : / / a w s . p a s s k e y. c o m / e v e n t / 1 4 5 9 9 5 7 8 /
owner/62658/home (or use code FOC906) - if flying
into nearby O’Hare Airport, use the complimentary
hotel shuttle
• All convention info – events, ticket sales order form,
sponsorship form, including memorials – is available
at www.orthodoxfellowship.org;
• Be sure to check out “FellowshipOCA” on Facebook,
Twitter
and
Instagram
&
share
your
convention posts and pics using #FOCACH116
• Any general questions may be directed to Dennis
Garlick, our convention chair, at garlick61@gmail.com.
(www.whitepinesgolf.com) – cost is $55 per person. The
afternoon can be spent checking out the many things to see
and do in Rosemont using the free Circular shuttle to get
around: great shopping at the Outlet Mall, Kings Bowl, the
Casino and many places for lunch and other sites to visit.
In the evening, after dinner at the hotel or in one of
Rosemont’s many spots, please attend the free “Open
House” starting at 8 p.m. in the hotel with trivia, raffle ticket
sales and a cash bar handled by our Friday Nite co-chairs,
Larissa and Deb. At 8:30 p.m. a professional trivia game
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buffet. Cost is $90 – this event is certain to sell out so order
your tickets ASAP. Chicago’s scenery is incredible – you’ll
want to take many photos
and probably a lot of
“selfies” too to get a shot
of yourself or family in
front of one of Chicago’s
sites!
company will take over. It’s free to play and there’s a prize
for the team which wins the most points. If you’d like to
sponsor a raffle or trivia game prizes, please contact larissa.
fetterly@gmail.com. This evening is important because
it’s the night for renewing old friendships and starting new
ones, which was the reason for establishing the organization
90 conventions ago. We come together in friendship in
our shared Orthodox Christian faith and our new desire to
establish an OCA youth program; and, of course, we do good
deeds.
SATURDAY:
The morning
will feature the
Fellowship’s
opening
convention
session
with
the
procession,
molieben and meeting. The
JUNIORS and youth have their own schedule, and
will head out to Navy Pier for a full day of activities including
the Ferris Wheel, a service project, lunch, Knockerball,
vespers and dinner. After lunch, the ADULTS may travel
by bus at 2 p.m. for vespers at the historic HOLY TRINITY
CATHEDRAL and then embark on a dinner cruise of both
the Chicago River and Lake Michigan – it features an Italian
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SUNDAY: The Divine
Liturgy will be celebrated
at the hotel in the morning.
Brunch is on your own
and the afternoon is free for sightseeing, district gatherings
or just relaxing. In the evening the Grand Banquet and Dance
(with DJ) will be held. Adult banquet & dance is $90; adults
banquet only ($80); adults dance only ($20) – adults save
$10 by booking banquet & dance together; banquet (12 and
under) ($45); dance is free for children 12 and under. Even
if you don’t dance, some of our people have been known to
put on a great show of their talents. You will have to attend
to see who it is we speak of! A special thanks to Lori Garlick
for planning the Saturday and Sunday evening events.
MONDAY: The convention’s final day has the concluding
sessions in the morning followed by a farewell.
Suggestions for Those Arriving Early or Staying Around
Conventioneers are invited to come early or stay a few days
afterwards. On Thursdays at 7 p.m. in Rosemont are free
concerts and fireworks at MB Financial Park – July 21st –
Generation and July 28th – The Rush Tribute Project. It’s the
20th anniversary of the Tall Ships coming to Chicago at Navy
Pier starting with the Parade of Sails on July 27th – 15 ships
are expected this year. For those who like heights, there is the
“Tilt” on the Hancock’s 94th floor and the “Ledge” on Willis
Tower’s 99th floor. Millennium Park is a must with almost
25 acres devoted to artistic marvels. See the Frank Gehry
pavilion, the serpentine bridge, the “Bean,” the twin water-
suburb of Chicago – when we travel and people ask us where
we’re from, we say CHICAGO!
We hope to see all of you at this milestone, our 90th national
convention. Dennis Garlick volunteered to be our chairman
and he had a fine group of people to gather information
and assist in many ways – they all worked hard, with much
dedication. Actually, we were all privileged and humbled to
be a part of this special gathering. Thank you, Dennis, for
letting us be a part of this committee.
So, we have planned the Fellowship’s 90th convention, and
now we are waiting for all of you to arrive!
spouting Crown towers. Across the street is the Chicago
Cultural Center, famous for its free cultural events and the
world’s largest Tiffany Glass Dome. A daily listing of free
programs is on the center’s website. The St. Peter & St. Paul
Church Choir of Burr Ridge has twice given concerts there.
The Riverwalk is our newest major waterfront attraction,
running along Wacker from State Street to Lake Street.
In this park space are restaurants and tourist attractions,
including Trump Tower, The Wrigley Building, the Tribune
Tower, the Vietnam Veteran’s Memorial Plaza (largest
outside Washington, DC) and the Chicago Bridgehouse
Museum. All of our museums are worthy of your time, and
we hope that you get to see as much as possible of “Sweet
Home Chicago.” You know, it doesn’t matter if we live in a
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Calling All Youth/Juniors to Chicagoland!
by Jackie Justice
We have a fun-filled long weekend awaiting you! Starting
on Friday with registration, you will get a t-shirt, water bottle
and backpack. An “open house” and trivia night will start at
8 p.m. at the hotel. This will give everyone a chance to get
to know each other along with testing your trivia knowledge.
There will be a “crash room” each day during the convention
as a place for kids to congregate, play games, meet new and
old friends, dance or just relax. All activities will have adult
chaperones.
Saturday will be a fun-packed day. Starting in the morning
at 9 a.m., the Juniors/Youth will convene for a special session
of their own to go over the agenda, including discussions.
Around 10:30 a.m. we’ll be off to Navy Pier, which is on
Lake Michigan, in a coach bus. Included is a ride ticket for
the new Ferris Wheel (Centennial Wheel), carousel, swings,
fun house maze or other rides. Kid will eat lunch at one of
the 4 restaurants. New at the Pier: for its 100th anniversary,
the Polk fountain and plaza were constructed over a 3-year
period, combining choreographed water displays, LED
lights and a fog generator. Visitors are encouraged to walk
through the fountain, which should be exciting for both kids
and adults.
