"So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them." Luke 2:16-18
Like the shepherds, the Lord meets each of us where we are at in life and asks that we invite others into the Body of Jesus Christ. This Nativity season, we ask that you prayerfully consider your own gifts, talents, and abilities and how you are able to use these to help make disciples of all nations. We invite you to begin this journey by becoming more engaged in international missions through your prayers for those serving in Christ’s name around our world. We invite you to consider your ability to personally serve, and/or make a financial gift, in support of the mission ministries of the Orthodox Church through the OCMC.
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
Health Care Providers Needed to ‘Share in a Journey of Faith’
“I’m thankful to have participated in an OCMC Mission Team. It was a great experience. The Orthodox Church is the same worldwide. We all pray the same and worship the same. I feel a kinship to the Orthodox Christians of Uganda,” reported a participant on the 2009 Health Care Team that treated over 4,000 individuals in two weeks in the Gulu region of northern Uganda.
Biblical narratives portray the loving and compassionate Lord, Jesus Christ, healing blind men, lepers, and the woman suffering from an unceasing flow of blood. He traveled throughout Galilee, teaching, preaching, and healing disease and sickness. He healed a servant, a daughter, and the demon possessed. Christ’s love and compassion for His creation was made tangible as He combined caring for the physical needs of His Creation with preaching the Good News of salvation.
In this spirit of offering a tangible witness of love, OCMC will be responding to an invitation to send another Health Care Team to the Gulu region of Uganda. This is an opportunity for Health Care providers (doctors, nurse practitioners, nurses, dentists, pharmacists, and med students – just to name a few) to make a difference in the lives of our brothers and sisters in Africa.
OCMC invites you to help make this ministry possible. If you are a health care provider, please prayerfully consider applying to serve on this Team. If you are not, but know Orthodox health care providers, please tell them about this life-giving ministry and encourage them to get involved.
Team members not only make a difference in the lives of those they meet and serve, but their own lives are transformed as well. Giving of our time and talents to minister to God's people is an expression of our love for Christ. Our works speak without words, demonstrating Christ’s love for all the world and His desire that all come to know Him.
Make a difference this year: share in a journey of faith!
Biblical narratives portray the loving and compassionate Lord, Jesus Christ, healing blind men, lepers, and the woman suffering from an unceasing flow of blood. He traveled throughout Galilee, teaching, preaching, and healing disease and sickness. He healed a servant, a daughter, and the demon possessed. Christ’s love and compassion for His creation was made tangible as He combined caring for the physical needs of His Creation with preaching the Good News of salvation.
In this spirit of offering a tangible witness of love, OCMC will be responding to an invitation to send another Health Care Team to the Gulu region of Uganda. This is an opportunity for Health Care providers (doctors, nurse practitioners, nurses, dentists, pharmacists, and med students – just to name a few) to make a difference in the lives of our brothers and sisters in Africa.
OCMC invites you to help make this ministry possible. If you are a health care provider, please prayerfully consider applying to serve on this Team. If you are not, but know Orthodox health care providers, please tell them about this life-giving ministry and encourage them to get involved.
Team members not only make a difference in the lives of those they meet and serve, but their own lives are transformed as well. Giving of our time and talents to minister to God's people is an expression of our love for Christ. Our works speak without words, demonstrating Christ’s love for all the world and His desire that all come to know Him.
Make a difference this year: share in a journey of faith!
Friday, December 4, 2009
OCMC Board of Directors Gather at St. Vladimir's Seminary for Fall 2009 Board Meeting
Crestwood, New York – This year’s Fall Board meeting, held at St. Vladimir’s Orthodox Theological Seminary, was an opportunity for the Board of Directors of the Orthodox Christian Mission Center (OCMC) to discuss the many developments that have arisen since the Board’s last meeting in May in St. Augustine, Florida at the Dedication of the Archbishop Anastasios and Archbishop Demetrios Missionary Training and Administration Building. Being on the Seminary campus allowed Board members to interact with faculty and students and dialogue about Orthodox Missions in general and service possibilities in particular.
Of note were the acceptance of three new long-term missionary candidates, the growth of the Support a Mission Priest (SAMP) program, which now supports 400 indigenous clergy in 19 Mission countries worldwide, the continued expansion of the Ambassador program, and the hiring of OCMC’s new Major Gifts Officer, Amy Pierce - all indications that the intent of North American Orthodox Christians to make disciples of all nations remains strong. Over 200 individuals have expressed interest and are in some stage of being considered for Missionary service.
Positive news, however, was also met with a certain level of sobriety as the organization, along with most non-profit groups, is feeling the effects of the economic recession from which, some economists say, the world is only now just beginning to emerge. The year 2009 saw the lowest number of Mission Team member participants in years and donations in support of the work of OCMC were down. As a result, the Board discussed measures the OCMC would need to take in order to weather the lingering storm while expanding its mission ministries to meet the growing need for Orthodox Christian witness around the world. These efforts included detailed scrutiny of the 2010 budget and increased emphasis on enrolling individuals in the Friends of Missions program and other fundraising appeals. Also planned in the next few months are dinners and other events sponsored by local Mission committees in Chicago, St. Louis, Washington, DC, and South Florida. A dinner was held in Denver in November.
Graciously hosted by Seminary Chancellor the Very Rev. Dr. Chad Hatfield, OCMC Board Vice President, meetings began on Monday, November 16th, with sessions involving the Board’s Executive Committee and the Strategic Planning Committee. The current Strategic Plan is midway through its five-year term and will be reviewed and updated.
On Tuesday, November 17th, between Matins and Vespers in the Seminary’s Three Hierarch Chapel, the Board gathered for a full report on the ministries of OCMC in 2009 and to discuss the organization’s goals for 2010 including individual departmental operational plans. OCMC Executive Director Fr. Martin Ritsi also shared his recent trip to Pakistan and Africa where he, on behalf of the OCMC, received the St. Mark award from His Beatitude Theodoros II, Pope and Patriarch of Alexandria and All Africa. He also talked about the Church’s efforts to reach the Turkana people of Northern Kenya and the emerging Church in Pakistan.
Later that evening a banquet benefiting the OCMC was held at nearby Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church in New Rochelle, New York where former OCMC Board member Fr. Nicholas Anctil is the priest. The guest speaker was His Grace Seraphim, Retired Bishop of Sendai, Japan. His Grace shared his own missionary experiences in Japan and how he was inspired by St. Nikolai who was able to effectively make disciples of the Japanese people. He entreated those in attendance to continue the work of St. Nikolai among different cultures, but also among those we encounter in our daily lives. His Grace Bishop Savas of Troas, the Director of the Office of Church and Society of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America also attended.
Following Matins on Wednesday, November 18th, the Board concluded the Fall meeting with reports from various committees. The Nominations Sub-Committee, chaired by President Emeritus Fr. Alexander Veronis, opened nominations for new Board officers starting three-year terms in the Spring of 2010 including President, Vice President, Secretary and Treasurer. In the report from the Teams Task Force, Chair George Conopeotis shared with the Board new strategies for helping more of the faithful answer the call to missions by participating on short-term teams. Other committee discussions included Governance, Development, Health Care and wrap-ups on the new Building Construction and Dedication events. Though the future may hold continued challenges, it is a testament to God’s will that He desires salvation for all people and indicative of the deep faith of Orthodox Christians in North America that the work of missions carries on. In this hour, prayer, is needed for the staff, board, and missionaries of the OCMC, and all those called to serve as Christ’s witnesses to the ends of the earth.
The Orthodox Christian Mission Center (OCMC) is the official mission agency of the Standing Conference of Canonical Orthodox Bishops in the Americas (SCOBA) dedicated to making disciples of all nations by incorporating them into the vibrant Eucharistic life of the Church.
Of note were the acceptance of three new long-term missionary candidates, the growth of the Support a Mission Priest (SAMP) program, which now supports 400 indigenous clergy in 19 Mission countries worldwide, the continued expansion of the Ambassador program, and the hiring of OCMC’s new Major Gifts Officer, Amy Pierce - all indications that the intent of North American Orthodox Christians to make disciples of all nations remains strong. Over 200 individuals have expressed interest and are in some stage of being considered for Missionary service.
Positive news, however, was also met with a certain level of sobriety as the organization, along with most non-profit groups, is feeling the effects of the economic recession from which, some economists say, the world is only now just beginning to emerge. The year 2009 saw the lowest number of Mission Team member participants in years and donations in support of the work of OCMC were down. As a result, the Board discussed measures the OCMC would need to take in order to weather the lingering storm while expanding its mission ministries to meet the growing need for Orthodox Christian witness around the world. These efforts included detailed scrutiny of the 2010 budget and increased emphasis on enrolling individuals in the Friends of Missions program and other fundraising appeals. Also planned in the next few months are dinners and other events sponsored by local Mission committees in Chicago, St. Louis, Washington, DC, and South Florida. A dinner was held in Denver in November.
Graciously hosted by Seminary Chancellor the Very Rev. Dr. Chad Hatfield, OCMC Board Vice President, meetings began on Monday, November 16th, with sessions involving the Board’s Executive Committee and the Strategic Planning Committee. The current Strategic Plan is midway through its five-year term and will be reviewed and updated.
On Tuesday, November 17th, between Matins and Vespers in the Seminary’s Three Hierarch Chapel, the Board gathered for a full report on the ministries of OCMC in 2009 and to discuss the organization’s goals for 2010 including individual departmental operational plans. OCMC Executive Director Fr. Martin Ritsi also shared his recent trip to Pakistan and Africa where he, on behalf of the OCMC, received the St. Mark award from His Beatitude Theodoros II, Pope and Patriarch of Alexandria and All Africa. He also talked about the Church’s efforts to reach the Turkana people of Northern Kenya and the emerging Church in Pakistan.
Later that evening a banquet benefiting the OCMC was held at nearby Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church in New Rochelle, New York where former OCMC Board member Fr. Nicholas Anctil is the priest. The guest speaker was His Grace Seraphim, Retired Bishop of Sendai, Japan. His Grace shared his own missionary experiences in Japan and how he was inspired by St. Nikolai who was able to effectively make disciples of the Japanese people. He entreated those in attendance to continue the work of St. Nikolai among different cultures, but also among those we encounter in our daily lives. His Grace Bishop Savas of Troas, the Director of the Office of Church and Society of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America also attended.
Following Matins on Wednesday, November 18th, the Board concluded the Fall meeting with reports from various committees. The Nominations Sub-Committee, chaired by President Emeritus Fr. Alexander Veronis, opened nominations for new Board officers starting three-year terms in the Spring of 2010 including President, Vice President, Secretary and Treasurer. In the report from the Teams Task Force, Chair George Conopeotis shared with the Board new strategies for helping more of the faithful answer the call to missions by participating on short-term teams. Other committee discussions included Governance, Development, Health Care and wrap-ups on the new Building Construction and Dedication events. Though the future may hold continued challenges, it is a testament to God’s will that He desires salvation for all people and indicative of the deep faith of Orthodox Christians in North America that the work of missions carries on. In this hour, prayer, is needed for the staff, board, and missionaries of the OCMC, and all those called to serve as Christ’s witnesses to the ends of the earth.
The Orthodox Christian Mission Center (OCMC) is the official mission agency of the Standing Conference of Canonical Orthodox Bishops in the Americas (SCOBA) dedicated to making disciples of all nations by incorporating them into the vibrant Eucharistic life of the Church.
Monday, November 16, 2009
OCMC Invites Families to Experience an Orthodox Mission Team
For the first time, OCMC is offering families the opportunity to participate together on Orthodox Mission Teams. Four 2010 OCMC Mission Teams are open to parents and youth who are prayerfully seeking exposure to the important work of making disciples.
Family Teams allow youth (13 and above) to travel with a parent to offer their time and talents as living witnesses to the Orthodox Christian Faith. If you want your teen to have an opportunity to serve others around the world and to be involved in missions, then consider joining a 2010 Orthodox Family Mission Team. This year’s Family Team destinations are: Eklutna and Old Harbor, Alaska; Shen Vlash, Albania; and Cluj, Romania.
The Eklutna Team will travel to the oldest continuously inhabited Athabaskan Indian settlement to work on light general maintenance to the church of St. Nicholas (cutting shrubs, trimming grass, painting the cemetery, and fence and walkway repairs,) and by offering historic tours of the Church. The Albania Team will assist in the daily activities and ministries of the Children’s Home of Hope in Albania. The Romania Team will join ASCOR (the Student Association of Orthodox Christians in Romania) in offering a Youth Camp outside of Cluj to middle school-aged youth. The Team to Old Harbor will participate in the annual Family Camp offered to youth and adults on Sitkalidak Island. The theme of the camp will be “Christ in the Eucharist, Truly a Subsistence Food.”
All of the 2010 Family Teams have been carefully chosen to allow youth to develop relationships with their Orthodox peers and learn about new cultures. Language barriers melt and horizons are broadened as families put their faith into action and share their Orthodox faith.
An Orthodox Mission Team can be a life-changing experience. Family Teams are perfect if you have teens who love Christ and helping others and if your family is seeking spritual growth and a deeper understanding of the universality of the Orthodox faith. An OCMC Family Mission Team is a great way to begin a journey that will have a profound impact on your lives and the lives of others.
For more information or to apply for one of these Family Teams log on to http://teams.ocmc.org, or contact OCMC by phone at 1-877-GO-FORTH or by e-mail at teams@ocmc.org.
Family Teams allow youth (13 and above) to travel with a parent to offer their time and talents as living witnesses to the Orthodox Christian Faith. If you want your teen to have an opportunity to serve others around the world and to be involved in missions, then consider joining a 2010 Orthodox Family Mission Team. This year’s Family Team destinations are: Eklutna and Old Harbor, Alaska; Shen Vlash, Albania; and Cluj, Romania.
The Eklutna Team will travel to the oldest continuously inhabited Athabaskan Indian settlement to work on light general maintenance to the church of St. Nicholas (cutting shrubs, trimming grass, painting the cemetery, and fence and walkway repairs,) and by offering historic tours of the Church. The Albania Team will assist in the daily activities and ministries of the Children’s Home of Hope in Albania. The Romania Team will join ASCOR (the Student Association of Orthodox Christians in Romania) in offering a Youth Camp outside of Cluj to middle school-aged youth. The Team to Old Harbor will participate in the annual Family Camp offered to youth and adults on Sitkalidak Island. The theme of the camp will be “Christ in the Eucharist, Truly a Subsistence Food.”
All of the 2010 Family Teams have been carefully chosen to allow youth to develop relationships with their Orthodox peers and learn about new cultures. Language barriers melt and horizons are broadened as families put their faith into action and share their Orthodox faith.
An Orthodox Mission Team can be a life-changing experience. Family Teams are perfect if you have teens who love Christ and helping others and if your family is seeking spritual growth and a deeper understanding of the universality of the Orthodox faith. An OCMC Family Mission Team is a great way to begin a journey that will have a profound impact on your lives and the lives of others.
For more information or to apply for one of these Family Teams log on to http://teams.ocmc.org, or contact OCMC by phone at 1-877-GO-FORTH or by e-mail at teams@ocmc.org.
Did Not Our Hearts Burn
by Jesse Brandow
After spending nearly two weeks in Guatemala, I arrived back in the United States exhausted and inspired. I hoped to write sooner to share my experience, but I needed time to readjust to life here in the States. It has been nearly three months since I arrived home, and only now am I beginning to understand my trip to the Hogar Rafael Ayau (Hogar means "home" or "orphanage"). My time at the Hogar was so packed with sights, sounds, faces, and prayers that I have a difficult time truly sharing it. Yet it has meant so much to me that I have to share it with you! So I'm putting ink to paper as I begin to tell what God has done for me in Guatemala.
As the plane flew into Guatemala City, my eyes were glued to the window. The sprawling city had no massive skyscrapers to challenge the mountain peaks, which shot up on all sides. It was nothing like Chicago's huge apartment buildings or New York's jutting skyline. Here thousands of shacks littered the ground, and my team of ten was headed to the worst district.
Entering the orphanage felt like entering a small fort. It fills an entire city block, and its huge walls keep the children safe from danger. We had to be cleared by guards, who rolled back the gate for our van. Once inside it was easy to forget the world lurking outside those walls: gang fights, drunken parties, and prostitutes. The days in the Hogar were filled with so much joy, but sometimes at night I would suddenly hear the outside world: men arguing and a woman crying for help. On the first day we met the children in church. Each day began and ended in that same house of worship. The children came to services freely and sang all of the songs from memory. Although the boys and girls were a little mischievous in church (they’re kids after all!), they managed to stand for over an hour of services each day, singing in their native tongue. How I miss reciting the Lord’s prayer with them in Spanish, watching them carefully light beeswax candles, and walking up together to receive communion.
Our simple purpose was to love the children. Some of them were abused before coming to the Hogar, others never knew their parents. So what the children needed most was good role models who made them feel like unique and beautiful children of God. More practically, we were there to organize a week-long summer program called 'The Chocolate Train', which stopped at many “stations,” including the game room, pool, bakery, and art room. I find it hard to describe to you how full each day was, how special each moment. I played foosball and checkers in the morning and then baked cookies with a dozen children. I jumped in the pool before lunch, then juggled paints, pencils, and crayons in the art room. So many stories fill in the lines of this single paragraph, each one deserving to be told.
Before we left, Madre Ivonne asked each of us to write down the most memorable moment. I’d like to share what I wrote so you can hear one of the stories that crowded the lines of my journal. It was one of those rare moments when a person shines in all his inner beauty. One morning I was sitting on the grass when five or six of the cutest youngsters mobbed me, each one of them begging for attention. Then, with all of them climbing on top of me, one hand popped out in front of my face. I looked and saw Kevin. He has a healed cleft lip, some silver false teeth, and a hard time speaking. You might not guess how special he is. All the other kids desperately wanted me to devote my attention only to them, but Kevin just wanted to give me something. I looked into his hand and saw that he had found a little bug. I held it for a little while before giving it back. That was enough to make Kevin smile so big that I could see his silver teeth. He just wanted to share a little treasure, and the simplicity of his love melted my heart. Imagine 100 children like Kevin who want to know that someone has seen who they are and loved what they saw. Those 100 at the Hogar are part of the 370,000 orphans of Guatemala, all born to broken parents in a broken world. Some were neglected, others were actually tortured, and their scars remain with them forever. Thankfully, 100 children are protected from much of the world's evil by the Hogar's walls. Yet the line between love and hatred cannot be found in any physical barrier. That line runs through every human heart. The process of healing begins when the children are brought into the Hogar. As they grow, their hearts open up, and they begin to trust the nuns, staff, and Mission Team members who love them unconditionally. I thank God that I was a small part of their lives. Perhaps with God's grace I helped some of them to know how beautiful they are.
When my mission trip ended I did not want to return to the U.S. Here I find it difficult to keep focused on love when my vision is crowded by computer screens, hip clothing, and bold advertisements. There may be fewer orphans in the United States, but just as many people need love. Everywhere the world is broken. In Guatemala it is obvious, but here materialism plasters over the cracks. Sometimes I wish I could see the cracks plainly so it would be easier to focus on loving the people around me. But the love I shared at the Hogar still gives me hope that by focusing on Jesus Christ I will be able to heal others through love and to be healed myself.
