Fr. Crispan and his band of merry men have been practicing on sunday nights. I was privy to a game of shinny, it proved to be very informative. Herr Wildeman, I believe it is time we had a meeting/mens breakfast/practice of our own. They have some strategery worked out, and it behooves us to bring the noise all across the water=tower in order to continue the tradition of Goads being hard to kick against.
The Men of the Island stand no chance. It will be a day of weeping and gnashing of teeth like has never been heard before in the peaceful domain of the british retirees and government lackeys.
Friday, May 18, 2007
Leviathan cometh
Thursday, May 17, 2007
It's done!
The Synod (a.k.a. ROCOR, ROCE, or ROCA) and the Moscow Patriarchate have officially ended their excommunications of each other. This does NOT mean that all ROCOR churches are now MP, but it just means that ROCOR is in eucharistic communion with her mother Church and the rest of the Orthodox world.
It's to be expected that there will be some "fallout" and some discontented persons complaining about it, but they are, by far, the smaller faction within ROCOR.
Considering all the deception and intrigue caused in the Church by the Soviet authorities, it's about time for some healing to start.
Let's pray for them.
It's to be expected that there will be some "fallout" and some discontented persons complaining about it, but they are, by far, the smaller faction within ROCOR.
Considering all the deception and intrigue caused in the Church by the Soviet authorities, it's about time for some healing to start.
Let's pray for them.
Thursday, May 10, 2007
Thursday, May 03, 2007
Monday, April 30, 2007
A blast from the past
Boy, what you find in old computer files.....perhaps some of you remember the events recounted in this piece that appeared in The Canadian Orthodox Messenger, must have been in 1995.....! -- Mat. D.
Flood of Catechumens
by
Donna Farley
Since being received under Bishop Seraphim's omophor nine years ago, St. Herman's church in Langley has seen a slow but steady stream of converts enter the church. However, in recent months the stream has turned to a sudden flood, until the number of catechumens currently totals twenty-nine and a half. Most of these will be received by baptism this Pascha-- which will probably create a literal flood in the church hall, where they will be immersed in the horse trough we use for a font!
Several whole families help to make up the number, including the extended family of a former Mennonite minister who moved here from Vancouver Island in order to embrace Orthodoxy. And the "half"? One of the newer catechumens is "with child"; the entire family will be received in the fall after their newest member is born.
There is a fair bit of shuffling each Sunday, as the catechumens, making up about a third of the congregation, come forward to be prayed over at the litany of the catechumens. Meanwhile, we now need a roster to accommodate readers, altar servers and choir members.
As always, we need to be vigilant and pray. Though we rejoice in growth, we can sometimes see the parable of the sower being played out around us. Still, the possibility of a building of our own is now on the horizon, while several of our members are considering a vocation to the diaconate or priesthood, and, God willing, may one day found other missions in our Archdiocese.
--30--
Flood of Catechumens
by
Donna Farley
Since being received under Bishop Seraphim's omophor nine years ago, St. Herman's church in Langley has seen a slow but steady stream of converts enter the church. However, in recent months the stream has turned to a sudden flood, until the number of catechumens currently totals twenty-nine and a half. Most of these will be received by baptism this Pascha-- which will probably create a literal flood in the church hall, where they will be immersed in the horse trough we use for a font!
Several whole families help to make up the number, including the extended family of a former Mennonite minister who moved here from Vancouver Island in order to embrace Orthodoxy. And the "half"? One of the newer catechumens is "with child"; the entire family will be received in the fall after their newest member is born.
There is a fair bit of shuffling each Sunday, as the catechumens, making up about a third of the congregation, come forward to be prayed over at the litany of the catechumens. Meanwhile, we now need a roster to accommodate readers, altar servers and choir members.
As always, we need to be vigilant and pray. Though we rejoice in growth, we can sometimes see the parable of the sower being played out around us. Still, the possibility of a building of our own is now on the horizon, while several of our members are considering a vocation to the diaconate or priesthood, and, God willing, may one day found other missions in our Archdiocese.
--30--
Sunday, April 29, 2007
Thursday, April 26, 2007
the problem with rock and roll...
So. I love loud heavy music. Its cathartic soul crunching cymbals, double kick rolls, punchy bass lines and screaming melodies speak to my heart in a way that not much does. It helps me know that others out there live in chaos, and need to express it in a way that words just aren't able to.
But, what about that affirmation, does it continue our comfort in the chaotic lifestyle we choose? I live so busily and as a relatively young unmarried man, I assume that whatever path the future takes, I will only become busier unless I, as Annie Dillard puts it, "Go at my life with a broad ax" and take back silence and peace.
We love to take time, go slow and ingore the constraints of time when we are in church. we have nowhere better to be because we are in the Kingdom of God. We pray slowly, we pray long, we do it over again. we take our time to be careful to do it all exactly right, to give honour where it is due, with no thought to our other endeavours. (hopefully, Lord have mercy)
Loud and fast music (which I am currently listening to-Rusty Cage-) brings a spirit of immediacy, a spirit of competition, and a spirit of temporality with it. Constant drum beats bring us back to the ticking of the clock, our beating heart and the fact that we are human. While this is good on some levels, we must always remember our mortality, we also must remain living with one foot in heaven and one foot on earth.
Music changes our presence. when we listen to music that is even formally calm, it reminds us of the eternal nature of heaven, the immortal nature of the soul, and the unending mercy of God. okay, I am getting a bit sermony here, and reading interpretations on to things, but not completely. I think that there is inherent codes formally embedded in music.
Things that cue memories or thoughts or thought patterns. I have been listening to a heavy metal band a bit lately, and it has ramped up the speed with which I live life, and I don't think it is the best thing for me to live in that place. when I am able to go to a quiet place with nothing on the walls and quiet people, the difference is obvious. It is truly peaceful, and there is no rush.
