Parish History

Orthodox Christian
Church of Christ the Saviour

Today, The Parish is a mix of young to middle-aged adults, seniors, and children. Most parishioners are of Slavic heritage, but there are some Greek, Latin American, and Anglo-Saxon members as well. We have a census of just over 100 adult members.
The parish was founded in 1960 and, on Sunday August 7 of that year, the first Divine Liturgy of the newly formed community was celebrated. The pastor, Archpriest John Nehrebecki, has served the community faithfully since then.

Our parishioners participate in a full liturgical cycle which includes the usual divine services for Sunday and major feast days, Saturday night Vigil, and daily vespers on Tuesday and Thursday. There are very well attended bible study and iconography classes, a vibrant church school and youth group, and an adult education series.

Love of God—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—and His Church is also expressed at Christ the Saviour through the meticulous attention given to the care and adornment of the edifice. Everyone has an opportunity to participate, be it by the weekly parish cleaning, serving on the Parish Council, teaching for the Church School or Adult Class, being a Taper Bearer, Reader, Singer, or working on behalf of the Saints Martha and Mary Altar Society.

The Church School Program has some twenty-five children attending. It is held Sunday morning one hour before the Divine Liturgy begins so that the children can also participate in the full service.

The Adult Study takes place while the children attend church school classes.
Retreats are held in conjunction with the Great Lent and Nativity fasts with guest retreat masters invited to come from throughout the United States. The parish is well represented at the Sunday of Orthodoxy Vespers and Lenten Mission services held in the deanery.

The Choir, under the direction of Matushka Eugenia, consists of about fifteen adults and children who regularly attend rehearsal and whose faithfulness and dedication have been able to sustain the Liturgical Life at Christ the Saviour Church. At most funeral services, and at the Divine Liturgy for the burial, there is a full complex of the choir helping to "sing away" the departed.

Saints Martha and Mary Altar Society, with fifty members, is continuously active at the parish. It was started for the purpose of getting the women of the parish involved in keeping the House of God beautiful and in order, and "for doing the works meet for repentance."
The Altar Society is responsible for receptions and the agape-meal after the Divine Liturgy and has been blessed to have received visiting Hierarchs, Clerics, Theologians, Nuns, and Seminarians from the Church in America as well as from the greater Church abroad. The woman also participate in a local food kitchen providing meals for the homeless.
The Society's "Ways and Means" of raising money to support its many activities are diversified and include crafts and baked goods sales, Chinese Auctions, Rummage Sales, and Silent Auctions at the coffee hour. The ladies' annual charitable donations include stipends given to the three seminaries, to several monasteries, and for missionary activity on behalf of the Church.

The Orthodox Christian Church of Christ the Saviour: since 1960, expressing the unity of the people of God as a community of love, striving to grow in a way that is not selfish but charitable, and endeavoring to fulfill the evangelical mission of bringing all people to Christ and His Church.

 

History 1960 – 2000

Founding a Parish: Following the Commandments

Speaking at the Founders Day Banquet of Christ the Saviour Church on October 23, 1960, the Very Reverend Dr. Alexander Schmemann talked about the birth of a new parish. Father Schmemann told of "the need of obedience to God and the Holy Church. Obedience is the opposite of Pride, therefore, the Church should be organized as an instrument of our obedience to the Divine Commandments and not as a symbol of our pride."

Taking Father Schmemann's words to heart, the foundation of the parish was established on the following eight commitments.

  • To receive the Sacraments of the Church frequently.
  • To lead a moral life consistent with the Gospel teachings.
  • To participate in the Lord's Day, which means preparing on the eve and receiving the Eucharist.
  • To celebrate the 12 major feasts of the Church in a proper manner.
  • To volunteer time, money and talents as well as being respectful, loving and obedient to the Bishop and spiritual father.
  • To continue spiritual growth, ever striving, ever working out salvation daily.
  • To be alive and active in the life of the Church.
  • To have budgets met by means conducive to the Bible and not dependent on external resources.

Christ the Saviour Church contributes to realizing the vision of Saint TIKHON (Belavin) for the Orthodox Church in America — a United Autocephalous Church. On 4/28/60, a group of Russian Orthodox Christians met at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Theodore Horoschak for the purpose of establishing a new Orthodox Church in the Fair Lawn, New Jersey area. A suburban-located Orthodox Church was needed to meet the needs of parishioners who had moved from the cities like Garfield-Passaic-Clifton. An Orthodox presence was also needed by those who were seeking what Orthodoxy had to offer. While pastor at the Three Saints Church in Garfield and Secretary of the NJ Deanery, Father John provided guidance on Church Law and led in the establishment of the Parish. Archbishop Dimitry approved the request of parishioners to permit Father John to become permanent rector, effective 8/15/60. The certificate of incorporation was

drawn up by Mr. John Warhol, attorney. The Parish accepted the Statutes of the Orthodox Church as set forth at the Ninth All American Sobor held in 1959.