We all need healing. What God showed me at the Hogar was how to live without despairing at human suffering. The world is dark, but that does not stop joy from shining through the Hogar. By putting Christ's love at the center of life, the nuns have built an amazing home for the children. In spite of all the painful stories I heard there, I have never felt so much joy anywhere else. More and more, I hope to live in the joy of Christ, for only he can heal our souls.
Please remember the children of the Hogar in your prayers.
P.S. You can find links to my picture albums at www.didnotourheartburn.blogspot.com
After spending nearly two weeks in Guatemala, I arrived back in the United States exhausted and inspired. I hoped to write sooner to share my experience, but I needed time to readjust to life here in the States. It has been nearly three months since I arrived home, and only now am I beginning to understand my trip to the Hogar Rafael Ayau (Hogar means "home" or "orphanage"). My time at the Hogar was so packed with sights, sounds, faces, and prayers that I have a difficult time truly sharing it. Yet it has meant so much to me that I have to share it with you! So I'm putting ink to paper as I begin to tell what God has done for me in Guatemala.
As the plane flew into Guatemala City, my eyes were glued to the window. The sprawling city had no massive skyscrapers to challenge the mountain peaks, which shot up on all sides. It was nothing like Chicago's huge apartment buildings or New York's jutting skyline. Here thousands of shacks littered the ground, and my team of ten was headed to the worst district.
Entering the orphanage felt like entering a small fort. It fills an entire city block, and its huge walls keep the children safe from danger. We had to be cleared by guards, who rolled back the gate for our van. Once inside it was easy to forget the world lurking outside those walls: gang fights, drunken parties, and prostitutes. The days in the Hogar were filled with so much joy, but sometimes at night I would suddenly hear the outside world: men arguing and a woman crying for help. On the first day we met the children in church. Each day began and ended in that same house of worship. The children came to services freely and sang all of the songs from memory. Although the boys and girls were a little mischievous in church (they’re kids after all!), they managed to stand for over an hour of services each day, singing in their native tongue. How I miss reciting the Lord’s prayer with them in Spanish, watching them carefully light beeswax candles, and walking up together to receive communion.
Our simple purpose was to love the children. Some of them were abused before coming to the Hogar, others never knew their parents. So what the children needed most was good role models who made them feel like unique and beautiful children of God. More practically, we were there to organize a week-long summer program called 'The Chocolate Train', which stopped at many “stations,” including the game room, pool, bakery, and art room. I find it hard to describe to you how full each day was, how special each moment. I played foosball and checkers in the morning and then baked cookies with a dozen children. I jumped in the pool before lunch, then juggled paints, pencils, and crayons in the art room. So many stories fill in the lines of this single paragraph, each one deserving to be told.
Before we left, Madre Ivonne asked each of us to write down the most memorable moment. I’d like to share what I wrote so you can hear one of the stories that crowded the lines of my journal. It was one of those rare moments when a person shines in all his inner beauty. One morning I was sitting on the grass when five or six of the cutest youngsters mobbed me, each one of them begging for attention. Then, with all of them climbing on top of me, one hand popped out in front of my face. I looked and saw Kevin. He has a healed cleft lip, some silver false teeth, and a hard time speaking. You might not guess how special he is. All the other kids desperately wanted me to devote my attention only to them, but Kevin just wanted to give me something. I looked into his hand and saw that he had found a little bug. I held it for a little while before giving it back. That was enough to make Kevin smile so big that I could see his silver teeth. He just wanted to share a little treasure, and the simplicity of his love melted my heart. Imagine 100 children like Kevin who want to know that someone has seen who they are and loved what they saw. Those 100 at the Hogar are part of the 370,000 orphans of Guatemala, all born to broken parents in a broken world. Some were neglected, others were actually tortured, and their scars remain with them forever. Thankfully, 100 children are protected from much of the world's evil by the Hogar's walls. Yet the line between love and hatred cannot be found in any physical barrier. That line runs through every human heart. The process of healing begins when the children are brought into the Hogar. As they grow, their hearts open up, and they begin to trust the nuns, staff, and Mission Team members who love them unconditionally. I thank God that I was a small part of their lives. Perhaps with God's grace I helped some of them to know how beautiful they are.
When my mission trip ended I did not want to return to the U.S. Here I find it difficult to keep focused on love when my vision is crowded by computer screens, hip clothing, and bold advertisements. There may be fewer orphans in the United States, but just as many people need love. Everywhere the world is broken. In Guatemala it is obvious, but here materialism plasters over the cracks. Sometimes I wish I could see the cracks plainly so it would be easier to focus on loving the people around me. But the love I shared at the Hogar still gives me hope that by focusing on Jesus Christ I will be able to heal others through love and to be healed myself.
We all need healing. What God showed me at the Hogar was how to live without despairing at human suffering. The world is dark, but that does not stop joy from shining through the Hogar. By putting Christ's love at the center of life, the nuns have built an amazing home for the children. In spite of all the painful stories I heard there, I have never felt so much joy anywhere else. More and more, I hope to live in the joy of Christ, for only he can heal our souls.
Please remember the children of the Hogar in your prayers.
P.S. You can find links to my picture albums at www.didnotourheartburn.blogspot.com
Monday, November 2, 2009
Federal Employees - Support Missions through the Combined Federal Campaign!
Federal employees have a unique opportunity to support the ministries of the Orthodox Christian Mission Center (OCMC) through the Combined Federal Campaign (CFC). The CFC is the world’s largest and most successful annual workplace charity campaign, and since becoming involved with the CFC in 2002, the OCMC has received $289,939.00 in gifts from Federal employees through the program. To date this year, the OCMC has received $41,856.00. As a CFC eligible non-profit, the OCMC must meet the highest of financial accountability standards, and our eligibility is reviewed on an annual basis.
We are in the midst of the CFC annual pledge season, September 1 – December 15, 2009. Any Federal civilian, postal, or military employee can begin to make gifts to the OCMC by visiting www.opm.gov/cfc/ and using the OCMC non-profit code 10304. The deadline to pledge your gift is quickly approaching!
If you are a Federal employee and have been considering ways to support international Orthodox missions, we ask that you consider this as one convenient option. We also invite you to visit www.ocmc.org, or call 877-GO-FORTH, to discover all of the opportunities available to further engage in the vital work of bringing more of our brothers and sisters around the world into the Body of Christ!
We are in the midst of the CFC annual pledge season, September 1 – December 15, 2009. Any Federal civilian, postal, or military employee can begin to make gifts to the OCMC by visiting www.opm.gov/cfc/ and using the OCMC non-profit code 10304. The deadline to pledge your gift is quickly approaching!
If you are a Federal employee and have been considering ways to support international Orthodox missions, we ask that you consider this as one convenient option. We also invite you to visit www.ocmc.org, or call 877-GO-FORTH, to discover all of the opportunities available to further engage in the vital work of bringing more of our brothers and sisters around the world into the Body of Christ!
Friday, October 30, 2009
My First Romanian Baptism
by Christina Semon
I want to share with you an experience I had in which I witnessed my first Romanian baptism. Here is how it happened.
Wednesday at the PTFC we hold a meeting for the mothers. At this meeting they discussed their problems and listened to others. Then if the staff can offer some advice, they share it. It was my first time attending such meetings. Laura is one of the single mothers who has a son named Dragost. She was crying for half of the meeting while she was explaining her pains and worries. During the meeting, I learned that on Sunday she will have Dragost baptized at an Orthodox Monastery! My eyes brightened up after hearing this news.
On Sunday, I drove three of the ladies that work at the PTFC to the baptism. I saw Dragost's father, and I learned that Dragost's parents are around 19 and are Roma -- [Gypsy]. Laura did not expect anybody to come to her son's baptism and she was so grateful that we came to support her. The father, whose name is Florin, was hired by the monastery to help with some construction work and the Abbot got to know Florin. The Abbot talked to him about baptizing Dragost at the monastery. The parents are poor so that some of the typical baptismal things you would see were not there. But in God's eyes what items they had, and who participated are what mattered the most.
Dragost is now an Orthodox Christian. Glory to God!
I want to share with you an experience I had in which I witnessed my first Romanian baptism. Here is how it happened.
Wednesday at the PTFC we hold a meeting for the mothers. At this meeting they discussed their problems and listened to others. Then if the staff can offer some advice, they share it. It was my first time attending such meetings. Laura is one of the single mothers who has a son named Dragost. She was crying for half of the meeting while she was explaining her pains and worries. During the meeting, I learned that on Sunday she will have Dragost baptized at an Orthodox Monastery! My eyes brightened up after hearing this news.
On Sunday, I drove three of the ladies that work at the PTFC to the baptism. I saw Dragost's father, and I learned that Dragost's parents are around 19 and are Roma -- [Gypsy]. Laura did not expect anybody to come to her son's baptism and she was so grateful that we came to support her. The father, whose name is Florin, was hired by the monastery to help with some construction work and the Abbot got to know Florin. The Abbot talked to him about baptizing Dragost at the monastery. The parents are poor so that some of the typical baptismal things you would see were not there. But in God's eyes what items they had, and who participated are what mattered the most.
Dragost is now an Orthodox Christian. Glory to God!
'Getting the Word Out' About Substance Abuse
by Basil Spyropoulos
In late June/early July 2009, I had the great privilege of being involved with the efforts of the St. Dimitrie Project in Cluj, Romania. The St. Dimitrie Project is a treatment and outreach ministry which focuses on community education in and treatment of substance abuse. I spent two weeks in Romania during which, together with the St. Dimitrie Project Staff and its Director, OCMC Missionary Floyd Frantz, I presented educational lectures on alcoholism and substance abuse to various audiences. The lectures were well-attended by lay people, priests, social workers, psychotherapists, and physicians.
I am greatly impressed by the success the St. Dimitrie Project has had in "getting the word out" about the realities of substance abuse and the fact that it is very treatable. As a direct result of this team's efforts, including publications and direct outreach, thousands of concerned persons have learned that alcoholism and substance abuse are treatable and that effective treatment can be found locally. Furthermore, treatment groups have been formed in many parts of the country. The project has helped hundreds of people reclaim their lives and, with God's help, it will continue to expand and touch the lives of many more.
In late June/early July 2009, I had the great privilege of being involved with the efforts of the St. Dimitrie Project in Cluj, Romania. The St. Dimitrie Project is a treatment and outreach ministry which focuses on community education in and treatment of substance abuse. I spent two weeks in Romania during which, together with the St. Dimitrie Project Staff and its Director, OCMC Missionary Floyd Frantz, I presented educational lectures on alcoholism and substance abuse to various audiences. The lectures were well-attended by lay people, priests, social workers, psychotherapists, and physicians.
I am greatly impressed by the success the St. Dimitrie Project has had in "getting the word out" about the realities of substance abuse and the fact that it is very treatable. As a direct result of this team's efforts, including publications and direct outreach, thousands of concerned persons have learned that alcoholism and substance abuse are treatable and that effective treatment can be found locally. Furthermore, treatment groups have been formed in many parts of the country. The project has helped hundreds of people reclaim their lives and, with God's help, it will continue to expand and touch the lives of many more.
2010 Teams Bulletin Insert Now Available!
The list of the OCMC 2010 Mission Teams is complete, and we need your help to get the word out! Visit http://www.ocmc.org/resources/view_announcement.aspx?AnnouncementId=42 to find a bulletin insert we've designed to give your parish more information about the 2010 Mission Teams; please print this and include it in your bulletin as soon as possible. OCMC Teams are an opportunity to change lives and to have your life changed in return! If you would like more information about Mission Teams, please contact OCMC at (904) 829-5132 or teams@ocmc.org. Share in a Journey of Faith!
Monday, October 26, 2009
The 2009 OCMC Mission Team to Guatemala: A Mission of Love (Part 1)
by Steven Shippy
"I am surrounded by love. It's not the kind of love you see on TV or in the movies, but love in its most true and simple form. It is the love that can only come from God. I have only been here at the Hogar for about a day, but I have already found that love in abundance everywhere I look.”
These were the opening words from the journal I kept during my trip to the Hogar Rafael Ayau orphanage in Guatemala this July. I was joined by 9 other Orthodox Christians from around the country, and together we had one main objective during our eleven days with the children at the Hogar: to love and be loved. Our days, of course, were filled with various activities such as sports, arts and crafts, baking, swimming, and lots and lots of playing and other fun activities. But it is the sharing of our very selves that will remain with us forever.
My trip began long before I stepped on the airplane, with the love, prayers, and support of my family, my friends, and most of all, my parish family at St Mary. Before I left I took on the task of collecting shoes for the teenagers. I was blessed with overwhelming support from the parish, my co-workers, and others and was able to bring 30 pairs of brand-new shoes, about 30 pairs of socks, and some monetary donations to help them cover what I was unable to bring. I also received donations to cover all of the arts and crafts projects that we had to buy supplies for and bring with us. With all of the shoes and supplies, my luggage was heavy; but it was a reminder that this trip is not my own. I left with the support of many people, and without that support, the trip would not have been possible. I am grateful to God for giving me such good friends and family.
During our eleven days at the Hogar, our biggest “mission” was to run “The Chocolate Train,” which is the summer program for the children. Our Team was put into pairs, and each pair was responsible for 8 to 9 children, ranging in ages from 5-13. Our daily activities included sports, arts and crafts, going to the bakery, games, Bible story videos, and playing in the park. There were also days where we had special activities, such as a mini-carnival with hot dogs and cotton candy, a live performance of songs from High School Musical, a birthday party for many of the children, and an inflatable “moonwalk” for the kids to jump and play in.
One of the biggest highlights for us and the children was a trip to the hot pools. There are 5 pools that are geothermally heated, and it was an absolute blast! In addition to our regular children from The Chocolate Train program, we were also joined by the little ones and the teenagers. The fact that it is now nearly a month later and my back still hurts from children climbing all over me and hours of piggy back rides that day gives you an idea of how much fun we had.
While we were at the Hogar, Mother Ivonne had given us the task to write down our most memorable moment. I ended up writing about two of the children I spent the most time with at the hot pools, Kevin and Cathy, who are 5 and 4: "Playing with Kevin and Cathy at the hot pools is a memory I will always keep with me. Cathy is just the sweetest little angel. We had so much fun playing in the water, and her giggling shy smile is so pure. I have a very special bond with Kevin and knew of him before I even came to the Hogar. His laughter will always ring in my ears, and his smile has found a permanent place in my heart." This was just one moment. There were so many.
One of the greatest blessings I received at the Hogar was getting to spend my 27th birthday there. We traveled to the monastery that day, which is about an hour away; here the new orphanage is being built. What an incredible place! The church sits high on the mountainside above Lake Amatitlan and is like a spiritual lighthouse for all to see. The nuns own almost the entire mountainside, and the difference between where the orphanage is now (in the middle of Guatemala City) and the new location in San Miguel is like the difference between night and day. Once the move is complete, the children can finally move away from the crime, pollution, and violence of the city and enjoy their own little paradise.
The orphanage is under the care of three Orthodox nuns and presently cares for around 60 children, but that number has reached nearly 150 at times. Many are victims of physical and sexual abuse, and it is very hard to hear their stories. However, as Fr. Nick Jonas, our team leader so wonderfully put it, “The children of the Hogar are being healed through practicing the Orthodox Christian way of life in all its fullness!” One of the things you are immediately struck by is their participation in the life of the Church, which includes services twice a day. The children are not required to go, yet most, if not all, attend. The children are the choir, chanters, and readers; the children serve in the altar and do the censings; the children light the candles, ring the bells, and clean the church. It is truly an amazing thing to experience. After my first service, I wrote in my journal, “Their praise to God is so sincere. I wish my parish family could see and experience it. They would be so moved.” I truly wish you could have experienced it.
There are so many things that I would share with you if I had more space to write. The fact that I wrote over 30 pages in my journal and took over 1,500 photographs on this trip might give you an idea of how much I have to share. And those were just the thoughts and memories I could find time to record. But I realize that I can share until my fingers hurt from writing or I’m out of breath from talking--but you still won’t truly and fully understand what I have seen and experienced and why I will carry this trip close to my heart for the rest of my life. I am very grateful for all of the support you have given me, and I now ask of you one more thing for those who are physically able: Go. Go anywhere. Just go. Join an OCMC Mission Team. Not for me, but for the millions of people around the world who are waiting for you to come and share the love of God with them. Mother Teresa once said, “Let us not be satisfied with just giving money. Money is not enough, money can be got, but they need your hearts to love them. So, spread your love everywhere you go.” She also said, “Love begins at home.”
With those words in mind, I would like to leave you with the last entry from the journal I kept during my two weeks in Guatemala. I pray that someday you will get to experience a trip for yourself.
“Last night we had our final meeting as a team over dinner and discussed the trip in order to have some closure on the whole experience. How did we grow? What did we accomplish? What did we learn? How will our lives be different? We were all able to answer these questions to a degree, but for many of us, I think our understanding of this trip will continually be made clear, perhaps maybe even many years from now. God’s Will for each of us is different. We have all been touched by this experience in unique and individual ways. I will continue to seek its meaning for my life and look forward to the many blessings that will come along with it. I know from experience that the hardest part is still to come. It’s those moments when you’re back home, back to work, and back to “reality” that isn’t really reality at all, and you’re wishing you could be with the kids. But there will be no little hands to hold. No hugs to receive, no tiny voices saying “Esteven! Mirar! (Steven! Look!)” Leaving is hard because here, I am surrounded by love. But there is one thing that I am always reminded of when I am away from home and my family and friends. Here at the Hogar I have come to know all of these beautiful children and it is difficult to understand why they were unwanted, abused, neglected, and exploited. By the grace of God and the love and charity of the nuns of the Holy Trinity monastery, they have been given a second chance. I will never fully understand what they have been through. When I get back home and see my family and friends and church, I can be certain of one thing: that I am still surrounded by love, and for that I am truly thankful.”
"I am surrounded by love. It's not the kind of love you see on TV or in the movies, but love in its most true and simple form. It is the love that can only come from God. I have only been here at the Hogar for about a day, but I have already found that love in abundance everywhere I look.”
These were the opening words from the journal I kept during my trip to the Hogar Rafael Ayau orphanage in Guatemala this July. I was joined by 9 other Orthodox Christians from around the country, and together we had one main objective during our eleven days with the children at the Hogar: to love and be loved. Our days, of course, were filled with various activities such as sports, arts and crafts, baking, swimming, and lots and lots of playing and other fun activities. But it is the sharing of our very selves that will remain with us forever.
My trip began long before I stepped on the airplane, with the love, prayers, and support of my family, my friends, and most of all, my parish family at St Mary. Before I left I took on the task of collecting shoes for the teenagers. I was blessed with overwhelming support from the parish, my co-workers, and others and was able to bring 30 pairs of brand-new shoes, about 30 pairs of socks, and some monetary donations to help them cover what I was unable to bring. I also received donations to cover all of the arts and crafts projects that we had to buy supplies for and bring with us. With all of the shoes and supplies, my luggage was heavy; but it was a reminder that this trip is not my own. I left with the support of many people, and without that support, the trip would not have been possible. I am grateful to God for giving me such good friends and family.
During our eleven days at the Hogar, our biggest “mission” was to run “The Chocolate Train,” which is the summer program for the children. Our Team was put into pairs, and each pair was responsible for 8 to 9 children, ranging in ages from 5-13. Our daily activities included sports, arts and crafts, going to the bakery, games, Bible story videos, and playing in the park. There were also days where we had special activities, such as a mini-carnival with hot dogs and cotton candy, a live performance of songs from High School Musical, a birthday party for many of the children, and an inflatable “moonwalk” for the kids to jump and play in.