Planned next is a surprise activity called Knockerball –
you won’t want to miss this! In the late afternoon, they will
attend vespers and eat dinner. The children will participate
in “Feed My Starving Children” by packing food for the
local needy. Sunday morning includes Divine Liturgy at the
hotel. Change into swim wear and off to the water park for
lunch and an afternoon filled with water fun. After a couple
8
of hours, it’s back to the hotel to rest and freshen up for the
banquet and dance. On Monday morning they will give a
presentation to the convention gathering
Something new is happening this year at the 90th FOCA
convention. To promote bringing all youth together, the
Junior/Youth activities are being co-sponsored by the
national Orthodox Church in America, the OCA Diocese of
the Midwest along with the Fellowship. All kids are welcome
between 5th grade through high school! The combined total
cost for all the activities discussed above is just $120 (hotel
room and spending money is additional). There will also
be a chance to speak with Metropolitan Tikhon and Bishop
Paul during the convention. And each day there will be a
scavenger hunt with clues of “things” needed to be collected
– at Monday’s conclusion prizes will be awarded.
Last year at the joint FOCA Convention and OCA AllAmerican Council in Atlanta, Metropolitan Tikhon included
these words in his closing remarks to the youth gathered
there: “Bring your parents to church!” But it was also his
wish and those of the children participating to build a strong
OCA youth group. As this Chicago convention will be the
first meeting since last year’s historic gathering in Atlanta,
let’s make all of last year’s wishes come true. Let’s have
the children tell their parents: “Bring us to the 90th, Home
Sweet Chicago convention.”
We hope to see all Juniors and Youth in Chicagoland this
July!
FOCA Summer Sports Tournament
2016
Annual Golf Outing
Hosted by Ambridge “O” Club
Entry Forms and Ad Forms are available at www.orthodoxfellowship.org
9
IOCC Basketball Clinic Provides At-Risk
Youth With Skills On and Off The Court
Following basketball drills with former
pros, IOCC US Country Representative Dan
Christopulos led a discussion that allowed the
Alaska Native youth to interact with the player
mentors and learn about tools needed to deal
with every day challenges. photo: Courtesy of
the Diocese of Sitka and Alaska.
Patrick Johnson, a former Duke University basketball player, runs drills with teen boys and girls at an IOCC basketball
and mentoring clinic in Anchorage. The one-day clinics in Anchorage and the village of Napaskiak were aimed at
providing a fun, sports-focused environment to reinforce healthy lifestyles and substance abuse prevention among
Alaska Native youth. photo: Michael Dinneen/IOCC
Baltimore, MD (IOCC) — A Saturday basketball clinic
taught dozens of Alaska youth more than just the basic ball handling skills of the game. International Orthodox Christian Charities (IOCC) hosted one-day youth basketball and mentoring clinics in Anchorage and the village of Napaskiak to provide a fun,
sports-focused environment and to reinforce healthy lifestyles
and substance abuse prevention. The clinic introduced the atrisk youth to positive role models through the game of basketball
and taught them how to build positive practices into their lives to
lessen risk-taking behavior.
Retired professional and college players Andrew Cladis,
Andrew Snelgrove and Patrick Johnson volunteered as mentors.
“The reason I got into coaching was to impact young people,
and the opportunity to connect with at-risk kids and hopefully
give them some positive messages to take forward in their lives
was a no-brainer for me,” said Johnson, who played for Duke
University and is now head coach of Men’s Basketball at Citrus
College in Glendora, California. Andrew Cladis, a former professional player in Europe, added, “Basketball teaches qualities
of character like working hard and handling adversity, and seeing the young people in Anchorage and Napaskiak demonstrate
these traits, even in small ways during the clinics made this a
success.”
Substance abuse among Alaska Native youth is double the
national average. At the same time, the majority of Orthodox
priests in Alaska are Alaska Natives. IOCC has been working
with the OCA Diocese of Sitka and Alaska and St. Herman Orthodox Seminary in Kodiak, Alaska, to implement a substance abuse
prevention training program for seminarians and clergy that will
10
reach some of the most remote villages and communicate these
messages to people within the Alaska Native community. “We
are grateful for IOCC’s continuing support of our seminarians
and clergy to learn the most effective methods in preventing substance abuse,” stated His Grace Bishop David of Alaska, “and are
particularly pleased that these basketball and healthy lifestyles
clinics allowed our youth in Alaska to concentrate on building
positive habits in their lives that will protect them from so many
contemporary negative influences. Battling the effects left from
years of negative influences is an ongoing struggle for us, and
thanks to the efforts of IOCC, we are now making important steps
in the right direction for our clergy and youth.”
While substance abuse ravages Alaska Native families,
Alaska Native youth are passionate about basketball and eagerly
participate – even in the smallest villages where it is difficult to
find enough children to form teams in the schools. The clinic provided an ideal outlet to engage the youth in a positive way about
topics that are critical to leading healthy lives.
The clinic wasn’t just centered around the game. IOCC US
Country Representative Dan Christopulos also led a discussion
that allowed the youth to interact with the players and learn about
the tools needed to deal with every day challenges. “Playing basketball is so much more than sports.” said Christopulos. “This
program aims to provide youth with healthier lifestyle choices
and the rewards that come with making those choices.”
His Grace Bishop David of Alaska (back row, center) hosted IOCC staff and volunteers in the village of Napaskiak,
Alaska for a day-long basketball clinic. The clinic is part of a larger effort between IOCC and the OCA Diocese of
Sitka and Alaska and St. Herman Orthodox Seminary in Kodiak, Alaska, to implement a substance abuse prevention
training program for seminarians and clergy that will reach some of the most remote villages. photo: Courtesy of the
Diocese of Sitka and Alaska.
COVERstories
South River Hosts 2016 National Basketball Tourney
By Ken Baron, Sports Director Emeritus
The weekend of May 20-22 saw the South River “R”
Club Chapter host the National Basketball Tournament.
This was the third time that the games were held at the
outstanding facilities of the Sonny Werblin Center on
the grounds of Rutgers University in New Brunswick,
NJ. With a smaller turnout, all of the games, including
the championships, were able to be fit into Saturday’s
schedule. Committee co-chairs Michael and Allison
Steffaro did a great job of coordinating the weekend’s
activities. The games began early on Saturday with a
group prayer, led by Father David Garretson, pastor of
SS. Peter and Paul Orthodox Church in South River
along with His Eminence, Archbishop Michael, who
later in the day addressed all of the participants on the
court with his usual passionate and inspiring words.
After the conclusion of the games in the afternoon,
vespers were held at Saints Peter and Paul Church in
South River, followed by a sumptuous buffet and dance
held locally at a Portuguese catering hall. First year
sports director Melanie Clark did an outstanding job
during the weekend and also presented the all-star and
MVP awards at the banquet, which were selected by
the referees. Divine Liturgy on Sunday had a packed
house at the Church which was followed by a brunch at
the Church hall next door. The elimination of games on
Sunday allowed the travelers to get a start on the road
earlier than normal.