Father John suggested to name the new church "Christ the Saviour" after the Cathedral in Moscow. (Christ the Saviour Cathedral, Moscow was dedicated 1883 to commemorate the Russian victory in the War of 1812. It was destroyed by Stalin in 1931 but was rebuilt and consecrated in 2000.)

Founded on August 7, Christ the Saviour Church became the eighth Orthodox Church in Bergen County. The founding was blessed by His Eminence Metropolitan LEONTY of the Metropolia. Parishioners were to meet temporarily at the Legion Hall, Paramus Road, Paramus, for services. The first Divine Liturgy was celebrated by Father John on 8/7/60 in the Legion Hall. Five acres of land were purchased from Mr. and Mrs. Adrian Habben of Paramus. The property included a large house for the Rectory, barn, and several farm sheds that were subsequently taken down to make room for the Church.

The first Annual Parish Meeting was held on December 16, when Council members were elected and authorization to purchase the properties was finalized. While the meeting was being held at the new Rectory, the Nehrebecki family was moving in and a snow storm was blowing out! The building blocks of the church were laid throughout 1960 and 1961; the Parish Council was established 8/7/60; Sunday School classes began on 9/25/60; Saints Martha and Mary Society was founded 3/26/61; the Youth Group established 4/14/61. The building blocks continue firm to this day.

His Eminence Archbishop DIMITRY officiated at the ground breaking on 3/12/61. Nevel Associates began construction on the Church on 11/18/61. The Church was dedicated on 6/10/62 when the cornerstone was laid by Archbishop IRENEY. The Iconostasis was built by Greiz and Moses. Over the years additional Icons came to fill the Church to include the latest (2000) Icon of Christ not-made-by-hands located in the parish hall. In his capacity as Dean, Father John and Matushka Eugenia helped to establish additional suburban Orthodox Churches in: 1962 West Point Chapel; 1964 Holy Resurrection, Wayne; 1964 Holy Trinity, Dover/Randolph; 1966 Joy of All Who Sorrow, Mays Landing; 1968 Holy Transfiguration, Pearl River; 1968 Holy Trinity, Rahway/Clark; 1970 Holy Annunciation, Bricktown;

 

 

1970 Holy Apostles, Saddle Brook; 1973 Holy Cross, Cherry Hill/Medford; 1981 Saint Gregory, Flemington/Lebanon.

On April 10, 1970, according to the Tomos (decree) of His Holiness, Patriarch ALEXIS of Moscow and All Russia, the Russian Orthodox Church granted autocephally (self-governance and independence) to the former Russian Orthodox Greek Catholic Church of America. A delegation headed by Bishop THEODOSIOUS of Sitka, Alaska, including Archpriest John Nehrebecki. The Patriarchal Decree established the Orthodox Church in America (OCA) which became the 15th autocephalous Orthodox Church in the world. The parish of Christ the Saviour Church was now a member of the OCA.

In September 1973, Father John and a delegation visited Orthodox Churches in Finland and Russia. He had the opportunity to co-celebrate the Divine Liturgy with His Holiness Patriarch PIMEN on the Partiarch's name day in the St. Pimen Church, Moscow.

The first 20 years of the life of Christ the Saviour was eventful. The Church participated in extending the presence of Orthodoxy from the urban centers to suburban areas. It struggled to bring forth an autocephalous Orthodox Church in America. Parishioners secured the building blocks of good stewardship and community through its on-going activities.

The Second Twenty Years

When we celebrate a feast, it is TODAY that it happens. The saints are our contemporaries." — Fr. John Nehrebecki

During the second 20 years of Christ the Saviour in Paramus, the parish entered into a vigorous adulthood. The Family residing there grew in faith, obedience, love and the knowledge of the Lord.

Families were established; children became adults and started families of their own. Dear ones fell asleep in the Lord, and we remember them always and at every service. Families joined the parish, and others moved away from us.

The Parish Council served faithfully, with wisdom, and cared for God's work in this world and the spiritual needs of the Church.

The Choir continued in devotion to the musical traditions of the Church, not condescending to human innovation.

Readers gained experience and expertise so that all should be done "decently and in order," deepening their devotion and service to our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.

The taper bearers learned how to walk straight, carry a taper straight, serve Fr. John in his duties straight … and then showed the younger servers the same. Some seek vocation in the Church as priests or choir directors.

Saints Mary & Martha Altar Society worked tirelessly for the Parish as it does to this day. The faithful women raised funds for the poor and needy in our local communities and in others far away, provided assistance to students, seminaries and monasteries, and provided vestments and altar cloths for the Church.

The Youth Group served, grew, and had fun, too! The faces may have changed, but the ideals stayed the same.

The parish has enjoyed the presence of many visitors in the last 20 years, some from the U.S., others from other countries. Some are listed in the "Timeline."