One of the biggest highlights for us and the children was a trip to the hot pools. There are 5 pools that are geothermally heated, and it was an absolute blast! In addition to our regular children from The Chocolate Train program, we were also joined by the little ones and the teenagers. The fact that it is now nearly a month later and my back still hurts from children climbing all over me and hours of piggy back rides that day gives you an idea of how much fun we had.
While we were at the Hogar, Mother Ivonne had given us the task to write down our most memorable moment. I ended up writing about two of the children I spent the most time with at the hot pools, Kevin and Cathy, who are 5 and 4: "Playing with Kevin and Cathy at the hot pools is a memory I will always keep with me. Cathy is just the sweetest little angel. We had so much fun playing in the water, and her giggling shy smile is so pure. I have a very special bond with Kevin and knew of him before I even came to the Hogar. His laughter will always ring in my ears, and his smile has found a permanent place in my heart." This was just one moment. There were so many.
One of the greatest blessings I received at the Hogar was getting to spend my 27th birthday there. We traveled to the monastery that day, which is about an hour away; here the new orphanage is being built. What an incredible place! The church sits high on the mountainside above Lake Amatitlan and is like a spiritual lighthouse for all to see. The nuns own almost the entire mountainside, and the difference between where the orphanage is now (in the middle of Guatemala City) and the new location in San Miguel is like the difference between night and day. Once the move is complete, the children can finally move away from the crime, pollution, and violence of the city and enjoy their own little paradise.
The orphanage is under the care of three Orthodox nuns and presently cares for around 60 children, but that number has reached nearly 150 at times. Many are victims of physical and sexual abuse, and it is very hard to hear their stories. However, as Fr. Nick Jonas, our team leader so wonderfully put it, “The children of the Hogar are being healed through practicing the Orthodox Christian way of life in all its fullness!” One of the things you are immediately struck by is their participation in the life of the Church, which includes services twice a day. The children are not required to go, yet most, if not all, attend. The children are the choir, chanters, and readers; the children serve in the altar and do the censings; the children light the candles, ring the bells, and clean the church. It is truly an amazing thing to experience. After my first service, I wrote in my journal, “Their praise to God is so sincere. I wish my parish family could see and experience it. They would be so moved.” I truly wish you could have experienced it.
There are so many things that I would share with you if I had more space to write. The fact that I wrote over 30 pages in my journal and took over 1,500 photographs on this trip might give you an idea of how much I have to share. And those were just the thoughts and memories I could find time to record. But I realize that I can share until my fingers hurt from writing or I’m out of breath from talking--but you still won’t truly and fully understand what I have seen and experienced and why I will carry this trip close to my heart for the rest of my life. I am very grateful for all of the support you have given me, and I now ask of you one more thing for those who are physically able: Go. Go anywhere. Just go. Join an OCMC Mission Team. Not for me, but for the millions of people around the world who are waiting for you to come and share the love of God with them. Mother Teresa once said, “Let us not be satisfied with just giving money. Money is not enough, money can be got, but they need your hearts to love them. So, spread your love everywhere you go.” She also said, “Love begins at home.”
With those words in mind, I would like to leave you with the last entry from the journal I kept during my two weeks in Guatemala. I pray that someday you will get to experience a trip for yourself.
“Last night we had our final meeting as a team over dinner and discussed the trip in order to have some closure on the whole experience. How did we grow? What did we accomplish? What did we learn? How will our lives be different? We were all able to answer these questions to a degree, but for many of us, I think our understanding of this trip will continually be made clear, perhaps maybe even many years from now. God’s Will for each of us is different. We have all been touched by this experience in unique and individual ways. I will continue to seek its meaning for my life and look forward to the many blessings that will come along with it. I know from experience that the hardest part is still to come. It’s those moments when you’re back home, back to work, and back to “reality” that isn’t really reality at all, and you’re wishing you could be with the kids. But there will be no little hands to hold. No hugs to receive, no tiny voices saying “Esteven! Mirar! (Steven! Look!)” Leaving is hard because here, I am surrounded by love. But there is one thing that I am always reminded of when I am away from home and my family and friends. Here at the Hogar I have come to know all of these beautiful children and it is difficult to understand why they were unwanted, abused, neglected, and exploited. By the grace of God and the love and charity of the nuns of the Holy Trinity monastery, they have been given a second chance. I will never fully understand what they have been through. When I get back home and see my family and friends and church, I can be certain of one thing: that I am still surrounded by love, and for that I am truly thankful.”
The First OCMC Mission Team to Zimbabwe
by AmandaEve Wigglesworth
Red dust kicks up from the ground, highlighting the stark beauty of beiges and browns in the fields and the leafless trees. The rains won’t begin for at least another month – you can taste the dust coating your throat. A group of men are singing in jubilation and stomping the dust with vigour. They keep the beat with their hands alone; there are no drums in sight. The tiny village of Hurungwe has little to offer – tattered clothing, bare feet, and hungry bellies are in abundance – but today their spirits are full because today their Bishop is visiting with a Mission Team from the United States and Canada. Today, the foundation stone of their new church will be put into place; it will go under where the altar will be built. Emotions are high for everyone. The Team members assist in the service and watch their names being lowered into the foundation with the founders of this African church. As they clap and dance along to the songs of the Shona women, they know that a part of them will remain in Africa forever.
The first OCMC Mission Team to Zimbabwe experienced many unforgettable events like this as we travelled alongside His Eminence Metropolitan George of Zimbabwe. We participated in what is already happening throughout the country and experienced a reciprocal blessing between the team members and the local church (comprised of the Greek, Shona, and Ndebele people groups). Our brothers and sisters in Christ showed us love and taught us about hospitality.
They are hungry for instruction about the Orthodox Church and way of life. We found much joy during the teaching times as we shared from our own knowledge and experience and tried to answer their many questions. They also bared their souls to us by asking very personal questions before and after sessions, as well as during the gender and age-specific sessions. After two weeks of clinging to us like Velcro, a few small children will now be wondering, “Where did the white women go?”
There is so much hunger in Zimbabwe. The people are hungry for food and other supplies. Only a year ago, grocery store shelves were empty, and there was no petrol. Banks were restricting how much a person could withdraw each day; even if you had money in the bank, you could not access it when you needed it. The inflation had gone out of control. One US dollar equalled 13 trillion Zim Dollars. At the beginning of 2009, Zim dollars ceased to be used, and the country currently operates on US dollars and South African rands.
Today, things have improved dramatically. Bread is available in the cities. Petrol is available at most stations (but make sure to read the chalk boards which announce “petrol – yes, diesel – yes” if you want to be sure). Knick-knacks are available at the markets. As visitors, we had plenty to eat. However, there are still shortages. In Harare, a city of 6 million people, there has been no public water source for a year and a half (early 2008). Each building or residence has to pump water from the water table. Power cuts occur without warning, thereby affecting everything (including traffic signals and the water pumps). One night, the Metropolis was without electricity and water from 6:30pm until 9:00am the next morning. This has become a frustrating part of their lives. Despite this, the people are joyful. They know how much the situation has improved. They are survivors.
The villages are still struggling. They do not receive many of the food items and school supplies that are now available in the cities. In Chitate, a hamlet outside of the village of Mrehwa, a group of women have formed a peanut butter making co-operative. They grow the peanuts, harvest them, shell them, clean them, and grind them into peanut butter. They sell their organic product (chunky or creamy!) in the village. These women are hard-working and determined to help provide for their families.
The Team was blessed to spend time with the villagers in order to witness the peanut butter project and the spirit of the people. What love and what joy! When we arrived, the women were singing, dancing, and clapping in procession to meet us. We had never met them before, but each woman embraced every team member with such excitement, energy, and length that it appeared as though they were greeting relatives whom they had not seen for a very long time. They honoured us like dignitaries and happily showed off the village. We were also able to try grinding the peanuts and tasting the result. It tasted just like the organic peanut butter I buy at home! The women cooked a traditional Zimbabwean meal for us, including meat (something that is always rare in villages). We blessed them with food, toys, school supplies, and candy which had been sent in crates from Greece. His Eminence also blessed them by buying the entire stock of peanut butter (which he then distributed as gifts). The entire village was blessed that day…and so were we.
The communities are also lacking in school and church supplies. We received many requests for supplies. Money is also needed to carry out the work of the Church. Another project of the Metropolis is the School Fee Program. All children must pay school fees to go to school (for both public and private schools). Most parents cannot afford to pay the public school fees.
At the end of the day, it was hard to leave because of the relationships we had started to form. We connected with brothers and sisters in Christ of all colours, genders, and ages in various ways. As we shared our stories and the people shared theirs, we realized how much we have in common even when our day-to-day lives are so different. It was hard to say goodbye to our remarkable brothers and sisters in Christ after so short a time. But we know that they will be praying for us, our churches, and the next Team that will come to serve them. Already, I am wondering whether I will be a part of that Team. When God asks, “Who shall I send to Zimbabwe?” Will you answer, “Here I am, Lord. Send me.”?
Red dust kicks up from the ground, highlighting the stark beauty of beiges and browns in the fields and the leafless trees. The rains won’t begin for at least another month – you can taste the dust coating your throat. A group of men are singing in jubilation and stomping the dust with vigour. They keep the beat with their hands alone; there are no drums in sight. The tiny village of Hurungwe has little to offer – tattered clothing, bare feet, and hungry bellies are in abundance – but today their spirits are full because today their Bishop is visiting with a Mission Team from the United States and Canada. Today, the foundation stone of their new church will be put into place; it will go under where the altar will be built. Emotions are high for everyone. The Team members assist in the service and watch their names being lowered into the foundation with the founders of this African church. As they clap and dance along to the songs of the Shona women, they know that a part of them will remain in Africa forever.
The first OCMC Mission Team to Zimbabwe experienced many unforgettable events like this as we travelled alongside His Eminence Metropolitan George of Zimbabwe. We participated in what is already happening throughout the country and experienced a reciprocal blessing between the team members and the local church (comprised of the Greek, Shona, and Ndebele people groups). Our brothers and sisters in Christ showed us love and taught us about hospitality.
They are hungry for instruction about the Orthodox Church and way of life. We found much joy during the teaching times as we shared from our own knowledge and experience and tried to answer their many questions. They also bared their souls to us by asking very personal questions before and after sessions, as well as during the gender and age-specific sessions. After two weeks of clinging to us like Velcro, a few small children will now be wondering, “Where did the white women go?”
There is so much hunger in Zimbabwe. The people are hungry for food and other supplies. Only a year ago, grocery store shelves were empty, and there was no petrol. Banks were restricting how much a person could withdraw each day; even if you had money in the bank, you could not access it when you needed it. The inflation had gone out of control. One US dollar equalled 13 trillion Zim Dollars. At the beginning of 2009, Zim dollars ceased to be used, and the country currently operates on US dollars and South African rands.
Today, things have improved dramatically. Bread is available in the cities. Petrol is available at most stations (but make sure to read the chalk boards which announce “petrol – yes, diesel – yes” if you want to be sure). Knick-knacks are available at the markets. As visitors, we had plenty to eat. However, there are still shortages. In Harare, a city of 6 million people, there has been no public water source for a year and a half (early 2008). Each building or residence has to pump water from the water table. Power cuts occur without warning, thereby affecting everything (including traffic signals and the water pumps). One night, the Metropolis was without electricity and water from 6:30pm until 9:00am the next morning. This has become a frustrating part of their lives. Despite this, the people are joyful. They know how much the situation has improved. They are survivors.
The villages are still struggling. They do not receive many of the food items and school supplies that are now available in the cities. In Chitate, a hamlet outside of the village of Mrehwa, a group of women have formed a peanut butter making co-operative. They grow the peanuts, harvest them, shell them, clean them, and grind them into peanut butter. They sell their organic product (chunky or creamy!) in the village. These women are hard-working and determined to help provide for their families.
The Team was blessed to spend time with the villagers in order to witness the peanut butter project and the spirit of the people. What love and what joy! When we arrived, the women were singing, dancing, and clapping in procession to meet us. We had never met them before, but each woman embraced every team member with such excitement, energy, and length that it appeared as though they were greeting relatives whom they had not seen for a very long time. They honoured us like dignitaries and happily showed off the village. We were also able to try grinding the peanuts and tasting the result. It tasted just like the organic peanut butter I buy at home! The women cooked a traditional Zimbabwean meal for us, including meat (something that is always rare in villages). We blessed them with food, toys, school supplies, and candy which had been sent in crates from Greece. His Eminence also blessed them by buying the entire stock of peanut butter (which he then distributed as gifts). The entire village was blessed that day…and so were we.
The communities are also lacking in school and church supplies. We received many requests for supplies. Money is also needed to carry out the work of the Church. Another project of the Metropolis is the School Fee Program. All children must pay school fees to go to school (for both public and private schools). Most parents cannot afford to pay the public school fees.
At the end of the day, it was hard to leave because of the relationships we had started to form. We connected with brothers and sisters in Christ of all colours, genders, and ages in various ways. As we shared our stories and the people shared theirs, we realized how much we have in common even when our day-to-day lives are so different. It was hard to say goodbye to our remarkable brothers and sisters in Christ after so short a time. But we know that they will be praying for us, our churches, and the next Team that will come to serve them. Already, I am wondering whether I will be a part of that Team. When God asks, “Who shall I send to Zimbabwe?” Will you answer, “Here I am, Lord. Send me.”?
Monday, October 19, 2009
Holistic Orthodoxy – Alive and Well in Zimbabwe, Part III
by Wendy Bodnar
“We are greeted with hugs, songs, and dance….”
We set off to meet our first group of Orthodox converts at St. Nektarios. We were greeted with hugs, songs, and dance. This was probably the most humbling experience of my life. I was in awe of their smiling faces and the way their bodies swayed with the uplifting Shona songs. They were sincerely happy to see us and to receive us as brothers and sisters in Christ. This is the way we were received at each and every indigenous Orthodox and non-Orthodox location throughout Zimbabwe.
His Eminence Bishop George smiled and spoke to the people with love, and he managed to say something that spoke to the heart. This is one of his many gifts. He is a dynamic leader, and those around him want to follow his kind smile, the twinkle in his eye, and his love of Jesus Christ’s Church.
The Church was beautiful, a tall stone structure with benches and wonderful iconography. There was not only a Church but also a Medical Facility and a two-story school. His Eminence really addresses the whole person: the spiritual healing of the Church, the body’s physical needs, and the education of the children - the future of Zimbabwe. This is what impressed me the most. I had only witnessed this holistic Orthodoxy once before, and that was at the Hogar Raphael Ayau orphanage in Guatemala, where Church, physical health, and expanding the mind were crucial in healing the hearts and souls of the children there.
This holistic approach was the taken in all of the villages and cities we visited. The Orthodox Church is there to heal the souls that endure so much and the physical ailments that plague the people and to teach them how to be self-sufficient and productive.
With the lesson plans we had prepared. we spoke to the adults and then held separate lessons for the youth and young children. Our topics were wide and covered the History of the Church, the Role of Women and Youth in the Church, the importance of a prayer life, Salvation, the Lives of the Saints, Orthodox Marriage, and the many ‘on-the-spot’ topics that sprang up. The people were engaged at each and every session; they listened, took notes, and asked profound questions. They were very curious about the Coptic Orthodox and the split with the Eastern Churches, and they wanted to know the differences and the similarities between the Orthodox Church and the Roman Catholic Church. They were hungry for the truth and to learn how to share their faith.
One thing that really stood out for me was the knowledge-base and the amazing job that the indigenous priests have done. We were attending a Sunday school program at St. Nektarios. We began with some open questions about prayer. I asked the group what it means when we make the sign of the cross. “What do the three fingers together represent?” I asked. First of all, they all showed me the correct technique and said that it represents the Holy Trinity – right! Then I asked a tougher question, “What do the two fingers bent down mean?” There was silence, and then a young girl raised her hand. ”It means that there are two persons in one; Christ is God and Man!" she said. Wow. I gave her a special reward and am still amazed.
We were learner-servants; we were brothers and sisters in Christ. We taught in all of the locations where there were Orthodox Churches and future mission sites. We traveled the cities and the remote villages, and we witnessed the same love and sincerity at every turn. The holistic Orthodox Church is healing Zimbabwe, both the indigenous Africans and the warm-hearted Greek community. We will all continue to pray for this healing.
We experienced many special moments on this mission. We witnessed God’s great plan in action as we saw women growing peanuts and making organic peanut butter to survive. We were in the midst of the land of a modern day saint, Saint Efterpi, and we witnessed the beginnings of a new Church in a small, poor northern village. I pray to return one day to see the Church here in its totality.
How do you sum up a Mission Team experience? By the Grace of God is all that comes to mind. To go on a Mission Team is to leave the world you know and immerse yourself in another, to trust in God’s plan and know that you left a piece of you there and that you have returned with Africa in your heart. I will never forget the love that the people revealed to me, the love of His Eminence for all the faithful and seekers, and the true power of Africa, its history and its future. Keeping holistic Orthodoxy alive in Zimbabwe is the key for each and every person who wants it.
“We are greeted with hugs, songs, and dance….”
We set off to meet our first group of Orthodox converts at St. Nektarios. We were greeted with hugs, songs, and dance. This was probably the most humbling experience of my life. I was in awe of their smiling faces and the way their bodies swayed with the uplifting Shona songs. They were sincerely happy to see us and to receive us as brothers and sisters in Christ. This is the way we were received at each and every indigenous Orthodox and non-Orthodox location throughout Zimbabwe.
His Eminence Bishop George smiled and spoke to the people with love, and he managed to say something that spoke to the heart. This is one of his many gifts. He is a dynamic leader, and those around him want to follow his kind smile, the twinkle in his eye, and his love of Jesus Christ’s Church.
The Church was beautiful, a tall stone structure with benches and wonderful iconography. There was not only a Church but also a Medical Facility and a two-story school. His Eminence really addresses the whole person: the spiritual healing of the Church, the body’s physical needs, and the education of the children - the future of Zimbabwe. This is what impressed me the most. I had only witnessed this holistic Orthodoxy once before, and that was at the Hogar Raphael Ayau orphanage in Guatemala, where Church, physical health, and expanding the mind were crucial in healing the hearts and souls of the children there.
This holistic approach was the taken in all of the villages and cities we visited. The Orthodox Church is there to heal the souls that endure so much and the physical ailments that plague the people and to teach them how to be self-sufficient and productive.
With the lesson plans we had prepared. we spoke to the adults and then held separate lessons for the youth and young children. Our topics were wide and covered the History of the Church, the Role of Women and Youth in the Church, the importance of a prayer life, Salvation, the Lives of the Saints, Orthodox Marriage, and the many ‘on-the-spot’ topics that sprang up. The people were engaged at each and every session; they listened, took notes, and asked profound questions. They were very curious about the Coptic Orthodox and the split with the Eastern Churches, and they wanted to know the differences and the similarities between the Orthodox Church and the Roman Catholic Church. They were hungry for the truth and to learn how to share their faith.
One thing that really stood out for me was the knowledge-base and the amazing job that the indigenous priests have done. We were attending a Sunday school program at St. Nektarios. We began with some open questions about prayer. I asked the group what it means when we make the sign of the cross. “What do the three fingers together represent?” I asked. First of all, they all showed me the correct technique and said that it represents the Holy Trinity – right! Then I asked a tougher question, “What do the two fingers bent down mean?” There was silence, and then a young girl raised her hand. ”It means that there are two persons in one; Christ is God and Man!" she said. Wow. I gave her a special reward and am still amazed.
