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Volume 94 March 2016 Issue #3
Christ is Risen, Alleluia
Most Rev. Anthony Mikovsky
Prime Bishop
(Continued on Page 3.)
We have now completed the season of Lent and have
come to the point that is the true focus of our faith,
the celebration of the Resurrection of our Lord and
Savior, Jesus Christ, from the dead. The Romans had
thought that they had crushed the hopes of this small
movement within Palestine as they had done with
others. Even the disciples were downtrodden and
fearful thinking that their Master had been killed and
their own lives now in danger. But something
awesome happened on that first Easter morning. The
words of Scripture from St. John’s Gospel tell us of
the event, but even the apostles then didn’t entirely
understand it.
“Early on the first day of the week, while it was still
dark, Mary Magdalene came to the tomb and saw
that the stone had been removed from the tomb. So
she ran and went to Simon Peter and the other
disciple, the one whom Jesus loved, and said to them,
“They have taken the Lord out of the tomb, and we
do not know where they have laid Him.” Then Peter
and the other disciple set out and went toward the
tomb. The two were running together, but the other
disciple outran Peter and reached the tomb first. He
bent down to look in and saw the linen wrappings
lying there, but he did not go in. Then Simon Peter
came, following him, and went into the tomb. He
saw the linen wrappings lying there, and the cloth
that had been on Jesus’ head, not lying with the linen
wrappings but rolled up in a place by itself. Then the
other disciple, who reached the tomb first, also went
in, and he saw and believed; for as yet they did not
understand the scripture, that He must rise from the
dead.” (John 20:1-9)
We see in this Scripture, especially with St. John, the
beloved disciple, a combination of non-
comprehension but also strong belief. This Scripture
reading has always moved me because I feel too that
it is the position in which we often find ourselves.
We do not fully understanding the mysteries of our
Lord, but at the same time we fully believe that Jesus
is the Lord of heaven and earth and the long awaited
Messiah. We have faith and can see and know the
actions of the living Jesus in our lives, but we may
not entirely understand it all.
The Resurrection of Jesus Christ says one thing to us
and says it in no small way. “Jesus is Lord.” He
rose from the dead. He was and is victorious over sin
and death. He now lives a transformed life that will
not end. Throughout the rest of the Church year we
will have the opportunity to work out all that this
means for us as Christians and for the world as
undergoing the new creation, but the day of the
Resurrection calls for us just to take it all in and be a
witness to the joyous celebration. This day, Jesus
has returned to us as Risen Lord and Savior. This
2 God’s Field — March 2016
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Prime Bishop Anthony Mikovsky
Secretary to Prime Bishop — Julie Orzell
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God’s Field - Rola Boża Editor — Julie Orzell
Questions or concerns? Call us at 570-346-9131 or
570-346-2125.
God’s Field — Rola Boża
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Volume 94, Issue No. 3 3
(Christ is Risen, Alleluia - Continued from Page 1.)
day Jesus is finally to be recognized as Lord of the
world and Messiah of Israel. This day sin and death,
those most fearsome of enemies, is conquered. All
these things happened on that morning. The
disciples then were witnesses and we today are
called to be witnesses of these things just the same.
When we consider the power of the Resurrection, is
it any wonder that after encountering the risen Lord
Jesus, the disciples were no longer afraid but began
to go out into the world and proclaim that good
news? Is it any wonder that those disciples who
once feared for their very lives all went to a martyr’s
death proclaiming that Jesus has conquered death?
If we are to be the same sort of witnesses today, we
too need to worry less about what others might think
and say about us and rather focus on the power of
the Resurrection of Jesus as they did.
Something truly awesome happened on that first
Easter day and it was there Jesus was truly risen.
The disciples witnessed the empty tomb and
encountered Him in a variety of times and places.
As Polish National Catholics we have the
opportunity to encounter Jesus in Word and
Sacrament and in the worshiping community which
is the Body of Christ and each of us His members.
As strongly as the first disciples proclaimed that
Jesus had been risen from the dead, we too can and
must proclaim that “Christ is Risen. He is Risen, In-
deed.”
These words should be always on our lips as faithful
members of the Church. And more importantly they
are to have an effect on our lives. We can’t just
proclaim that Jesus is Lord and Savior and then go
back to living our lives in whatever way we please.
If Jesus is our Lord and has beaten sin and death for
us, then certainly His way of life and living must be
the way that we follow; if not, there is a horrible
inconsistency, or worse yet hypocrisy, to our lives.
The fact that Jesus is alive should have a part in
every decision that we make, every action we take
and every thought we think. If we are followers of
Christ we must take on that attitude of St. Paul who
tells us in Galatians 2:20: “It is no longer I who live,
but it is Christ who lives in me.”
So my brothers and sisters, let the words ring out
strongly from our lips on Easter morning, throughout
the rest of the Easter season and beyond. “Christ is
Risen. He is Risen, Indeed.” But more importantly
let us proclaim that He lives through our actions of
love, mercy and kindness and let others know that our
Christian faith and Christian life is a reflection of the
living Christ.
“Christ is Risen. He is Risen, Indeed”
Easter Greetings from the staff of God’s Field.
Controller: Most Rev. Anthony A. Mikovsky
Editor: Julie Orzell
4 God’s Field — March 2016
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“Once Upon a Tree” Rt. Rev. John Mack — Bishop, Buffalo-Pittsburgh Diocese P.N.C.C.
Every once in a while, while looking for inspiration to
pen a few words for an article, I think back to an event
that proved to be a “God moment” in life. I
remember trying to reactivate the “Pittsburgh Bard” to
gather and present a Lenten Cantata in 2004. We
selected Pepper Choplin’s “Once Upon a Tree.”
Skipping production details, the Cantata came off
fairly well with God’s help. What I would like to
share is some of the libretto from the Cantata. It
traces the story of Luke as he writes the Acts of the
Apostles and tells of his commitment to Jesus.
Pepper Choplin begins his forward by saying,
”Nothing we can say about this story of Christ can add
to it or make it more meaningful. All we can do is
simply tell it as clearly as we can and get out of the
way. It stands alone; its power is intrinsic. When
people truly hear and experience the story, they are
inevitably changed.” He continues: “The story takes
us to the depths of human suffering and lifts us to the
ultimate victory over death. If the biblical account of
Jesus’ death and resurrection was simply a work of
literature, its dramatic power could stand beside the
greatest of Shakespearean plays. But to those who
would believe, it transcends literature and defines the
meaning of life itself and leads the way to eternal
life.”
The opening selection says, “Once upon a tree, a good
man died, and though He did no crime, He was
crucified. If the story ended there, I would have no
song to share, but my heart will ever sing the story.
Once upon a tree, so the story goes, and all its mystery
surely no one knows. Could the Father’s will be done
through the suff’ring of His Son? And there comes
the answer, “Once upon a tree.” Some might take
offense in the use of the words, “a good man died”
and “if the story ended there.” For believers, Christ
was more than “a good man” and the “story” is not
just a book at the library, but the Gospel of our
Almighty God!. Yet, not everyone believes that Jesus
WAS/IS the Son of God. (surprisingly, even some
Christians!) Not everyone believes that the Bible is
the revealed Word of God. It is our task to convince
them! We must, however, believe it and live it out in
our lives first and foremost! It is our task to bring the
grace and power and richness and treasure that is
found in believing in God to the world of unbelief!
The character Luke asks rhetorically at the beginning
of the Cantata, “What is worth giving your life to?
Have you ever asked that question? I discovered a
story so compelling, that giving my life to tell it . . .
as the only way I finally found my life. Really I had
no choice. God called me to do this. I’ve spent my life
recording the testimonies of those who were forever
changed by their encounters with Jesus. The work has
already changed me profoundly. We must ask
ourselves this Easter and every day of our lives this
question: Has being a Christian all these years (you
fill in the number of years) changed my life
profoundly? If not, we can’t say that Jesus hasn’t
tried to change us – it’s just that we haven’t been
cooperative. We haven’t taken the initiative. We
haven’t put forth the effort!
Luke ends his dialogue before the final selection “The
Song Lives On, Hallelujah!” with these words that
speak of Christ’s Resurrection: “ I could not sleep in
peace if the story ended at the tomb. I would not give
my life to its telling. But tonight, I rest in the
assurance that tomorrow belongs to the Lord. I
rejoice in the glorious things I have yet to tell: the
miracle of an empty tomb; the wonder of Jesus’
resurrection and His appearance to people on earth.
Then, there are the glorious eyewitness accounts of
Christ ascending into heaven right before their eyes.