The Orthodox Church of Christ the Saviour continued in the beauty of holiness for the last 20 years. Everyday faithfulness. Loving one another and bearing one another's burdens. Striving to finish the course set before us. Our eyes set on the Author and Finisher of our Faith, the Lord Jesus Christ, the Saviour.

Blessed art Thou, O Lord! Teach us Thy statutes!

 

 

Abbreviated Time Line

1960

August 7 Founding of Christ the Saviour Church

First Divine Liturgy celebrated by Father John

David Drillock, Choir Director

Parish Council organized

September 25 Sunday School classes begin

October 23 Founders Day Banquet at the Neptune Inn, Paramus

Guests: Very Reverend Dr. Alexander Schmemann

Archbishop Dimitry

December 16 1st Annual Parish Meeting held at Rectory as the Nehrebecki family moved in during a snowstorm! Property for Rectory and future Church purchased.

1961

January 7 Church Choir revived the old custom of carolling at parishioners' homes.

January 9 Rectory is blessed followed by an Open House.

January 15 Yolka and beginning of the Children's Choir

February 9 First Family Nite.

March 12 Ground breaking ceremony for the new Church. His Eminence Archbishop Dimitry officiated assisted by Rev. John Nehrebecki, Rt. Rev. Peter Kohanik, V. Rev. Luke Olchovy, V. Rev. John Havriliak, V. Rev. Peter Popoff, V. Rev. John Skvir, V. Rev. Michael Simon, Rev. John Sochka, Rev. Theophil Krehel, and Rev. Gabriel Ashie. Church Choir directed by Michael Tichomiroff.

March 26 Sts. Martha and Mary Society founded.

April 14 Youth Group organized.

July 16 First Family Picnic

August 6 1st Anniversary of the Parish

October 15 2nd Founders' Day Banquet

November 18 Contract signed and construction of the Church begins.

December 24 Church Choir appeared on WCBS-TV in a Christmas program, "And Peace on Earth."

1962

June 10 Church dedicated. Cornerstone laid by Archbishop Ireney.

July 4 Father John celebrated his 10th Anniversary in the Orthodox Priesthood.

1963

September 7 Installation of Father John as Dean of the NJ Clergy. Father was elevated with the privilege of wearing the Epignation.

October 10 25th Anniversary of St. Tikhon Seminary. Father John was the main speaker.

1964

February 20 The Choir represents the Orthodox Faith at the Interfaith Concert of Sacred Music held at Temple Sinai, Tenafly, commemorating Brotherhood Week.

1965

May 23 Fr. Macarius Targonsky of Kodiak, Alaska visited our Parish.

1970

April 10 The Orthodox Church of Russia granted the decree of total self-government in a TOMOS to the Metropolia. The Metropolia became the 15th Autocephalous Orthodox Church in the world. The Metropolia became known as the Orthodox Church in America (OCA). Christ the Saviour Church, formerly governed under the Metropolia, became an OCA parish.

July Archbishop PAUL of Finland visits — is guest of the Family for three weeks.

August Glorification of Saint Herman of Alaska

 

1971

November 14 City of Paramus invited to an Open House at our Parish.

1972

February 27 Bishop Dimitri served the Hierarchical Divine Liturgy with Bishop-elect Jose Cortez Olmos of Mexico as guest.

April 16 Bishop Jose of Mexico was a guest at our parish after his consecration.

1973

September 3 Father John and a delegation visited Orthodox Churches in Finland and Russia.

September 9 Father John co-celebrated with His Holiness Partiarch Pimen on His name day in the St. Pimen Church, Moscow.

1974

October 29 Bishop Gregory of Alaska and Fr. Theodore Fryntzko brought the Icon of the Madonna of Sitka to be venerated at our church.

1975

September 29 15th Anniversary of our Church. His Beatitude, Metropolitan Ireney celebrated the occasion.

October 8 Nuns from the Holy Transfiguration Monastery attended Vespers and gave a slide presentation.

1977

May 24 His Eminence, the Most Reverend Theodosius, Archbishop of Tokyo, Metropolitan of the Orthodox Church of Japan was a guest of our church.

September Parishioners honored Father John on the 25th Anniversary of his Priesthood.

1978

January 22 His Beatitude, Metropolitan Theodosius served in our church.

March 5 Metropolitan Theodososius visited our church.

1980

February 3 His Grace Bishop Peter served his first Hierarchical Divine Liturgy as auxiliary to His Beatitude Metropolitan Theodosius in our church.

September 12 His Grace, Bishop Peter celebrated his 12th Anniversary as Bishop in our church. Priests of the NJ Deanery con-celebrated.

1980 October 12 20th Anniversary of our Parish.

1981 March 18 Repose of Metropolitan IRENEY.

1982 July 4 Fr. John Nehrebecki 30th year as a priest.

1983 December 13 Fr. Alexander Schmemann reposed.

1984 May Father John and Matushka led a Pilgrimage to the Holy Land.

October 8 Diocesan assembly in Endicott, NY.