We were learner-servants; we were brothers and sisters in Christ. We taught in all of the locations where there were Orthodox Churches and future mission sites. We traveled the cities and the remote villages, and we witnessed the same love and sincerity at every turn. The holistic Orthodox Church is healing Zimbabwe, both the indigenous Africans and the warm-hearted Greek community. We will all continue to pray for this healing.
We experienced many special moments on this mission. We witnessed God’s great plan in action as we saw women growing peanuts and making organic peanut butter to survive. We were in the midst of the land of a modern day saint, Saint Efterpi, and we witnessed the beginnings of a new Church in a small, poor northern village. I pray to return one day to see the Church here in its totality.
How do you sum up a Mission Team experience? By the Grace of God is all that comes to mind. To go on a Mission Team is to leave the world you know and immerse yourself in another, to trust in God’s plan and know that you left a piece of you there and that you have returned with Africa in your heart. I will never forget the love that the people revealed to me, the love of His Eminence for all the faithful and seekers, and the true power of Africa, its history and its future. Keeping holistic Orthodoxy alive in Zimbabwe is the key for each and every person who wants it.
Holistic Orthodoxy – Alive and Well in Zimbabwe, Part II
by Wendy Bodnar
“…And the journey to Zimbabwe began…"
We now had a short time to complete our fundraising and learn about a new destination, while preparing our teaching topics. I read many articles, researched websites, and heard from people who knew someone who had been to Zimbabwe. The picture that was painted was not a pretty one. It involved AIDS/HIV orphans, people with a 45-year life-span, racial tension, militant leadership, the fall of the Zimbabwean dollar, and crime-filled streets. The basic message: really think before you decide to travel to Zimbabwe. We were also warned about the deteriorating healthcare system, poor drinking water, safari accidents and deaths, and the presidential motorcade that will mow you down if you are in their way. Wow, God must really need us in Zimbabwe!
During our Orientation at the OCMC headquarters in St. Augustine, Florida, we learned more about teamwork, Zimbabwe itself, and the Bishop, His Eminence George. We discussed our teaching topics, practiced some of the local Shona language, and completed final preparations. We were reminded to go as learner-servants and to be good ambassadors for Christ and the mission program. Most importantly we were told to expect the unexpected, and that is just what we got.
“Expect the unexpected…”
In the past, when I had thought of Africa I had pictured dry land, with tall distinctive trees and exotic animals feeding and running in herds. I thought that I would learn more Shona and Ndebele to communicate with the native Africans. I imagined eating corn, bread, and sugar cane. I imagined staying in a small round hut and walking great distances to plant mission churches. This vision was as far off as the warnings that the media supplied before our arrival.
After a long journey, we arrived at the Harare airport. Harare is the capital city of Zimbabwe and has a population of six million. We were greeted by His Eminence George, Father Michael (our team leader), and Father George (the priest at the Cathedral) – basically the Men in Black. They were all warm and friendly and very happy to see that we had arrived safely. As we drove through the streets of Harare, it appeared to be like any large city in North America. There was a distinct downtown with tall buildings and palm trees that lined the main thoroughfare. The men wore dress shirts with long sleeves and slacks – no shorts and t-shirts here - and the women had long skirts and flowery tops. The women balanced large bags, buckets, suitcases, and bags of oranges on their heads. (This was something I really wanted to master!) The men carried equally impressive loads, but on their shoulders instead of their heads. We were told that AmandaEve, Kevin, and I would stay in an apartment, and Clark and Father Michael would stay at the Metropolis house.
I learned that His Eminence was originally from Limmisol in Cyprus. We had much to talk about, as Cyprus is one of my favorite places I’ve visited. We learned later that many of the Zimbabweans of Greek-origin emigrated from this small island in the eastern part of the Mediterranean Sea. What a blessing for me. My Orthodox life began in a Ukrainian Church, I also spent three years under the Greek Metropolis, and now I attend a church within the Antiochian archdiocese. God truly prepared me to feel at home with Father Michael, who is Carpatho-Russian, and His Eminence from Cyprus; we could share stories and the love of Halloumi cheese. I was able to follow the Greek services and felt quite at home with Father Michael’s Oche Nash (Our Father).
“I expected to stay in a hut, sleep with ants and eat corn and sugar cane…”
I expected to stay in a hut, sleep with ants and eat corn and sugar cane – instead we ate Greek delicacies, slept in comfortable beds and had hot showers daily. His Eminence George showed us every hospitality and acquainted us with both the Greek and indigenous Orthodox people in Zimbabwe. There were some disadvantages though; we were cautioned against leaving the safety of our apartment after 4:00pm, concrete walls with barbed wire and electronic gates and guards surrounded most of the buildings, homes, and apartments. Our own apartment had complete wrought iron gates that had to be locked in addition to our doors; we were even warned not to leave our bathroom windows opened as something may get stolen.
Within the Church, Shona and Ndebele peoples are coming in droves – over 800 for Liturgy at St. Nektarios in Harare--while the opposite is happening within the Greek Zimbabwean community. The duality of Orthodoxy here was interesting, and challenging. The Greeks love Zimbabwe - this is the only home that many of them have ever known - but when the land re-distribution occurred in 1980, many lost their family farms and their way of life. They left in droves, leaving only handfuls to keep the faith and to love the land they knew so well. This was a huge turning point for a country that was on the cusp of consumerism.
“…And the journey to Zimbabwe began…"
We now had a short time to complete our fundraising and learn about a new destination, while preparing our teaching topics. I read many articles, researched websites, and heard from people who knew someone who had been to Zimbabwe. The picture that was painted was not a pretty one. It involved AIDS/HIV orphans, people with a 45-year life-span, racial tension, militant leadership, the fall of the Zimbabwean dollar, and crime-filled streets. The basic message: really think before you decide to travel to Zimbabwe. We were also warned about the deteriorating healthcare system, poor drinking water, safari accidents and deaths, and the presidential motorcade that will mow you down if you are in their way. Wow, God must really need us in Zimbabwe!
During our Orientation at the OCMC headquarters in St. Augustine, Florida, we learned more about teamwork, Zimbabwe itself, and the Bishop, His Eminence George. We discussed our teaching topics, practiced some of the local Shona language, and completed final preparations. We were reminded to go as learner-servants and to be good ambassadors for Christ and the mission program. Most importantly we were told to expect the unexpected, and that is just what we got.
“Expect the unexpected…”
In the past, when I had thought of Africa I had pictured dry land, with tall distinctive trees and exotic animals feeding and running in herds. I thought that I would learn more Shona and Ndebele to communicate with the native Africans. I imagined eating corn, bread, and sugar cane. I imagined staying in a small round hut and walking great distances to plant mission churches. This vision was as far off as the warnings that the media supplied before our arrival.
After a long journey, we arrived at the Harare airport. Harare is the capital city of Zimbabwe and has a population of six million. We were greeted by His Eminence George, Father Michael (our team leader), and Father George (the priest at the Cathedral) – basically the Men in Black. They were all warm and friendly and very happy to see that we had arrived safely. As we drove through the streets of Harare, it appeared to be like any large city in North America. There was a distinct downtown with tall buildings and palm trees that lined the main thoroughfare. The men wore dress shirts with long sleeves and slacks – no shorts and t-shirts here - and the women had long skirts and flowery tops. The women balanced large bags, buckets, suitcases, and bags of oranges on their heads. (This was something I really wanted to master!) The men carried equally impressive loads, but on their shoulders instead of their heads. We were told that AmandaEve, Kevin, and I would stay in an apartment, and Clark and Father Michael would stay at the Metropolis house.
I learned that His Eminence was originally from Limmisol in Cyprus. We had much to talk about, as Cyprus is one of my favorite places I’ve visited. We learned later that many of the Zimbabweans of Greek-origin emigrated from this small island in the eastern part of the Mediterranean Sea. What a blessing for me. My Orthodox life began in a Ukrainian Church, I also spent three years under the Greek Metropolis, and now I attend a church within the Antiochian archdiocese. God truly prepared me to feel at home with Father Michael, who is Carpatho-Russian, and His Eminence from Cyprus; we could share stories and the love of Halloumi cheese. I was able to follow the Greek services and felt quite at home with Father Michael’s Oche Nash (Our Father).
“I expected to stay in a hut, sleep with ants and eat corn and sugar cane…”
I expected to stay in a hut, sleep with ants and eat corn and sugar cane – instead we ate Greek delicacies, slept in comfortable beds and had hot showers daily. His Eminence George showed us every hospitality and acquainted us with both the Greek and indigenous Orthodox people in Zimbabwe. There were some disadvantages though; we were cautioned against leaving the safety of our apartment after 4:00pm, concrete walls with barbed wire and electronic gates and guards surrounded most of the buildings, homes, and apartments. Our own apartment had complete wrought iron gates that had to be locked in addition to our doors; we were even warned not to leave our bathroom windows opened as something may get stolen.
Within the Church, Shona and Ndebele peoples are coming in droves – over 800 for Liturgy at St. Nektarios in Harare--while the opposite is happening within the Greek Zimbabwean community. The duality of Orthodoxy here was interesting, and challenging. The Greeks love Zimbabwe - this is the only home that many of them have ever known - but when the land re-distribution occurred in 1980, many lost their family farms and their way of life. They left in droves, leaving only handfuls to keep the faith and to love the land they knew so well. This was a huge turning point for a country that was on the cusp of consumerism.
Holistic Orthodoxy – Alive and Well in Zimbabwe, Part I
by Wendy Bodnar
Since my first mission trip in 2002 as a part of an Orthodox Chirstian Mission Center (OCMC) Mission Team to Guatemala, I was praying for another Team opportunity. I have felt the call to Africa for seven years, but life always got in the way. This year, God had a plan for me and for the members of this small but well-orchestrated Team. We have all heard the saying that ‘God works in mysterious ways.’ Well, I would like to re-coin the phrase as ‘God works in purposeful ways!’
When I applied for a 2009 Team with OCMC, I had chosen to serve in Tanzania first, due to other friends who had participated. Nigeria was my second choice, and South Korea was my third. I quickly heard back from OCMC that Tanzania had been filled, so Nigeria would be my calling. I was thrilled; this was to be the first ever OCMC Team experience in Nigeria. There were two other team members from my hometown of Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada. Who would have thought that three Canadians would be the ambassadors to Nigeria for a North American Mission Team? I had some reservations as we had no priest or team leader, but we were assured that as long as the Bishop was okay with it, OCMC was okay with it. My supporters were visibly concerned about the safety of Nigeria, but I knew that if it was God’s will we would be under His complete protection.
After the half-way mark of my fundraising for Nigeria, we were asked to provide documents for the visa necessary to enter the country. We made sure that all was completed properly to fulfill our commitment. Unfortunately, we learned that since our visa application was for a religious purpose we would have to receive approval from the Nigerian immigration office in Nigeria; the process would take months. I was disheartened, as the Bishop there was organizing many opportunities for us to share Orthodoxy with various groups. But God had another plan for us: Zimbabwe.
Who would have known? A new plan was set, and a similar focus of teaching was prepared. This Mission Team would also be a first for the OCMC. There was a small contingent set: a team leader, Father Michael Miklos (who had been to various parts of Africa), along with Clark Wilson (who had been with Father Michael in Tanzania the previous year), and the original three Canadians, Kevin and AmandaEve Wigglesworth and me. This felt right, and the journey to Zimbabwe began.
Since my first mission trip in 2002 as a part of an Orthodox Chirstian Mission Center (OCMC) Mission Team to Guatemala, I was praying for another Team opportunity. I have felt the call to Africa for seven years, but life always got in the way. This year, God had a plan for me and for the members of this small but well-orchestrated Team. We have all heard the saying that ‘God works in mysterious ways.’ Well, I would like to re-coin the phrase as ‘God works in purposeful ways!’
When I applied for a 2009 Team with OCMC, I had chosen to serve in Tanzania first, due to other friends who had participated. Nigeria was my second choice, and South Korea was my third. I quickly heard back from OCMC that Tanzania had been filled, so Nigeria would be my calling. I was thrilled; this was to be the first ever OCMC Team experience in Nigeria. There were two other team members from my hometown of Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada. Who would have thought that three Canadians would be the ambassadors to Nigeria for a North American Mission Team? I had some reservations as we had no priest or team leader, but we were assured that as long as the Bishop was okay with it, OCMC was okay with it. My supporters were visibly concerned about the safety of Nigeria, but I knew that if it was God’s will we would be under His complete protection.
After the half-way mark of my fundraising for Nigeria, we were asked to provide documents for the visa necessary to enter the country. We made sure that all was completed properly to fulfill our commitment. Unfortunately, we learned that since our visa application was for a religious purpose we would have to receive approval from the Nigerian immigration office in Nigeria; the process would take months. I was disheartened, as the Bishop there was organizing many opportunities for us to share Orthodoxy with various groups. But God had another plan for us: Zimbabwe.
Who would have known? A new plan was set, and a similar focus of teaching was prepared. This Mission Team would also be a first for the OCMC. There was a small contingent set: a team leader, Father Michael Miklos (who had been to various parts of Africa), along with Clark Wilson (who had been with Father Michael in Tanzania the previous year), and the original three Canadians, Kevin and AmandaEve Wigglesworth and me. This felt right, and the journey to Zimbabwe began.
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Travelogue by OCMC Missionary Candidate James Hargrave
Dear friends,
Glory to Jesus Christ! Utukufu kwa Yesu Kristo!
I'm assuming with this travelogue that you're already familiar with who I am and where I'm going. If you'd like some more background on my preparations for long-term OCMC missionary service with the Orthodox Christian Diocese of Mwanza in Tanzania, or if you'd like to see pictures, please visit http://jhargrave.ocmc.org.
September began at one of my favorite places on Earth-- the little hermitage in the woods at Ss. Mary & Martha Orthodox Monastery in Wagener, SC. The sisterhood in Wagener has been part of my life for four years, and the past four years have been richer for it. If you don't know Ss. Mary & Martha, then you should. If you're in college (or in your twenties), you should go to their winter retreat.
While based at the monastery, I experienced much of South Carolina-- Holy Ascension in Charleston, Holy Apostles in Columbia, and Holy Resurrection in Aiken. Charleston is called the "Holy City" for its skyline of steeples. The churches of this port city are architectural landmarks, and Holy Ascension is the finest among them. With its towering cupolas and breathtaking iconography, it is unmistakably an Orthodox Christian temple built for the ages. With its heart-pine floors and an exterior of stucco and bronze, it is unmistakably at home in Charleston. This stunning work of liturgical architecture has a choir to match. And the hearts of the faithful of Charleston exceed even the glory of their temple.
After a behind-the-scenes tour of downtown Charleston given to me by a native who knows her stuff, I got to visit with the local Orthodox Christian Fellowship. The group is a mix of students from College of Charleston and cadets from The Citadel.
Student fellowship at a military academy looks a little different than it does in other schools. How does it look different? Well, we actually began on time...
From there I visited Holy Apostles in Columbia very briefly, just for Liturgy of the Nativity of the Theotokos where I was able to worship with the faithful and meet in fellowship afterwards. I've ended up in Columbia periodically over the years, and Holy Apostles is like an old friend that you only get to see once in a blue moon--it's always great to be back. After a few more days at the monastery, I spent Saturday evening Vespers with the faithful of Holy Resurrection in Aiken, SC. This is a small mission parish. When I say small, I mean that you've got to crowd to the back of the nave to avoid getting hit in the eye by Fr. Robert's censer. There is a crowd in that little building, though, and their vision for the future is grand.
Early on the morning of Sunday the 13th I drove through the hills of North Georgia to St. Philothea Greek Orthodox Church in Watkinsville (just outside of Athens), home to the University of Georgia. St. Philothea, like my own home parish St. Elizabeth's in Gainesville, is a college-town church with great diversity. I heard the Our Father in at least five languages and met parishioners from a great variety of backgrounds. After spending time with relatives in the area and visiting the local sights (Stone Mountain in thick fog and cold rain), I returned to South Carolina's Piedmont to visit with St. John of the Ladder Orthodox Church and the Orthodox Christian Fellowship at Clemson University. The hospitality shown by the people of South Carolina is hard to beat.
The following weekend found me in North Carolina-- Holy Cross in High Point on Saturday the 19th and Annunciation in Winston-Salem on Sunday the 20th. These are two very different and equally impressive parishes. Holy Cross, along with the entire OCA Carolinas Deanery, is a shining example of solid apostolic missiology applied to the twenty-first century American South. If a missiology textbook isn't written soon on the Carolinas Deanery, then I just might have to research and write that texbook myself. I learned a lot and will continue to draw on the clergy and faithful of this deanery for their wisdom and their war stories.
Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church in Winston Salem is an eighty-year-old monument to the work of generations for the glory of God. This large parish has a strong clergy and diverse congregation who are engaged in ministry to a large immigrant population and even larger overall population of every conceivable background. Breakfast with Fr. Demetri and the men's group was a tremendous encouragement.
From Winston-Salem I crossed the Blue Ridge and spent a week in the mountains. First in Johnson City, Tennessee, visiting with dear friends from high school and Holy Resurrection Mission. On Wednesday, I was able to pray Vespers with the deacon and subdeacon and spend another hour in conversation with them about what Christian missions and evangelism mean, both in Tanzania and in the Appalachians. Then on Thursday, the Orthodox Christian Fellowship at the University of Tennessee invited me to Knoxville where we talked about missions and shared a "Mighty Meat Pizza" at the Mellow Mushroom. A college town is not a college town unless it has a Mellow Mushroom.
On the way to central Kentucky from northeast Tennessee, I took the back roads through western Virginia and Harlan County. My mother taught elementary school in this region thirty-five years ago, and I enjoyed the brief visit to a part of the world that doesn't seem to have changed much in the intervening decades. The drive through little coal mining towns north of Pine Ridge to Corbin was, despite heavy fog and rain, stunningly beautiful. And the radio stations are all preachin' and prayin' and singin' all the time.
September ended among the faithful of St. Athanasius Orthodox Church in Nicholasville, Kentucky. St. Athanasius is the most ethnically homogenous parish I've seen since my days at St. Paul's in Korea. They have quite a story, as a group of rural Kentucky Methodists who together sought out the ancient roots of Christianity and were received as a body into the Orthodox Church in America at about the same time that I was encountering Orthodoxy myself. St. Athanasius is special to me because it has sent so many people to Florida who have played transformative roles in my life. I first met folks from this parish four years ago and have been longing to visit ever since.
And that brings me to October in Ohio. Last Wednesday the Orthodox Christian Fellowship at Miami University (the REAL Miami) hosted me in Oxford, and I'm now spending quality time with relatives in Cincinnati. It was hot summertime in Tennessee, but the drive to Kentucky was an entrance into a chilly autumn which is only getting chillier.
These days are full of joy, and I think what I've written reflects this. These days are also difficult. Staying organized, staying safe on the road, getting business done while in a different house every few days-- little things add up. And being a face of Orthodox Christian cross-cultural missions and a representative of missionary work in Tanzania demands a maturity and strength that I don't always think I possess. It is a scary thing, weak and unworthy as I am, to stand in front of people and ask to be sent as a missionary. Only the mercy and grace of God, through your fervent prayers, will keep me true to this calling. Don't stop praying.