Now, I travel with the apostle Paul and see mighty
wonders with my own eyes. There is so much more
to be written as I continue to record the Acts of the
Apostles. Each day is an adventure as we take the
story of Christ to the ends of the earth. I have been
faithful in recording all of these things and now place
them in your hands. What will you do with this
story?” This is truly the crux of the Gospel. What
will I do with “this story?” What will you do with
this story?” Someone once wrote: “Christianity is
only a generation away from extinction.” It sounds
quite foreboding and yet it is a true statement in
reality.
I ask you this Easter – What have you done to further
the living Gospel of Jesus Christ in the world around
you? Have you shared your faith and belief in Jesus
and His Resurrection? If you haven’t done so
recently, there is no better time than NOW to begin.
Make a pledge to Jesus this Eastertide to reverently
LIVE a Resurrected Life on a daily basis. With
God’s help and the power of the Holy Spirit we will
be empowered to make a difference in the world
around us.
Wesołego Alleluja – A Blessed Eastertide to All!
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Volume 94, Issue No. 3 5
Christ is Risen! He is Risen, Indeed!
Rt. Rev. Bernard Nowicki
Bishop, Central Diocese P.N.C.C.
When we greet each other at Easter we usually offer
the default common greeting of “Happy Easter” if
we use one at all. As a greeting, I suppose it’s better
to use that one than nothing at all on that glorious
occasion, but doesn’t it just seem a little mundane,
something akin to “Have a nice day,” the way it so
easily trips off our lips? Well thank God for the
Polish and generally Eastern European and Orthodox
Easter greeting that, I’d say, is big enough for and
equal to so wondrous a Solemnity of our Faith as the
resurrection of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
The Easter greeting I’m referring to is, of course,
“Chrystus zmartwychwstal!” “Christ is risen!” And
the recipient of that greeting responds boldly and
with joy in his heart, “Prawdziwie zmartwychwstal!”
“He is risen, indeed!” As you can see, this Eastern
European greeting is no simple desire that the
recipient of it will go out and have a good time.
Rather, this greeting is nothing less than a
proclamation that draws the greeter and the recipient,
i.e., you and me, into the very center of the mystery
of our faith in Christ risen from the dead for our
salvation. In your greeting to me on Easter Sunday
of “Christ is risen!” and in my response to you of
“He is risen, indeed!” we are, in that moment
together, the Church alive, proclaiming and giving
exultant witness to our common faith in the risen
Lord. The simplistic phrase, “Happy Easter,” falls
significantly short of doing anything like that.
Maybe this Polish Easter greeting isn’t regularly
used among us precisely because it pulls you and me
into the mystery of our faith, giving a very public
witness of our faith, indicating vividly what both of
us truly believe and how people who hear us can
expect it to be reflected in our lives. When you
extend this greeting to me, it expects a response from
me that then ties us together in that faith, and unites
us in the Church and into a specific style of living.
Christ Is Risen! He Is Risen, Indeed!
The challenges of secularism and marginalization
and others that are facing not only our Polish
National Catholic Church today but indeed the entire
Church of Christ everywhere in the world are
challenges that call us Polish National Catholics,
specifically, to consider whether our Catholic faith is
just a generic title that has little influence in our
lives, or whether our Catholic faith is something that
we embrace with a love that influences our whole
lives; a faith that we give witness to in the way we
live and in the ways people experience us.
From this Easter forward, then, as Polish National
Catholics, please witness enthusiastically to your life
and living in the Catholic faith. As Polish National
Catholics, we don’t need simply to hope for a
“Happy Easter,” but rather we have the reality of
Jesus, God’s Christ, risen from the dead, in whom
we place our faith, a faith that moves you to proclaim
to me that “Christ Is Risen!” and that moves me to
gladly and gratefully respond to you, “He Is Risen,
Indeed!”
May you all experience a glorious, blessed and
uplifting celebration of our Lord’s resurrection this
Easter Day!
6 God’s Field — March 2016
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An Easter Message for 2016
Rt. Rev. Paul Sobiechowski
Bishop, Buffalo-Eastern Diocese P.N.C.C.
“After the sabbath, as the first day of the week was dawning, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary came to see the tomb. And
behold, there was a great earthquake; for an angel of the Lord descended from heaven, approached, rolled back the stone, and sat
upon it. His appearance was like lightning and his clothing was white as snow. The guards were shaken with fear of him and became
like dead men. Then the angel said to the women in reply, “Do not be afraid! I know that you are seeking Jesus the crucified. He is
not here, for he has been raised just as he said. Come and see the place where he lay. Then go quickly and tell his disciples, ‘He has
been raised from the dead, and he is going before you to Galilee; there you will see him.’ Behold, I have told you.”
(Matthew 28: 1-7, NAB)
Matthew’s description of the Resurrection of Our
Lord is interesting in that Matthew presents the event
taking place with “Mary Magdalene and the other
Mary” present. They don’t see Jesus coming forth
from the tomb, but the sequence of events suggests
that they experienced the earthquake either
approaching the tomb or standing before it. The
earthquake is attributed to the presence of an angel of
the Lord coming down from heaven . He then
approaches the throne, rolls back the stone and sits
upon it.
The contrast between the two women and the guards
is striking. The women are apparently in awe of all
that is occurring. The guards, on the other hand,
shake with fear and “become like dead men.” They
faint out of the great fear they experience. It was a
fear so great that they could be seen shaking.
Why didn’t the women react in the same way? I think
this had much to do with the faith they possessed and
the years of teaching they experienced with Jesus.
Thus, while not understanding what had just
happened they did hear the angel’s words and
remembered what Jesus had taught them together
with the apostles and disciples that followed Him.
Though fearful, their reaction to the presence of an
angel was to accept the invitation to enter the tomb.
They saw and believed. Rejoicing, they left the tomb
to share the news of the Resurrection with the
Apostles.
The guards, on the other hand were unbelievers.
They could have even been among those Roman
soldiers who mocked Jesus and may have also been a
part of the crucifixion detail. They had neither the
faith nor the learned experience of the women who
had been disciples of Jesus. When the earth quaked
and the angel appeared their thoughts were not of
life, but death; their own deaths.
Because they fainted, the soldiers missed the
message that the angel shared with the women, “He
is not here, for he has been raised just as he said.”
Whenever the guards came to, it can be assumed that
they also entered the tomb, but they had no idea what
occurred. They lacked both the faith and the
knowledge that would explain what seemed
unexplainable. They left that place, as did the
women, but not to announce the good news. They ran
fearing “judgement.” They faced the wrath of their
superiors, perhaps their own executions, for failing to
keep secure the sealed tomb.
If these were the same guards to whom Matthew
refers, who accept a bribe from the chief priests and
elders, it is easy to see why their silence could be
bought and their participation in a lie secured.
For these of no faith, no explanation existed.
Therefore, to accept a bribe, to spread a lie, also
meant to preserve their lives, and walk away with a
profit for what seemed to be a failure to carry out
orders.
During this Lenten season just passed, every member
of Christ’s Church, indeed every person who walked
Passion’s pathway, ends that journey before the
tomb. Each stands, as did the women and the
soldiers, in that moment just before the earth quakes
and the angel comes down from heaven. Every
person will walk away from the tomb either as the
women or as the soldiers. Members of the Church
have heard Christ’s teachings and have been imbued
with faith at Baptism. Members of the Church have
all the advantages of Mary Magdalene and the other
Mary. But a choice must still be made to believe or
not to believe.
“...He is going before you...You will see Him.
Behold, I have told you.” If we choose to believe
then we must announce the Good News of the
Resurrection. Anything less places us in the soldiers’
camp.
Rejoice, be bold, and share the joy with everyone this
Easter Sunday and everyday. “Jesus Christ is Risen!
He is risen indeed!”
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Volume 94, Issue No. 3 7
Easter Message
Rt. Rev. Stanley Bilinski
Bishop, Western Diocese P.N.C.C.
As I will do as I have done for the years of my
ministry, I will use the hours of silence on Good
Friday for reflection and meditation. And, as I have
over the years of my ministry, I will again turn to the
Church Fathers for guidance and fulfillment in the
time of silence. What a wealth of spiritual centering!
I can write no more profound words than I find in the
Fathers, nor can I move far from the humble position
I find myself in reading their words. I will share
some of my “friends’” teachings with you in a form
of Easter greetings. My first friend is Saint
Augustine (5 c.):
Because there are these two periods of time - the one
that now is, beset with the trials and troubles of this
life, and the other yet to come, a life of everlasting
serenity and joy - we are given two liturgical
seasons; one before Easter and the other after. The
season before Easter signifies the troubles in which
we live here and now, while the time after Easter
which we are celebrating at present signifies the
happiness that will be ours in the future. What we
commemorate before Easter is what we experience in
this life; what we celebrate after Easter points to
something we do not yet possess. This is why we
keep the first season with fasting and prayer; but now
the fast is over and we devote the present season to
praise. Such is the meaning of the Alleluia we sing.