1985 August 18 25th Parish Anniversary celebrated. His Beatitude, Metropolitan Theodsius & His Grace Archbishop Peter presided at a Hierarchical Divine Liturgy.

1986 September 7 Bishop Seraphim of Sendai, Japan visited.

1987 March 15 Icon wall finished, written by Master iconographer George Filippakis

1988 1000 Years of Orthodox Christianity in Russia!

April 18 50th Anniversary St. Vladimir Seminary.

May 29 50th Anniversary St. Tikhon Seminary.

September 29 Iconography school began, Vladislav Andreyev, instructor

December 8 Archbishop Paul of Finland reposed.

1989 April 1 Lenten Retreat. Bishop Basil _ The Cross.

1990 August 24 Visiting performing artists from the Ukraine performed.

September 9 Fr. Alexander Men murdered in Russian.

 

1991 November The new parking lot finished

March 14 Frank Schaeffer visits

April 21 Millennial hand Cross donated "988-1988"

May 5 Processional Fans donated to enhance the Great Processional Cross

June 20 Our Church was crowned with a Cupola, and the Cross majestically lifted into place by Evgeni Pokhmutov.

October 20 The Icon of the Theotokos, "She Who is Quick to Hear" exuded Myrrh at the Holy Transfiguration Church in Pearl River. We attended, sang an akathist, and were anointed.

1992 March 14 Bishop BASIL of Washington, DC presided at Vigil and preached

July 22 Fr. John Meyendorff reposed

1994 August Fr. John & Matushka Eugenia led a tour of parishioners of Central Europe and Slovakia

May 29 Fr. Alexis Toth of Wilkes-Barre was Glorified among the Saints at St. Tikhon Monastery.

1995 April 2 Dr. Constantine Cavarnos visits

September 1, 1995 Ecclesiastical New Year — "O LORD BLESS THE CROWN OF THIS YEAR WITH GOODNESS —Troparion of New Year

September 14 Elevation of the Cross and the founding of the Resurrection Church in Jerusalem. If we as Christians truly believe that our lives are lived under the sign of the Cross and in the light of eternity, then we must believe that God is with us in all the changing fortunes of our days.

September 24 Holy Protomartyr and equal to the Apostles, New `Martyrs of Alaska', Priestmonk Juvenaly and Peter the Aleut and Saint Theckla and the 35th Anniversary celebration of Our Parish of Christ the Saviour. "Today. America celebrates, for the new world has been sanctified by Martyrdom" Archbishop Peter presided at the Divine Liturgy, assisted by five Priests and two Deacons and nine Servers and Readers.

Co-Celebrants

Protopresbyter Rodion Kondratick

Archpriest John Nehrebecki

Archpriest David Vernak

Archpriest D. Alexander Atty

Priest Joseph Frawley

Deacon Samuel Kedala

Deacon E. George Tosi

Sub-Deacons

John Economou

Mark Federoff

David Schneider

Reader

Michael Vlachos

Altar Servers

John Della Pesca

Michael Della Pesca

Justin Gramkow

Alexander Stransky

Mark Stransky

September 28 Icon Class resumed led by Dimitri Andreyev.

October 8 The Orthodox Clergy Fellowship held a very successful Charity Festival at Saint Peter and Paul Cathedral Center in Passaic. All proceeds went to the Needy Orthodox overseas.

October 10 The Fall Lecture Series on Mission were held in Paramus. Father Alexander Veronis spoke and was well received.

October 21 Choir Conference held in Paramus and led by Professor David Drillock - "Making Sense Out of What We sing —Accent and Emphasis."

November 5 Annual Parish Meeting. "We who share one mind and soul obviously have no misgivings about community in property." .Tertullian

"All things belong to God, who is our Father and Father of all things. We are all the same family: all of us are brothers and sisters. And among brethren it is best and most equal that all inherit equal portions." —Saint Gregory of Nyssa

November 15 Beginning of Christmas Fast. Preparation of Gifts for Saints Cosmas and Damian Home.

 

November 26 Charity Sunday — Brings in the gifts with Thanksgiving! Yes, Time can be a Gift. Interest - Concern -Love - Tenderness - Appreciation - Respect - Care - Forgiveness Silence - Self-control and bigger and better Gifts to the "Church".

December 25 Christ Is Born

December 31 - January 1 A Happy New Year And a New Years Prayer — "GOD HELP US TO KNOW WHO WE ARE — AND WHERE WE ARE — AND WHY WE ARE . . ."

January 1, 1996 As usual we celebrated the civil New Year with a Divine Liturgy and Agape.

January 6 Theophany with the most sweet and endearing water consumed by faithful parishioners. Blessing of homes in Paramus is more of a blessing than a chore.