In Christ,
James
Glory to Jesus Christ! Utukufu kwa Yesu Kristo!
I'm assuming with this travelogue that you're already familiar with who I am and where I'm going. If you'd like some more background on my preparations for long-term OCMC missionary service with the Orthodox Christian Diocese of Mwanza in Tanzania, or if you'd like to see pictures, please visit http://jhargrave.ocmc.org.
September began at one of my favorite places on Earth-- the little hermitage in the woods at Ss. Mary & Martha Orthodox Monastery in Wagener, SC. The sisterhood in Wagener has been part of my life for four years, and the past four years have been richer for it. If you don't know Ss. Mary & Martha, then you should. If you're in college (or in your twenties), you should go to their winter retreat.
While based at the monastery, I experienced much of South Carolina-- Holy Ascension in Charleston, Holy Apostles in Columbia, and Holy Resurrection in Aiken. Charleston is called the "Holy City" for its skyline of steeples. The churches of this port city are architectural landmarks, and Holy Ascension is the finest among them. With its towering cupolas and breathtaking iconography, it is unmistakably an Orthodox Christian temple built for the ages. With its heart-pine floors and an exterior of stucco and bronze, it is unmistakably at home in Charleston. This stunning work of liturgical architecture has a choir to match. And the hearts of the faithful of Charleston exceed even the glory of their temple.
After a behind-the-scenes tour of downtown Charleston given to me by a native who knows her stuff, I got to visit with the local Orthodox Christian Fellowship. The group is a mix of students from College of Charleston and cadets from The Citadel.
Student fellowship at a military academy looks a little different than it does in other schools. How does it look different? Well, we actually began on time...
From there I visited Holy Apostles in Columbia very briefly, just for Liturgy of the Nativity of the Theotokos where I was able to worship with the faithful and meet in fellowship afterwards. I've ended up in Columbia periodically over the years, and Holy Apostles is like an old friend that you only get to see once in a blue moon--it's always great to be back. After a few more days at the monastery, I spent Saturday evening Vespers with the faithful of Holy Resurrection in Aiken, SC. This is a small mission parish. When I say small, I mean that you've got to crowd to the back of the nave to avoid getting hit in the eye by Fr. Robert's censer. There is a crowd in that little building, though, and their vision for the future is grand.
Early on the morning of Sunday the 13th I drove through the hills of North Georgia to St. Philothea Greek Orthodox Church in Watkinsville (just outside of Athens), home to the University of Georgia. St. Philothea, like my own home parish St. Elizabeth's in Gainesville, is a college-town church with great diversity. I heard the Our Father in at least five languages and met parishioners from a great variety of backgrounds. After spending time with relatives in the area and visiting the local sights (Stone Mountain in thick fog and cold rain), I returned to South Carolina's Piedmont to visit with St. John of the Ladder Orthodox Church and the Orthodox Christian Fellowship at Clemson University. The hospitality shown by the people of South Carolina is hard to beat.
The following weekend found me in North Carolina-- Holy Cross in High Point on Saturday the 19th and Annunciation in Winston-Salem on Sunday the 20th. These are two very different and equally impressive parishes. Holy Cross, along with the entire OCA Carolinas Deanery, is a shining example of solid apostolic missiology applied to the twenty-first century American South. If a missiology textbook isn't written soon on the Carolinas Deanery, then I just might have to research and write that texbook myself. I learned a lot and will continue to draw on the clergy and faithful of this deanery for their wisdom and their war stories.
Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church in Winston Salem is an eighty-year-old monument to the work of generations for the glory of God. This large parish has a strong clergy and diverse congregation who are engaged in ministry to a large immigrant population and even larger overall population of every conceivable background. Breakfast with Fr. Demetri and the men's group was a tremendous encouragement.
From Winston-Salem I crossed the Blue Ridge and spent a week in the mountains. First in Johnson City, Tennessee, visiting with dear friends from high school and Holy Resurrection Mission. On Wednesday, I was able to pray Vespers with the deacon and subdeacon and spend another hour in conversation with them about what Christian missions and evangelism mean, both in Tanzania and in the Appalachians. Then on Thursday, the Orthodox Christian Fellowship at the University of Tennessee invited me to Knoxville where we talked about missions and shared a "Mighty Meat Pizza" at the Mellow Mushroom. A college town is not a college town unless it has a Mellow Mushroom.
On the way to central Kentucky from northeast Tennessee, I took the back roads through western Virginia and Harlan County. My mother taught elementary school in this region thirty-five years ago, and I enjoyed the brief visit to a part of the world that doesn't seem to have changed much in the intervening decades. The drive through little coal mining towns north of Pine Ridge to Corbin was, despite heavy fog and rain, stunningly beautiful. And the radio stations are all preachin' and prayin' and singin' all the time.
September ended among the faithful of St. Athanasius Orthodox Church in Nicholasville, Kentucky. St. Athanasius is the most ethnically homogenous parish I've seen since my days at St. Paul's in Korea. They have quite a story, as a group of rural Kentucky Methodists who together sought out the ancient roots of Christianity and were received as a body into the Orthodox Church in America at about the same time that I was encountering Orthodoxy myself. St. Athanasius is special to me because it has sent so many people to Florida who have played transformative roles in my life. I first met folks from this parish four years ago and have been longing to visit ever since.
And that brings me to October in Ohio. Last Wednesday the Orthodox Christian Fellowship at Miami University (the REAL Miami) hosted me in Oxford, and I'm now spending quality time with relatives in Cincinnati. It was hot summertime in Tennessee, but the drive to Kentucky was an entrance into a chilly autumn which is only getting chillier.
These days are full of joy, and I think what I've written reflects this. These days are also difficult. Staying organized, staying safe on the road, getting business done while in a different house every few days-- little things add up. And being a face of Orthodox Christian cross-cultural missions and a representative of missionary work in Tanzania demands a maturity and strength that I don't always think I possess. It is a scary thing, weak and unworthy as I am, to stand in front of people and ask to be sent as a missionary. Only the mercy and grace of God, through your fervent prayers, will keep me true to this calling. Don't stop praying.
In Christ,
James
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
Share in a Journey of Faith: Join a 2010 Mission Team!
“I am surrounded by love. It's not the kind of love you see on TV or in the movies, but love in its most true and simple form. It is the love that can only come from God ... I have already found that love in abundance everywhere I look.” - A 2009 Team member
Now is the time for you to have a Teams experience! In 2010, Teams will be offered during more times of the year and for varying amounts of time (as few as 9 days and as long as 3 weeks) and there will be opportunities for families as well! Be a living witness of your Faith on a Teaching team; provide labor on a Construction team; engage the future of our Church on a Youth team; or take part in the holistic mission of the Church on a Health Care team. Develop deep relationships with others, have a cultural learning experience, and live in response to the Lord’s command to “make disciples of all nations.”
For over 20 years, Team members have proudly served through OCMC to participate in the Holy Orthodox Church’s unending mission effort to bring the saving message of salvation to the ends of the earth. Join the thousands of Orthodox Christians from North America who have been witnessing to the hope and good news of the risen Christ with the world. There will be at least 14 opportunities to participate on a Team in 2010: Alaska – Teaching and Outreach; Albania – Youth camp; Guatemala – Youth camp; India – Teaching; Kenya – Teaching; Korea – Youth camp (ESL); Madagascar – Teaching; Romania – Youth camp; South Africa – Teaching; Tanzania – Construction and Teaching; Uganda – Health Care and Zimbabwe – Teaching.
Team applications and more detailed information are available online at http://teams.ocmc.org or you can call the OCMC at 1.877.463.6787 (ext 142) for more information.
Now is the time for you to have a Teams experience! In 2010, Teams will be offered during more times of the year and for varying amounts of time (as few as 9 days and as long as 3 weeks) and there will be opportunities for families as well! Be a living witness of your Faith on a Teaching team; provide labor on a Construction team; engage the future of our Church on a Youth team; or take part in the holistic mission of the Church on a Health Care team. Develop deep relationships with others, have a cultural learning experience, and live in response to the Lord’s command to “make disciples of all nations.”
For over 20 years, Team members have proudly served through OCMC to participate in the Holy Orthodox Church’s unending mission effort to bring the saving message of salvation to the ends of the earth. Join the thousands of Orthodox Christians from North America who have been witnessing to the hope and good news of the risen Christ with the world. There will be at least 14 opportunities to participate on a Team in 2010: Alaska – Teaching and Outreach; Albania – Youth camp; Guatemala – Youth camp; India – Teaching; Kenya – Teaching; Korea – Youth camp (ESL); Madagascar – Teaching; Romania – Youth camp; South Africa – Teaching; Tanzania – Construction and Teaching; Uganda – Health Care and Zimbabwe – Teaching.
Team applications and more detailed information are available online at http://teams.ocmc.org or you can call the OCMC at 1.877.463.6787 (ext 142) for more information.
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
First Orthodox VCS Program in Hong Kong Successfully Completed
Hong Kong, China – The Orthodox Metropolis of Hong Kong and Southeast Asia (OMHKSEA) recently successfully completed its first ever VCS (Vacation Church School) program. Children from the parish attended the half-day classes during the week of 11-14 August. The theme for this year's program was "God is Wondrous in His Saints;" it was hosted by the Orthodox Cathedral of Saint Luke in Hong Kong.
Each day's program was composed of various elements. The children attended prayer services, underwent instruction, participated in arts and crafts projects, learned songs and church hymns, and even played games. The daily lessons comprised two parts – the first part covered one of the Feasts of the Theotokos, while the second part covered a saint or saints who are connected with the parish.
During the week, the children learned about the following feats of the Theotokos: Nativity, Presentation to the Temple, Annunication, and Dormition. They also learned about St. Luke, St. Nektarios, the Orthodox Chinese Martyrs, and Noah. The final day of the program consisted of a field trip to the new Noah's Ark replica on Park Island in Hong Kong.
Since the summer in Hong Kong is usually plagued by poor weather, the VCS program was offered this year by the OMHKSEA in order for the children of the parish to have some sort of activity during the summer months, while learning more about their faith.
Assistance in developing the curriculum for the week was provided by the Orthodox parish of the Holy Trinity in Wilmington, DE, and the Youth Department of the Metropolis of Boston (Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America). The OMHKSEA wishes to extend its thanks to the individuals who assisted.
The Orthodox Metropolitinate of Hong Kong and Southeast Asia was established by the Ecumenical Patriarchate in 1997. Its mission is to proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ in Southeast Asia and develop philanthropic programs in the area for all people.
by Fr. Kosta Tsilis
Each day's program was composed of various elements. The children attended prayer services, underwent instruction, participated in arts and crafts projects, learned songs and church hymns, and even played games. The daily lessons comprised two parts – the first part covered one of the Feasts of the Theotokos, while the second part covered a saint or saints who are connected with the parish.
During the week, the children learned about the following feats of the Theotokos: Nativity, Presentation to the Temple, Annunication, and Dormition. They also learned about St. Luke, St. Nektarios, the Orthodox Chinese Martyrs, and Noah. The final day of the program consisted of a field trip to the new Noah's Ark replica on Park Island in Hong Kong.
Since the summer in Hong Kong is usually plagued by poor weather, the VCS program was offered this year by the OMHKSEA in order for the children of the parish to have some sort of activity during the summer months, while learning more about their faith.
Assistance in developing the curriculum for the week was provided by the Orthodox parish of the Holy Trinity in Wilmington, DE, and the Youth Department of the Metropolis of Boston (Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America). The OMHKSEA wishes to extend its thanks to the individuals who assisted.
The Orthodox Metropolitinate of Hong Kong and Southeast Asia was established by the Ecumenical Patriarchate in 1997. Its mission is to proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ in Southeast Asia and develop philanthropic programs in the area for all people.
by Fr. Kosta Tsilis
Friday, October 2, 2009
Hear an interview with OCMC Missionary Candidate Michael Pagedas on OCN!
This week on the Orthodox Christian Network (OCN) program "Come Receive the Light," Missionary Candidate Michael Pagedas is interviewed about his Mission Team trip to Tanzania. Listen and learn more about the experiences that have inspired Mr. Pagedas to become a Missionary Candidate. You can find this episode of "Come Receive the Light" at http://www.myocn.net/index.php/200910021960/Come-Receive-the-Light/Visit-to-Tanzania.html. The interview with Mr. Pagedas begins around the 10th minute of the show.
Friday, September 25, 2009
OCMC Now Hiring for a Major Gifts Officer
POSITION: Major Gift Officer
APPLICATION DEADLINE: Open until filled
SALARY RANGE: $60,000.00 - Negotiable
QUALIFICATIONS:
The Orthodox Christian Mission Center is now accepting applications for the position of Major Gift Officer. The Major Gift Officer is responsible for all facets of fundraising for the Mission Center. The successful candidate will identify, cultivate, solicit and steward major donors. He/she will nurture long-term relationships with contributors including individuals, corporations, and foundations.
The Major Gift Officer will report to the Associate Director and work closely with the Executive Director providing support for identification of potential donors, cultivation and solicitation.
Minimum qualifications for the position include experience in major gift fundraising. Managerial, organization, interpersonal, and communication skills are required. Knowledge of fundraising and ability to prepare proposals from start to finish are essential.
TO APPLY: Submit your resume and cover letter, including a brief statement of fundraising qualifications with emphasis on past experience to: Fr. Martin Ritsi, Executive Director, Orthodox Christian Mission Center, 220 Mason Manatee Way, St. Augustine, FL 32086 or by email to missions@ocmc.org. For additional information please contact Fr. David Rucker, Associate Director, by phone at (904) 829-5123 ext. 102 or by e-mail at assocdirector@ocmc.org.
APPLICATION DEADLINE: Open until filled
SALARY RANGE: $60,000.00 - Negotiable
QUALIFICATIONS:
The Orthodox Christian Mission Center is now accepting applications for the position of Major Gift Officer. The Major Gift Officer is responsible for all facets of fundraising for the Mission Center. The successful candidate will identify, cultivate, solicit and steward major donors. He/she will nurture long-term relationships with contributors including individuals, corporations, and foundations.
The Major Gift Officer will report to the Associate Director and work closely with the Executive Director providing support for identification of potential donors, cultivation and solicitation.
Minimum qualifications for the position include experience in major gift fundraising. Managerial, organization, interpersonal, and communication skills are required. Knowledge of fundraising and ability to prepare proposals from start to finish are essential.
TO APPLY: Submit your resume and cover letter, including a brief statement of fundraising qualifications with emphasis on past experience to: Fr. Martin Ritsi, Executive Director, Orthodox Christian Mission Center, 220 Mason Manatee Way, St. Augustine, FL 32086 or by email to missions@ocmc.org. For additional information please contact Fr. David Rucker, Associate Director, by phone at (904) 829-5123 ext. 102 or by e-mail at assocdirector@ocmc.org.
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
Images of Orthodox East Africa
After months of fundraising and anxious preparation, my son Michael and I finally embarked on our very first mission trip. On July 27th we departed for the remote regions of Tanzania in East Africa. This trip proved to be the most exciting and exhilarating journey I have ever been on, yet at the same time the most exhausting.
Our mission commenced on the shores of Florida’s eastern Atlantic coast in the historic city of St. Augustine. We were warmly welcomed by the dedicated staff of the Orthodox Christian Mission Center who provided us with our final orientation. Joining us in St. Augustine were our team leader Fr. Michael Miklos and Briana Finui, both of the American Carpatho-Russian Diocese. The four of us comprised the American side of our mission team. We met the other half - four members of the Church of Finland - in Amsterdam. Our international team was jointly co-sponsored by SCOBA (Standing Conference of the Canonical Orthodox Bishops in the Americas) and the Orthodox Church of Finland. Ours was the first OCMC mission team equally composed of four members from two different countries.
As soon as we touched down in Uganda, we knew we had entered another world. The main roads were lined with endless venders selling various goods from small wooden shacks. Women wore colorful tongas with small babies strapped across their backs, yet somehow managing to balance tall round baskets on top of their heads, amid a noisy and never-ending stream of pedestrians, bicycles and speeding automobiles.
We finally arrived in the small town of Kayanga located in the district of Karagwe in the northwestern tip of Tanzania, which was to be our temporary home. Karagwe is near the scenic southwestern shore of Lake Victoria. Our task was twofold: first, to teach courses on Orthodox faith and theology to one hundred students of various ages at a special seminar organized by the local Metropolitan, Jeronymos of Mwanza; and secondly, to be ‘ambassadors of good will’ to the people of Tanzania as we traveled with the Metropolitan to various communities throughout his diocese.
Under the inspired leadership of Metropolitan Jeronymos, the Church in this particular region of Tanzania is experiencing an incredible thirty percent annual growth rate, with a new seminary, churches, clinics and schools. Metropolitan Jeronymos was born in Uganda and educated in Athens, and is fluent in both Greek and English. It was a great honor to work with this man and his devoted staff in such a unique and blessed ministry.
Our teaching mission was only one segment of the longer seminars organized by the Metropolitan, where he gathers selected young people, and future leaders and teachers from various villages of his diocese. Nurses, educators, tradesmen and other professionals are invited to provide workshops on agriculture, construction, economics, health and hygiene. The students return home and pass their newly acquired knowledge and skills to their fellow villagers, improving the overall quality of life in their village.
The poverty we encountered was incredible. Tanzania is one of the poorest places on earth. Many homes in the rural areas are constructed out of mud-bricks and bamboo sticks. The average life expectancy for Tanzanians is only around fifty years. Many suffer from malaria and yellow fever, and in many areas there is no clean water or adequate sanitation.
Despite such extreme poverty, the people were still so joyful and dignified. Most memorable were the smiling faces and joyful voices of the young children who would often flock around us wherever we went, with wide smiles spread across their eager-eyed faces shouting ‘Mzungu!’, ‘Mzungu!’, which means ‘White-man’ in Swahili.
We taught our classes in English, with the help of a translator. It was strange at first, speaking only in short, concise phrases, and then having to wait for each phrase to be translated into Swahili. Somehow it worked out better than expected. It was a joy to see the positive responses and genuine interest reflected in the eyes of our students.
Among our most cherished memories were the opportunities to personally accompany His Eminence Metropolitan Jeronymos on his long journeys through the remote regions of his diocese. It was a moving experience to travel with him as he visited communities and schools and consecrated new churches. This year alone the Metropolitan is scheduled to consecrate thirty new churches! We were warmly received into all the parish communities we visited. The joyous receptions with which they honored us after Liturgy, as they ‘brought out the drums’ and danced for us, will remain with me forever.
Celebrating the Liturgy in Swahili amid the loud and harmonious congregational singing was an experience of a life-time. Many of the faithful knew the Liturgy by heart, and the delight they shared as they sang praises to the Lord was felt by all.
Metropolitan Jeronymos has a very elegant, even regal way about him as he serves the Divine Liturgy. Dressed in his hierarchical vestments, he was always clothed in truly Christ-like love and humility. Watching him interact as an arch-pastor among his young priests and witnessing the loving, pastoral relationship he has with the people of his distant communities - even dancing with them to the beat of their African drums after Liturgy - is to see a genuine missionary at work; a missionary man in the truest sense of the word; a man specially ‘sent out’ by God.
One of the most encouraging aspects of the mission was to see how the Lord used us to reach out and touch the hearts of these young African believers, even through the means of a translator. In a quiet yet sincere way, I could sense an inner connection with the students through the attentive yet endearing looks in their eyes. Somehow, by God’s grace, we pray that the spiritual seeds planted in the souls of those young believers will continue to grow and blossom forth.
