Eparchial Clergy Conference Held

Meeting in Mundelein the deacons and priests of the St Nicholas Eparchy spent from Tuesday evening until Friday lunch at the annual conference, May 18-21, 2010.

Each year, an aspect of parish life is presented as a manner of "continuing education" for the benefit of the clergy-and ultimately for the benefit of each parish.

The proceedings began with an introduction of the Icon of the Protection of the Mother of God, specially commissioned for the Jubilee Year of the eparchy. Fr Jim Karepin ,OP-Chancellor--also presented information on the various deanery-level observances. Plans were set for a joint spiritual retreat with clergy from each of the other eparchies of  the United States in September this year.

The next two full days presented the opportunity to take advantage of the wisdom of Very Rev Archpriest Daniel Gurovich of the Metropolitan Archeparchy of Philadelphia.

Speaking from his experience as pastor and thirty-six years' work at the Matrimonial Tribunal, Fr Dan delivered four sessions of conference on a number of topics, intended to make everyone's lives a bit easier when dealing with a number of parochial matters.

Since one aspect of parish life evolves around the marriage of parishioners, time was spent on the necessary forms that must be filed for every marriage. Explanation was given for the rationale behind the various questions asked, and the importance of timeliness and accuracy. Notice was made of the reason for adherence to the normal six-month period of time usually required for preparing the parties involved. Although parishes publish this stipulation, incidents occur when people fail to take this into serious consideration.

Further was it said that there is a proper place for all weddings: in the Church; proper person to perform the wedding: pastor (or someone he delegates); proper execution of the ritual according to legitimate Byzantine regulations;, and proper instruction meant to educate the bride, groom, attendants and their guests attending the ceremony. Following directions makes everyone's life easier.

Also on the agenda were discussions concerning implementation of the Instruction for Applying the Liturgical Prescriptions of the Code of Canons of the Eastern Churches, promulgated in January, 1996 for our Church. Since there are some lapses in compliance with some of the norms, specific details were mentioned and expanded upon to present our practices in a unified way. This refers to the Mysteries of Initiation (Baptism, Chrismation, Eucharist together); celebration of Funerals, observance of Holy Days and similar issues. Again, following directions makes everyone's life easier.

On both days, Fr Daniel stopped to answer any questions posed-or to offer commentary or expanded explanation upon a particular point.

The impetus for each day was to draw attention to the need for regulation and direction. Both are necessary-neither needs to be a burden, or arbitrary imposition, but a way to eliminate confusion. How more easily life is made when the principles are applied, and everyone understands and implements the various directives. It is easier for the Bishop's Office; for the clergy; and for the faithful, who are edified by unanimity of purpose that is accomplished through the cooperation of every individual along the way.

Fr Daniel took time to mention the worthiness of New Star-and complimented the Eparchy on publishing a source for education and catechesis for our readers not only of the eparchy, but others who receive our newspaper as well.

Friday morning saw some other pertinent points addressed. One pressing item revolves around property and liability insurance for the properties of the eparchy. Mr Keith Dobrolinski clarified points on this matter, and proposed follow-up measures.

Mr Serge Michaluk spoke on the Child Protection Program of the Eparchy, and noted our compliance with the standards set by the United States Council of Catholic Bishops.

He also spoke of matters of concern in regard the annual appeal for stewardship in the eparchy, and the needs of for requesting capital funds.

As each was preparing to return to their parochial responsibilities, appreciation was expressed for the valuable information gleaned from the busy schedule. Pastors also returned home with a vial of Myro consecrated by Bishop Richard at the Cathedral on Holy Thursday-a symbol of our ecclesial unity and connectedness.