Junior Boys – New Jersey were the champions,
defeating Campbell as Alex Simenczuk was named
MVP, and Joey and Luke Clark from Campbell and
Greg Simenczuk (New Jersey) were selected all stars.
Junior Girls – The finals saw Nevsky defeat a
combination of Canonsburg, Cleveland and Campbell
with Audrey Lane(Nevsky) named the MVP, while
Sydney Harvischak and Amaris Rodriguez from
“CCC”; Maryann Johnson and Savannah Strickland
were named all stars.
Senior Men – Campbell defeated South River with
Nathaniel Nelko from Campbell being named MVP,
with Andrew Jackson and Andrew Zelinsky from
Campbell , Nick Lane from New Jersey and Andrew
Nelko from St Tikhon’s making the all stars.
Notes and Quotes: Excellent facilities again on
the campus of Rutgers University… Great to see St.
Tikhon’s field a team – their first appearance was in
the mid 70’s when they faced Garden State who had a
six foot seven center and two six foot five forwards,
and Father Emil Hutnyan (height not disclosed) jumped
center for St. Tikhon’s… Great to see Father John
Steffaro and Matushka during the weekend and serving
liturgy on Sunday.. Despite the sumptuous Saturday
buffet and expansive Sunday Brunch, he said the killer
was the couple of White Castle burgers during the
The results of the play, by brackets, were:
afternoon on Saturday.. Dance floor packed with Juniors
Bantam Boys – The Canonsburg team defeated all Saturday night and the Hopak lasted 13 minutes and
Nevsky in opening play followed by Cleveland/New 45 seconds… Referees commented throughout the day
Jersey defeating both Canonsburg and Nevsky to end regarding the sportsmanship of the players, coaches
up in a finals rematch between Cleveland/NJ and and fans… Melanie Clark did an outstanding job as
Canonsburg. Cleveland/ NJ prevailed in the finals with Sports Director in her first year in that capacity….
Matt Bahorjak being named as MVP along with all-stars Allison Steffaro: Is it Route 18 North or South to get to
Andrew Gresko (Canonsburg), Nicholas Kovalenko the church from the hotel via the printed directions?...
(Nevsky), and Luke Phillis(Canonsburg) and Josh Great to see Archbishop Michael in attendance for all
Bahorjak (Cleveland).
of the games on Saturday…As always, the referees
selected the all star candidates after every game.. . Host
Bantam Girls - Nevsky defeated New Jersey as pastor Father David Garretson also served Saturday
Carolyn Gribek was named MVP and Domineka vespers, attended the banquet (sitting with St. Tikhon’s
Delaney, also of Nevsky, and Katy Illenye from New team) and served Sunday liturgy, warmly welcoming
Jersey were all stars
the players and guests.
11
National
FOCA Basketball Tournament
2016 Champs
Junior Boys: New Jersey
Junior Girls: Alexander Nevsky
Bantam Girls: Alexander Nevsky
Bantam Boys: Cleveland-New Jersey
Senior Men: Campbell
2016 All Stars

12
13
Our Story: As We Celebrate Our 90th Annual National Convention,
Let’s Remember How It All Began And Progressed Over The Decades:
A Brief History: FOCA/FROC
The beginning was modest.
In May of 1927, St. Alexander
Nevsky Church, on Ketchum
Street in the North Side section of
Pittsburgh, issued 200 copies of a
14-page parish magazine named
“The Russian Orthodox Journal.”
The masthead of vol. 1, no. 1 read:
“Published monthly by the North
Side Orthodox Church to promote
the religious work of the church. V. Rev. Michael Fekula, Pastor; Vladimir Prislopski,
Editor.” Russian school students “were given the privilege and honor to fold, wrap,
address and assist in the mailing of the Journal[,]” they would later recall. It had an
Easter theme, with the parish schedule, religious and general feature articles, and this
invitation: “Let us hear from the other “R” Clubs throughout the country. Organize
an “R” Club in your parish.”
The next month’s copy noted:
“Strange as it may seem, yet for
the many thousands of young
Russians of American birth,
there is no national organization
of any kind.”
From the outset, Church
leaders endorsed the aspirations
expressed in the new Journal.
Bishop Theophilus (later Metropolitan) of Chicago wrote to Fr. Fekula: “I have received
the second number of “The Russian Orthodox Journal” and am greatly pleased with
its contents and purpose. This is such an unusual event in our parish life that it gives
me pleasure in congratulating you and Mr. Prislopski upon the contemplated work
of uniting our youth into one friendly Church Choral Organization.” The September
1927 edition carried a special full page letter by Bishop Theophilus addressed “To the
Russian Youth of America”: “We are very happy in the knowledge that the “R” Clubs are
accomplishing this mission among our younger generation and are gratified with the
splendid results of their work, which in a comparatively short time has created a great
interest and desire to help the common cause. Every Russian Church in the United
States and Canada should encourage and assist in the organization of “R” clubs, uniting
them all in one great national organization, guided by the spirit of Orthodoxy.”
The response was overwhelming. Subscription after subscription was received
from parishes, existing parish organizations (choir clubs, etc.) and individuals. Among
14
the more remarkable subscribers was Grand Duchess Olga of Russia, sister of Tsar
Nicholas II, who wrote a letter in English enclosing one dollar from her palace-in-exile
in Copenhagen. Within months it was decided to hold a general meeting of various
representatives and, on November 26 and 27,
1927 at the North Side parish hall, with those
from Pittsburgh, west to Detroit and east to
Connecticut participating, the Federated Russian
Orthodox Clubs was born. Mr. Prislopsky, the
church choir director, was elected president.
And the first Junior “R” Club, for students, was
established on December 5, 1927. The new
organization continued to grow rapidly as word
spread.
The early Journals featured a mix of chapter
and church news, summaries of conventions,
recipes, practical advice, Bible readings, sports for the day as well as articles on theology,
history, Russian culture, literature and poetry. Peter Fekula, working for the Ford Motor
Co. in Europe, contributed foreign stories and photos from Russia, Latvia, Poland and
other countries. A woman’s column was written by Olga Thier. Tatyana Boldireff was a
frequent writer on things Russian, Michael Graban wrote on sports. Repeated features
appeared on Monk Herman of Alaska, Father Alexis Toth, Father Innocent Veniaminov
and other church figures. Original art work by Andrew Messick, later Nick Konon (for
many years)and Samuel Ressetar adorned the covers.
Recognizing the importance the new organization could play in keeping young
adults in the faith, the Church actively promoted the FROC from its inception. In August
1928 Metropolitan Platon spoke “very highly of the young peoples in the Federated
Russian clubs and [said] that he was in favor of the movement[.]” Fr. Joseph Pishtey,
later Metropolia/OCA chancellor, wrote a lead editorial in March of that year calling
for “the realization of the great role the Federation is destined to play in the future
of the Russian Orthodox Church, and in the consolidation of all the choral circles and
clubs throughout the country into one large organization.” At the second convention
in Cleveland in September 1928, Bishop Theophilus addressed the assembly and
compared the FROC to the Knights of Columbus or YMCA.