January 10 We were saddened to hear of the repose of Matushka Xenia (Sochka). Father John Matushka Eugenia went to the funeral at Saint Tikhon's Monastery — a snow fall that we will never forget. Father John preached the eulogy. Her names day is January 24.

February 4 Family Social at the Cosmos Club was a sure place to meet and be with parish family and friends.

February 11 Tanya Nehrebecki taught 2 CPR classes before the beginning of Lent.

February 18 We thanked George and Bill Dworetzky for snow removal.

February 25 Forgiveness Sunday: We all know what it means!!!

March 3 Sunday of Orthodoxy in Saint John the Theologian Cathedral. Speaker was Father John Nehrebecki. It was all Greek to us and Father John was canned!

March 9 Dr. Constantine Cavarnos led a retreat, Saturday, Sunday and Monday. What a man. He does not have to speak only to be seen. A noted author, theologian and philosopher. His topic was on the "Practice of Virtue."

March 28 New Jersey Deanery Clergy met in Paramus for the Liturgy of the Presanctified Gifts.

April 7 Palm Sunday and the falling asleep of Patriarch Tikhon of Moscow and all Russia. Can we forget the procession with palms and branches into Jerusalem -— Our Mother Church.

April 14 The Pascha of the Lord.

April 17 Archbishop Peter and Clergy were at the Vespers and celebrated triumphantly. Archbishop Peter said, "As God's People, we have every right to celebrate this triumph of triumphs, just like David the Ancestor of God, who leaped and danced with joy before the Ark."

April 21 Saint Thomas Sunday and Joy Day passed in splendor in the hope of the Resurrection and eternal life.

May 18 The Akafist Choir from Moscow sang the Vespers and Our Choir sang the Matins.

May 27 Pilgrimage to Saint Tikhon Monastery.

June 9 Feeding the Homeless in Hackensack as we always do.

July 21 Picnic time!

June 30 Deacon Samuel Kedala was ordained to the Priesthood.

August 4 Telerhof-Terezin Memorial at Lemko Park.

August 16 The Feast of Our Church.

September 1 Blessed New Year and remembrance of righteous Joshua, the son of Nun. We had a letter from His Beatitude Theodosius for the day. Paul Witek enters Saint Tikhon's Seminary.

September 27 Chinese Auction. Wonderful gifts — wonderful evening —because of our wonderful Women.

October 5 Saint Vladimir Education Day our pleasure.

October 18 Bergen Mall Festival - we won first prize again … thanks to Nick and the Ladies.

October 22 Fall Lecture Series in Christ the Saviour Church

October 29 Father John spoke at the Greek Cathedral in Tenafly.

November 2 Choir Conference in South River.

 

November 3 Byzantine and Russian Icon display at Paramus Museum. Father John spoke to a large crowd. Our Choir under the direction of Matushka Eugenia sang selected hymns.

November 17 Dr. Constantine Cavarnos spoke. "The Function of Reason in Guarding the Senses" at Christ the Saviour Church, and on "Orthodox Tradition and Modernization" at St. John Theologian Church, Tenafly. Always a pleasure to listen.

November 24 Charity Sunday. We do try to be charitable. Scripture challenges us to Stewardship — to use our time, our talents and our treasures to Glorify God through service to others.

December 1 Our Choir sang at the Paramus Museum. Well received by the Community.

December 25 CHRIST IS BORN GLORIFY HIM!

January 1, 1997 Give us some vision, some hope, some purpose, some cause to keep trying for another year.

We enjoyed the visit of Bishop Abel from Lublin, Poland.

January 6 Father John begins blessing homes.

February 2 Feeding the homeless in Hackensack. Thanks to Members of Saint Martha and Mary Altar Society.

February 9 Feeding the parishioners at the Family Social in the Cosmos Club. Enjoyed the fellowship - Thanks to the Ladies and to Edward Witek for the Music.

March 9 The Banishment and Repentance of Adam and every Christian.

March 14 Bishop Paul of France visited with Father Thomas Hopko, Dean of Saint Vladimir Seminary.

March 16 Sunday of Orthodox in Holy Ascension Church, Farview. Father John preached.

April 10 and 30 Deanery Clergy gathers in Our Church with Archbishop Peter.

April 27 Let all things seen and unseen their notes together blend — for CHRIST THE LORD IS RISEN — OUR JOY THAT HATH NO END.

May 16 Another Auction with Tricky Trays. Exciting.

May 18 Blessing of the Iconostasis at the Annunciation Church in Brick. Beautiful.

June 8 Dr. John Platt of Pembroke College, Oxford spoke to our parishioners and was well received.

July 20 Holy Glorious Prophet Elijah — also our Parish Picnic — the rain came later. There were 10 Priests and over 13 Parishes represented

August 10 Saints Martha and Mary Altar Society held Winter Clothing Drive for children of the Mordovian Republic.

August 17 Lemko Festival - ROVA Resort.

September 1 Happy New Year.