Melito of Sardis (2.c) brings together for us the
purpose of Great Lent and the Fifty Days. I hope and
pray that your Lenten sojourn had been a time of
great reflection and preparation. I have always
believed that Lent is particularly the toughest time of
the year for the believer. Although we are always
under attack both on this plane and the spiritual
during all our days, no other time, Lent, is our focus
on the Lord sharper. The saint writes:
Both these periods are represented and demonstrated
for us in Christ our head. The Lord's passion depicts
for us our present life of trial - shows how we must
suffer and be afflicted and finally die. The Lord's
resurrection and glorification show us the life that
will be given to us in the future.
Now therefore, brethren, we urge you to praise God.
That is what we are all telling each other when we (Continued on Page 8.)
say Alleluia. You say to your neighbor, "Praise the
Lord!" and he says the same to you. We are all
urging one another to praise the Lord, and all thereby
doing what each of us urges the other to do. But see
that your praise comes from your whole being; in
other words, see that you praise God not with your
lips and voices alone, but with your minds, your lives
and all your actions.
We should understand, beloved, that the paschal
mystery is at once old and new, transitory and
eternal, corruptible and incorruptible, mortal and
immortal. In terms of the Law it is old; in terms of
the Word it is new. In its figure it is passing, in its
grace it is eternal. It is corruptible in the sacrifice of
the lamb, incorruptible in the eternal life of the Lord.
It is mortal in its burial in the earth, immortal in His
resurrection from the dead.
The Law indeed is old, but the Word is new. The
type is transitory, but grace is eternal. The lamb was
corruptible, but the Lord is incorruptible. He was
slain as a lamb; he rose again as God. He was led like
a sheep to the slaughter, yet he was not a sheep. He
was silent as a lamb, yet he was not a lamb. The type
has passed away; the reality has come. The lamb
gives place to God, the sheep gives place to a man,
and the man is Christ, who fills the whole of
creation. The sacrifice of the lamb, the celebration of
the Passover, and the prescriptions of the Law have
been fulfilled in Jesus Christ. Under the old Law, and
still more under the new dispensation, everything
pointed toward Him.
On Easter Sunday, as we gather for the solemn
liturgy, we are caught up in the majesty of the reality
that we are celebrating. No other event in human
history is as pivotal in the life of all of us as is the
Resurrection. Amidst of all our family celebrations
of the Solemnity, let us listen to Melito’s words as
what Jesus is for us because of His Holy
Resurrection:
Who has anything to say against me? I, he said, am
the Christ; I have destroyed death, triumphed over
the enemy, trampled hell underfoot, bound the strong
one, and taken men up to the heights of heaven: I am
the Christ.
8 God’s Field — March 2016
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Come, then, all you nations of men, receive
forgiveness for the sins that defile you. I am your
forgiveness. I am the Passover that brings salvation. I
am the lamb who was immolated for you. I am your
ransom, your life, your resurrection, your light; I am
your salvation and your king. I will bring you to the
heights of heaven. With my own right hand I will
raise you up, and I will show you the eternal Father.
What more glorious words to us as Jesus is for us in
the Resurrection and the Life! In the midst of our
Easter celebration, we should take a moment to
humble ourselves and reflect on who the Jesus of the
Resurrection is for us.
What Easter means for us is the focus on much of
what the Church Fathers wrote to the Church for its
guidance and teaching. We are the recipients of a
great joy! We are the sharers in a glory that is
indescribable!
We, as the Polish National Catholic Church, are in
the midst of the Year of Reverence. It should prove
to be one that should be, as a Church, a year that
brings us to the very point of our Paschal
Celebration. Reverence stems from a humble
recognition of the Resurrection in our life, both as
Church and as individuals. Reverence is standing
beside the rolled away stone; reverence is peering in
the empty tomb; reverence is hearing your name
spoken by the Risen One through the clouded veil of
this world.
Saint John Chrysostom, the golden-mouthed one (5
c.), gives us a wonderful focus to carry us through
our Fifty Days and beyond:
Devout and God-loving people, enjoy this kind and
bright festival. Wise people, come and share joy with
your Lord. … All of you enter into the joy of the
Lord: First and last, receive the reward! Wealthy and
poor, rejoice with one another! Diligent and lazy,
celebrate the festival! Those who have fasted and
those who have not, be glad together. The feast is
abundant, eat your fill! All of you enjoy the wealthy
banquet of the faith and mercy of God. Let no-one go
away hungry or offended. … Christ is risen, and you
are brought down. Christ is risen, and the demons
have fallen. Christ is risen, and the angels rejoice.
Christ is risen, and life triumphs. Christ is risen, and
there are no dead in the grave. Christ has risen from
the dead, become the firstborn of those who sleep
and set into motion the resurrection of all. To Him be
glory now and forever. Amen!
May I, with the entire community of the Western
Diocese, share with our Prime Bishop, the Diocesan
Bishops, clergy and faithful of the Polish National
Catholic Church, and our ecclesial partners the
greetings for a glorious Eastertide!
Mogę z całą wspólnotą Diecezji Zachodniej z
udziałem premiera naszego biskupa biskupów
diecezjalnych, duchowieństwa i wiernych PNKK i
naszych partnerów kościelnych pozdrowienia dla
wspaniałej wielkanocnym!
¿Puedo con toda la comunidad de la cuota Diócesis
Occidental con nuestro primer Obispo, los Obispos
diocesanos, sacerdotes y fieles de la Iglesia Católica
Nacional Polaca, y nuestros socios eclesiales los
saludos para una gloriosa Pascua!
(Easter Message - Western Diocese - Continued from Page 7.)
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Volume 94, Issue No. 3 9
Reverence – Lent/Holy Week and Easter
Most Rev. Anthony A. Mikovsky
After a long Lent, times of self-denial and Lenten
practices to discipline ourselves, we now come to the
most solemn and holy time of the year, Holy Week
and the beginning of the Easter season. Things do
change a little when we come to Holy Week.
Throughout most of the Lenten season, as well as the
rest of Ordinary Time, the progression of the
Readings and Masses through the weeks are
governed by the lessons that are to be focused upon.
But Holy Week is set aside as a week where we
closely follow the progression of events within the
life of Jesus as given us in Holy Scripture.
We begin with Palm Sunday and the triumphant
entrance of Jesus into Jerusalem. Within the liturgy
of the Palms, celebrated before Holy Mass, we
participate in this event. We together sing those
words which the residents of Jerusalem and those
that followed Jesus sang that day, “Hosanna to the
Son of David! Blessed is He who comes in the name
of the Lord! O King of Israel: Hosanna in the
highest!” After palms are blessed and distributed to
the congregation the procession is reenacted. The
clergy, together with the choir and sometimes the
entire congregation, process around the Church
either within the church building itself or outside as a
reminder of this solemn procession of our Lord into
the city of Jerusalem. To finally commemorate the
entrance, the celebrant waits behind the closed doors
of the Church and sings antiphonally with the choir
inside. At the end the celebrant knocks on the doors
and they are flung open and he processes into
Church. The words of the liturgy express what we
are commemorating, “Let us adore the Savior, Who
rode in royal triumph into Jerusalem.”
Following this event, as a reminder that there will be
a quick change in the attitude of the people, the
processional cross is laid on the floor of the nave of
the Church and the celebrant scourges the cross. He
sings this in anticipation of what will occur later in
this same week. As the cross is struck with the
palms, the celebrant sings, “It is written: ‘They shall
strike the Shepherd and the sheep of the flock will be
scattered. But after I am resurrected I will go before
you to Galilee. There you shall see Me,’ says the
Lord.”
Following this scourging, the clergy proceed to the
sanctuary and proceed with the celebration of Holy
Mass. One important part of this Holy Mass is the
reading of the Passion of our Lord, Jesus Christ, as
the Gospel Reading. Once again this is a reminder of
all that will occur during this week to come. This
Gospel, taken from one of the Synoptics (Matthew,
Mark or Luke) narrates the Last Supper, the arrest of
Jesus on the evening of Holy Thursday and all of the
events of Good Friday, from the trial of Jesus
through the Crucifixion to His painful death upon the
Cross.
In this Palm Sunday celebration we participate in this
entry of Jesus into Jerusalem and also ready
ourselves for what is to come. As Christians this
week certainly should be special. This should be a
week where we can put aside extra time to give
praise and thanksgiving to God for all that He has
done for us through the actions of Jesus Christ in
instituting the Holy Eucharist and going to the Cross
for the forgiveness of our sins. It is also a period
when the commemoration of these events should be
found not only in the Church building, but also
within our homes. This begins with the palms that
we receive on Palm Sunday. They serve as a
reminder within our homes of this special day and of
this entire week. Many people fold into crosses or
braid these palms and place them with holy pictures
or on a crucifix within their homes. Palms are a
symbol of triumph and therefore they serve to
remind us that even though Jesus will go to His death
on Good Friday, He will triumph over the grave in
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10 God’s Field — March 2016
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the Resurrection. With this same symbolism it is
also appropriate to place palms on the graves of our
loved ones and friends. We remind ourselves
thereby that the followers of Jesus will likewise
share in His resurrection on the last day.