By mid-1929, over 44 chapters had been established in cities (Pittsburgh, Detroit,
Cleveland, etc.) and towns: Ansonia, Akron, Braddock, Mingo Junction, St. Clair,
Scranton and others. Basketball, duckpin and baseball leagues were also organized.
The FROC was incorporated in Allegheny County, Pennsylvania by Paul Barna. Nicholas
Salowich drafted a constitution and by-laws which were adopted. An educational
fund with “school stamps” was instituted for the training of choir directors and assisting
seminarians to attend St. Sergius Academy in
Paris, for America no longer had any seminaries
or pastoral schools, a concern expressed by the
FROC. This same fund was later used to start the
first church school programs and conferences; a
special meeting on the FROC School Program
was held at the end of the 4th convention in
Wilkes-Barre in 1930, where 51 chapters were
represented by 150 delegates representing
over 1,500 members. Andrew Goidich, Journal
editor, became the second national president in
1931, succeeding Father Prislopky who had been
ordained to the priesthood. And the Federation extended into Canada in 1932, with
Chapter No. 65 founded in Montreal.
The 1930s were a time of economic hardship with the Great Depression and church
jurisdictional turmoil in North America caused by the
unsettled situation of the Russian Orthodox Church
in the new USSR. The FROC, however, was a source
of stability, continued to prosper and grow, and took
positions on current events. For example, the Detroit
convention in 1933 sent a petition to President
Roosevelt and Congress asking that the United States
not recognize the Soviet Union unless it ended the
attempt to infiltrate the Russian Orthodox Church
in America and takeover church property. The 8th
convention in 1934 protested the treatment of the
Carpatho-Russian peoples in Czechoslovakia to the League of Nations. Two months
later, the famous Cleveland Sobor was held at which the Metropolia proclaimed its
autonomy. Many FROC leaders participated and President Paul Barna was named to
the church charter commission. The Journal, which was the only available source of
information in English, reported extensively on the Sobor.
Events in Europe continued to preoccupy the FROC and the Church. Readers
followed stories on St. Sergius Institute and the SS. Alban and Sergius Fellowship
in England between the Orthodox and Anglicans. Calls continued for a seminary in
America and in 1939, a theological fund was established to support St. Tikhon’s and
St. Vladimir’s seminaries. A song book, a Russian textbook for parish schools, and a
catechism were all published and distributed. The orphanage at St. Tikhon’s monastery
was supported. The 1935 convention led to two
more resolutions: concern for the upheaval of
the Church in America and urging the Patriarch
of Serbia not to create a separate church,
and another protest against the treatment of
Carpatho-Russian minorities in Czechoslovakia.
Metropolitan Theophilus, who presided over the
convention liturgy, permitted the use of English
in the liturgy, apparently for the first time, and
this created somewhat of a controversy for
some. Journal Editor Fred Lewis replied: “FROC
members have every right to demand a wider
application of the English language in our church services.”
In an address to the Synod of Bishops in May 1936, Metropolitan Theophilus,
speaking of the divisions in the church, pointed to the Federation as a model of unity:
“The Russian Orthodox Clubs and Unions of our youth knew no divisions and during
the most difficult period of our church life. They have preserved themselves in unity,
keeping aloof from quarrels about jurisdiction. Devotion to the one Russian Orthodox
Church was and is their device, and great thanks of gratitude are due Father Vladimir
Prislopsky, the founder and continued leader of the Russian Orthodox Clubs, in our
church. By his work, [he] has brought great benefit to Orthodoxy in America.” At the
10th anniversary convention in Philadelphia later that year, the Metropolitan “termed
the FROC an organization that is vital to
the Church.” The 1937 Metropolia Sobor
in New York City passed a resolution
“blessing” the Federation, urging “all
clergy and laity to lend every effort
toward” it, and asking “[t]hat all clubs
of our youth existing at our parishes
associate themselves with the Federation
and in such manner become one mighty
organization with a common plan and
purpose.” By the end of the decade, over 120 chapters had been formed. Also serving
as presidents were Walter Bouquet, Jacob Russin and Andrew Salowich.
The 1940s, needless to say, were dominated by the Second World War. Chapter
news sadly reported the deaths of FROC servicemen each month. Women took over
many leadership posts, such as district governorships. A serviceman’s fund was set up
and a prayer book was published and sent to every American and Canadian Orthodox
serviceman, whether a member or not. A chaplain’s fund completely outfitted the
first chaplains -- Fathers Vladimir Borichevsky, Michael Kovach and John Kivko -- with
vestments, vessels, etc. The sale of $256,000 worth of war bonds led to two fighter
“aeroplanes” being named the “Spirit of FROC.” The War Memorial Shrine became an
FROC project and resulted in the construction of St. Nicholas Cathedral in Washington,
DC. The Pro-Cathedral Fund raised monies for the Metropolia’s headquarters, which
moved from Houston Street to Second Street in New York City.
In the Journal, a major series of articles by Bishop (later Metropolitan) Leonty
appeared on the history of the Orthodox Church in North America. Sophie Koulomzine
contributed many pieces on religious education, and the Sunday School committee
continued to be a high priority. The William Fekula Scholarship Fund was set up as was
a board of judges. Stories on and by seminarians at St. Vladimir’s and St. Tikhon’s ran
together with their photos. All students at St. Tikhon’s became members of Chapter
No. 121. Father Georges Florovsky, dean of St. Vladimir’s, gave the keynote address at
the 1949 convention on “The Responsibility of the Orthodox in America.” The Junior
division was formally established in 1946 with charters granted to 15 existing chapters
of youth. And in 1945, the FROC mounted a special fund drive to send an American
delegation of clergy to the
Russian Orthodox Church sobor in
Moscow, which elected Alexei as
Patriarch; the Journal covered the
story.
The close cooperation
between the Church and the
Federation continued, with the
FROC providing crucial support
in an uncertain time. According
to Metropolitan Theophilus’ report to the Sobor in Cleveland in 1946, the FROC, by
resolution, “recognized the All-American Sobor as the supreme and only authority of
our Russian Orthodox Church in America[,]” causing him to express his gratitude: “The
FROC’s record, I am very happy to state, is one of helpfulness to the Church.” Statistics
showed that, by the end of the decade of the 40’s, there were some 124 chapters with a
total of 5,250 members. Serving as national presidents were Michael Perhach, Michael
15
Pilat, Nicholas Coba and Walter Chanas.