September 14 200th Anniversary of the birth of Saint Innocent. Akathist at Saints Peter and Paul Church, Jersey City — His Beatitude Metropolitan Theodosius presiding.

September 20 Church School Teachers Conference.

October 17 Bergen Mall Booth — another first prize — thanks to Nicholas Worontsoff, Matushka Eugenia and the Parishioners.

November 4, 11, 18, 25 The Orthodox Way Lecture Series.

November 24 Collected and delivered Christmas Gifts for the Adults at the Saints Cosmas and Damian Home.

December 25 The Three Great Fathers of the Church, Basil the Great, Gregory the Theologian and John Chrysostom were the ones who are credited for the Institution of the Nativity Celebration in the 4th Century. Saint Gregory's first sermon was: "CHRIST IS BORN, GLORIFY HIM! CHRIST HAS DESCENDED FROM HEAVEN, GREET HIM! CHRIST HAS APPEARED ON EARTH, PRAISE HIM! And so do we.

December 28 Church School Christmas Program. Well Done Thank you Students and Teachers.

December 30 Bus Trip to Strasburg, Pennsylvania to see the Christmas Pageant with the Church School Children, Parents and Parishioners. Wonderful time was had by all.

 

January 1, 1998 Happy New Year.

January 4 Synaxis of the 70 Apostles and we mentioned them all.

January 6 You know what we do in the whole month of January —-we bless homes. Matushka Eugenia assumed the directorship of the choir 30 years ago because Father Paul Kucynda was ordained.

January 7 Our former choir director Father Paul Kucynda celebrates his 30th Anniversary of Ordination into the Priesthood.

February 8 Family Social - the "publicans and pharisees" ate together at the Mountainside Inn in Clifton.

February 14 Choir conference given by Mark Bailey in Wayne.

February 15 Still feeding the homeless in Hackensack.

March 1 Forgiveness Sunday — Adam and Eve expelled and so are we. We serve every day during Great Lent — bless all who participate. Women of Spirit - Women History presentation given by Annette Milkovich who spoke about icons.

March 8 Sunday of Orthodoxy- Saint John Baptist Church, Passaic. Sermon given by Father Basil Summer and the Choir sang responses under the direction of Matushka Eugenia. Father John was guest speaker in Conemaugh, PA. in the Johnstown — Altoona Deanery.

April 2 Archbishop Peter and the Clergy of New Jersey celebrated the Presanctified Liturgy and the Ladies and Parishioners provided the Lenten Agape.

April 5 Saint Tikhon Seminary Choir sang - we collected $9,000 for the Seminary. God Bless You All.

April 19 CHRIST IS RISEN! TRULY HE IS RISEN!

April 22 Paschal Vespers celebrated in Paramus with Deanery Clergy and Friends.

May 4 Father John celebrates his 70th Birthday.

May 17 Deanery Choir concert in Our church - Directed by Alexsei Shipovalnikov.

June 14 Bus Ride to the Brooklyn Museum "Jewels of the Romanovs". It rained but we got there. Wet!

July 19 Picnic `98 — Always Good - thanks to you all.

August 1, 6, 15 All of the wonderful Feasts of August.

August 16 Feast of Our Church - wonderful celebration.

August 23 Victor Gorodenchuk and Paul Witek cleaned the interior of Our Church - ICONS AND CEILING - what a fabulous job

October 4 30th Anniversary of Archbishop Peter held at Stony Hill Inn in Hackensack. Eis Polla Eti Despota.

October 16 Bergen Mall Festival - Theme - "1957" - A good year. First Prize again.

October 17 Professor David Drillock our first choir director held a workshop at our Church. Very well attended.

October 26 Diocesan Assembly was held in Clifton.

December 6 Saint Nicholas _ we all love him. All the children of the parish are treated by the Parish, Worontsoffs, and Brasowskis.

December 20 Prefeast and celebration of the Incarnation of Our Lord on the 25th. We are happy to visit and sing for the shut-ins of the Church Family.

January 1, 1999 Let us resolve to remove any stumbling block that keeps us away from Christ Jesus.

January 3 Deanery Concert Choir in Wayne

January 6 Home blessing is our reminder of the consecration of a Church — our home is our domestic Chapel.

January 31 Annual Family Social at the Mountainside Inn — what a wonderful time!

February 2 The sixteenth Annual Father Alexander Schmemann Memorial Lecture. "Liturgical Revival of the Church."

February 20 Choir Conference - Saint Peter and Paul Church, Jersey City, led by Alexei Shipovalnikov.

 

February 28 Sunday of Orthodoxy Vespers in Saint John Church, Passaic. Combined Deanery Choirs of Northern New Jersey sang directed by Matushka Eugenia Nehrebecki.

March 8 Ann Sklarsky teaching us the art of Easter Egg Coloring.

March 23 New Jersey Deanery came to Presanctified Liturgy at Christ the Saviour Church as they do every year.