This is also a good place to remind all that as palms
are blessed by the Church they are not to be
discarded when they are old and dry and new palms
are received. They, like all blessed items, are to be
respected. Palms can be burned or buried in a
respectful place. Many parishes collect old palms
which are then burned to make the ashes that will be
used on Ash Wednesday the following year.
The next day of celebration within this week is often
held on Holy Tuesday and is known as the Chrism
Mass. This Holy Mass is celebrated at one location
within each diocese and is a special celebration of
the priesthood and the holy oils. This Mass is always
a very meaningful and special celebration for the
priests of the diocese to gather together with their
bishop. It is a reminder that on Holy Thursday when
Jesus instituted the Holy Eucharist He also instituted
the priesthood. He told the apostles gathered to “Do
this in memory of Me.” And the Church still “does
this” each and every time we gather for Holy Mass.
Because of this connection to the Last Supper, this
Holy Mass of the Priesthood and Holy Oils was
celebrated on the morning of Holy Thursday. In all
of the dioceses of the P.N.C.C., though, it has been
moved to Tuesday so that all the priests can
participate and still return to their parishes for the
rest of the services of Holy Week.
It is also during this Holy Mass, with all of the
priests gathered with the bishop, that the Holy Oils
are blessed. The three oils used in the Church are:
the Oil of Catechumens, the Oil of the Sick and the
Sacred Chrism. These oils are used in the
celebration of various sacraments within the Church
and also at a variety of Church celebrations. It is an
important and powerful thing to remember that
whenever these oils are used, such as during the
Holy Anointing of a sick individual or at the baptism
of an infant, that not only the local clergy is involved,
but that these oils were blessed and consecrated by
the bishop together with all of the priests of the
diocese. In this way these oils then contain the
prayers and blessings of the entire Church.
The next day within our celebration is that of Holy
Thursday, the day of the Institution of the Holy
Eucharist. The celebration calls this to mind but
other events that occurred around the time of the Last
Supper are also a part of this celebration. After the
homily, following the pattern of Jesus, a rite known
as the mandatum can take place. During this rite the
celebrant of Mass washes the feet of some members
of the parish. This can be a very powerful moment of
encounter between the celebrant and the members of
his congregation. We are reminded how the Lord did
this same service for His disciples when they were
gathered for the Last Supper and told them to do this
for each other.
During the Canon of the Mass and also during the
reception of Communion at this Mass we are
reminded that it was on this day that Jesus instituted
this action together with His disciples. We take note
of the fact that this event had such strong impact on
the disciples that that continued to do this in the same
way that Jesus had done this with them. We must
also remind ourselves of the great privilege that we
each have to gather in this same way and share holy
communion with our Lord and with each other.
Following the celebration of Mass on this day we
also commemorate the events that took place on that
evening of Holy Thursday. The sacrament is
removed from the main tabernacle of the Church and
in a ciborium it is wrapped in a linen cloth and
processed to an altar of repose, oftentimes a side altar
within the church. In this rite we commemorate the
event of our Lord going to the garden of Gethsemane
and finally being arrested and taken away. Following
this the altar is stripped of all the altar cloths. This is
in preparation for the solemn rites of Good Friday.
(Reverence – Lent/Holy Week and Easter - Continued from Page 9.)
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Volume 94, Issue No. 3 11
The barren look of the main altar prepares us for the
raw emotion that will be present on the day of Good
Friday.
A personal reverence practice of many individuals
during this evening is to spend some time in
adoration before the Blessed Sacrament at the altar
of repose. It is once again a reminder of the time in
the garden with Jesus. Jesus had taken the apostles
and especially Peter, James and John with Him to
pray. Jesus said to them, “Pray and watch with Me.”
In remembrance of this we spend time watching in
prayer before the presence of Jesus in the Blessed
Sacrament.
On Good Friday, the Church celebrates a number of
rites to commemorate all of the events of this day.
The Liturgy of Presanctified is the solemn
celebration of the Passion and Death of Jesus. The
service begins with the Liturgy of the Word where
the Passion and Death of Jesus from the Gospel of
St. John is read. During this reading, at the point
where Jesus dies all within the Church stop for a
moment and fall to their knees in remembrance that
it was on this day that these events happened. These
readings are followed by prayers for all people: for
the Church, for all the clergy and laity, for all
Christians, for those who do not believe in Christ, for
those who do not believe in God, for all in public
office and for those in special need. These prayers
remind us that Christ died for all people and He calls
all to believe in Him.
These prayers are followed by the rite of the
Veneration of the Cross. For this a large wooden
cross is unveiled and placed on the floor of the
Church for veneration. The clergy and the laity are
invited to approach the cross and kiss the five
wounds of Christ. We honor these wounds in this
action and every time we sing or say the antiphon of
this Passion time, “Lord, for us Your wounds were
suffered, O Christ Jesus, have mercy on us.” For our
personal reverence, this is an important saying to
have on our lips, especially during this Good Friday.
Next is held the distribution of Communion for this
day. Holy Mass is not celebrated because of the
feelings of sadness and sorrow within the Church, but
even in this sadness and recognition that Jesus
suffered and died for our sins, Jesus still does come
to us and He still feeds and sustains us. It is for this
reason that Holy Communion is still distributed from
the Eucharist that was consecrated on the day before.
Other rites may also be celebrated on this day. At an
appropriate time the symbolic tomb of Jesus may be
opened and prayers offered there. We are reminded
that Joseph of Arimathea asked for the body of Jesus
and he, together with others, buried Him in a new
tomb. Again in this rite we follow the events of
Scripture and join with them in prayer. Other
services which may be celebrated are more in the
aspect of reflection. Stations of the Cross are often
celebrated and this is especially appropriate on this
day as we walk with Jesus as He carries the cross and
goes to His death. Bitter Lamentations are another
appropriate reflection on this day as we pray about
and reflect on all that Jesus has done for us. The
evening service of Tenebrae can also be held on
several of the evenings of Holy Week. This service
is a reflection on the dying of Jesus as psalms are
read or sung and candles are slowly extinguished
representing this dying. There is also the personal
reverence practice at home where the television and
radio are turned off for the day and quiet is kept
throughout the day. It is to be a day of reflection and
prayer, not one for any sort of amusements or other
activities.
On the day of Holy Saturday, the attitude of the
Church already begins to change knowing that the
Resurrection is soon to follow. As the candles were
extinguished on Good Friday, on Holy Saturday the
Church blesses the new light and processes it into
Church. On Good Friday all the Holy Water is
removed from the Church and new water is blessed
this day as well. An extensive group of readings,
either the Exhortations of the P.N.C.C. or a series of
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12 God’s Field — March 2016
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many readings from the lectionary are read
reminding us that in the Resurrection that will be
accomplished the next day, there is a new creation.
We read about the events of the first creation,
knowing that all of this will be renewed because of
the Resurrection of Christ. The last rite of this day is
a reaffirmation of our baptismal vows or, if the
occasion presents itself, a baptism is very appropriate
to be performed this day. This is in remembrance of
the practice of the early Church when baptisms were
performed on Holy Saturday so that the adult
converts could participate fully in Holy Mass for the
first time on Easter Sunday. As an aspect of personal
reverence Holy Saturday is the day to get items ready
and have them blessed for the breaking of the fast on
Easter Sunday. Often many symbolic items are taken
to church for a blessing and eaten on Sunday: bread,
to represent Jesus as the Bread of Life; ham, to
represent that there is a new covenant in the death
and resurrection of Christ; vinegar, as a reminder of
the bitter passion; eggs, as a reminder that Christ
broke out of the tomb on that Easter morning; salt
and a candle, as a reminder of Jesus’ command to be
salt and light. There are often other items dependent
on the culture.
Finally we come to the celebration of Easter Sunday,
the celebration of the Resurrection of Christ. Again
as a part of the rite before Mass, the clergy go to the
tomb which is empty just as it was in Scripture and
from there process Jesus, truly present in the Blessed
Sacrament, throughout the Church while joyous
hymns of Easter are sung. Then follows Holy Mass
celebrated with the fullest joy as we proclaim that
Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior has been raised to
life and has triumphed over death.
In the personal practice of our reverence, during this
season of Easter we can change our greeting to each
other by saying “Christ is risen” with the response,
“He is risen, indeed.” In particular we encourage the
pious practice of saying these words when
encountering the clergy and also when arriving at the
home of a fellow Christian and even at your own
home.