Another great lesson learned from the success of our team was the importance of being patient with one another, and how vital it is not to impose our own will on those around us. Our teaching team, despite coming from such diverse backgrounds, somehow gelled so easily together. We felt like family. I realize now how beneficial it was to let God’s will unfold according to His way and His time, and not according to ours. It was amazing to see the wonderful ways the Lord continues to work in His vast vineyard, through so many different, dedicated and uniquely talented people - if we only let Him.
It was remarkable, and at the same time humbling, to see how grateful our African brothers and sisters were to us for coming to Tanzania. They expressed their gratitude through the joyous beat of their beloved drums and the rhythmic movements of their traditional dancing. Such sights and sounds will never be forgotten.
Amid such extreme poverty, I saw and shared in the innate joy of these beautiful people. I found a renewed sense of reassurance in God’s great and fathomless providence for all of his precious children. And I realized how vastly different God measures the true quality of human life; how His values differ from ours; and how contrary they seem when compared with the ways of the world: “For My thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways My ways,” says the Lord. “For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways, and My thoughts higher than your thoughts.” [Isaiah 55:8,9]
May our Lord continue to bless the holy ministry of His Eminence Metropolitan Jeronymos, and all the faithful throughout the Church of Tanzania, for many, many years. And may He grant me another such opportunity to one day return to the wonderful people of Orthodox East Africa.
By Prof. Harry Boosalis
Our mission commenced on the shores of Florida’s eastern Atlantic coast in the historic city of St. Augustine. We were warmly welcomed by the dedicated staff of the Orthodox Christian Mission Center who provided us with our final orientation. Joining us in St. Augustine were our team leader Fr. Michael Miklos and Briana Finui, both of the American Carpatho-Russian Diocese. The four of us comprised the American side of our mission team. We met the other half - four members of the Church of Finland - in Amsterdam. Our international team was jointly co-sponsored by SCOBA (Standing Conference of the Canonical Orthodox Bishops in the Americas) and the Orthodox Church of Finland. Ours was the first OCMC mission team equally composed of four members from two different countries.
As soon as we touched down in Uganda, we knew we had entered another world. The main roads were lined with endless venders selling various goods from small wooden shacks. Women wore colorful tongas with small babies strapped across their backs, yet somehow managing to balance tall round baskets on top of their heads, amid a noisy and never-ending stream of pedestrians, bicycles and speeding automobiles.
We finally arrived in the small town of Kayanga located in the district of Karagwe in the northwestern tip of Tanzania, which was to be our temporary home. Karagwe is near the scenic southwestern shore of Lake Victoria. Our task was twofold: first, to teach courses on Orthodox faith and theology to one hundred students of various ages at a special seminar organized by the local Metropolitan, Jeronymos of Mwanza; and secondly, to be ‘ambassadors of good will’ to the people of Tanzania as we traveled with the Metropolitan to various communities throughout his diocese.
Under the inspired leadership of Metropolitan Jeronymos, the Church in this particular region of Tanzania is experiencing an incredible thirty percent annual growth rate, with a new seminary, churches, clinics and schools. Metropolitan Jeronymos was born in Uganda and educated in Athens, and is fluent in both Greek and English. It was a great honor to work with this man and his devoted staff in such a unique and blessed ministry.
Our teaching mission was only one segment of the longer seminars organized by the Metropolitan, where he gathers selected young people, and future leaders and teachers from various villages of his diocese. Nurses, educators, tradesmen and other professionals are invited to provide workshops on agriculture, construction, economics, health and hygiene. The students return home and pass their newly acquired knowledge and skills to their fellow villagers, improving the overall quality of life in their village.
The poverty we encountered was incredible. Tanzania is one of the poorest places on earth. Many homes in the rural areas are constructed out of mud-bricks and bamboo sticks. The average life expectancy for Tanzanians is only around fifty years. Many suffer from malaria and yellow fever, and in many areas there is no clean water or adequate sanitation.
Despite such extreme poverty, the people were still so joyful and dignified. Most memorable were the smiling faces and joyful voices of the young children who would often flock around us wherever we went, with wide smiles spread across their eager-eyed faces shouting ‘Mzungu!’, ‘Mzungu!’, which means ‘White-man’ in Swahili.
We taught our classes in English, with the help of a translator. It was strange at first, speaking only in short, concise phrases, and then having to wait for each phrase to be translated into Swahili. Somehow it worked out better than expected. It was a joy to see the positive responses and genuine interest reflected in the eyes of our students.
Among our most cherished memories were the opportunities to personally accompany His Eminence Metropolitan Jeronymos on his long journeys through the remote regions of his diocese. It was a moving experience to travel with him as he visited communities and schools and consecrated new churches. This year alone the Metropolitan is scheduled to consecrate thirty new churches! We were warmly received into all the parish communities we visited. The joyous receptions with which they honored us after Liturgy, as they ‘brought out the drums’ and danced for us, will remain with me forever.
Celebrating the Liturgy in Swahili amid the loud and harmonious congregational singing was an experience of a life-time. Many of the faithful knew the Liturgy by heart, and the delight they shared as they sang praises to the Lord was felt by all.
Metropolitan Jeronymos has a very elegant, even regal way about him as he serves the Divine Liturgy. Dressed in his hierarchical vestments, he was always clothed in truly Christ-like love and humility. Watching him interact as an arch-pastor among his young priests and witnessing the loving, pastoral relationship he has with the people of his distant communities - even dancing with them to the beat of their African drums after Liturgy - is to see a genuine missionary at work; a missionary man in the truest sense of the word; a man specially ‘sent out’ by God.
One of the most encouraging aspects of the mission was to see how the Lord used us to reach out and touch the hearts of these young African believers, even through the means of a translator. In a quiet yet sincere way, I could sense an inner connection with the students through the attentive yet endearing looks in their eyes. Somehow, by God’s grace, we pray that the spiritual seeds planted in the souls of those young believers will continue to grow and blossom forth.
Another great lesson learned from the success of our team was the importance of being patient with one another, and how vital it is not to impose our own will on those around us. Our teaching team, despite coming from such diverse backgrounds, somehow gelled so easily together. We felt like family. I realize now how beneficial it was to let God’s will unfold according to His way and His time, and not according to ours. It was amazing to see the wonderful ways the Lord continues to work in His vast vineyard, through so many different, dedicated and uniquely talented people - if we only let Him.
It was remarkable, and at the same time humbling, to see how grateful our African brothers and sisters were to us for coming to Tanzania. They expressed their gratitude through the joyous beat of their beloved drums and the rhythmic movements of their traditional dancing. Such sights and sounds will never be forgotten.
Amid such extreme poverty, I saw and shared in the innate joy of these beautiful people. I found a renewed sense of reassurance in God’s great and fathomless providence for all of his precious children. And I realized how vastly different God measures the true quality of human life; how His values differ from ours; and how contrary they seem when compared with the ways of the world: “For My thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways My ways,” says the Lord. “For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways, and My thoughts higher than your thoughts.” [Isaiah 55:8,9]
May our Lord continue to bless the holy ministry of His Eminence Metropolitan Jeronymos, and all the faithful throughout the Church of Tanzania, for many, many years. And may He grant me another such opportunity to one day return to the wonderful people of Orthodox East Africa.
By Prof. Harry Boosalis
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
Sudden Death of Tanya (Mitchell) Kallaur - Daughter of OCMC Board Member Scott Mitchell
At 4:06 pm, on September 21, 2009, Tanya (Mitchell) Kallaur, daughter of Orthodox Christian Mission Center (OCMC) Board Member Scott Mitchell, fell asleep in the Lord following a car accident in Maine. Tanya leaves behind two children: Anthony, age 4, and Anastasia, age 3. We at the Mission Center ask that the Mitchell and Kallaur families, especially Anthony and Anastasia, be kept in your prayers. Donations for the children are being accepted in lieu of flowers by St. Alexander Orthodox Church. Gifts in memory of Tanya (Mitchell) Kallaur should be made out to St. Alexander Orthodox Church with "Kallaur Children" noted in the memo line and sent to:
St. Alexander Orthodox Church
C/O Scott Mitchell
27 Elizabeth Street
Kent, CT 06757
Thank you for joining with our OCMC staff and missionaries as we pray for Tanya's blessed repose and for the family that will continue to experience this loss.
May her memory be eternal!
St. Alexander Orthodox Church
C/O Scott Mitchell
27 Elizabeth Street
Kent, CT 06757
Thank you for joining with our OCMC staff and missionaries as we pray for Tanya's blessed repose and for the family that will continue to experience this loss.
May her memory be eternal!
Friday, September 11, 2009
Give the Gift of the Gospel this Nativity Season - Give an OCMC Gift Card!
This Nativity Season, the Orthodox Christian Mission Center (OCMC) is offering a wonderful way for you to honor someone you love while also supporting the training and care of long-term Missionaries through OCMC Gift Cards. Consider honoring Godparents, priests, Sunday School teachers, family, and friends by assisting Orthodox Missionaries who are sharing the light of Christ with others around the world. Give these loved ones an OCMC Gift Card as a Christmas gift!
There are currently more more than 20 Orthodox Christians from across America who are in the process of becoming new Orthodox Missionaries. As these families and individuals prepare to serve alongside Hierarchs and mission priests in countries where many long for Christ's live-giving message, they need to be trained and equipped so that they can prayerfully apply their gifts and talents to work in the Lord's harvest field. These Missionaries will offer a living witness to the faith by training future Church leaders, ministering to children, providing healthcare, and helping the church to welcome others into the Body of Christ.
Matushka Maria Kotar, Administrator of the St. John of San Francisco Orthodox Academy in San Francisco, has purchased these in the past for use by her students. She shared that she sees these cards as a “beautiful opportunity to share the Church and missions with the families of the children attending the Academy.”
Gift cards can be purchased in $10, $25, and $50 amounts. The cards will be sent to you so that you can present them to your loved ones directly. The cards feature a beatiful icon of the Great Commission and a Nativity greeting (the gift card amount is not displayed). For more information about OCMC Gift Cards, or to place your order, visit www.ocmc.org , call 877-GO-FORTH , or email phyllis@ocmc.org. Place your order by December 10th to guarantee delivery before Christmas!
There are currently more more than 20 Orthodox Christians from across America who are in the process of becoming new Orthodox Missionaries. As these families and individuals prepare to serve alongside Hierarchs and mission priests in countries where many long for Christ's live-giving message, they need to be trained and equipped so that they can prayerfully apply their gifts and talents to work in the Lord's harvest field. These Missionaries will offer a living witness to the faith by training future Church leaders, ministering to children, providing healthcare, and helping the church to welcome others into the Body of Christ.
Matushka Maria Kotar, Administrator of the St. John of San Francisco Orthodox Academy in San Francisco, has purchased these in the past for use by her students. She shared that she sees these cards as a “beautiful opportunity to share the Church and missions with the families of the children attending the Academy.”
Gift cards can be purchased in $10, $25, and $50 amounts. The cards will be sent to you so that you can present them to your loved ones directly. The cards feature a beatiful icon of the Great Commission and a Nativity greeting (the gift card amount is not displayed). For more information about OCMC Gift Cards, or to place your order, visit www.ocmc.org , call 877-GO-FORTH , or email phyllis@ocmc.org. Place your order by December 10th to guarantee delivery before Christmas!
Friday, September 4, 2009
Communicating Love Without Words - Reflecting on My Team Experience to South Korea
Starting out our Mission Team experience in Seoul at the Metropolis was nice. We were there to help teach English at a camp hosted by the Church, and being at the Metropolis enabled us to get our lessons together. It also afforded us some time to see a little bit of the city. Most importantly, it was good to get to know His Eminence and Athanasia (who helped coordinate the entire camp).
We headed to Chuncheon on Sunday, and that's when things really started. We had 34 kids for 11 days. Our typical day consisted of getting up at 7:30am, Church Service and Bible Lesson at 8:00am, Breakfast at 8:45am, 1st English Lesson Hour at 9:30am, 2nd English Lesson Hour at 10:30am, 3rd English Lesson Hour at 11:30am (which was learning English songs), next was lunch, then the activity of the day, which consisted of everything from discussions with the Bishop to watching the Junior Olympics to boating in little Swan boats (and much more, of course).
Dinner was always good and needed. There was an entire team of women who took good care of us and cooked fantastic Korean food. After dinner we had some free time and would sometimes watch the older boys put on funny skits. At 8:00pm we would have an evening service; it was always candlelit and beautiful with all the children chanting. We wouldn't just leave the church though; we'd all kneel down after service and take as much time as needed to pray before getting the Bishop's blessing and heading into the night. Of course, with 34 kids the peace of that service didn't last too long. The kids spent the rest of the evening playing (we couldn't wear them out!!!) until bedtime at 11 (and you know that's an arbitrary number). Whew, I'm getting tired just telling you all about our days!
God really blessed me with the lesson of communicating love without words. At first it was hard seeing the Korean teachers become close with the children when I just couldn't. Some of the kids became pretty frustrated not being able to speak to me. However, through the week I started finding that a head rub, a pat on the back, or charades were good ways to show what I couldn't say. There was one little boy who spoke some Korean but was Russian. The only English he really knew was "Teacher" and "I am Russian." One day we caught dragonflies and frogs together, and after that he would come running to me every time he caught a spider or some other little creepy-crawly. That was so special for me. One little girl and I had our own little sign language taking place. Somehow we really understood each other. One of the most beautiful moments of non-verbal communication was the night His Eminence taught us how to make komboskini (prayer rope). I remember distinctly sitting between a Russian lady and a Korean lady, and some how we all shared our triumphs and failures without words.
His Eminence didn't just stress knowing the parables or learning English: he focused on being a Christian in every aspect of our lives. He taught the children (and really, us adults, too) how to live together, how to love each other, how to deal with conflicts, and how to play together. He made sure we understood how important it was to act as a family. We broke the kids out into teams, and each team had a team chant. At first none of the teams really wanted to do their chants, but some of the more outgoing boys started doing everyone's chant. It was so funny, especially when they imitated the girls' groups, and by the end of the camp every team was doing every chant together (and each time it was just as funny as the last).
His Eminence, Father Jeramiahs, and the Deacons didn't just preach--they also practiced their preaching. After every meal they would vacuum, clean up crumbs, or put on an apron and some gloves and clean dishes. What great examples they were! They also got involved in games with the children. We also learned from them a tradition of asking forgiveness from our family members on the eve of Holy Communion. This was such a beautiful idea that my husband and I have started doing it at home, too. One thing the Bishop said in regards to going to confession or not eating before receiving was, "If they don't learn it here, where will they learn it?" He was a great teacher.
Korea is an interesting country. It's so lush and green and the mountains just jut out of the landscape. The people are good, spiritual people. His Eminence really emphasized how beautiful and important the Korean culture is. He showed that Orthodoxy and the Korean culture can really exist together. They actually have a CD out now of Korean chanting. I'm not an expert, but I've heard it's a bit of a mixture between the Byzantine and Russian styles, while also incorporating Korean traditional instruments. His Eminence wrote a very nice foreword in the CD jacket explaining how the two are joined. It's beautiful!
by Mission Team Member Meredyth (Sophia) Houpos
We headed to Chuncheon on Sunday, and that's when things really started. We had 34 kids for 11 days. Our typical day consisted of getting up at 7:30am, Church Service and Bible Lesson at 8:00am, Breakfast at 8:45am, 1st English Lesson Hour at 9:30am, 2nd English Lesson Hour at 10:30am, 3rd English Lesson Hour at 11:30am (which was learning English songs), next was lunch, then the activity of the day, which consisted of everything from discussions with the Bishop to watching the Junior Olympics to boating in little Swan boats (and much more, of course).
Dinner was always good and needed. There was an entire team of women who took good care of us and cooked fantastic Korean food. After dinner we had some free time and would sometimes watch the older boys put on funny skits. At 8:00pm we would have an evening service; it was always candlelit and beautiful with all the children chanting. We wouldn't just leave the church though; we'd all kneel down after service and take as much time as needed to pray before getting the Bishop's blessing and heading into the night. Of course, with 34 kids the peace of that service didn't last too long. The kids spent the rest of the evening playing (we couldn't wear them out!!!) until bedtime at 11 (and you know that's an arbitrary number). Whew, I'm getting tired just telling you all about our days!
God really blessed me with the lesson of communicating love without words. At first it was hard seeing the Korean teachers become close with the children when I just couldn't. Some of the kids became pretty frustrated not being able to speak to me. However, through the week I started finding that a head rub, a pat on the back, or charades were good ways to show what I couldn't say. There was one little boy who spoke some Korean but was Russian. The only English he really knew was "Teacher" and "I am Russian." One day we caught dragonflies and frogs together, and after that he would come running to me every time he caught a spider or some other little creepy-crawly. That was so special for me. One little girl and I had our own little sign language taking place. Somehow we really understood each other. One of the most beautiful moments of non-verbal communication was the night His Eminence taught us how to make komboskini (prayer rope). I remember distinctly sitting between a Russian lady and a Korean lady, and some how we all shared our triumphs and failures without words.
His Eminence didn't just stress knowing the parables or learning English: he focused on being a Christian in every aspect of our lives. He taught the children (and really, us adults, too) how to live together, how to love each other, how to deal with conflicts, and how to play together. He made sure we understood how important it was to act as a family. We broke the kids out into teams, and each team had a team chant. At first none of the teams really wanted to do their chants, but some of the more outgoing boys started doing everyone's chant. It was so funny, especially when they imitated the girls' groups, and by the end of the camp every team was doing every chant together (and each time it was just as funny as the last).
His Eminence, Father Jeramiahs, and the Deacons didn't just preach--they also practiced their preaching. After every meal they would vacuum, clean up crumbs, or put on an apron and some gloves and clean dishes. What great examples they were! They also got involved in games with the children. We also learned from them a tradition of asking forgiveness from our family members on the eve of Holy Communion. This was such a beautiful idea that my husband and I have started doing it at home, too. One thing the Bishop said in regards to going to confession or not eating before receiving was, "If they don't learn it here, where will they learn it?" He was a great teacher.
Korea is an interesting country. It's so lush and green and the mountains just jut out of the landscape. The people are good, spiritual people. His Eminence really emphasized how beautiful and important the Korean culture is. He showed that Orthodoxy and the Korean culture can really exist together. They actually have a CD out now of Korean chanting. I'm not an expert, but I've heard it's a bit of a mixture between the Byzantine and Russian styles, while also incorporating Korean traditional instruments. His Eminence wrote a very nice foreword in the CD jacket explaining how the two are joined. It's beautiful!
by Mission Team Member Meredyth (Sophia) Houpos
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
One Faith, One Church, One Message: The Necessity of Orthodox Unity in America to Bring America to Orthodoxy
The 2009 Orthodox Conference on Missions and Evangelism is pleased to welcome His Beatitude Metropolitan JONAH, primate of the Orthodox Church in America (OCA), as this year's keynote speaker. His Beatitude will set the tone for the weekend conference with his presentation, "The Necessity of Orthodox Unity in America to Bring America to Orthodoxy." The Conference will take place September 4-7 (Labor Day Weekend) at Antiochian Village near Ligonier, Pennsylvania. Joining Metropolitan JONAH will be Fr. Peter Gillquist, chair of the Antiochian Orthodox Archdiocese Department of Missions and Evangelism; Fr. Hector Firoglanis, former OCMC Missionary, priest of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese and a two-time past participant at the Conference (as an OCF student leader at Penn State University); and Mr. Charles Ajalat, chancellor of the Antiochian Orthodox Archdiocese and founder of the Orthodox Vision Foundation. They will present practical steps for developing a unified approach to outreach on the parish level, as well as related issues of Orthodox mission building and evangelism.