April 5 Father John participated in the preparation of Holy Chrism at Saint Tikhon Monastery.

April 11 Pascha - Christ is Risen — and death is abolished.

April 25 Saint George Chapel dedicated in Louisville, Kentucky.

May 20 Ascension — Father Sergei Shirokov of Moscow visited and served with Father John.

May 29 Saint Tikhon Pilgrimage _ Victor Gorodenchuk graduated with honors.

June 6 Church School Graduation —- "Lord teach us to number our days"

June 24 Father George Gallas retirement dinner.

June 27 Collection for Kosovo.

July 15 Father Alexander Men Symposium at Drew University.

July 18 We had a Picnic!

July 25 So did Brick! On to the 12th All-American Council, Pittsburgh - Father John and Leon Brasowski, delegates.

August 1 - 16 Our special time with the wondrous Saviour Feasts.

August 9 Saint Herman of Alaska, also.

August 21 Youth Group toured West Point

September 17 Chinese Auction - Fun Time—No! Flood time - cancelled — Flood date — September 24.

September 19 Adult Class and Church school begin _ and scriptural study continues.

October 2 Saint Vladimir Education Day.

October 7 Iconography Classes begin Thursday evenings led by Dimitri Andreyev.

October 15-16 Photos taken for the Church Directory _ Dr. Joan Kakascik, Dr. Lidia Vlachos, and Barbara Karol, coordinators; Wonderful directory thanks to Matushka Eugenia and Michael Vlachos.

October 26 Fall Lecture Series Orthodox Clergy Fellowship of Northern New Jersey.

October 31 John and Martha Lanzante institute Christ the Saviour Seminary Scholarship Fund.

November 3 Desoff Choir Concert, NYC - just magnificent!

November 6 - 7 James Forest visited us from the Netherlands — what an inspiring weekend!

November 13 Chicken Dinner sponsored by Youth Group _ enjoyed by our guests.

November 28 Gifts collected for residents of Saints Cosmas and Damian Home, Staten Island.

December 25 The Real Gift of Christmas — THE PRESENT OF GOD'S PRESENCE — ALL OF :CREATION LEAPS FOR JOY AT THE LORD'S BIRTH.

December 27 Youth Group Outing.

January 1, 2000 Yes, there was something special about this New Year — a new millennium — many of us as children dreamed of this day - hoping to be alive to see it — but our expectations always have to be in the Day of the Lord to see it and survive because of His mercy.

January 6 When created all things, they were clean, especially that which has its own transparency and means of purifying itself — with sin entering the world all things were polluted — and we live in an age of pollution. Christ entered into the Jordan and it was purified — if He enters into us, or if we permit Him to enter into us, we too, will be purified and become transparent.

January 11 Vespers and Scripture study — all year long and for many years. We just love the Scriptures.

January 16 Sanctity of Life Sunday — Metropolitan Theodosius sent a beautiful letter of encouragement. Our Orthodox Church in America is one of the most active in the Washington March.

 

January 30 Souper Bowl Sunday — a collection for the needy was sponsored by the Youth Group.

February 2 Meeting of the Lord — continuation of Theophany. Lecture on "Orthodoxy in North America l950-2000" by V. Rev. Paul Schneirla at Saint Vladimir Seminary.

February 10 Vespers and Icon Class by Dimitri Andreyev all year long and many years going.

March 5 Annual Family Social at Friar Tuck — boy could those monks cook! All we heard was "Gee, what a great party!!! What delicious food, we should do this more often."

March 12 Forgiveness Sunday — sincere ritual with tears and repentance.

March 13 First day of Lent - Canon of Saint Andrew of Crete. John the Baptist's first words were repent and so with Christ. So my dears there is no predestination. Our daily services are a great help in realizing the need for a change in our lives and the world.

March 19 Sunday of Orthodoxy in Paramus with combined Choir under the direction of Matushka Eugenia - full church - full collection -full agape and fullness (pleroma) of Christ. Sermon was preached by Father Leonid Kishkovsky.

March Proclamation by Holy Synod on the Glorification of Bishop Raphael.

April 9 Fathers Sergius Kuharsky, Jospeh Frawley and Gregory Zaiens were guests in our Church surely the Ladder of Divine Virtues was mentioned.

April 10 Easter Egg Dyeing demonstration by Ann Sklarsky.

April 13 New Jersey Deanery Presanctified in Paramus - Lenten Agape. Many Priests and People.

April 30 Pascha of the Lord with Agape (Love)!

May 19 Another Chinese Auction — another success.

May 27 Our Saint Tikhon Seminarian Paul Witek graduated Seminary with honors.

May 28 Glorification of Bishop Raphael. It was a spirit filled occasion.

May. 29 Pilgrimage to Saint Tikhon Monastery. Father John served.

June 25 College and High School Graduates honored today.

July 2 Our Seminarian Victor Gorodenchuk and Anastasia Vernak were Married in Brick.