These days of Holy Week and Easter are certainly
special days within the life of our Lord and also
within our own lives. The Church encourages us all
to celebrate them as fully as possible. Join with your
congregation to participate more fully in this vital
part of our Lord’s journey. But even if you can’t be
with your congregation at all times there is certainly
time for each of us to spend some moments in prayer
during these moments, no matter where we are or
what we are doing, to join our prayer life to that of
our Lord and let the reverence and devotion of Holy
Week and Easter be fully a part of our Christian life.
(Reverence – Lent/Holy Week and Easter - Continued from Page 11.)
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Volume 94, Issue No. 3 13
Prime Bishop Emeritus Robert Nemkovich
to celebrate 50th Anniversary of Ordination to the Holy Priesthood
On April 10, 2016 Prime Bishop Emeritus Robert
Nemkovich will celebrate Holy Mass and
commemorate his 50th Anniversary to the Holy
Priesthood in the Polish National Catholic Church.
On April 14, 1966 he was ordained in St Stanislaus
Bishop and Martyr Cathedral in Scranton,
Pennsylvania by Prime Bishop Leon Grochowski.
Following his ordination he was assigned as an
assistant priest at St. Stanislaus Cathedral in Scranton
where he served for almost two years.
In 1968 he was transferred to the Eastern Diocese
and was assigned as pastor of Holy Mother of the
Rosary Parish in Chicopee, Massachusetts and
continued to serve there for 11 years. In 1979 he
became the pastor of St. Joseph’s Parish in Westfield,
Massachusetts and in 1980 was elevated to position
of Administrative Senior of the Central Seniorate of
the Eastern Diocese. He continued as pastor in
Westfield until he was consecrated as bishop.
He was consecrated a Bishop on October 18, 1993.
Following his consecration Bishop Robert moved to
Chicago, Illinois where he became pastor of All
Saints Cathedral Parish and Auxiliary Bishop of the
Western Diocese of the Polish National Catholic
Church. In April 1994 he became the 5th Diocesan
Bishop of the Western Diocese.
Bishop Robert served the Western Diocese until he
was elected as the 6th Prime Bishop of the Polish
National Catholic Church during the General Synod
in October 2002. He served as Prime Bishop until
October 2010. After the installation of Prime Bishop
Mikovsky, he retired with his wonderful wife,
Florence, and they moved to Cape Coral Florida,
where they presently reside
For almost two years Prime Bishop Emeritus
Nemkovich traveled to Davie, Florida every other
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14 God’s Field — March 2016
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week to celebrate Mass and preach at St. Joseph's
Parish. On alternate Sundays he would celebrate
Holy Mass at his residence. Due to knee replacement
surgery and the 135 mile distance to Davie, he no
longer could travel to St. Joseph's, but he continues to
celebrate Holy Mass on Sundays at his residence. A
number of faithful people who settled in Southwest
Florida, as well as some of the “snowbirds,” join him
at Holy Mass on Sundays.
Prime Bishop Emeritus Nemkovich served in various
capacities during his holy priesthood: First Youth
Chaplain of the Eastern Diocese, Chairman of the
Polish National Catholic – Roman Catholic Dialogue,
member of the P.N.C.C.-Anglican Old Catholic
Working Group, member of the National School of
Christian Living Commission, Chaplain for Convo
76 and 84. He served on the Controlling Committee
of the Polish National Union of America and then as
Prime Bishop on the Board of Directors of the PNU
and Chairman of Spójnia, Inc. During his tenure as
Prime Bishop the Declaration of Scranton was
promulgated and groundwork for the Union of
Scranton was solidified.
Prime Bishop Emeritus Robert and Florence
Nemkovich have three children: Very Rev. Robert in
Fall River, MA; Timothy in St. Louis, MO and Kevin
in Grayslake, IL. They are blessed with 7
grandchildren. Submitted by Very Rev. Robert M. Nemkovich, Jr.
(Prime Bishop Emeritus - Continued from Page 13.)
63rd Anniversary of the Death of śp. Most Rev. Franciszek Hodur
Commemorated at Mass at St. Stanislaus Cathedral
Scranton, PA
Rev. Carmen Bolock, Rt. Rev. Bernard Nowicki, Most Rev. Anthony Mikovsky, Rev. Janusz Lucarz, Very Rev. Zbigniew Dawid
and John Andrzejewski place a wreath near the portrait of Bishop Hodur in the Cathedral.
On Tuesday, February 16, 2016, Rt. Rev. Bernard J.
Nowicki, Bishop of the Central Diocese, P.N.C.C.,
and pastor of St. Stanislaus Cathedral, celebrated the
Mass commemorating the 63rd Anniversary of the
Death of Bishop Hodur.
Most Rev. Anthony Mikovsky, Prime Bishop of the
P.N.C.C. delivered the sermon. The Mass was
concelebrated by clergy from Dupont, Duryea and
Scranton and attended by the PNU and National
Church Center staff.
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Volume 94, Issue No. 3 15
16 God’s Field — March 2016
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Dialogue Between the Polish National Catholic Church
and the Roman Catholic Church
Did you know that because of the dialogue with the
Roman Catholic Church, that the apostolic
succession of clergy of the Polish National Catholic
Church has been recognized by the Roman Catholic
Church, and that members of each Church can in
some circumstances receive communion in either
Church?
Two books report on the dialogue discussions
between the Polish National Catholic Church
(P.N.C.C.) and the Roman Catholic Church (RCC).
They are Journeying Together in Christ and
Journeying Together in Christ, The Journey
Continues. The first book covered the 10 meetings of
1984 through 1989 in 96 pages, and was edited by
Rt. Rev Anthony M. Rysz, P.N.C.C. and Most Rev.
Stanislaus J. Brzana, RCC. The second book covered
24 meetings from 1989 through 2002 in 123 pages,
and was edited by Most Rev. Robert M. Nemkovich,
P.N.C.C. and Most Rev. James C. Timlin, RCC. This
book also includes the tenth meeting that was
covered in the first volume. Both books were
published by Our Sunday Visitor. This article will
deal with the first book. A subsequent article will be
about the second book.
The meetings generally alternated between P.N.C.C.
sites and RCC sites and were hosted by that Church.
The first seven meetings were conducted on one day
and the last three were held on two days. The first
meeting was held at Saints Peter and Paul P.N.C.C.,
Passaic, NJ on Oct. 23, 1984. The second was held at
the U. S. Catholic Conference Department of
Communications (RCC), New York, NY on May 7,
1985. The third was held at the Cathedral of Saint
Stanislaus Bishop and Martyr P.N.C.C., Scranton,
PA, on Nov. 5, 1985. The fourth was held at the
Chancery of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia (RCC),
Philadelphia PA on May 6, 1986. The fifth was held
at the Cathedral of the Holy Mother of the Rosary
P.N.C.C., Buffalo, NY on Nov. 6, 1986. The sixth
was held at the Chancery of the Central Diocese
P.N.C.C., Scranton, PA, on May 14, 1987. The
seventh was held at All Saints P.N.C.C., Carnegie,
PA on Dec. 12, 1987. The eighth was held at the
Chancery of the Archdiocese of Chicago (RCC), Chi-
cago, IL on May 26-27, 1988. The ninth was held at
the Holy Mother of the Rosary P.N.C.C., Chicopee,
MA on Nov. 29-30, 1988. The tenth was held at the
Washington Retreat House (RCC), Washington, DC,
on June 1-2, 1989.
The 20 participants, their affiliation and meeting
attendance is shown in the table on the opposite page.
Journeying Together in Christ is comprised of four
sections: (1) Foreword, (2) Summary Report of the
Polish National Catholic - Roman Catholic Dialogue
(1984-1989), (3) A Brief History of the Polish
National Catholic Church and its Origins by Joseph
W. Wieczerzak, Ph.D., Chairman, P.N.C.C.
Commission on History and Archives and (4) The
P.N.C.C.: Its Roman Catholic Origins by Reverend
Monsignor John P. Gallagher, Ph.D. Historian,
Diocese of Scranton. It also includes a Forward
which describes the process by which these meetings
had their beginnings, two appendices and an index.
The two appendices list the sessions of the dialogue
and the participants at each, and the documentation.
Foreword The Foreword, written by the co-chairs, Bishop
Anthony Rysz (P.N.C.C.) and Bishop Stanislaus
Brzana (RCC), described the sequence of events
which led to the dialogue. In late 1980, the seeds of a
dialogue discussion were sown when Pope John Paul
II expressed an interest in inquiring about the
possibility of a dialogue between the P.N.C.C. and
the RCC. A letter from Archbishop Ramon Torella,
vice president of the Secretariat for Promoting
Christian Unity was sent to the General Secretary of
the National Conference of Catholic Bishops
(NCCB). The next letter, Nov. 9, 1981, was from
Bishop Ernest Unterkoefler, then chairman of the
NCCB Committee for Ecumenical and Interreligious
Affairs to then Prime Bishop Francis Rowinski.