The Orthodox Conference on Missions and Evangelism is a wonderful opportunity for clergy and laity to learn more about their Orthodox Christian Faith and how to share it. The Conference attracts a number of non-Orthodox as well. Each year participants rave about the Conference and go home much better equipped to start missions or conduct outreach in their communities.
Lodging is limited, so register as soon as possible. Group discounts and limited financial assistance for those in need are available. To learn more about the Conference visit www.antiochian.org/missions/conference, or call the Department of Missions and Evangelism toll-free at (888) 968-4014.
The Orthodox Conference on Missions and Evangelism is a cross-jurisdictional event hosted by the Department of Missions and Evangelism and sponsored by the Orthodox Christian Mission Center (OCMC).
Dcn. Alexander Cadman
The Orthodox Conference on Missions and Evangelism is a wonderful opportunity for clergy and laity to learn more about their Orthodox Christian Faith and how to share it. The Conference attracts a number of non-Orthodox as well. Each year participants rave about the Conference and go home much better equipped to start missions or conduct outreach in their communities.
Lodging is limited, so register as soon as possible. Group discounts and limited financial assistance for those in need are available. To learn more about the Conference visit www.antiochian.org/missions/conference, or call the Department of Missions and Evangelism toll-free at (888) 968-4014.
The Orthodox Conference on Missions and Evangelism is a cross-jurisdictional event hosted by the Department of Missions and Evangelism and sponsored by the Orthodox Christian Mission Center (OCMC).
Dcn. Alexander Cadman
Monday, August 24, 2009
The First Orthodox Orphanage in the Diocese of Irinopolis, Tanzania
By the grace of God and the missionary zeal of Metropolitan Dimitrios of Irinopolis, the spreading of the word of God continues with the conversion of our African brothers. 1,780 newly illumined have been welcomed into the Church since the beginning of the year, and the philanthropic work in Tanzania continues.
St. Stylianos, the first Orthodox orphanage of the Holy Metropolis, which was inaugurated by Metropolitan Chrysostomos of Kition and Metropolitan Dimitrios of Irinopolis, has been completed.
This important and necessary work for the district was undertaken with the blessing of the Metropolitan of Kition, the help of “The Association to Fight the Scourge of Hunger, Cyprus,” and the philanthropic contributions of the sisters Norma and Alice Dimitriou of Lanarka, in the memory of Athena Dimitriou and Stella Papayianni.
The compound accommodates six residence rooms, baths, a kitchen, a dining room, a reading area, and areas for recreation and prayer. It is intended to house and protect 24 orphaned children, most of whom are suffering from the scourges of AIDS and malaria.
There, where the Muslims rule, after hard struggles, devout prayer, and systematic missionary work by the Greek and Cypriot missionaries (consisting of both clergy and laymen) thousands of Tanzanians have been baptized. At the same time, with the help of the Holy Metropolis, a number of new buildings have been erected including an Orthodox Clinic, three grade schools, two high schools, one kindergarten, and now the St. Stylianos Orphanage.
St. Stylianos, the first Orthodox orphanage of the Holy Metropolis, which was inaugurated by Metropolitan Chrysostomos of Kition and Metropolitan Dimitrios of Irinopolis, has been completed.
This important and necessary work for the district was undertaken with the blessing of the Metropolitan of Kition, the help of “The Association to Fight the Scourge of Hunger, Cyprus,” and the philanthropic contributions of the sisters Norma and Alice Dimitriou of Lanarka, in the memory of Athena Dimitriou and Stella Papayianni.
The compound accommodates six residence rooms, baths, a kitchen, a dining room, a reading area, and areas for recreation and prayer. It is intended to house and protect 24 orphaned children, most of whom are suffering from the scourges of AIDS and malaria.
There, where the Muslims rule, after hard struggles, devout prayer, and systematic missionary work by the Greek and Cypriot missionaries (consisting of both clergy and laymen) thousands of Tanzanians have been baptized. At the same time, with the help of the Holy Metropolis, a number of new buildings have been erected including an Orthodox Clinic, three grade schools, two high schools, one kindergarten, and now the St. Stylianos Orphanage.
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
Hoppe Missionary Family arrives in USA for Home Assignment
Nathan and Gabriela Hoppe arrived at the Mission Center in St. Augustine, Florida, direct from Albania on August 4th for an eleven-month "Home Assignment." The Hoppes participated in a "Re-entry Workshop" designed by the Missionary Department to welcome Missionaries back from service in other countries and equip them for their time in the USA. OCMC's new Missionary Training and Administration Building allows all such events to take place on-site. This workshop concluded on Friday morning (August 7th), and Nathan and Gabriela left to join their children Tristan and Katherine, waiting for them in Minnesota, where they will live until July 2010.
This time in the USA, referred to as "Home Assignment," will be filled with much hard work. For the Hoppe family this includes further studies to enhance their ministry work in Albania, spending time with their existing support team members, and meeting new supporters for their next term on the field. They will also be travelling across the country speaking on behalf of Orthodox missions and evangelism world-wide.
During these months, Tristan and Katherine are looking forward to reconnecting with extended family and friends; they are also preparing to welcome a new addition to their family! The Hoppes have announced that they are expecting a baby, which is due in January. Please pray for the Hoppes during this time of anticipation, especially for Gabriela's strength and health.
You can catch up on this past year's news about the Hoppe family by visiting http://nhoppe.ocmc.org. They will be available for meetings and appointments here in the USA through July 2010. This is an excellent opportunity to hear about the resurrection of and the opportunities for the Church in Albania. The Hoppes are grateful for your continued prayers and financial support as they try to raise up new partners for the vital missionary work going on in Albania during their time in the United States. For more information, check www.ocmc.org or contact the Hoppes directly at n.hoppe@ocmc.org.
This time in the USA, referred to as "Home Assignment," will be filled with much hard work. For the Hoppe family this includes further studies to enhance their ministry work in Albania, spending time with their existing support team members, and meeting new supporters for their next term on the field. They will also be travelling across the country speaking on behalf of Orthodox missions and evangelism world-wide.
During these months, Tristan and Katherine are looking forward to reconnecting with extended family and friends; they are also preparing to welcome a new addition to their family! The Hoppes have announced that they are expecting a baby, which is due in January. Please pray for the Hoppes during this time of anticipation, especially for Gabriela's strength and health.
You can catch up on this past year's news about the Hoppe family by visiting http://nhoppe.ocmc.org. They will be available for meetings and appointments here in the USA through July 2010. This is an excellent opportunity to hear about the resurrection of and the opportunities for the Church in Albania. The Hoppes are grateful for your continued prayers and financial support as they try to raise up new partners for the vital missionary work going on in Albania during their time in the United States. For more information, check www.ocmc.org or contact the Hoppes directly at n.hoppe@ocmc.org.
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
Apoyo: Thank You! Medical Mission Team Returns from Uganda
Apoyo, Apoyo, Apoyo!!! Thank you, thank you, thank you!!!
The medical mission to Uganda was a great success. We operated clinics for nine days, and we were able to help about 4000 people! Without the support of many people this valuable work would not have happened. Our team of ten consisted of three doctors, two nurse practitioners, three nurses, and two medical students. We worked well together, enjoyed being with each other, and developed some great friendships.
Our time in Uganda started with a program given by the children of the Orthodox primary and secondary school in the capital city of Kampala. The children prayed, sang, and danced for us. Most days started with a trip to the local pharmacy to get the medicines that would be prescribed and given out that day. Then we would drive thirty minutes to two hours to the village where we would setup our clinic for the day. Some of the villages that we visited were very impoverished; simply surviving seemed to take great effort.
Typically, we would be greeted by a welcoming committee of some of the women who would sing and dance for us. Then we would go about setting up the exam rooms and pharmacy. We listened to the patients, examined them, prescribed medicines, filled the prescriptions in our pharmacy, and explained to the patients how to take their medicines; all with the help of local interpreters, who were usually students. We saw and treated between 300 and 500 patients at each clinic. Common ailments included: malaria, parasitic infestations, dysentery, pneumonia, TB, dehydration, and infections of all sorts. The medicines that we provided were prescribed to reduce pain and suffering and reduce cases of infant and child death from preventable diseases.
We stayed at hotels in the two cities that we worked out of. The ride back to the hotel after a day of work was always a mesmerizing combination of being tired and looking out the window at a very different world. In the evenings we would pray, eat dinner, enjoy our time together, and get ready for the next day.
On Sundays, we celebrated Divine Liturgy in a local Orthodox church, which was always a joy. The Ugandans love to sing and worship. After church there was more visiting, singing, and dancing outside. It was truly a day of rest and worship. Many of us became quite close with the priests, nuns, students, and others that we met or spent time with daily. I now have an African brother, Fr. George. We developed a close bond and I miss him.
For fun we visited Murchison falls on the Nile River: they were spectacular, and the mist was very refreshing (Uganda is hot and humid, and we were just a degree north of the equator). The next day we took a ferry across the Nile as the sun rose and went on a safari. We saw baboons, birds, wart hogs, a lion, a crocodile, many giraffes, lots of water buffalo, many hippos, all kinds of antelopes and some elephants too.
I am left with the faces of the Ugandan children in my mind. They are God’s children and our brothers and sisters in Christ. This sense of connection now serves as a powerful reminder of the Bible verse: "For I was hungry and you gave me food; I was thirsty and you gave me drink; I was a stranger and you took me in; I was naked and you clothed me; I was sick and you visited me; I was in prison and you came to me....assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as you did it to one of the least of these My brethren, you did it to Me" (Matthew 25:35-40).
Author: Darrell Fox, 2009 Uganda Medical Mission Team Member
The medical mission to Uganda was a great success. We operated clinics for nine days, and we were able to help about 4000 people! Without the support of many people this valuable work would not have happened. Our team of ten consisted of three doctors, two nurse practitioners, three nurses, and two medical students. We worked well together, enjoyed being with each other, and developed some great friendships.
Our time in Uganda started with a program given by the children of the Orthodox primary and secondary school in the capital city of Kampala. The children prayed, sang, and danced for us. Most days started with a trip to the local pharmacy to get the medicines that would be prescribed and given out that day. Then we would drive thirty minutes to two hours to the village where we would setup our clinic for the day. Some of the villages that we visited were very impoverished; simply surviving seemed to take great effort.
Typically, we would be greeted by a welcoming committee of some of the women who would sing and dance for us. Then we would go about setting up the exam rooms and pharmacy. We listened to the patients, examined them, prescribed medicines, filled the prescriptions in our pharmacy, and explained to the patients how to take their medicines; all with the help of local interpreters, who were usually students. We saw and treated between 300 and 500 patients at each clinic. Common ailments included: malaria, parasitic infestations, dysentery, pneumonia, TB, dehydration, and infections of all sorts. The medicines that we provided were prescribed to reduce pain and suffering and reduce cases of infant and child death from preventable diseases.
We stayed at hotels in the two cities that we worked out of. The ride back to the hotel after a day of work was always a mesmerizing combination of being tired and looking out the window at a very different world. In the evenings we would pray, eat dinner, enjoy our time together, and get ready for the next day.
On Sundays, we celebrated Divine Liturgy in a local Orthodox church, which was always a joy. The Ugandans love to sing and worship. After church there was more visiting, singing, and dancing outside. It was truly a day of rest and worship. Many of us became quite close with the priests, nuns, students, and others that we met or spent time with daily. I now have an African brother, Fr. George. We developed a close bond and I miss him.
For fun we visited Murchison falls on the Nile River: they were spectacular, and the mist was very refreshing (Uganda is hot and humid, and we were just a degree north of the equator). The next day we took a ferry across the Nile as the sun rose and went on a safari. We saw baboons, birds, wart hogs, a lion, a crocodile, many giraffes, lots of water buffalo, many hippos, all kinds of antelopes and some elephants too.
I am left with the faces of the Ugandan children in my mind. They are God’s children and our brothers and sisters in Christ. This sense of connection now serves as a powerful reminder of the Bible verse: "For I was hungry and you gave me food; I was thirsty and you gave me drink; I was a stranger and you took me in; I was naked and you clothed me; I was sick and you visited me; I was in prison and you came to me....assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as you did it to one of the least of these My brethren, you did it to Me" (Matthew 25:35-40).
Author: Darrell Fox, 2009 Uganda Medical Mission Team Member
Thursday, August 6, 2009
Albania Teaching Team interviewed on Ancient Faith Radio
The 2009 Albania Teaching Team was interviewed by Fr. Thomas Hopko while in Albania. You may hear the interview on Ancient Faith Radio, "Speaking the Truth in Love." Short-term Team Members Angelica Sotiriou-Rausch, Aaron Gall, and Susan McCullough, along with Long-term Missionary Pamela Barksdale, are featured in this 20-minute interview. Visit http://ancientfaith.com/podcasts/hopko and click on '4 U.S. Missionaries in Albania' to listen.
Thursday, July 30, 2009
His Beatitude Theodoros II, Pope and Patriarch of Alexandria Visits Northern Cameroon and Receives Recognition of the Orthodox Church
His Beatitude Theodoros II, Pope and Patriarch of Alexandria and All Africa, celebrated his name day on 17th February 2009 with the children of Orthodox African families in Northern Cameroon on the border with Chad. At the Church of Ss. Raphael, Nicholas and Irene, in the village of Datseka, next to straw huts, the people sang hymns in their many dialects and danced. On a missionary journey to see for themselves the results of the missionary effort in the Cameroon, His Beatitude and those following him were warmly welcomed by the citizens, local leaders, and representatives of other faiths.
Addressing His Beatitude in the Church of St. Raphael in Datseka, built by Abbess Eugenia of the Monastery of the same name in Mytilene, His Eminence Gregory, Metropolitan of Cameroon, wished His Beatitude many years on his name day and asked for his continuing support for the mission. “Whatever is done is the work for which we are inspired by the zeal of the Primate of our Patriarchate, who did not hesitate to travel thousands of kilometers from his See in Alexandria, to reach the Northern Cameroon to celebrate his name day with the Orthodox Christians of the African Savanna,” said the local Metropolitan, emphasizing the significance of the visit by His Beatitude - the first Patriarch of Alexandria to reach this border region of sub-Saharan Africa.
Addressing the local people and especially the youth, His Beatitude said: “I want you to keep your traditions in our churches. Keep your language, your tradition, and the way you express your thanks to God, with hymns sung in your language, your tones, drums, dance. And know that, in this manner, you are not outside of the tradition of our Church. Remember how many times in the Old Testament the chosen people of Israel thanked and praised God with the drums, songs, shouts and dancing … .”
The traditional dances gave a particular hue to the welcome of the Patriarch of Alexandria, both within and outside of the churches, especially the war dance of the Cameroonians called the “Gourna,” which is similar to one of the ancient “Fire Dances."
His Beatitude, who the previous week had met with His Excellency Dr. Paul Biya, the President of Cameroon, in Yaoundé, received the gift of official recognition of the Orthodox Church and the Holy Metropolis of Cameroon on February 12, 2009.
Metropolis of Cameroon (7/20/2009)
Addressing His Beatitude in the Church of St. Raphael in Datseka, built by Abbess Eugenia of the Monastery of the same name in Mytilene, His Eminence Gregory, Metropolitan of Cameroon, wished His Beatitude many years on his name day and asked for his continuing support for the mission. “Whatever is done is the work for which we are inspired by the zeal of the Primate of our Patriarchate, who did not hesitate to travel thousands of kilometers from his See in Alexandria, to reach the Northern Cameroon to celebrate his name day with the Orthodox Christians of the African Savanna,” said the local Metropolitan, emphasizing the significance of the visit by His Beatitude - the first Patriarch of Alexandria to reach this border region of sub-Saharan Africa.
Addressing the local people and especially the youth, His Beatitude said: “I want you to keep your traditions in our churches. Keep your language, your tradition, and the way you express your thanks to God, with hymns sung in your language, your tones, drums, dance. And know that, in this manner, you are not outside of the tradition of our Church. Remember how many times in the Old Testament the chosen people of Israel thanked and praised God with the drums, songs, shouts and dancing … .”
The traditional dances gave a particular hue to the welcome of the Patriarch of Alexandria, both within and outside of the churches, especially the war dance of the Cameroonians called the “Gourna,” which is similar to one of the ancient “Fire Dances."
His Beatitude, who the previous week had met with His Excellency Dr. Paul Biya, the President of Cameroon, in Yaoundé, received the gift of official recognition of the Orthodox Church and the Holy Metropolis of Cameroon on February 12, 2009.
Metropolis of Cameroon (7/20/2009)
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
A Spiritual Odyssey to Tanzania
One hundred and twenty Tanzanians in white wait to be received into the Holy Orthodox Church. Their odyssey has been a long one, beginning with the founding of the Orthodox Church in Tanzania almost fifty years ago, winding through the streams of African seekers, missionaries, and hierarchs to tributaries of local converts and clergy. Finally, they are brought to this river that flows through the banana trees and under the sun of the equator, where they will be reborn as participants in the death and resurrection of Christ our God. Blessed and chrismated by His Eminence Jeronymos, they leave the river as members of one of the fastest growing Orthodox metropolises in the world.
“Christ is the hope of the Africans. He is 'the King of Peace and Salvation.' The Orthodox Church, in its missionary endeavor and its ministry, stands beside the Africans in their pain and desire. It strives to instruct them in the word of truth and to reveal to them the Gospel of justice. They are baptized and married in groups. New life is being created, a life of joy and peace, a life in the light of Christ…” - Office of the Metropolitanate of Mwanza, Tanzania
This September, you have an opportunity to witness this “new life,” as the second OCMC Spiritual Odyssey travels to Tanzania. Led by OCMC Executive Director Rev. Martin Ritsi, participants in this Mission Education Tour will travel to the gentle shores of Lake Victoria to visit the Metropolis of Mwanza and witness the growth of Orthodoxy in East Africa. Participants will be exposed to the history, culture and richness of Tanzania and the mission of the Church. There will be visits to various communities that are the foundation of this vibrant work.
The journey will also include private receptions with His Eminence, Metropolitan Jeronymos, of Mwanza. Under his leadership this diocese has grown to include more than 40,000 faithful and over 150 parishes, with 34 priests. There will also be informal discussions and presentations by Rev. Martin Ritsi and other local church leaders, as well as the opportunity to participate in the consecration of an Orthodox Church. In addition there will be a safari excursion to the best known wildlife sanctuary in the world, the Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Conservation Area.
Come and experience this vibrant church, the beauty of its traditions, and the joy of its people—come and discover Tanzania on the 2009 Spiritual Odyssey!
“Christ is the hope of the Africans. He is 'the King of Peace and Salvation.' The Orthodox Church, in its missionary endeavor and its ministry, stands beside the Africans in their pain and desire. It strives to instruct them in the word of truth and to reveal to them the Gospel of justice. They are baptized and married in groups. New life is being created, a life of joy and peace, a life in the light of Christ…” - Office of the Metropolitanate of Mwanza, Tanzania
This September, you have an opportunity to witness this “new life,” as the second OCMC Spiritual Odyssey travels to Tanzania. Led by OCMC Executive Director Rev. Martin Ritsi, participants in this Mission Education Tour will travel to the gentle shores of Lake Victoria to visit the Metropolis of Mwanza and witness the growth of Orthodoxy in East Africa. Participants will be exposed to the history, culture and richness of Tanzania and the mission of the Church. There will be visits to various communities that are the foundation of this vibrant work.