Existence for us is naturally entrenched in a chronological worldview. what time is it, how much time is left. and that often puts us into competition with the clock, ourselves, each other. and I think it is these competitions due to temporality that bring us into conflict. Think about what it would be like to have eternity to live the same life we are living now. we never die, nor do we grow old. we all stay 35-45. (sounds like a good middle ground to me) nobody would fight anyone because in time, everyone could do everything, have everything, see everything, etc etc that they wanted. now, I know I am basing that on fulfilling desires, which are also always corrupt, but you get the point right?
okay. so I started on rock and roll and got to existence and time.
and I originally thought I would talk about the lifestyle examples of rock stars who never have to grow up.
But, what about that affirmation, does it continue our comfort in the chaotic lifestyle we choose? I live so busily and as a relatively young unmarried man, I assume that whatever path the future takes, I will only become busier unless I, as Annie Dillard puts it, "Go at my life with a broad ax" and take back silence and peace.
We love to take time, go slow and ingore the constraints of time when we are in church. we have nowhere better to be because we are in the Kingdom of God. We pray slowly, we pray long, we do it over again. we take our time to be careful to do it all exactly right, to give honour where it is due, with no thought to our other endeavours. (hopefully, Lord have mercy)
Loud and fast music (which I am currently listening to-Rusty Cage-) brings a spirit of immediacy, a spirit of competition, and a spirit of temporality with it. Constant drum beats bring us back to the ticking of the clock, our beating heart and the fact that we are human. While this is good on some levels, we must always remember our mortality, we also must remain living with one foot in heaven and one foot on earth.
Music changes our presence. when we listen to music that is even formally calm, it reminds us of the eternal nature of heaven, the immortal nature of the soul, and the unending mercy of God. okay, I am getting a bit sermony here, and reading interpretations on to things, but not completely. I think that there is inherent codes formally embedded in music.
Things that cue memories or thoughts or thought patterns. I have been listening to a heavy metal band a bit lately, and it has ramped up the speed with which I live life, and I don't think it is the best thing for me to live in that place. when I am able to go to a quiet place with nothing on the walls and quiet people, the difference is obvious. It is truly peaceful, and there is no rush.
Existence for us is naturally entrenched in a chronological worldview. what time is it, how much time is left. and that often puts us into competition with the clock, ourselves, each other. and I think it is these competitions due to temporality that bring us into conflict. Think about what it would be like to have eternity to live the same life we are living now. we never die, nor do we grow old. we all stay 35-45. (sounds like a good middle ground to me) nobody would fight anyone because in time, everyone could do everything, have everything, see everything, etc etc that they wanted. now, I know I am basing that on fulfilling desires, which are also always corrupt, but you get the point right?
okay. so I started on rock and roll and got to existence and time.
and I originally thought I would talk about the lifestyle examples of rock stars who never have to grow up.
Monday, April 23, 2007
Calling all servants
Hello all. I'm wondering if anyone might be available to help Brian Butcher and his family move next Monday (the 30th). He could definitely use the help as he has 6 kids and a lot of items that need to be moved (that's a lot of beds and dressers!). I confess I also have selfish motives as I desperately need him at a rehearsal that evening since we have an important concert in a couple weeks. So, in a way you, would also be serving me (please don't let that turn you off) and my choir of merry men. If you can help anytime day or evening let me know and I'll give you more details.
thanks,
Dan
thanks,
Dan
Wednesday, April 18, 2007
You know you're Orthodox if...
• On Wednesdays and Fridays you eat Japanese food.
• You are more comfortable standing in church than sitting.
• You can suck/vacuum up the crumbs of bread out of your hand without coughing.
• You can sing ison to any song (and you know what an ison is… LoL).
• Lent to you means peanut butter, tofu, soy, lots and lots of pita bread and hummus, and services at least five times a week.
• You’re used to skipping breakfast on Sundays.
• On your first encounter with long words, you pronounce them stressing the ‘next to the next to last’ syllable.
• You wonder why the Pope crosses himself backwards when you see him on TV.
• You wear comfortable shoes to church, because you know you’ll be standing a long, long time.
• To you, a ‘topless’ gal is one without a headscarf.
• You get great deals on Easter candy.
• You spend time figuring out the best way to remove smoke stains from your ceiling and wax from your walls.
• Before you pray, you say a prayer.
• You don’t flinch when someone throws water at you.
• When you first tell people who ask what religion you are, at first they think you’re Jewish. Oy!
• You’re experienced at removing wax from clothing.
• The service routinely starts at least 15 minutes late and lasts 2 ½ hours — and nobody around you complains.
• You consider any service two hours or under short/regular.
• You know you’re in an Orthodox church when the priest says, “Let us complete our prayer to the Lord", and there’s still half an hour to go.
• At the end of Holy Week, you have rug burns on your forehead.
• Your Easter isn’t Easter without an all-night party (featuring 10 dishes of sausage with cheese).
• Your priest is married.
• You have seen all members of clergy in purple robes.
• You can differentiate between the eight different chanting tones.
• You typically celebrate a feast day by observing strict fasting.
• You celebrate feast days the night before.
• You address the City as Constantinople instead of Istanbul.
• You can say "Lord have mercy" 40 times without making a mistake.
I added:
• You can say "Christ Is Risen"/"Indeed He Is Risen" in a million languages.
• You have tournaments of red-egg-cracking on Pascha... And you usually know who's being a wise-guy with the wooden one.
• You have multiple priests' numbers in your cell phone.
• You actually read the Bible in your spare time.
• You've slept overnight in your church for a retreat.
• You've grown accustomed to the taste of wine because you've had it since you were a baby.
• Even if you don't speak the language fluently (i.e. Albanian, Greek, Russian, etc.) you could still carry on a decent conversation about food in it.
• You've been or plan on going to Alaska.
• You could write a book on the symbolism in an Orthodox wedding... during the wedding... because they are just that long.
and, seen on a bumper sticker: "If you're Orthodox, Honk 40 times!"
• You are more comfortable standing in church than sitting.
• You can suck/vacuum up the crumbs of bread out of your hand without coughing.
• You can sing ison to any song (and you know what an ison is… LoL).
• Lent to you means peanut butter, tofu, soy, lots and lots of pita bread and hummus, and services at least five times a week.
• You’re used to skipping breakfast on Sundays.
• On your first encounter with long words, you pronounce them stressing the ‘next to the next to last’ syllable.