July 4 Father John's 48th Anniversary of Priesthood. Divine Liturgy at the Annunciation Church, Brick.

July 16 Our Biggest and "Bestest" Picnic — we say that every year!

We thank all who help — Parish Council, Saints Martha and Mary Altar Society, Youth Group — Your help at our "outreach" picnic is' wonderful - your kind hospitality and entertainment are exceptional - thank you all for a job well done.

August 2000

The month of August is special for Our Parish of Christ the Saviour — "The Icon Not made with Hands". We therefore put special emphasis on celebrating the three Saviour Feasts.

The Procession of the Precious and Life-giving Cross. The Holy Seven Maccabean children: Abimus, Antoninus, Gurias, Eleazar, Eusabonus, Alimus, and Marcellus, their mother Solomonia, and their teacher, Eleazar. "The wood of the Cross" was brought forth from the imperial treasury on the last day of July and was placed on the Holy Table of the Great Church of the Holy Wisdom, and beginning today, until the Dormition of' the Theotokos was carried throughout Constantinople and venerated by the people. Let us honor the Maccabees, their mother and teacher — as guardians and keepers of the Law.

The Feast of the Saviour on the Mount. The First Divine Liturgy served in Christ the Saviour Parish. The Transfiguration of Our Lord, and God and Saviour, Jesus Christ. The three foremost disciples ascend Mount Tabor with Christ where He was Transfigured. The Prophets Moses and Elias — stood before him, showing that He was both Lord of the Living and Dead. Just as in the River Jordan, the voice of the Father testified: "This is My Beloved Son in Whom I am well-pleased; hear ye Him." (Matthew 17:5)

Shine forth on us, who are sinners, you ever-lasting Light!

 

August 15 The Dormition of Our Most Holy and Glorious Lady, the Theotokos and Ever-Virgin Mary. "In giving birth, you preserved your Virginity; in your Dormition, you did not forsake the world, O Theotokos. You were translated to life, since you are the Mother of Life and by Your intercessions You redeem our souls from death."

August 16 Feast of Our Saviour on the Cloth. The Translation of the Holy Icon Not Made by hands of Our Lord Jesus Christ from Edessa to Constantinople.

Tradition tells us that in the time of Abgar, the ruler of Edessa desiring to be cured of leprosy, sent his emissary to see Christ; He asked his messenger Ananias to bring back a depiction of Jesus the Christ. This was done — Abgar received the cloth or as called the Holy Napkin (Mandylion). Later on the Apostle Thaddeus went to Edessa and completely cured Abgar. The Napkin (Mandylion) was taken to Constantinople. This is the Glorious Feast of Our Church. The Three Feasts are on THE CROSS _ on THE MOUNT and on THE CLOTH. Our festive dinner was on the next Sunday.

September 1 ENTERING THE YEAR OF GRACE written by an Orthodox Monk

Each year, at the beginning of September, the Orthodox Church leads Our "people of God" into a cycle of prayers and commemorations that constitutes the "liturgical year" or the "Church year". The liturgical year is a planned cycle of services from September to September.

An inadequate reduction of this is the free wall calendar hanging somewhere in our home or lost in a drawer because it many times is not very attractive and we cannot make our appointments with it (no place to write) or last but not least, it has a funeral directors name on it — he/she — it — is the last thing you want to see this year or any other year.

What is lost in all of this is our "minds" because the purpose of the calendar is to bring to the minds of believers the teachings of the Gospel and the main events of Christian History in a certain order. Liturgy has certain "signs" and "symbols". Each liturgical feast renews and in some sense actualizes the event of which it is the symbol; it takes this event of which it is the symbol and makes it "TODAY"; it offers appropriate grace, it becomes an "effectual sign and we can experience it with our mind, heart, and soul. Come, brothers and sisters let us experience this wonderful revelation together — you who are "lovers of the feast."

During the Vespers on the eve of September 1, we hear three Old Testament lessons:
1) Isaiah 61, 1-9. The spirit of the Lord God is upon me because the Lord has anointed me … The prophet also tells us what God will do for the afflicted. He will give them "beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness."
2) Leviticus 26: 3-12, 14-17, 19-20. God warns his people whose destiny will be different - depending on their keeping the covenant — "if you walk in my statutes, and keep my commandments you don't suffer the consequences." If you walk in this way you will have much more than your daily bread — you will have the bread you need to live forever. "I will set my tabernacle among you … I will walk among you and I will be your God." (The Incarnation).

The 3rd lesson from the Wisdom of Solomon: "For honorable age identified moral perfection with longevity. For honorable age is not that which stands in length of time, nor measured by the number of years. To be Old, in the best sense, was to have known how to please God. "He pleased God and was beloved of him for an unspotted life is old age."

At the threshold of the New Year we are thus invited to meditate on a concept which is no longer material but purely spiritual, of time and age. God bless you all.