The journey will also include private receptions with His Eminence, Metropolitan Jeronymos, of Mwanza. Under his leadership this diocese has grown to include more than 40,000 faithful and over 150 parishes, with 34 priests. There will also be informal discussions and presentations by Rev. Martin Ritsi and other local church leaders, as well as the opportunity to participate in the consecration of an Orthodox Church. In addition there will be a safari excursion to the best known wildlife sanctuary in the world, the Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Conservation Area.
Come and experience this vibrant church, the beauty of its traditions, and the joy of its people—come and discover Tanzania on the 2009 Spiritual Odyssey!
Monday, July 20, 2009
Mass Baptisms in Tanzania
Mwanza, Tanzania - The whole situation of the Africans requires someone like the Apostle Paul to be near them “in order to open eyes, so that they will turn from darkness to light and from the power of Satan to God” (Acts 26:18). The need for their spiritual orientation is something that one understands. The big question is: How do the Africans themselves see their own condition? What do they do? Indeed, they see it with uneasiness, pain, and desire. They are seeking the light of Christ. They want to be children by the grace of their Heavenly Father. Now they find themselves on the course of liberation.
Christ is the hope of the Africans. He is “the King of Peace and Salvation.” The Orthodox Church, in its missionary endeavor and its ministry, stands beside the Africans in their pain and desire. It strives to instruct them to the word of truth and to reveal to them the Gospel of justice. They are baptized and married in groups. New life is being created, a life of joy and peace, a life in the light of Christ. For as Christ tells us, “Whatever is born from the Spirit is spiritual” (John 3:6).
Recently, we experienced the sacrament of Baptism, of regeneration, in the village of KISHOGO, 43 km from the town of BUKOBA. On that splendid day 120 souls became reborn participants of the “death and resurrection of Christ our God.” In other words, they acquired “the light of knowledge and devoutness.” Inside the river that flows through the banana trees and under the sun of the equator, they received “the blessing of the Jordan” and from now on they will worship “the Son of Justice.” And inside our Orthodox Church they will confess: “Your light, Lord, has been brought upon us who in knowledge praise thee.”
Metropolis of Mwanza (6/12/2009)
Christ is the hope of the Africans. He is “the King of Peace and Salvation.” The Orthodox Church, in its missionary endeavor and its ministry, stands beside the Africans in their pain and desire. It strives to instruct them to the word of truth and to reveal to them the Gospel of justice. They are baptized and married in groups. New life is being created, a life of joy and peace, a life in the light of Christ. For as Christ tells us, “Whatever is born from the Spirit is spiritual” (John 3:6).
Recently, we experienced the sacrament of Baptism, of regeneration, in the village of KISHOGO, 43 km from the town of BUKOBA. On that splendid day 120 souls became reborn participants of the “death and resurrection of Christ our God.” In other words, they acquired “the light of knowledge and devoutness.” Inside the river that flows through the banana trees and under the sun of the equator, they received “the blessing of the Jordan” and from now on they will worship “the Son of Justice.” And inside our Orthodox Church they will confess: “Your light, Lord, has been brought upon us who in knowledge praise thee.”
Metropolis of Mwanza (6/12/2009)
Monday, June 29, 2009
First Team of 2009 Departs for the Field
St. Augustine--On Friday, June 12, the first Orthodox Mission Team of 2009 departed to Albania from the Archbishop Anastasios and Archbishop Demetrios Missionary Training and Administration Building. In addition to being the first Team to do its Orientation and Training at the new OCMC building, it is also the first OCMC Team of its kind to travel to Albania. OCMC Teams Director Andy Lekos said of this Team, “What makes this especially exciting is that this first Team was prepared to train the trainers and to serve with Long-Term Missionaries and current Mission Specialists, under the auspices of His Beatitude Anastasios, one of the honorees of our new building.”
The Church in Albania runs over 40 youth camps a year, and the goal of this Team is to uplift and train those who will be ministering to Albanian youth; although OCMC has sent Teams to Albania to actually run camps, this is the first time that a Team has worked to "teach the teachers." Team Members have prepared Bible Studies and craft and music activities that can be used by the Albanian camp counselors to reach out to young people and to teach them important lessons from and about the Gospel. In Albania, where 70% of the country is still Muslim, these camps are valuable outreach tools for the Church.
Team Members will work with Mission Specialist Fr. Thomas Hopko and the Long-Term Missionary team already in Albania. Fr. Hopko will offer classes on teaching Spiritual Lessons, while Nathan Hoppe will do an orientation and coordinate the event. This collaboration marks the first time that short, mid, and long-term OCMC Missionaries will work so closely together.
Over the course of the summer and early fall, OCMC will orient, train, and send out 11 Teams for periods of one to three weeks to work in 8 foreign countries and Alaska. These Teams will work with the local Orthodox churches toward goals as diverse as Youth Outreach, Construction, and Healthcare.
If hearing about this Team makes you want to be part of the work of missions, it’s not too late to apply! The Romania Women’s Teaching Team, South Korea Youth Work Team, Zimbabwe Teaching Team, and the Tanzania Spiritual Odyssey still have openings. Contact the OCMC Teams department at 1-877-463-6784 or teams@ocmc.org or visit us at www.ocmc.org for more information.
The Church in Albania runs over 40 youth camps a year, and the goal of this Team is to uplift and train those who will be ministering to Albanian youth; although OCMC has sent Teams to Albania to actually run camps, this is the first time that a Team has worked to "teach the teachers." Team Members have prepared Bible Studies and craft and music activities that can be used by the Albanian camp counselors to reach out to young people and to teach them important lessons from and about the Gospel. In Albania, where 70% of the country is still Muslim, these camps are valuable outreach tools for the Church.
Team Members will work with Mission Specialist Fr. Thomas Hopko and the Long-Term Missionary team already in Albania. Fr. Hopko will offer classes on teaching Spiritual Lessons, while Nathan Hoppe will do an orientation and coordinate the event. This collaboration marks the first time that short, mid, and long-term OCMC Missionaries will work so closely together.
Over the course of the summer and early fall, OCMC will orient, train, and send out 11 Teams for periods of one to three weeks to work in 8 foreign countries and Alaska. These Teams will work with the local Orthodox churches toward goals as diverse as Youth Outreach, Construction, and Healthcare.
If hearing about this Team makes you want to be part of the work of missions, it’s not too late to apply! The Romania Women’s Teaching Team, South Korea Youth Work Team, Zimbabwe Teaching Team, and the Tanzania Spiritual Odyssey still have openings. Contact the OCMC Teams department at 1-877-463-6784 or teams@ocmc.org or visit us at www.ocmc.org for more information.
Tuesday, June 9, 2009
A Pentecost Greeting from OCMC
Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ
On this day, Pentecost Sunday, we remember the descent of Holy Spirit onto the Apostles so that they could take the good news of Christ’s resurrection to the ends of the earth. May we all be given strength to continue this important work of making disciples of all nations.
In Christ,
The Orthodox Christian Mission Center
On this day, Pentecost Sunday, we remember the descent of Holy Spirit onto the Apostles so that they could take the good news of Christ’s resurrection to the ends of the earth. May we all be given strength to continue this important work of making disciples of all nations.
In Christ,
The Orthodox Christian Mission Center
Friday, June 5, 2009
Fr. Thomas Hopko Arrives in Albania to Serve with OCMC
Author, speaker, and noted theologian Fr. Thomas Hopko is serving with OCMC in Albania this month. Fr. Hopko will be teaching various classes at the seminary in Tirana, running a student retreat and a clergy retreat, and speaking at the Commencement ceremony honoring this year’s graduates. Please pray for Fr. Hopko as he participates in this vital work of the Church.
Monday, June 1, 2009
The New Archbishop Anastasios and Archbishop Demetrios Missionary Training and Administration Building Dedicated in St. Augustine, FL
St. Augustine, FL - "In many cultures, rain is one of God’s ultimate blessings," offered Orthodox Christian Mission Center (OCMC) Executive Director Fr. Martin Ritsi during his remarks at the May 20 and 21 dedication of the new Archbishop Anastasios and Archbishop Demetrios Missionary Training and Administration Building. Indeed, as over 30 inches of rain fell on North Florida during the two-day dedication, the new building and the hundreds of faithful from around the world who gathered for the festivities were blessed abundantly.
The Dedication Committee, chaired by Mrs. Helen Nicozisis, OCMC staff, and Board Members were honored to receive 10 hierarchs and numerous clergy from all the Orthodox Jurisdictions represented in the Standing Conference of the Canonical Orthodox Bishops in the Americas (SCOBA) as well as over 300 guests from around the world. Several past and current OCMC Missionaries were also on hand to celebrate the new era in North American Orthodox missions that the Archbishop Anastasios and Archbishop Demetrios Missionary Training and Administration Building represents.
On the night of May 20, a reception was held at the Renaissance Resort at World Golf Village; OCMC Board President, Mr. Clifford Argue opened the evening by welcoming many of these distinguished guests after an Invocation from Metropolitan Nicholas of Amissos, of the American Carpatho Russian Orthodox Diocese in the USA, assisted by Fr. Mark Arey, General Secretary of SCOBA.
Following Mr. Argue’s remarks, OCMC Missionary to Albania Mr. Nathan Hoppe offered his reflections on the past, present and future of the OCMC. Mr. Hoppe remarked that, “With this new center we are equipped in a new way to reach out and to powerfully proclaim that Christ is truly risen and that He’s transformed all of reality.” Both Fr. Martin and Mr. Argue concurred with Mr. Hoppe’s assessment of the new building’s significance and also noted that the new mission center is the culmination of years of hard work and sacrificial giving from each of the SCOBA jurisdictions, many Orthodox philanthropic organizations, and individual supporters.
Two men, however, were recognized for their pivotal roles in the growth of the Orthodox Missions movement – His Beatitude Anastasios, Archbishop of Tirana, Durres and All Albania, and Archbishop Demetrios, Primate of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America and Chairman of SCOBA, who were the honorees during the dedication. Addressing the two prelates, Board member Fr. Matthew Tate shared, “Your missionary efforts throughout the Church truly are legendary, and it is most appropriate that the Mission Center building be dedicated in each of your names.”
The new building will prove to be a vital resource in the continuation of this work. Broader understanding and support of missions, however, is still needed, reminded Wednesday’s keynote speaker, OCMC Board Vice President and Chancellor of St. Vladimir’s Seminary Fr. Chad Hatfield. “Many of us know little about our American missiological heritage,” he said. But he noted that it is this missiological foundation exemplified by saints who served in this country, including prayer, understanding, vision, planning, and funding, that we must draw upon in order to spread the Gospel around the world.
OCMC’s major benefactors, the SCOBA hierarchs, Missionaries, and others who made the dream of the new OCMC building a reality were recognized at the Wednesday evening banquet. Prior to the benediction offered by Bishop Antoun of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America, who was assisted by OCMC Board Member Fr. Luke Veronis, each of these ardent supporters and dedicated mission workers received a framed rendering of the new building that they worked so hard to see completed.
At the banquet, OCMC was honored to receive a $25,000 donation from the Greek Orthodox Ladies Philoptochos Society, presented by National President Aphrodite Skeadas.
The morning of the Thursday, May 21, began with a Divine Liturgy at Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church. Fr. Nikitas Theodosian graciously welcomed as the Liturgy’s celebrant Metropolitan Alexios of the Atlanta Metropolis of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America and the many faithful who gathered for the early morning worship. The Metropolitan was assisted by Fr. Ritsi and Archdeacon Panteleimon Papadopoulos.
Dedication proceedings were held immediately following the Liturgy at the new building, which included a blessing service celebrated by Archbishop Demetrios. Following the service, a hand painted icon of the Mission Center’s patron saints, Cyril and Methodius, was presented by Archbishop Demetrios from the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America. Then OCMC was blessed to receive the relics of two of Orthodoxy’s most renowned missionary saints – St. Cosmas Aitolos, Missionary to the Balkans, presented by Archbishop Anastasios, and St. Innocent, Apostle to America, presented by Metropolitan Jonah of the Orthodox Church in America (OCA). Following a ribbon cutting and plaque unveiling, guests took time to venerate the relics and tour the new four-million dollar, 12,000 square foot facility.
Nearly 250 people reconvened at the Renaissance Resort following the dedication for a luncheon held in honor of Archbishop Anastasios and Archbishop Demetrios. Following an introduction by OCMC President Emeritus Fr. Alexander Veronis, Archbishop Anastasios offered, “It is with particular joy and all the while ‘blessing the Lord’, that we reflect on the work that the OCMC has offered to multiple missionary fields. The present inauguration of this Administration and Training Center surely forms a very important landmark.”
After being introduced by OCMC’s first executive director, Bishop Dimitrios of Xanthos, Archbishop Demetrios illustrated the significance of the new building when he said, “[This building] is a miracle of God showing the disposition, and showing the tremendous desire, for building on [the North American] missionary effort.”
“So much has transpired in the movement of Orthodox missions over the last decades that bring us to this moment…and it is a glorious occasion that we’ve come to,” reflects Fr. Martin on the completion and dedication of the new Archbishop Anastasios and Archbishop Demetrios Missionary Training and Administration Building. “We are now at a position where [missions] is expected, where it is common, where it is a challenge that many people are accepting and following through on…Today we are on a property with a vision that has come to fruition; but a vision that is not complete. It is a building that is built for the needs of today with the vision for what is to come tomorrow…[This building] stands as a symbol and a sign of what missions means in our Church today in North America.”
The Orthodox Christian Mission Center (OCMC) is the official missions agency of the Standing Conference of Canonical Orthodox Bishops in the Americas (SCOBA) dedicated to fulfilling Christ’s last command to make disciples of all nations.
The Dedication Committee, chaired by Mrs. Helen Nicozisis, OCMC staff, and Board Members were honored to receive 10 hierarchs and numerous clergy from all the Orthodox Jurisdictions represented in the Standing Conference of the Canonical Orthodox Bishops in the Americas (SCOBA) as well as over 300 guests from around the world. Several past and current OCMC Missionaries were also on hand to celebrate the new era in North American Orthodox missions that the Archbishop Anastasios and Archbishop Demetrios Missionary Training and Administration Building represents.
On the night of May 20, a reception was held at the Renaissance Resort at World Golf Village; OCMC Board President, Mr. Clifford Argue opened the evening by welcoming many of these distinguished guests after an Invocation from Metropolitan Nicholas of Amissos, of the American Carpatho Russian Orthodox Diocese in the USA, assisted by Fr. Mark Arey, General Secretary of SCOBA.
Following Mr. Argue’s remarks, OCMC Missionary to Albania Mr. Nathan Hoppe offered his reflections on the past, present and future of the OCMC. Mr. Hoppe remarked that, “With this new center we are equipped in a new way to reach out and to powerfully proclaim that Christ is truly risen and that He’s transformed all of reality.” Both Fr. Martin and Mr. Argue concurred with Mr. Hoppe’s assessment of the new building’s significance and also noted that the new mission center is the culmination of years of hard work and sacrificial giving from each of the SCOBA jurisdictions, many Orthodox philanthropic organizations, and individual supporters.
Two men, however, were recognized for their pivotal roles in the growth of the Orthodox Missions movement – His Beatitude Anastasios, Archbishop of Tirana, Durres and All Albania, and Archbishop Demetrios, Primate of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America and Chairman of SCOBA, who were the honorees during the dedication. Addressing the two prelates, Board member Fr. Matthew Tate shared, “Your missionary efforts throughout the Church truly are legendary, and it is most appropriate that the Mission Center building be dedicated in each of your names.”
The new building will prove to be a vital resource in the continuation of this work. Broader understanding and support of missions, however, is still needed, reminded Wednesday’s keynote speaker, OCMC Board Vice President and Chancellor of St. Vladimir’s Seminary Fr. Chad Hatfield. “Many of us know little about our American missiological heritage,” he said. But he noted that it is this missiological foundation exemplified by saints who served in this country, including prayer, understanding, vision, planning, and funding, that we must draw upon in order to spread the Gospel around the world.
OCMC’s major benefactors, the SCOBA hierarchs, Missionaries, and others who made the dream of the new OCMC building a reality were recognized at the Wednesday evening banquet. Prior to the benediction offered by Bishop Antoun of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America, who was assisted by OCMC Board Member Fr. Luke Veronis, each of these ardent supporters and dedicated mission workers received a framed rendering of the new building that they worked so hard to see completed.
At the banquet, OCMC was honored to receive a $25,000 donation from the Greek Orthodox Ladies Philoptochos Society, presented by National President Aphrodite Skeadas.
The morning of the Thursday, May 21, began with a Divine Liturgy at Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church. Fr. Nikitas Theodosian graciously welcomed as the Liturgy’s celebrant Metropolitan Alexios of the Atlanta Metropolis of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America and the many faithful who gathered for the early morning worship. The Metropolitan was assisted by Fr. Ritsi and Archdeacon Panteleimon Papadopoulos.
Dedication proceedings were held immediately following the Liturgy at the new building, which included a blessing service celebrated by Archbishop Demetrios. Following the service, a hand painted icon of the Mission Center’s patron saints, Cyril and Methodius, was presented by Archbishop Demetrios from the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America. Then OCMC was blessed to receive the relics of two of Orthodoxy’s most renowned missionary saints – St. Cosmas Aitolos, Missionary to the Balkans, presented by Archbishop Anastasios, and St. Innocent, Apostle to America, presented by Metropolitan Jonah of the Orthodox Church in America (OCA). Following a ribbon cutting and plaque unveiling, guests took time to venerate the relics and tour the new four-million dollar, 12,000 square foot facility.
Nearly 250 people reconvened at the Renaissance Resort following the dedication for a luncheon held in honor of Archbishop Anastasios and Archbishop Demetrios. Following an introduction by OCMC President Emeritus Fr. Alexander Veronis, Archbishop Anastasios offered, “It is with particular joy and all the while ‘blessing the Lord’, that we reflect on the work that the OCMC has offered to multiple missionary fields. The present inauguration of this Administration and Training Center surely forms a very important landmark.”
After being introduced by OCMC’s first executive director, Bishop Dimitrios of Xanthos, Archbishop Demetrios illustrated the significance of the new building when he said, “[This building] is a miracle of God showing the disposition, and showing the tremendous desire, for building on [the North American] missionary effort.”
“So much has transpired in the movement of Orthodox missions over the last decades that bring us to this moment…and it is a glorious occasion that we’ve come to,” reflects Fr. Martin on the completion and dedication of the new Archbishop Anastasios and Archbishop Demetrios Missionary Training and Administration Building. “We are now at a position where [missions] is expected, where it is common, where it is a challenge that many people are accepting and following through on…Today we are on a property with a vision that has come to fruition; but a vision that is not complete. It is a building that is built for the needs of today with the vision for what is to come tomorrow…[This building] stands as a symbol and a sign of what missions means in our Church today in North America.”
The Orthodox Christian Mission Center (OCMC) is the official missions agency of the Standing Conference of Canonical Orthodox Bishops in the Americas (SCOBA) dedicated to fulfilling Christ’s last command to make disciples of all nations.
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