• You wonder why the Pope crosses himself backwards when you see him on TV.
• You wear comfortable shoes to church, because you know you’ll be standing a long, long time.
• To you, a ‘topless’ gal is one without a headscarf.
• You get great deals on Easter candy.
• You spend time figuring out the best way to remove smoke stains from your ceiling and wax from your walls.
• Before you pray, you say a prayer.
• You don’t flinch when someone throws water at you.
• When you first tell people who ask what religion you are, at first they think you’re Jewish. Oy!
• You’re experienced at removing wax from clothing.
• The service routinely starts at least 15 minutes late and lasts 2 ½ hours — and nobody around you complains.
• You consider any service two hours or under short/regular.
• You know you’re in an Orthodox church when the priest says, “Let us complete our prayer to the Lord", and there’s still half an hour to go.
• At the end of Holy Week, you have rug burns on your forehead.
• Your Easter isn’t Easter without an all-night party (featuring 10 dishes of sausage with cheese).
• Your priest is married.
• You have seen all members of clergy in purple robes.
• You can differentiate between the eight different chanting tones.
• You typically celebrate a feast day by observing strict fasting.
• You celebrate feast days the night before.
• You address the City as Constantinople instead of Istanbul.
• You can say "Lord have mercy" 40 times without making a mistake.
I added:
• You can say "Christ Is Risen"/"Indeed He Is Risen" in a million languages.
• You have tournaments of red-egg-cracking on Pascha... And you usually know who's being a wise-guy with the wooden one.
• You have multiple priests' numbers in your cell phone.
• You actually read the Bible in your spare time.
• You've slept overnight in your church for a retreat.
• You've grown accustomed to the taste of wine because you've had it since you were a baby.
• Even if you don't speak the language fluently (i.e. Albanian, Greek, Russian, etc.) you could still carry on a decent conversation about food in it.
• You've been or plan on going to Alaska.
• You could write a book on the symbolism in an Orthodox wedding... during the wedding... because they are just that long.
and, seen on a bumper sticker: "If you're Orthodox, Honk 40 times!"
Sunday, April 15, 2007
A visitor
Roseanna I. & her almost-two-year-old Lizzy are hoping to come visit the area around the last week of May and first week of June. She'll be spending part of the time at her aunt's in Langley, but would also like to stay some of the time with folks in the parish. Our newer members won't remember, but Roseanna is from an OCA clergy family and she spent some time in this parish a number of years ago (I don't recall the exact number-- time flies!
If you can provide accommodation for any part of the dates around Sat. May 26 to Fri. May 8th, let me know and I can put you in touch with her.
Friday, April 13, 2007
IT'S OFFICIAL
Can I? ....... Really?
Alright!
The Long-Johns are coming off!
And Sweet-Sweet Margret is out on the town!
(scooter)
Tuesday, April 10, 2007
PARTY TIME!
Just in case any of you missed the invitation in the church bulletin:
PARTY! FRIDAY! chez Gascoigne!
To celebrate Theo's safe arrival and baptism we're throwing a party in our little basement suite--so pray for good weather because we want the place packed!
Festivities start at around 3-ish for those who prefer early arrivals and departures. We'll have tea and sweets available, then from 7-ish --or maybe earlier depending how often my arms are free to get things in and out of the oven--we'll have yummy Bright-Week style supper, booze and cigars.
We will be providing plenty of meat dishes--and I will take requests, though I'll tell you in advance that we'll already be having one dish of each of the usual animals--including lamb.
We would ask that people bring some sort of side dish to fill the table out. Drinks are also welcome. Beer and Scotch will be present for toasting, as well as a few other things, but they may run out so it might be a good idea to BYOB.
Also--neither Greg nor I smoke so if you like NICE cigars you might want to bring them along. And of course Paschal pipe smoking is expected.
So come one and all--including kids if you like (we have Playstation AND Xbox)--and help us celebrate Theo's arrival.
PARTY! FRIDAY! chez Gascoigne!
To celebrate Theo's safe arrival and baptism we're throwing a party in our little basement suite--so pray for good weather because we want the place packed!
Festivities start at around 3-ish for those who prefer early arrivals and departures. We'll have tea and sweets available, then from 7-ish --or maybe earlier depending how often my arms are free to get things in and out of the oven--we'll have yummy Bright-Week style supper, booze and cigars.
We will be providing plenty of meat dishes--and I will take requests, though I'll tell you in advance that we'll already be having one dish of each of the usual animals--including lamb.
We would ask that people bring some sort of side dish to fill the table out. Drinks are also welcome. Beer and Scotch will be present for toasting, as well as a few other things, but they may run out so it might be a good idea to BYOB.
Also--neither Greg nor I smoke so if you like NICE cigars you might want to bring them along. And of course Paschal pipe smoking is expected.
So come one and all--including kids if you like (we have Playstation AND Xbox)--and help us celebrate Theo's arrival.
Monday, April 09, 2007
Paschal Greetings from Alberta!
From one St. Herman's to another, Christ is Risen!
Wishing you all the joy of the Paschal season...
--------
Also, just wondering if you can help with something. Our good friend Joseph Friesen, a parishioner (and parish council member) here is a third-year Engineering student and is starting a co-op term (six months) out near SFU. He's looking for either a room-and-board type scenario or a roomate situation, preferably with some fellow Orthodox Christians. He wants to be close to both church and his work (which is in Burnaby). Any suggestions or directions you all might have would be most welcome. He's a great guy and will be a welcome addition to St. Herman's. Please feel free to email me at matthew.francis{AT}shaw{dot}ca if you have any ideas, and I'll pass them on to Joseph. Thanks so much!
Tuesday, April 03, 2007
Photos from Sunday
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Congratulations Father-Deacon Kurt!
And here is Sid (Innocent) becoming a taper bearer (aka. candle boy). Congratulations Sid!