In the 1940s, the Federation formally adopted the motto: Pray (Molis), Study
(Uchis), Toil (Trudis), Be Temperate (Trezvis). In his address to the 25th anniversary
convention, Fr. Prislopsky said: “The
motto, and this is probably the first
time I have mentioned this, the motto
[was] written by a great patriot of the
Russian people in Galicia – Rev. John
Naumovich, the motto that he wrote of
the poem beginning with the first words
of each stanza were taken by the FROC as
our motto.” It was suggested to us by Fr.
Ignatius Lachno of Scranton, PA when “we said that we were looking for a motto that
would express the ideals of the Russian people, especially the youth.”
The 1950s started with the selection of “Faith of Our Fathers” as the official FOCA
anthem, after a spirited song contest, with words and music in English and Russian by
Anastasia Karnow. 2,000 copies of the New Testament, in Japanese, were purchased
for use by the Orthodox Church in Japan. The first oratorical and folk dance contests
were held. In 1953, the FROC petitioned the Synod of Bishops to have Father Herman
of Alaska canonized a saint. The next year, St. Andrew the First Called, was chosen
as the Federation’s patron saint. The central administrative office was set up in 1955.
Sports were a popular FROC activity, with basketball, bowling and summer sports
tournaments held nationally and in many districts. Andy Seminick, a baseball star for
the Philadelphia Phillies and FROC member, often was written about in the Journal and
was a popular speaker, even offering to send juniors to baseball camp at his expense.
And the 25th anniversary convention was held in Detroit in 1951 with Metropolitan
Leonty officiating at liturgy.
A wide variety of writers penned
articles for the Journal: Ivan Czap on
“The Aleut Peter: An Orthodox Martyr”;
Paul Fekula and Julia Malinchok on St.
Vladimir’s Seminary; Peter Melnik on
“A Junior today is a Senior tomorrow,”
a slogan adopted by the FROC; Princess
Ileana (later Mother Alexandra) of
Romania on “Orthodoxy in the US”; Fr. (later Bishop) Dimitri Royster on “Are You Afraid
to be a Zealot”; Annette Milkovich’s series on “The Inquiring Photographer,” with topics
like “What is the greatest need in Orthodoxy today?”; and Arlene Pilat on the national
essay contest winners. Among those addressing national conventions were Dr. Paul
Anderson of the YMCA International Committee on the Church in Russia, Fr. Alexander
Schmemann, new dean of students at St. Vladimir’s Seminary, on theological education
in America, and Fr. Stephen Upson on missions.
With the scholarship program in place, recipients and their photos, such as
Frank Lazor (now Metropolitan Theodosius), David Drillock and Michael Roshak, were
regularly featured. A chapter was formed in Kodiak, AK. Junior advisors meetings
were held and, although the number of chapters and junior membership continued
16
to increase, senior membership stabilized for the first time. John Daniluck, Walter
Grivna, Michael Bezbatchenko, Ross Chepeleff, Peter Melnik and William Mayrich were
national presidents during the 1950s.
The decade of the ‘60s started with the first national church teacher’s conference,
sponsored by the FROC, held at St. Tikhon’s
Seminary in 1961. Some 282 participants
heard the keynote address by Mrs. Koulomzine
and attended workshops by Constance Tarasar
and others. Metropolitan Leonty, speaking to
the 1961 convention, paid the Federation this
compliment in recognition of its efforts at unity:
“If your organization of young people of the
Orthodox Faith continues to keep its faith in the
future as tenaciously as it has in the past, then
it can unite not only its own social life but also
our parishes, which our bishops are laboring to
organize throughout the country[.]”
The FOCA joined both SYNDESMOS and CEOYLA, with Mr. Chepeleff chairing
the first CEOYLA Festival in Pittsburgh, bringing together thousands of Orthodox of
many jurisdictions. Open concern was expressed, however, over the fact that fewer
juniors were “graduating” into the senior division and more attention was devoted to
membership growth. Resolutions were passed condemning the persecution of religion
in the USSR and asking Congress to pass the pending resolution declaring Eastern
Orthodoxy a major faith. A convention took place for the first time in California in
1966. National presidents were William Livosky, Peter Homik, Apollo Manchuk, John
Bezbatchenko and Joseph Baldowski.
The 1970s were highlighted by two events. First, the silver anniversary national
convention occurred at the Waldorf-Astoria in New York City in 1976. Sponsored by the
New Jersey District, it was perhaps the best attended and most profitable ever. Second,
the FROC constructed an administrative headquarters building, with funds donated by
its membership, in Wilkes-Barre. Dedicated in 1974 to the memory of Father Prislopsky,
who had died in 1970, it served as the national office until its sale in the early 2000’s.
Discussion on changing the organization’s name surfaced as did an official affiliation
with the Orthodox Church in America, which had received autocephaly in 1970. Journal
editors, like Mr. Chepeleff and Mr. Melnik, were openly calling for both. Metropolitan
Ireney served at several convention liturgies and even addressed the attendees in
English for the first time at the banquets; his final convention, in conjunction with the
second CEOYLA Festival in 1977, was just before his retirement. History was made in
1978 when Alice Woog of Minneapolis was elected the group’s first female president.
Also serving as presidents were Edward (later Father) Onisko, Andrew Cvercko and
Michael Herzak.
The Federation’s work continued in the 1980s. The United Fund, chaired for many
years by Florence Boyko, supported numerous charities. St. Tikhon’s, St. Vladimir’s and
the new St. Herman’s seminaries were all recipients of aid, with the latter receiving a
new van. A sales department operated by the FROC enabled members and friends
to purchase religious and ethnic items. The 20th consecutive FROC choir conference
was held in July 1982, with over 150
attending. Although the 222nd senior
chapter was created, a number of chapters
had gone inactive with the resultant loss
of about one-third of the membership
from a peak of some 6,000 in the mid1950s. This phenomenon, experienced
by other fraternal, ethnic and religious
organizations, caused renewed interest
in changing the FROC’s name. National presidents included Maurice Garman, Peter
Junda, Michael Dorosh, Dr. Robert Weger and Peter Kohudic.