Bishop Unterkoefler stated he was writing “in an in-
formal way to ask whether you and your Church may
be exploring ideas about ecumenical conversations
with representative of the Roman Catholic Church at
the local, regional or national level. The P.N.C.C.
has a rich tradition and has our esteem. If you have
any concrete or specific ideas about how to we can
journey together as Churches in the name of Christ, I
shall be most grateful to hear from you.” Fifteen days
later, Prime Bishop Rowinski replied saying “I shall
present your view to my brother bishops at our next
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Volume 94, Issue No. 3 17
Dialogue Participants and Sessions Attended
Name Title Church Meeting
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Rt. Rev. Anthony M. Rysz1 Bp. of the Central Diocese P.N.C.C. X X X X X X X X X X
Rt. Rev. Joseph I. Nieminski Bp. of the Canadian Diocese P.N.C.C. X X X X X X X
Most Rev. Francis Rowinski Bp. of the B-P Diocese P.N.C.C. X X X X X
Most Rev. John. F. Swantek Prime Bishop X
Rt. Rev. Joseph Zawistowski Bp. of the Western Diocese P.N.C.C. X
Rt. Rev. Thomas Gnat Bp. of the Eastern Diocese P.N.C.C. X
Very Rev. Stanley Skrzypek P.N.C.C. X X X X X X X X X X
Very Rev. Sigmund Peplowski P.N.C.C. X X
Dr. Joseph W. Wieczerzak Chair, Comm. on History and
Archives
P.N.C.C. X X
Rev. A. Waine Kargul P.N.C.C. X
Most Rev. John F. Whealon2 Archbishop of Hartford, Chair of
the NCCB of Ecumenical and
Interreligious Affairs
RCC X
Most Rev. Stanislaus J. Brzana3 Bp. of Ogdensburg RCC X X X X X X X X X
Most Rev. James C. Timlin Bp. of Scranton RCC X X X X X X X X X
Most Rev. Alfred L. Abramowicz Assistant Bishop of Chicago RCC X X X
Most Rev. Thaddeus J. Jakubowski Assistant Bishop of Chicago RCC X
Most Rev. Joseph F. Maguire Bp. of Springfield, MA RCC X
Rev. John F. Hotchkin Director of Ecumenical and
Interreligious Affairs, NCCB
RCC X X X X X X X X X X
Rev. Charles W. Gusmer RCC X
Rev. Joseph F. Mytych RCC X X X
Rev. Msgr. John P. Gallagher Historian of the Diocese of
Scranton
RCC X X
1. Co-chair 2. First co-chair 3. Second co-chair NCCB = National Conference of Catholic Bishops
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18 God’s Field — March 2016
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conference in early December and will convey to you
their overall sentiments. In principle the P.N.C.C.
looks favorably on ecumenical contacts with all
Christian denominations insofar as these exchanges
aim at a general improvement in mutual
understanding. Given the circumstances of our
origin, relations with the RCC have not been as
felicitous.” Prime Bishop Rowinski wrote to Bishop
Unterkoefler after the meeting of the P.N.C.C.
Bishops telling him that “the consensus of opinion
was favorable to the idea of talks between
representatives of our respective Churches.”
Arrangements were then made to institute the
dialogue meetings. The process begun in 1981 came
to fruition on October 23, 1984.
Two significant events occurred during these
dialogues. The first, at the invitation of Bishop
Timlin, was attendance of Prime Bishop Rowinski,
Bishop Rysz and Father Skrzypek at the elevations of
Archbishops John O’Conner and Bernard Law and a
meeting with Pope John Paul II in May 1985. At the
meeting with Pope John Paul II they presented his
Holiness with a chalice which had been used by
Bishop Francis Hodur “as a sign of love and symbol
of unity in Christ.”
The second, at the invitation of the General Synod,
was the address by Cardinal John Król to the 1986
General Synod in Manchester, NH.
Summary Report
This summary lists the findings of the dialogue
which took place between 1984 and 1989. These
sessions were focused on the view of the Sacraments
by both Churches. It was concluded that “Both the
P.N.C.C. and the RCC faithfully regard the
sacraments as special gifts of Christ to His Church,
outward signs instituted by Him as means of grace,
wherein He acts in the power of the Spirit to nourish
and strengthen the Church and be present among His
faithful.”
In both Churches, baptism is for adults and infants,
and is administered either by a bishop, priest or
deacon. Both Churches teach that Confirmation is the
completion of Baptism and is conferred at about the
age of 12 to 15.
“The 1889 Declaration of Utrecht, article 6, held
and taught by the bishops of the P.N.C.C. speaks of
the Holy Eucharist as “the true and central point of
Catholic worship” while the Vatican II Constitution
on the Divine Liturgy, no. 10 speaks of the liturgy
culminating in the Eucharist as “the summit toward
which the activity of the Church is directed (and)
also the fount from which all power flows.”
Consequently, both Churches agree in principle on
the centrality of the Holy Eucharist. This section
continues with expanded quotations from article 6 of
the Declaration of Utrecht and article 47 of the II
Vatican Council Constitution on the Divine Liturgy.
Children of both Churches receive their First Holy
Communion at about age seven. In both Churches,
those who receive the Eucharist fast for two hours in
the P.N.C.C. and one hour in the RCC. Both
Churches provide for the reception of the Eucharist
daily. Both also provide three ways to receive the
Eucharist: “1) receiving the Sacred Host and the
Most Precious Blood separately, 2) receiving by
intinction, i. e. the Sacred Host dipped in the Most
Precious Blood, or 3) receiving under one species,
e.g. only the Sacred Host” The P.N.C.C. most often
uses the second form while the RCC uses either the
first or third form. In the P.N.C.C., the minister of
Holy Communion is either a Bishop, Priest or
Deacon. In the RCC the minister may be a Bishop,
Priest or Deacon or by a person commissioned by the
Church to be a Eucharistic Minister.
“Together the RCC and the P.N.C.C. hold that
Penance is the sacrament instituted by Jesus Christ
in which through confession, sorrow and a strong
purpose of amending our lives, sins are forgiven.”
The P.N.C.C. has two forms of confession:
1) private, mandatory for children under the age of
16, and 2) general confession, the form used by
adults. The RCC has three forms of confession:
1) private, the ordinary form used, 2) private, with
multiple confessors and provide absolution
individually [usually done at penitential services,
especially during Advent and Lent.] and 3) general
confession, where there are 6 considerations,
a.) serious necessity circumstances, b.) may not
generally be received twice without an intervening
individual confession, c.) must be followed by an
individual confession “in which each grave sin that
has not previously been confessed is confessed,”
d.) it does not relieve the requirement to confess
individually at least once per year, e.) “This third rite
may not be publically scheduled or announced in
advance,” and f.) “This third rite may not be used as
part of any eucharistic liturgy.” The conclusion was
(Dialogue between P.N.C.C. - R.C. - Continued from Page 17.)
Website of the P.N.C.C.: pncc.org Official P.N.C.C. Facebook Page: PNCC1
Volume 94, Issue No. 3 19
that the difference between the P.N.C.C. and the
RCC is “of form than of underlying intention or
understanding of the sacrament itself.”
The discussions of the sacrament of anointing of the
sick showed that “in matter of faith” there were no
differences between the P.N.C.C. and the RCC.
“In the P.N.C.C., the priest who officiates at the
wedding is regarded as the minister of the sacrament
of matrimony.” In the RCC Latin rite, “the husband
and wife are regarded as the ministers of the
sacrament of matrimony and the priest is the official
witness of the Church.” The sacrament of marriage is
held inviolate by both Churches. In the P.N.C.C.,
special matrimonial courts established in each
diocese review each case and make their
recommendations to the Diocesan Bishop, which are
then acted upon by him. Guidelines for the
annulment of marriages were established at the 1958
General Synod. In the RCC, the Diocesan Bishop
does not usually become involved with matrimonial
courts. “Declarations of nullity are granted only
when a case is reviewed by two separate courts and
grounds have been established proving the existence
of a prior block which impeded a true marriage.”
There were discussions of mixed marriages, i. e. one
spouse being a P.N.C. and the other being an RC, but
no conclusion. “The P.N.C.C. Bishops pointed out
that this continues to constitute real difficulty for
their people.”
Both Churches maintain the pattern of the ordained
ministry and “regard the apostolic succession of
bishops to be integral to the ordained ministry of the
Church.” It was concluded that the rites used to
ordain bishops, priests and deacons “display an
essential similarity.” The RCC participants agreed
that the bishops of the P.N.C.C. are validly ordained
bishops in apostolic succession. There was some
discussion about the procedures followed by both
Churches in the selection of candidates for the office
and ministry of bishops.