New Mom Rhiannon with baby Theo (see the post below for info on the baby shower on April 13th)
Monday, April 02, 2007
Photos of Dn. Kurt's ordination
Hi folks-- Victoria is hoping her camera turns up at church tonight. Meanwhile if anyone else has good pics of the ordination, could you e-mail me or post some somewhere....particularly one of the family, and maybe one of Kurt & the bishop during the actual ceremony. I am writing up a report for the Messenger and M. Sophia is very close to deadline and needs the material if it is going to get into the next issue.
Friday, March 30, 2007
Info on B.C. churches
My dad is back in Canada and currently staying in Salmon Arm. He wants to go to church for Pascha, but doesn't know anything about any of the Orthodox churches in the area. Does anyone have any information and suggestions about where he can go to church, priests for him to contact, etc.?
I know there is a Ukranian one in Kelowna that we visited on our honeymoon, and I seem to recall an OCA mission somewhere there, too, but I don't know any details.
Thanks,
Biss
I know there is a Ukranian one in Kelowna that we visited on our honeymoon, and I seem to recall an OCA mission somewhere there, too, but I don't know any details.
Thanks,
Biss
Tuesday, March 27, 2007
The Nativity Story -- an audio commentary
Just in case anybody's interested, Fr. Justin and I recorded our very own audio commentary for The Nativity Story a few days ago. You can download it as an mp3 and play it on your iPod or whatever as you watch the DVD. Details here.
Monday, March 26, 2007
Indeed he is REAL
Maria T. took this photo when Theo was a week old, just after his very first bath--he was a little cold so I snuggled him. We can't wait for his Holy Bath on Pascha. Looking forward to seeing you all next Sunday!
Rhi and Theo
Rhi and Theo
Friday, March 23, 2007
Widget Real? or, Surrey Suri
Hey!!! What's with the no information whatsoever about the most anticipated Gascoigne since Bamber to hit earth?
We on the Island are beginning to think there is no Widget, that it was all pillows after all, or that said Widget (who is reported to be named "Theodore", but can we really be sure, huh, can we) is so horribly strange looking (cf 'The Lemur Boy of Milton Keynes') that the 'parents' are currently in negotiations with certain media outlets (most of which have the word 'Star' in the title) to rake in the cashola at their little mutant's expense! Oh the horror, the shame! Can I have some?
SHOW US THE BABY!!!
We on the Island are beginning to think there is no Widget, that it was all pillows after all, or that said Widget (who is reported to be named "Theodore", but can we really be sure, huh, can we) is so horribly strange looking (cf 'The Lemur Boy of Milton Keynes') that the 'parents' are currently in negotiations with certain media outlets (most of which have the word 'Star' in the title) to rake in the cashola at their little mutant's expense! Oh the horror, the shame! Can I have some?
SHOW US THE BABY!!!
God Bless the OCA
Oh man.
Many Years to our beloved archbishop, and not to take away from his elevation, but I have to write about this news piece on the OCA website that explains the financial scandal.
I am almost in tears (good ones) feeling honoured and loved as a member of the faithful who has been so honestly spoken to by the higher ups in the church. they have come forward, dealt with a very difficult issue, opened it wide for all to see, and humbly asked that we all ask forgiveness, of each other and of God.
Honestly, I was so upset by a church that hid its problems ( I was 19 or 20, so perhaps at the height of idealism) and this is such a healing balm. Yes, the chancellor was in the wrong, and he will be disciplined, but for his own salvation, God grant, and the leaders of our churches did as best they could. They didn't hide anything, and they admitted that things were worse than they were first willing to admit.
I read this and I feel as though these men really are Loving God enough to admit to the whole world their own weakness.
I was very blessed to read it.
and yes, Many Years, your eminence, for our sake and yours.
Many Years to our beloved archbishop, and not to take away from his elevation, but I have to write about this news piece on the OCA website that explains the financial scandal.
I am almost in tears (good ones) feeling honoured and loved as a member of the faithful who has been so honestly spoken to by the higher ups in the church. they have come forward, dealt with a very difficult issue, opened it wide for all to see, and humbly asked that we all ask forgiveness, of each other and of God.
Honestly, I was so upset by a church that hid its problems ( I was 19 or 20, so perhaps at the height of idealism) and this is such a healing balm. Yes, the chancellor was in the wrong, and he will be disciplined, but for his own salvation, God grant, and the leaders of our churches did as best they could. They didn't hide anything, and they admitted that things were worse than they were first willing to admit.
I read this and I feel as though these men really are Loving God enough to admit to the whole world their own weakness.
I was very blessed to read it.
and yes, Many Years, your eminence, for our sake and yours.
Thursday, March 22, 2007
Eis Polla Eti Despota!!
The Holy Synod of the OCA has elevated our Vladika Seraphim to be Archbishop! Glory be to God!
From our chancellor:
To The CLERGY, MONASTICS AND FAITHFUL OF THE GOD PROTECTED ARCHDIOCESE OF CANADA;
At the spring session of the Holy Synod this week in Syosset, NY, Bishop Seraphim was elevated to the rank of ARCHBISHOP.
Therefore throughout this Archdiocese as of today , in commemoration and your prayers, please remember now His Eminence Archbishop SERAPHIM, Archbishop of Ottawa and Canada.
Is pola eti despota!
Archpriest Dennis Pihach
Chancellor
Archdiocese of Canada OCA
From our chancellor:
To The CLERGY, MONASTICS AND FAITHFUL OF THE GOD PROTECTED ARCHDIOCESE OF CANADA;
At the spring session of the Holy Synod this week in Syosset, NY, Bishop Seraphim was elevated to the rank of ARCHBISHOP.
Therefore throughout this Archdiocese as of today , in commemoration and your prayers, please remember now His Eminence Archbishop SERAPHIM, Archbishop of Ottawa and Canada.
Is pola eti despota!
Archpriest Dennis Pihach
Chancellor
Archdiocese of Canada OCA
Wednesday, March 21, 2007
A world without hatred...
I was surfing around recently and came across this quote:
"I can easily imagine a world without violence - a world without hatred - a world of love, peace, kindness and understanding.
I can also imagine that we should attack this world, for they wouldn't expect it and our losses would be minimal."
As an ex-soldier, I snickered at the obvious humour of it.
But then I thought about it...