In the last decade of the second millennium, members boldly responded to the
changing complexion of contemporary American Orthodoxy. With decreased interest in
Russian or Slavic ethnicity, the increased number of mixed marriages and converts, and
the spread of mission parishes in traditionally “non-Orthodox” parts of North America,
it was no longer viable to maintain an ethnic-oriented church lay organization. Yet
the Church still had a need for a national network of dedicated Orthodox Christians
-- laity, clergy, youth -- united across parish, diocesan, ethnic and jurisdictional lines,
perhaps even more so than in the days of the Federation’s establishment when life
(work, church, school) all revolved around the local parish and the local town. After
a certain degree of soul-searching, the Federated Russian Orthodox Clubs became the
Fellowship of Orthodox Christians in America, the FOCA entered into a formal affiliation
with the Orthodox Church in America (while staying open to those outside the OCA),
and the Russian Orthodox Journal was renamed the Orthodox Christian Journal. It
was, in retrospect, a natural evolution. Metropolitan Theodosius, who was named a
life member, faithfully participated in
the national conventions. Nicholas
Vansuch, John Kruchok, Dr. Michael
Wusylko, Carol Deerson, John Petronko
and Sandra Fedorko were national
presidents during the period of
transition.
In 2001 the Fellowship celebrated
its 75th annual, diamond anniversary
national convention in Pittsburgh,
where it all started in 1927, and sponsored by the Pittsburgh District. Hundreds made
the effort to participate in this celebration, traveling from all parts of the country. The
entire OCA Chancery, led by Chancellor Fr. Robert Kondratick was present; Archbishop
Herman substituted for Metropolitan Theodosius who was on medical leave. Former
Philadelphia Phillies star Andy Seminick was there as was John Daniluck, a life member.
Shown at the banquet was a documentary film produced by Gregory “Grisha” Ressetar,
grandson of Fr. Prislopsky. Gregg Nescott provided an informative historical overview
at the banquet; Fr. Igor Soroka directed the talented diocesan choir in a number of
pieces. It truly was a weekend to remember.
The FOCA continued to be a major church organization into the 2000s, funding
a vehicle for St. Herman’s Seminary in Alaska and continuing to sponsor a variety of
programs and tournaments. Fr. Michael Anderson served as both OCA youth director
and Junior Department chair during
these productive years. Metropolitan
Theodosius, a life member, was specially
honored at the 2002 national convention
upon his retirement as OCA primate
after 25 years. John “Lefty” Sutyak of
Cleveland left a major endowment to fund national sporting events; at the national
basketball tournament in Cleveland in the late 2000s, nearly 500 attended the awards
banquet. The Junior Olympics or “national junior summer sports tournament” is held
each and every year at St. Vladimir
Camp and Retreat Center in northeast
Ohio; a 50th anniversary celebration
was held at St. Michael’s Woodside
in 2014 and specially honored were
the camp directors through the years.
And the Orthodox Christian Journal,
under Michael Schultz, publisher, and
Nicholas D. Ressetar, editor (since 2002)
and grandson of Fr. Prislopsky, has continued to publish in hard print and electronically,
making it the oldest, continuous English-language Orthodox Christian publication.
At the national convention in Nashville in 2007, the Fellowship resolved to
undertake its greatest challenge: the initial funding of married student housing at St.
Tikhon’s Seminary. Encouraged by then Seminary Dean and now Rector, Archbishop
Michael (Dahulich), a $300,000 goal was established. The Orthodox Church in
America underwent a “time of troubles” beginning in 2008 and the FOCA remained a
steadying force. Participating faithfully in its national conventions during these years
were Metropolitans Herman, Jonah and now Tikhon as well as OCA Chancellor Fr. John
Jillions and Secretary Fr. Eric Tosi. And serving as national presidents were John R.
Kruchok (a 2nd term), Dr. John Schultz (2 separate terms), Michael Steffaro, Polly
Walker, Rebecca Tesar and now Marge Kovach.
In July 2015, the Fellowship held its national convention in conjunction with the
OCA’s All-American Council in Atlanta, a first-ever. The highlight was the presentation
of a symbolic check for $300,000 to St. Tikhon’s Seminary – the goal had finally been
met after years of hard work and effort! Metropolitan Tikhon praised the FOCA for this
significant achievement, and he and
the Holy Synod of Bishops participated
in the convention banquet. From the
council came a call for a national OCA
youth program, which the Fellowship
has been promoting from the start in
1927.
Now, in July 2016, the FOCA is
poised to celebrate its 90th national
convention in Rosemont, IL, suburban Chicago, hosted by the Chicago-area chapters.
It is a time of new challenges and hurdles, but new opportunities and goals await us
as well. The history of the Fellowship and its members is the Church’s own history.
And despite all that has happened since
that humble first meeting in Northside
Pittsburgh in 1927, the Fellowship’s
central mission remains what was on the
first page of that very first little Journal:
“to promote the religious work of the
church.”
Editor’s Note: a version of this select
history appeared in the former The Orthodox Church newspaper, together with
photos, in the summer of 2001 as edited by Fr. John Matusiak in conjunction with the
Fellowship’s 75th anniversary.
17
SPORTScorner
Cleveland “R” Club Hosts
77th Annual
National Bowling Tourney
This year’s national bowling tournament, sponsored by the Cleveland “R”
Club, #4/6, was held in the Cleveland, Ohio-area over the weekend of June
3-5. Melissa and Becky Tesar served as co-chairs. Team bowling was held
Friday evening at the Freeway Lanes in nearby Parma with an open house
held afterwards at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Independence. Mary Jane Lucak
and Helen Gaborick handled registration. Bowlers gathered early on Saturday
morning for doubles and singles. Father John Zdinak of St. Theodosius Cathedral
led the opening prayer with the singing of “Christ is Risen!” and the national
and FOCA anthems were sung. Then the big moment: National President Marge
Kovach rolled out the ceremonial first ball as Journal photojournalist Leon
Sheean captured it while poised precariously in the right gutter – she somehow
missed him! Bowling continued well into the afternoon and several Juniors
joined in the bowling fun.
Vespers was served by Father Nicholas Wyslutsky (of St. Nicholas Church
in Mogadore, OH) at St. Michael’s Church in Broadview Heights and then the
awards banquet followed at the Shandy behind the parish’s Woodside Center
as a light rain began to fall. A variety of meats was featured on the menu,
including ribs and pulled pork. John Mindala served as bartender. After dinner,
18
Melissa Tesar welcomed all the bowlers and thanked them for participating.
National Sports Director Melanie Clark and son George presented the awards to
the winning teams and bowlers (all the scores are in this issue). Congrats to all
the winners! Sunday Divine Liturgy was celebrated by Father Basil Stoyka (with
Serbian Bishop Sava present in the altar), who greeted the bowlers after the
service. Thanks to Cleveland for a great weekend of bowling and fellowship!