“For its part the RCC does not speak of the Word of
God as a sacrament distinct from and along side the
seven sacraments which it celebrates. It considers the
proclamation of the Word of God to be an integral
part of the celebration of all the seven sacraments.
The Word of God permeates all the sacramental
rites.” The RCC recognizes that there is a difference
in the terminology used between the P.N.C.C. and
the RCC.
The Dialogue also discussed “the doctrine of the
Church concerning God’s universal call to salvation,
and teachings of the Church concerning heaven, hell
and purgatory.” Most Reverend Francis Hodur
summed up the basic teaching of the P.N.C.C. as
follows. “I believe in final Divine justice, in future
life beyond the grave which will be the further
continuation of present life dependent in state and
degree of perfection and happiness on our current
life but before all else on the state of our soul in the
last hour before death. I believe in immortality and
happiness in eternity, in the union with God of all
generations and times because I believe in the Divine
power of love, charity and justice, and I desire
nothing other than that it should happen to me
according to my faith.”
Brief History of the P.N.C.C. and its Origins
This section was written by Joseph W. Wieczerzak,
Ph.D., Chairman, P.N.C.C. Commission on History
and Archives. Its 20 pages summarized the struggles
of ethnic immigrant groups within the RCC for
recognition of their cultural identities and satisfaction
of their religious needs from the 1850s, starting with
the Irish immigrants, then continuing with the
German immigrants and finally to the Polish
immigrants in the 1880s. It covers the various
independent movements. It concludes with a concise
history of the P.N.C.C.
The P.N.C.C. : Its Roman Catholic Origins
This section was written by Reverend Monsignor
John P. Gallagher, Ph.D. Historian, Diocese of
Scranton. Its 17 pages include a description of the
growth, development and management of the RCC in
the USA from 1783 through the period of the
founding of the P.N.C.C. It includes the tribulations
the RCC experienced with the immigrants from
Ireland, Germany and finally with Eastern and
Southern Europeans. It concludes with the
independent movements of Bishops Kozłowski and
Kaminski and the organization of the P.N.C.C. by
Father Francis Hodur .
I hope that this short summary will lead you to
purchase your own copy of this historical book. It
will improve your understanding of how this
dialogue began, what their findings were and give
you a historical perspective of the times which led to
the establishment of the P.N.C.C. Journeying
Together in Christ is available for purchase from the
Central Diocese for $4.00. Joseph F. Seliga, Chairman,
P.N.C.C. Commission on History and Archives
20 God’s Field — March 2016
Website of the P.N.C.C.: pncc.org Official P.N.C.C. Facebook Page: PNCC1
Let us all celebrate the triumph of
our Lord, Jesus Christ, over the grave!
The Supreme Council of the Polish National Catholic Church
Robert Maseychik Insurance
Happy Easter!
Christ is With Us!
Michael R. & Mary Gorgol Mietlicki
Alleluia!
Christ is Risen!
Wishing all a joyous Easter season!
Clergy Circle of the Western Diocese
Bishop Stanley Bilinski, Priests and Deacons
Love Him, Love them, Love others, Love yourself.
Share the Love this Easter.
Bishop Paul Sobiechowski, Eastern Diocese P.N.C.C.
Eastern Diocese United Women’s Societies
Rt. Rev. Paul Sobiechowski, Diocesan Bishop
Very Rev Joseph Soltysiak, Chaplain
United Young Men’s Society of Resurrection
Wesołego Alleluja!
Alleluia! Christ is Risen
All Saints Parish
Sterling Heights, MI
Glory to the Risen Lord!
Blessed Trinity Parish, Fall River, MA
Very Rev. Robert M. Nemkovich, Jr., Pastor
Christ is Risen! He is Risen Indeed!
Church of Resurrection, Brooklyn, NY
Fr. Jozef Kolek & Parish Committee
Easter Greetings. Wesołego Alleluja!
Divine Providence Parish, Norwich, CT
Rev. Christopher Rogalski
Alleluia! Christ is Risen!
Guardian Angel Parish
Rev. Andrew Machowski, Pastor
May God bless you during the Easter season and always.
Holy Cross Parish, Central Falls, RI
Very Rev. Robert M. Nemkovich, Jr., Pastor
Alleluia Christ is Risen!
Holy Cross Parish, Hamtramck, MI
Very Rev. Jaroslaw A. Nowak
Alleluia! Christ is Risen!
Holy Cross Parish, Syracuse, NY, USA
Very Rev. Marian Pociecha
Wesołego Alleluja!
Holy Cross Church, Woodland Park, NJ
Rev. Joseph R. Cyman
Christ is Risen! Indeed is Risen!
Holy Family Parish
1921 Eden Park Boulevard, McKeesport, PA
Christ is Risen, Alleluia!
Holy Mother of Sorrows P.N.C.C., Dupont, PA
Very Rev. Zbigniew Dawid
Wesołego Alleluja! - - - Christ is Risen!
Holy Mother of the Rosary Cathedral
Lancaster, NY
Rt. Rev. John E. Mack, Pastor
Happy Easter!
May this Easter fill you with joy and happiness!
Holy Saviour Parish, Union City, CT
Holy Trinity Cathedral, 166 Pearl St., Manchester, NH
Pastor: Bp. Paul Sobiechowski; Committee: Raymond Pieczarka,
Stefan Swiadas, Jo-Ann O’Connell, Nancy Reilly, Frances Dobosz
Holy Trinity P.N.C.C., Plantsville, CT
Very Rev. Joseph Krusienski, Pastor
Wesołego Alleluja!
Holy Trinity Parish, Throop, PA
Very Rev. Father Chromey & Committee
Alleluia! Christ is Risen!
Holy Trinity Parish, Washington, PA
Father Mark Swoger
Blessed Easter to All!
Holy Trinity Parish, Webster, MA
Committee and Parishioners
Alleluia, the Lord has Risen!
Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Parish, Lilly, PA
Rev. Scott Lill, Pastor
Alleluia! Christ is Risen!
Our Savior Chapel, Tripp Park, PA
The Right Rev. Bernard J. Nowicki, Pastor
Alleluia—Christ is Risen!
Our Savior Mission Church
Hobart, IN
Happy Easter!
Our Savior Parish
610 N. Beech Daly, Dearborn Heights, MI
Pastor—Rev. John Cramer
Our Savior Parish, Lawrenceville, NJ
On behalf of our entire parish
Christ is Risen, He is Risen, indeed!
Annual Easter Greetings
Website of the P.N.C.C.: pncc.org Official P.N.C.C. Facebook Page: PNCC1
Volume 94, Issue No. 3 21
Our Saviour’s Parish—Woonsocket, RI
Rev. Henryk Wos, Pastor
Wesołego Alleluja!
He has Risen!
Resurrection Parish
Temperance, MI
May Christ’s message of eternal life fill you with love!
Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish
Canonsburg, PA
St. Adalbert’s P.N.C.C., Dickson City, PA
Very Rev. William Chromey, Pastor
Happy and Blessed Easter!
Christ is Risen, Alleluia!
St. Barbara Parish
Houtzdale, PA
St. Casimir’s P.N.C.C., Lowell, MA
Rev. Andrzej Tenus, Pastor
Members of the Parish Committee
St. Francis P.N.C. Church—East Meadow, NY
Rev. Andrzej Koterba
Alleluia! Christ is Risen!
St. John the Baptist P.N.C.C.
Rev. Boguslaw Janiec
Alleluia! Christ is Risen!
St. John’s Parish of the P.N.C.C.—Toronto
Mrs. Agustine Domagala
Wesołych Swiąt Wielkanocnych!
St. Joseph’s Mission Parish, Fairhope, PA
Father Felix Pyzowski—Parish Members
Rejoice! Our Lord is Risen!
St. Joseph’s of Stratford
Rev. Michal Gitner, Pastor
He is Risen, Alleluia!
Wishing all a joyous Easter!
St. Mary Parish—South Bend, IN
www.stmarypncc.org
St. Mary’s P.N.C.C.—Parma, OH
Fr. Jason H. Soltysiak, Pastor
We live and die ~ Christ died and lived!
The Cathedral Parish of
St. Stanislaus, Bishop and Martyr
Christ is Risen! Risen Indeed!
St. Stephen the Martyr Parish, Reading, PA
Very Rev. Edward D. Ratajack, Pastor
Alleluia! Christ is Risen!
Annual Easter Greetings (cont’d.)
St. Valentine’s Parish, Northampton, MA
Rev. Adam Czarnecki, Pastor
Życzenia Radosnych Swiąt Wielkanocnych!
Saints Peter & Paul P.N.C.C., New London, CT
Rev. Dr. Zbigniew Stanley Kaszubski, Pastor
Dorothy Drucker, Chair
Saints Peter & Paul Parish, Passaic, NJ
Very Rev. Stanley Skrzypek
Happy Easter! Wesołych Swiąt!