The fallen world that we live in would react that way if suddenly faced with a peaceful world. As a matter of fact, they do react that way when the true peace of Christ that exists within Christian hearts is expressed. Why is there hostility toward the Gospel? Because true peace is something that evil cannot abide.
So these words then, quoted above, from the fallen human condition, speak truthfully.
But that's just a quick thought of mine, feel free to ignore it.
"I can easily imagine a world without violence - a world without hatred - a world of love, peace, kindness and understanding.
I can also imagine that we should attack this world, for they wouldn't expect it and our losses would be minimal."
As an ex-soldier, I snickered at the obvious humour of it.
But then I thought about it...
The fallen world that we live in would react that way if suddenly faced with a peaceful world. As a matter of fact, they do react that way when the true peace of Christ that exists within Christian hearts is expressed. Why is there hostility toward the Gospel? Because true peace is something that evil cannot abide.
So these words then, quoted above, from the fallen human condition, speak truthfully.
But that's just a quick thought of mine, feel free to ignore it.
Monday, March 19, 2007
Happy Saint Cuthbert's Day!
Just because it is the day of one of my favorite saints, I figure I can get away with promoting my own blog here...;-)
Here is an Orthodox hymn for St. Cuthbert, but it does not really tell you what it is about the "English St. Seraphim of Sarov" that appeals to such a wide following.
Here is an Orthodox hymn for St. Cuthbert, but it does not really tell you what it is about the "English St. Seraphim of Sarov" that appeals to such a wide following.
Kontakion Tone 1
Having surpassed thy brethren in prayers, fasting, and vigils, thou wast found worthy to entertain a pilgrim-angel; and having shone forth with humility as a bright lamp set on high, thou didst receive the gift of wonderworking. And now as thou dwellest in the heavenly Kingdom, O our righteous Father Cuthbert, intercede with Christ God that our souls be saved.
so...
I have decided not to live in a van. I know it would add stacks and stacks to my cool-o-meter, but it would also slow the debt paying, so I will be taking the responsible route, and merely taking you up on all of your offers for hospitality without the van. I will come and visit and you can feed me, but you won't need to lend me a shower, I will maintain my close proximity to one of those, not only for you, my lovely friends, but for the unexpected case of visitors on sunday, so they aren't scared away by 'eau-de-van'
the van was cool, and a good price, but I already have a car. so I will keep the status quo. thanks for the offers...
and make sure you bring your kids to youth group this week.
David
I have decided not to live in a van. I know it would add stacks and stacks to my cool-o-meter, but it would also slow the debt paying, so I will be taking the responsible route, and merely taking you up on all of your offers for hospitality without the van. I will come and visit and you can feed me, but you won't need to lend me a shower, I will maintain my close proximity to one of those, not only for you, my lovely friends, but for the unexpected case of visitors on sunday, so they aren't scared away by 'eau-de-van'
the van was cool, and a good price, but I already have a car. so I will keep the status quo. thanks for the offers...
and make sure you bring your kids to youth group this week.
David
Thursday, March 15, 2007
There goes the neighbourhood!
Anyone here checked St. Herman's address at Google Maps lately? I was curious to see how up-to-date their maps and satellite images were, and, well, here's the satellite image:
And here's the "hybrid" image -- note how the map already takes into account new streets that did not yet exist when the satellite image was taken:
And here's the "hybrid" image -- note how the map already takes into account new streets that did not yet exist when the satellite image was taken:
So.../Summa
I am thinking of buying a van, which, I know isn't in itself a big deal, but I am thinking about living in it for a while. Now, I know this won't help the project that some of you are strongly encouraging me towards (marriage and children so that you may point and laugh-thanks Kurt) but it will help save money and it has been a dream of mine for a while. I would actually get to do it and find out that its not what I thought it would be, or that it is, and either way would realize that romanticizing things like this is silly.
In any case, I want to know if there are any willing participants out there. not roommates, or vanmates as it were, but would you be willing to host me for a night of showering and laundering etc if I needed it. I think I will have a homebase near the langley area, but knowing that I was welcome to show up (with warning) and clean myself and my clothes and perhaps even eat with you and your family would be awesome. This is all a part of paying off my student loans, and also the canadian dream of living in a van, down by the river. Granted, there wouldn't be the constant flow of people on thursday nights, nor would the van be a great place to host gatherings, but maybe there would be more riverside campfires and BBQ's in the summer.
anyways. just thought I would put that out there in public to see what interest there is in this sort of thing.
and, while I am at it, I want to wax orthodox a little, since I used to write so much on here, and its been a while, the cobwebs are still in my vision.
I love being orthodox. I love our community. it is so much more real to me the more time I spend here, I knew it would be like what I hear about getting married. For the first while I was SO enamoured with it, I talked about it nonstop,I was legalistic and hard core about the walls, the boundaries, and I was just blinded by excitement and love for this new way of seeing the world. I am now much less emotionally twitterpated, and am realizing how much real life and normal work needs to happen in me to become less sinful, and that it really is not about the heart shattering intensity with which I discovered this that my life will continue, but with soul strengthening sobriety and slowness of action that I will stabilize and grow in every aspect of my being due to the form that Orthodoxy takes. change? what change? slow, deliberate and possible change. we are healed slowly, we grow slowly, but the healing and the growth are real specifically because they are the result of perseverance through faith in the truth of how the world works.
God made this place to work in a specific way, love, forgive,die;repent, rinse, repeat.
phew.
In any case, I want to know if there are any willing participants out there. not roommates, or vanmates as it were, but would you be willing to host me for a night of showering and laundering etc if I needed it. I think I will have a homebase near the langley area, but knowing that I was welcome to show up (with warning) and clean myself and my clothes and perhaps even eat with you and your family would be awesome. This is all a part of paying off my student loans, and also the canadian dream of living in a van, down by the river. Granted, there wouldn't be the constant flow of people on thursday nights, nor would the van be a great place to host gatherings, but maybe there would be more riverside campfires and BBQ's in the summer.
anyways. just thought I would put that out there in public to see what interest there is in this sort of thing.
and, while I am at it, I want to wax orthodox a little, since I used to write so much on here, and its been a while, the cobwebs are still in my vision.