Odds and ends: many bowlers donned Cavaliers sports stuff as their NBA
team was in the playoffs (and just won!) . . . the TV screens on each lane during
Friday’s games showed the AHL finals with Cleveland playing your Editor’s
Hershey Bears . . . Father Peter Pawlack stopped by the alleys to watch son Greg
... the Markvan family (Bob the dad, Aaron the son & Miriam the daughter)
should consider joining the PBA tour – awesome bowlers! ... John Lord & Mark
Marton enjoyed good-natured ribbing at Anthony Schultz’ expense ... some
went to the Indians game Sunday afternoon as they swept the 4-game series
against the Royals to move into first place... the lanes actually charged $2.25
for shoe rental, a tourney first .. Mom Lissa & daughter Kyra Molchan bowled
doubles together and won the handicap, too!
BOWLING SCORES
Women Singles HDCP
1. Becky Tesar
2. Melissa Tesar
3. Kyra Molchan
4. Barbara Sheean
5. Lissa Molchan
6. Elexis Schultz
594
536
528
510
490
489
Women Singles Actual
1. Miriam Markvan
2. Leonora Felon
3. Judy Schwind
4. Jennifer Pishko
5. Marge Wallick
6. Mat. Cindy Zdinak
581
440
384
377
364
334
Men Singles HDCP
1. Mike Petrisin
2. Phil Tesar
3. Toot Kormos
4. Nick Ressetar
5. George Manzuk
6. Leon Sheean
7. John Ihnat
8. Joachim Wyslutsky
9. Anthony Schultz
10. George Freimann
693
663
622
621
603
592
587
577
555
549
Men Singles Actual
1. Bob Markvan
2. Aaron Markvan
3. John Miklos
4. John Lord
5. Mark Marton
6. John Kostecka
7. Andy Petty
8. Darrell Felon
9. Gene Daniels
10. Sam Noah
663
660
577
548
547
514
512
494
489
464
Women Doubles HDCP
1. Molchan/Molchan
1044
2. Schultz/Pawlack
1035
3. Felon/Sheean
1030
Women Doubles Actual
1. Markvan/Wallick
865
2. Tesar/Tesar
819
3. Tesar/Pishko
805
Men Doubles HDCP
1. Kormos/Petrisin
2. Cundik/Manzuk –
3. Ressetar/Tesar
4. Wallick/Noah
5. Sheean/Wasilewski
1191
1179
1165
1140
1136
Men Doubles Actual
1. Markvan/Markvan
2. Schultz/Pawlack
3. Petty/Miklos
4. Daniels/Kostecka
5. Lord/Marton
1248
1077
1014
997
977
Women Team HDCP
1. Cleveland Gals
2. St. Theodosius Ladies
2027
1919
Women Team Actual
1. 3 T’s & a P
2. St. Mark’s
1739
1599
Men Team HDCP
1. Markvan (make up 1)
2. St. Andrew’s
3. St. Mark’s
2289
2221
2101
Men’s Team Actual
1. Garden State
2275
2. Cleveland
2005
3. Cathedral (non-clergy) 1717
All Events Women HDCP
1. Becky Tesar
1640
2. Melissa Tesar
1567
3. Kyra Molchan
1561
All Events Women Actual
1. Miriam Markvan
1531
2. Leonora Felon
1343
3. Jennifer Pishko
1264
All Events Men HDCP
1. Phil Tesar
2. Mike Petrisin
3. Anthony Schultz
4. George Manzuk
5. John Miklos
1901
1871
1778
1769
1749
All Events Men Actual
1. Aaron Markvan
2. Bob Markvan
3. John Lord
4. Mark Marton
5. John Kostecka
1988
1877
1688
1627
1575
Women High Game
Miriam Markvan
194
Men High Game
Aaron Markvan
276
19
Bowling Tournament Photo Gallery
20
Transitions: Spring 2016
ORDINATION: On Saturday, January 30, 2016, the feast of
the Three Hierarchs, Bishop Paul of
Chicago and the Midwest (OCA)
ordained Subdeacon Joseph J.
Shaluha (charter member of chapter
#254) to the diaconate during the
Divine Liturgy at St. Gregory
of Nyssa Orthodox Church,
Columbus, OH. Concelebrating
with Bishop Paul were Fathers
Matthew Moriak (#254), rector
of St. Gregory’s, David Garretson
(#167), John Reeves
and Stephen Frase;
Deacons
Theodore
Gregory (Joe’s cousin),
David Gemmel and
Paul Mitchell assisted.
Serving as subdeacons
were John Mustric and
Basil Kozak (#167); and
also assisting in the altar were his
godson, David Cooper (#167-J), and
Andrew Paduchick (#254-J). Several
other local priests also attended the
festal ordination liturgy.
Deacon Joseph with his wife,
Matushka Kyra (Chapter #254
president), reside in Gahanna,
OH with their children, Joey and
Genevieve. Photos of the whole
weekend’s events may be viewed on the St. Gregory of
Nyssa Orthodox Church Facebook page. Deacon Joe served
during the recent St. Tikhon’s Monastery pilgrimage over the
Memorial Day weekend. Axios to Deacon Joe and many years
to him, Matushka Kyra and their family!
DEPARTED: Nancy Filak, 79, of North Arlington, NJ passed
away on April 21, 2016. She was born in Jersey City, NJ and
lived in North Arlington for 40 years. A lifelong member of
the FROC/FOCA, Nancy was a
past New Jersey District governor
(twice) and secretary as well as
past vice-president of her parish’s
“R” club. She taught in the Jersey
City public school system for 35
years and was a parishioner of St.
John the Baptist Russian Orthodox
Church in Passaic, NJ where she
had been vice-president of the
church board and member of the choir and women’s club.
From the parish Facebook page: “If you had known Nancy,
you would know the loss all her family and friends feel at the
news that Nancy feel asleep in the Lord last night. A wonderful
parishioner of St. John’s, there wasn’t a job or position that she
would not help at. In the recent few years, Nancy unfortunately
was not well and was confined to living out the rest of her
life in nursing facilities; and last night, the Lord called her
home and she peacefully passed. A treasured parishioner, a
wonderful friend of so many FOCA members throughout the
entire organization and a beautiful friend of mine.”
Nancy is survived by her brother Jacob and his wife
Maureen Filak of Waretown, NJ; a niece Kristin Gleeson; a
nephew Bryan and two great-nephews. Funeral services
were celebrated at her parish with interment at St. Vladimir’s
Russian Orthodox Christian Cemetery in Jackson, NJ. May
her memory be eternal!
NOTED CHOIR DIRECTOR RETIRES: After over 60
years of directing the St. Peter and St. Paul Orthodox Church
Choir in Burr Ridge, Illinois, Mr. John Sutko is retiring. His
retirement dinner took place on Sunday, February 14, 2016 at
St. Peter and St. Paul. Mr. Sutko began
directing the church choir during his
first year in college in 1953. Upon
graduation from Chicago Teachers
College and the Chicago Conservatory
of Music, he began teaching music
in Western Springs, IL. After 12
years of teaching he became assistant
principal of McClure Junior High
School and held this position for 35
years.