I love being orthodox. I love our community. it is so much more real to me the more time I spend here, I knew it would be like what I hear about getting married. For the first while I was SO enamoured with it, I talked about it nonstop,I was legalistic and hard core about the walls, the boundaries, and I was just blinded by excitement and love for this new way of seeing the world. I am now much less emotionally twitterpated, and am realizing how much real life and normal work needs to happen in me to become less sinful, and that it really is not about the heart shattering intensity with which I discovered this that my life will continue, but with soul strengthening sobriety and slowness of action that I will stabilize and grow in every aspect of my being due to the form that Orthodoxy takes. change? what change? slow, deliberate and possible change. we are healed slowly, we grow slowly, but the healing and the growth are real specifically because they are the result of perseverance through faith in the truth of how the world works.
God made this place to work in a specific way, love, forgive,die;repent, rinse, repeat.
phew.
Friday, March 09, 2007
Wow.
Everyone may have already seen this, but it was new to me, and I thought it was so cool, I just had to let everyone know about it. Being in Vancouver with the East Side, it gives one pause...
http://saintjohnwonderworker.org/Why_Need_Poor.html
http://saintjohnwonderworker.org/Why_Need_Poor.html
Thursday, March 08, 2007
It's a...
Ladies and gentlemen ....
The first one out of the womb is a .... BOY!
That's right. He's John Samuel Zacharias and he is cute, was born on March 8 at 5:32 am, weighs in at a lean 7 lbs 5 ounces and stands a towering 22 inches.
We appreciate your prayers and we ask you to continue praying for the health of mom and child and the spiritual strengthening of this growing family.
We appreciate your prayers and we ask you to continue praying for the health of mom and child and the spiritual strengthening of this growing family.
All our love and gratitude for your prayers and gracious gifts.
sincerest love,
John Samuel, Cheryl and Matthew Zacharias
(Oh. And Biss would like everyone to note how terribly excited she is.)
Wednesday, March 07, 2007
Just for fun...
Sometimes during Scripture readings, we hear things differently from the way they actually are:
I found this over here.
I found this over here.
Saturday, March 03, 2007
Widget has emerged!
Mom & baby are doing fine. The wee boy is only waiting on a final selection from the short list of names!
Friday, March 02, 2007
(ssshhhh, it's a double post)
Raising Men
I found this wonderful wonderful post at Wittingshire.When my boys were three and four, they spent a good bit of time patrolling the perimeter of the back yard with stick guns. One day they were making particularly gruesome sound effects and my feminine squeamishness, which I try to keep tamped down while mothering boys, got away from me. "I really don't like you pretending to shoot people," I told them.
"We're not pretending to shoot people," my older son said. "We're shooting pretend people. Dangerous ones."
Oh.
As one who has both boy and girl children, I can tell you they're different from birth. My daughter is something of a tomboy, and still she's nothing like her brothers. She has never hit anyone over the head with a zucchini, for one thing. She has never knocked her father's legs out from under him and laughed when he fell on her with bone-crushing weight. She has never lost a toenail or fingernail, climbed higher in a tree than the cats will go, picked up unidentified insects with her bare hands, or picked them up again after being bitten the first time. She has never captured a big black spider in my good Tupperware and left it for me to find unexpectedly while putting away leftovers.
My boys--sweet and well-behaved as they truly are--do those things regularly.
My job as mother is to keep my mouth shut unless death or dismemberment is imminent. "They're boys," Jonathan says, when I come to him worried about their latest escapade. "That's what boys do."
Now, my boys memorize poetry. They clean up the supper dishes, with a little reminding. They tell their sister that they love her, and they prickle with indignation when other boys talk about girl germs. They're not Neanderthals. They're going to be good men, strong and tender, trustworthy, confident, brave.
They aren't learning this from me (except by my refusal to squelch it). They're learning it from their father, grandfathers, uncles; from the men at church who greet them with outstretched hand and expect them to answer audibly and shake firmly, from the men who lead worship; from the male friends who take them up in cherry-pickers, bulldozers, fire engines, and out in boats, who stop by to show them a new motorcycle, who talk to them with great seriousness about dinosaurs, asteroids, and snakes. Thanks to these men, my boys are going to know how to be men--not bullies, not henpicked eunuchs, but men.
Unfortunately, they have many friends who won't know how to be men, who are already less than confident in their maleness.
Some of these are boys whose mothers watch anxiously the whole time they're playing lest they hurt themselves, who forbid toy guns and swords and urge their sons to play "games everybody wins," which to a boy means a game nobody wins, that has no point.
Some are boys whose fathers are gone and who carry the weight of guilt not their own, who feel somehow complicit in other men's abandonments, other men's unreliability, other men's cruelty.
Some are boys whose energy is treated by teachers and parents as a curse, whose enthusiasm is treated as naivety, whose curiosity is treated as a distraction.
It's almost as if some people don't like little boys.
I do. I like their energy, their toughness. I like their forthrightness, their ruthless logic, their dislike of cant. I like their natural gallantry, their instinctive desire to protect those who are smaller and weaker. And I like that they include me in that group, though I am yet, for another few years, larger and stronger than they.
So I sympathize with Russell Moore, who "is aiming to raise up violent sons." Moore is being deliberately inflammatory, of course, but in a very real sense he means what he says:
I am not seeking to raise sons who are violent in the amoral, pagan sense of contemporary teenagers playing Grand Theft Auto video games or carjacking motorists. I want them to be more violent than that.
I want them to understand that the Christian life is not a Hallmark Channel version of baptized sentimentality. Instead, it is a cosmic battle between an evil dragon and the child of the woman, an ancient warfare that now includes all who belong to the Child of the Promise (Rev 12). I want them to forgive their enemies, not because they are good boys, but because they understand that vengeance against the Serpent comes not from their hand, but from that of the anointed Warrior-King (Rev 19), whose blood-soaked garments don’t often transfer to the imagery of a Precious Moments wall-hanging. And I want them to exercise self-control of their passions, not because it is polite, but because they are called to struggle against the Evil One, even to the point of cutting off their own limbs rather than succumb to devices.
And as Gary of Both Worlds says:
Men are in the image of God. And our need to prove ourselves on some field of combat, to confront danger and, yes, to win a beauty, reflect a side of God which few hymns uplift. Men and boys are often bored in church because many churches have become overloaded with feminine sensibilities and sensations.
So men and boys light out, like Huck down the Mississippi--not irresponsibly, but in search of something. Into the unknown, or the backyard, we go, Aslan at our sides. There be wild things here, and adventures to be had.
Labels: from another blogger
Thursday, March 01, 2007
Tell their stories!
Aaron is making a doucumentary, for school. Its about Icons, or more specifically, people telling stories of their patron saints. He wants to film people with the icon of their own patron saint, telling their stories and maybe your relation to them. Basically to share these amazing stories with people that might not have a clue about them.
He will need around three people, and will film you in your home (or outside of your home, it dosen't really matter as long as there is enough light). Kids are welcome to participate as well!
So, if you're interested contact either one of us.
Thanks!
He will need around three people, and will film you in your home (or outside of your home, it dosen't really matter as long as there is enough light). Kids are welcome to participate as well!
So, if you're interested contact either one of us.
Thanks!
Tuesday, February 27, 2007
Concert on Rompost TV!
I just saw the little segment about the "Give Rest O Christ" concert on Rompost Romanian Language TV. They put it at the top of the broadcast, and it was great-- they cut in a few pictures from St. Arseny Camp, and let our people speak about the choirs and about the camp. Everyone looked great, and we even got to hear a little of that fabulous music again!
You can catch a re-broadcast this week
Wednesday at 9 AM or
Saturday at 1 PM
on Channel M Multicultural TV, Shaw cable Channel 8.
You can catch a re-broadcast this week
Wednesday at 9 AM or
Saturday at 1 PM
on Channel M Multicultural TV, Shaw cable Channel 8.
Tuesday, February 20, 2007
Monday, February 19, 2007
oh man, amen.
One of the 9 bazillion pics I took on saturday. thank you to all who helped, Victoria for your safe and serene driving, and to Stephanie for the hot food and warm dry house after the wet cold day on the mountain.
Friday, February 16, 2007
Take a bow!
The Debut of the Kenosis Male Chorus and the mixed voice Resonance Singers!It was beautiful-- and best of all, if you missed it last night, the concert will be repeated tonight at 8pm at St. Mark's College, UBC Vancouver. PLUS all proceeds go to the St. Arseny Orthodox Youth Camp.
There are a couple more photos on my FlickR account here.
Thursday, February 08, 2007
Hi Everyone,
I was just talking with my mother and she told me that my 38-year-old
cousin, Chrissy went in for a hysterectomy and now, today, there are
some very serious complications. Her wounds opened up and she's
hemouageing (?). They are 'redoing' the operation. It looks like it may have
been botched. Last year, she just got married, her dad - my uncle Charles -
had a very serious stroke, and her mom - my Aunt Sally - had a heart attack.
My Aunt takes care of my Uncle full time, now this...
Whew! They seem to have a target on them these days. Please pray for
them, but particularly for my cousin Chrissy, who is in surgery as I write
this...
Thanks Guys,
Sandy
I was just talking with my mother and she told me that my 38-year-old
cousin, Chrissy went in for a hysterectomy and now, today, there are
some very serious complications. Her wounds opened up and she's
hemouageing (?). They are 'redoing' the operation. It looks like it may have
been botched. Last year, she just got married, her dad - my uncle Charles -
had a very serious stroke, and her mom - my Aunt Sally - had a heart attack.
My Aunt takes care of my Uncle full time, now this...
Whew! They seem to have a target on them these days. Please pray for
them, but particularly for my cousin Chrissy, who is in surgery as I write
this...
Thanks Guys,
Sandy
Wednesday, February 07, 2007
Thursday, February 01, 2007
about the New Blogger
I've switched to the customized template for my Refreshment blog, and it's great-- finally, no more messing around with cut and paste for links! Plus, the drag and drop editing for the layout is wonderful.
I did however lose my LibraryThing and FlickR links on my main blog. I'm sure there's a way to get them back again, but if you make the switch, be aware this may happen to your blog as well.
I did however lose my LibraryThing and FlickR links on my main blog. I'm sure there's a way to get them back again, but if you make the switch, be aware this may happen to your blog as well.
Saturday, January 27, 2007
Est is Best
Hello.
I was in the parish/mission in Kingston last Sunday
and I was talking to this guy.
I mentioned I was from the Ouest
and he said
"Oh, are you from that church that everybody comes from?"
I said
"Yes."
What I didn't mention is that some people actually seem to stay.
In other news
I am apparently moving to Halifax after Pascha.
Maybe pray that God won't send me any farther
Est
because I'm not a very good swimmer.
But I may be tempted to come back
Ouest
for camp
if it's not too late
in the summer.
How about
it?
When is camp?
And can it make use of a geographically challenged
fellow
such as I?
best to all,
Jesse.
PS: I think my French is coming along nicely.
I was in the parish/mission in Kingston last Sunday
and I was talking to this guy.
I mentioned I was from the Ouest
and he said
"Oh, are you from that church that everybody comes from?"
I said
"Yes."
What I didn't mention is that some people actually seem to stay.
In other news
I am apparently moving to Halifax after Pascha.
Maybe pray that God won't send me any farther
Est
because I'm not a very good swimmer.
But I may be tempted to come back
Ouest
for camp
if it's not too late
in the summer.
How about
it?
When is camp?
And can it make use of a geographically challenged
fellow
such as I?
best to all,
Jesse.
PS: I think my French is coming along nicely.
Thursday, January 18, 2007
Into Great Silence -- monks on the big screen!
Hope no one minds if I re-post this from my blog:
- - -
I've been awfully busy lately, but I thought I'd give a heads-up to anyone in the Vancouver area who might be interested in Philip Gröning's Die Große Stille (2005), AKA Into Great Silence. The film, a mostly silent documentation of the prayers, services and chores performed by the monks of the Grande Chartreuse monastery in the French Alps, is playing at the VanCity Theatre next week, but only on Monday, Tuesday and Thursday nights.