Mr. Sutko has been a member of the FOCA ever since he
began as a Junior club member till the present. He has directed
the choir for many FOCA services, including 4 national
conventions, 3 national bowling tournaments and over a dozen
district conventions and sports tournaments. He was also a
teaching staff member of the FOCA choir conferences from
1968 to 1982.
When asked about the future of the music program at his
parish, Mr. Sutko stated that the sacred music tradition and
trust of the church are enormous responsibilities and these
responsibilities must continue to be borne in our church.
Our work and dedication must also continue for the greater
glorification of God and for our Orthodox Church, our choir
and our children, he added.
Congratulations and many years to Maestro Sutko on his
well-deserved retirement!
– submitted by Cynthia Koranda, Choir President
21
DEPARTED: Stephen W. Cimbolic, 86, passed away on June 15th at Bayonne Medical Center in New Jersey. A lifelong
resident of Bayonne and member of SS. Peter & Paul Orthodox Church and its Alpha “R” Club,
he served his country as a sergeant in the U.S. Army during the Korean War. Stephen attended
Cooper Union and worked for The Port Authority of NY/NJ for 47 years. He was the loving
husband of Margaret (Petronko) for nearly 60 years; loving father of Stephen and wife Nancy,
Marge Kovach and husband Jerry, Greg, Melanie Prybylski and husband Jay; proud grandfather
of Danielle, Stephen, Michael and Samantha. He is also survived by many loving nieces and
nephews. Stephen was very active in the FOCA/FROC, and participated in numerous national
conventions as well as district and chapter activities together with wife Marge. And he was most
proud to see his daughter, Marge, become the Fellowship’s current national president. Funeral
services were held at his parish with interment at Graceland Memorial Park, Kenilworth, NJ. May
Stephen’s memory be eternal!
FOCA CALENDAR 2016
July 3-9:
National Junior Summer Sports Tournament, St. Vladimir Camp, Farmdale, OH
July 22-25:
90th National FOCA Convention, sponsored by the Chicago chapters, Rosemont/Chicago, IL
August 5-6:
Annual Pilgrimage, Transfiguration Monastery, Ellwood City, PA
August 19-20: 2016 National Summer Sports Tourney (golf) sponsored by the Ambridge “O” Club, Meadville, PA
Sat. Oct. 1:
Orthodox Education Day, “Celebrating Mary,” St. Vladimir’s Seminary, Yonkers, NY
For updates and detailed info, visit www.orthodoxfellowship.org
2016 PHOTO CONTEST
This year’s theme is: “God’s Creations: Nature”
Show us your favorite nature photo, what you like best about the outdoors, or the beauty you see outside everyday!
Start taking pictures now or go through pictures you’ve already taken.
Participants (must be an F.O.C.A. member) can send in up to five (5) photos, preferably 3x5 or 4x6. Judging will take place at the 2016 National Convention. Participants need
not be present at the National Convention to win. Awards will depend on the number of entries in the following age categories: 18-45 and 46+.
Entry Form
Important! Photos must be received by Saturday July 2, 2016. You can also bring them to convention. Entry fee is $2.00/photo. Make check payable to F.O.C.A.
Please print
Name____________________________________________________________ District___________________ Chapter_________
Address________________________________________________________________________________________________
City____________________________________ State_____________ Zip_______________Phone (
18
22
Age category _______18-45 or _______46+
) ______________________
Number of photos__________x$2.00 each = $_____________entry fee
Mail photo(s) with entry fee check to: Samantha Exler *316 McIntosh Drive, Moon Twp. PA, 15108
KIDZ corner
Saint Anna, the Mother of the Virgin Mary
This wonder-working, myrhh-streaming (myrhh is a fragrant gum resin) icon of Saint Anna may
be venerated at Saint Tikhon’s Monastery in South Canaan, PA
The icon on this page is of Saint Anna, the mother of the Virgin Mary who is the Mother of God or Theotokos; the
saint is holding her as a baby. Being the mother of the Theotokos made Saint Anna the grandmother of Jesus
Christ. The Orthodox Church commemorates her falling asleep in the Lord (or death) on July 25th. Another
day of remembering Saint Anna is September 9th, the day after we celebrate the Nativity or Birth of the Virgin
Mary. Below you will find a list of languages. See if you can match the language with the name of
Grandmother in that language. The answers are below.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
Russian
Spanish
German
Greek
Arabic
French
Chinese
Romanian
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
g.
h.
Situ
Ya-ya
Grand-mère
Abuela
Zu mu
Baba
Grossmütter
Bunica
What do you call your grandmothers?
23
Key: 1 - f, 2 - d, 3 - g, 4 - b, 5 - a, 6 - c, 7 - e and 8 - h
RECYCLE!
Use This Issue To
Encourage New
Membership
POSTMASTER - If Undeliverable
Please Send Form 3579 To: Orthodox Christian JOURNAL • c/o 892 Scott Street • Wilkes-Barre, PA 18705
1ST FROC CONVENTION, PITTSBURGH 1927
Delegates to the First National Convention of the Federated Russian Orthodox Clubs, N.S. Pittsburgh, Penna., November 26, 27, 1927
(seated in the middle of the 2nd row, Vladimir Prislopsky and Fr. Michael Fekula)
Delegates and Guests at the First National Convention
Delegates to the First Convention
Bridgeport, Conn. – Peter Jankura • Auburn, N. Y. – Peter Panko • Detroit, Mich. – George Mako, Andrew Goidich
Cleveland, Ohio (West Side) – Julia Maharidge, Mary Slota, N. Kappanadze • Cleveland, Ohio (East Side) – Lilian Ratica, Lillian Chandick
Akron, Ohio – Frank Vroniak, Julius Sterner • Marblehead, Ohio – V. Rev. J. Dzvonchik, V. Rev. M. Dziama
Woodlawn, Pa. – Mary Stenko, George Ratica, Paul Ratica. • Canonsburg, Pa. – Julia Blyshak, William Moskal
Ambridge, Pa. – John Mashanitz, Andrew Fetchitsa • Carnegie, Pa. – Katherine Chichillo, Stephen Mezik
Duquesne, Pa. – Mary Yun, Peter Seman • McKees Rocks, Pa. – John Pravlochak, Stephen Kozemka • Charleroi, Pa. – Alexander Kash
East Pittsburgh, Pa. – Rev. John Yanchishin • Pittsburgh, Pa. – Anna Butula, Andrew Evans, John Bilak
From The Russian Orthodox Journal, August 1942, p. 32

Spring 2016 - Fellowship of Orthodox Christians in America

Transcription

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