FWIW, I watched this film on a screener in anticipation of last year's film festival, and I suspect its long, long passages of silent introspection and ritualistic chant would work a lot better in a darkened theatre -- not unlike, say, the meditative, don't-munch- the-popcorn-too-loud experience that I had watching James Benning's 13 Lakes -- but like I say, I'm awfully busy these days.
Then again, that's exactly why we need retreats like these, no?
- - -
I've been awfully busy lately, but I thought I'd give a heads-up to anyone in the Vancouver area who might be interested in Philip Gröning's Die Große Stille (2005), AKA Into Great Silence. The film, a mostly silent documentation of the prayers, services and chores performed by the monks of the Grande Chartreuse monastery in the French Alps, is playing at the VanCity Theatre next week, but only on Monday, Tuesday and Thursday nights.
FWIW, I watched this film on a screener in anticipation of last year's film festival, and I suspect its long, long passages of silent introspection and ritualistic chant would work a lot better in a darkened theatre -- not unlike, say, the meditative, don't-munch- the-popcorn-too-loud experience that I had watching James Benning's 13 Lakes -- but like I say, I'm awfully busy these days.
Then again, that's exactly why we need retreats like these, no?
Saturday, January 13, 2007
Methinks they meant "scoured".
This is too funny.
I got an advance copy of the "definitive edition" of The Passion of the Christ, which comes out on DVD in a couple weeks, and it includes a text commentary of "footnotes" -- one of which has a most amusing typo:
Now why am I imagining this actress vandalizing museums -- and maybe libraries! -- as part of her research for her role?
I got an advance copy of the "definitive edition" of The Passion of the Christ, which comes out on DVD in a couple weeks, and it includes a text commentary of "footnotes" -- one of which has a most amusing typo:
Now why am I imagining this actress vandalizing museums -- and maybe libraries! -- as part of her research for her role?
Sunday, January 07, 2007
Saturday, January 06, 2007
Bless it all!
...that's what Orthodoxy does!
This year I was so excited about our very first time blessing the Fraser River that I forgot to give you all the heads up in the newsletter and announcement sheet about another important Blessing at this time of year-- the customary annual blessing of homes in the Theophany season. I only suddenly remembered this during the first singing of the Tropar at Theophany vespers last night, because that tropar is also sung at a Theophany home blessing as the priest goes from room to room sprinkling holy water.
This is a briefer rite than the one we do to bless a home for the first time, and a great start to the New Year. If you want your home blessed, please call Fr. Lawrence or Fr. Justin and make an appointment (Fr. Justin's hours are limited because of his day job, and St. John's people get first dibs on him, but you can try if you want! ;-) When the weekend is over, I'll post an article from Fr. Lawrence about the items needed, how to prepare, and what to expect at your home blessing.
Troparion - Tone 1 (same tune as "O Lord Save Your People"--easy to sing, we will do it at church tomorrow, and the priest will bring copies to your home for the blessing too!)
O Lord, when You were baptized in the Jordan
The worship of the Trinity was made manifest
For the voice of the Father bore witness to You
And called You His beloved Son.
And the Spirit, in the form of a dove,
Confirmed the truthfulness of His word.
O Christ, our God, You have revealed Yourself
And have enlightened the world, glory to You!
This year I was so excited about our very first time blessing the Fraser River that I forgot to give you all the heads up in the newsletter and announcement sheet about another important Blessing at this time of year-- the customary annual blessing of homes in the Theophany season. I only suddenly remembered this during the first singing of the Tropar at Theophany vespers last night, because that tropar is also sung at a Theophany home blessing as the priest goes from room to room sprinkling holy water.
This is a briefer rite than the one we do to bless a home for the first time, and a great start to the New Year. If you want your home blessed, please call Fr. Lawrence or Fr. Justin and make an appointment (Fr. Justin's hours are limited because of his day job, and St. John's people get first dibs on him, but you can try if you want! ;-) When the weekend is over, I'll post an article from Fr. Lawrence about the items needed, how to prepare, and what to expect at your home blessing.
Troparion - Tone 1 (same tune as "O Lord Save Your People"--easy to sing, we will do it at church tomorrow, and the priest will bring copies to your home for the blessing too!)
O Lord, when You were baptized in the Jordan
The worship of the Trinity was made manifest
For the voice of the Father bore witness to You
And called You His beloved Son.
And the Spirit, in the form of a dove,
Confirmed the truthfulness of His word.
O Christ, our God, You have revealed Yourself
And have enlightened the world, glory to You!
Monday, January 01, 2007
Theophany Celebrations at St. Herman's
Friday Jan 5th, 7 pm: Vigil and blessing of waters. Bring your bottles to take holy water home
Saturday Jan 6th, 9 am: (note early time!)
Liturgy . If you aren't at vigil lFriday night, remember a bottle Saturday morning to carry home holy water. After liturgy we will go to bless the Fraser River at Derby Reach Park, just a short drive away from the church. (note we will not be doing the Greek custom of throwing a cross in the water for retrieval as the Fraser waters flow dangerously fast. Please watch your kids carefully at the waterside. )
Park Map and Directions here if you want to download them, we will have more copies at the church.
I haven't heard of breakfast/lunch plans-- I suppose we are just coming back to the church afterward as on Sundays? If people were feeling ambitious I suppose we could make pancakes or something.....(not volunteering myself, mind you-- I'm not that into pancakes and don't cook them very well!) Weather forecast is for "Variable cloudiness", but a high of 9 degrees might be a touch cool for a picnic...;-)
ADDENDUM: For those in Vancouver, St. John of Shanghai is also having a Theophany liturgy, 10 AM Sat. Jan. 6th at Dunbar Lutheran. There is a potluck celebration at the Chois' home in the afternoon/evening, but I am not sure of the time, if you know for sure, please add that info to the comments.
Tuesday, December 12, 2006
Saturday, December 09, 2006
Baby Shower for James Parson!
Thanks to everyone who came to the baby shower for little James today. It was great fun! Congratulations again to Stacey and Joe (and big brother Joshua)!
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