The Most Holy Name of Jesus Slovak National Catholic Cathedral
Rev. Marian Tarnowski
Alleluia! Christ is Risen!
The P.N.C.C. of Holy Trinity & St. Joseph, Linden, NJ
Rev. Jan Kosc—Pastor
Wesołego Alleluja!
Transfiguration of Our Lord Parish
Mt. Pleasant, PA—Daniel Levendusky—Chair
Christ is indeed Risen! Happy Easter—Happy Spring.
Transfiguration of Our Lord Parish, Wallington, NJ
Very Rev. Gregory Mludzik, Pastor
Wesołego Alleluja! Christ is Risen!
District 2 & 9 Polish National Union of America
Edmund J. Kotula, Director
Wesołego Alleluja!
Polish National Union District 5
Ted Gibala, District Director
Wesołego Alleluja!
Polish National Union District Six
Christine Wachna, District Director, Officers and Members
Happy Easter!
District #7
Stephanie Marsh—Director
Polish National Union of America
District 8—Plymouth, PA Seniorate
Wesołego Alleluja!
Wesołego Alleluja!
to all members of the P.N.C.C
John P. Kowalczyk, Sec of Br 115 since 1976
Polish National Union
Branch 132, McKeesport, PA
Alleluia, Christ is Risen!
22 God’s Field — March 2016
Website of the P.N.C.C.: pncc.org Official P.N.C.C. Facebook Page: PNCC1
“Our Covenant: Walking with Jesus”
Sixteenth National Mission Workshop
Polish National Catholic Church
SS. Peter & Paul Parish
South Milwaukee, WI
Friday, April 22 - Sunday, April 24, 2016
Greetings from the Mission and Evangelism Commission of the Polish National Catholic Church.
Beginning on Friday, April 22, 2016 the P.N.C.C. will present the Sixteenth National Mission Workshop - Our
Covenant: Walking with Jesus. The Workshop will be held in South Milwaukee, Wisconsin at SS. Peter &
Paul Parish.
Over the past 16 years the National Commission on Mission and Evangelism has presented to the faithful and
clergy of the Church an opportunity to explore one of many faith-driven aspects of the Church on a
National level, as well as experiencing the Church on a local Parish level.
Our goal for each Mission Workshop has been that the Faithful come away with a burning desire to bring
the faith-driven work of the Workshop back to their parishes and be a light to that local Community of Faith,
the Parish and the communities in which they live.
Each parish was sent a detailed mailing containing a workshop pamphlet, a workshop registration form and a
hotel registration form. This information can also be found on our P.N.C.C. Web site at
pncc.org/?event=national-mission-evangelism-workshop.
Registration for this workshop is $75.00 per person and the deadline is April 15, 2016. Registrations post-
marked after this date is $95.00 per person. Hotel accommodations are extra. (Details are provided in the
forms.)
We pray that you will consider joining us for the Sixteenth National Mission Workshop of the P.N.C.C., and
we look forward to your attendance.
If you have any questions, please contact one of the individuals listed below.
The Rev. Raymond Drada, Workshop & Commission Chairman
Phone: (586) 978-1125
Email: [email protected]
Rev. Bogumil Czaja, Host Pastor
Parish Phone: (414) 764-4860
Email: [email protected]
Liz Kaniewski (Parish Contact)
Phone: (414) 529-1388
Email: [email protected]
Website of the P.N.C.C.: pncc.org Official P.N.C.C. Facebook Page: PNCC1
Volume 94, Issue No. 3 23
Further information and registration forms can be found on the P.N.C.C. Web site at www.pncc.org/?event=convo-2016
24 God’s Field — March 2016
Website of the P.N.C.C.: pncc.org Official P.N.C.C. Facebook Page: PNCC1
From the National Youth Chaplain
Rt. Rev. Stanley Bilinski
As we are working through our spring semester of
SOCL and Youth Ministry, I would like to offer
some insight as to how your group is currently
structured or perhaps a backdrop on how it may be
strengthened. The following are some Key Principles
for a Successful Youth Ministry [sources available
upon request].
Each youth minister's approach (remember this could
be either your parish pastor, deacon, or, if the Lord
additionally blesses, a lay person) will differ
according to the place of ministry, needs of the
community and personal development. Keep in mind
that a little youth ministry is better than none at all.
Certain principles, however, remain constant. In fact,
the violation of any of these principles will hurt the
ministry to students.
Principle #1: CONTACT
Youth ministry begins when a Christian adult finds a
comfortable method of entering into a student's
world. For the collared minister, this happens in a
catechetical situation or even in parochial
involvement. For the lay minister, certainly a parish
lends itself to the sharing of mutual contact and the
sharing of a common experience. To be open to the
student's presence, emotions and needs are truly the
ways to contact.
Principle # 2: MATURITY
Youth ministry happens as long as a Christian adult
is able to use his/her contact with a student to draw
that student into a maturing relationship with Jesus
Christ. As parents are always wary of letting go of
their offspring, there are times in youth ministry
where the minister must see that the student's
maturity goes beyond the goal s/he has set. The
student should be allowed to move on to greater
levels of Christian maturity.
Principle #3: END OF MINISTRY
Youth ministry ceases to happen when the adult-
student relationship is broken or no longer moves the
student toward spiritual maturity. In the worst case
scenario, the trust of this relationship, when broken,
halts the program. Or, in addition to the Principle
above, when the minister prohibits the student from
greater levels of maturity, ministry to that student is
no longer of value.
Principle #4: FAMILY
The influence of the student’s family upon his/her
value system will exceed the influence of youth
workers on most occasions. Whether or not the
"generation gap" still exists, students, in Christian
environments, will still turn to family contacts more
readily and numerously than to the youth minister. In
certain critical situations, however, the youth
minister stands as a "sounding board" for airing of
choices and/or subsequent action taking.
Principle #5: SIZE
Youth groups tend to reach a "critical mass" when
the average attendance ranges between 20 and 40
students. Keep in mind that contact is important in
the youth ministry interchange. If the group tends to
be large, then this contact diminishes, and the
security diminishes in kind. If the group has grown
large, (Praise the Lord!) then a consideration should
perhaps be made to make two groups: possibly a
junior high and a senior high group. Twenty students
is a workable group while keeping contact and
identity at a high level.
Principle #6: SHARED LEADERSHIP
Long term growth of a youth ministry is directly
dependent upon the ability of the youth worker to
release ministry responsibilities to mature and
qualified lay leaders. This is very important for
parish pastors as well as lay leaders. I've spoken with
youth ministers of other jurisdictions who have had
to apply, lobby, and, literally, fight for the position of
leading their parish youth. We priests should be able
to seek out lay people who would be helpful in this
important task and, in parish committees, not be
fearful of outlaying some dollars for this program.
For those blessed few lay leaders in our parishes, you
too should be looking for qualified help. Define
“qualified”? - Those who love the Lord and are
willing to share that experience with youth. This is
not to say that no research needs to be done on the
part of the minister to be "the best they can be," but
dedication leads a long way to effective youth
ministry.
Principle #7: SOCIALLY COMFORTABLE
A junior/high school student will not be theologically
mature until s/he is sociologically comfortable.
Website of the P.N.C.C.: pncc.org Official P.N.C.C. Facebook Page: PNCC1
Volume 94, Issue No. 3 25
Suffice it to say that God's word does not classify
nerd, rad, awesome, bogus, or geeks when describing
His creations (am I dating myself?); the youth group
experience should allow all to be comfortable
socially with each other.
Principle #8: MINISTRY
The most effective youth ministries are those which
rapidly move students into ministry postures.
Ministry is service. The sooner students see their
worth in the ministry of the parish, the stronger they
will become involved, and even look to broaden their
activity. "The youth are the future of the Church"
means that they have no ministry now. Do not avoid
this most valuable resource in your parish. Ministry
affects every experience of the student.
Principle #9: OWNERSHIP
Student ownership of youth ministry guided by
respected Christian adults is essential for that
ministry to remain healthy. If the students are
involved in the planning, implementation, and
evaluation of the youth group, from a hoagie sale to
caroling for shut-ins to parochial involvement, the
group's self-worth escalates exponentially. In other
words, you won't be able to think up enough tasks for
them to do.
Principle #10: VISION
A youth ministry will reflect the vision of its adult
leader(s). In short, a youth ministry with goals, and
its eyes on the Christ, will allow its students full
maturity, and allow them as well to continue the
vision of the entire parish
Principle #11: GROUP FUNCTIONS
In youth ministry the group performs three functions:
Identification, contribution and consolation. The
group allows the students to define themselves in
context of the group; allows the free and unbridled
exchange of ideas, emotions, and talents; allows the
security to the students to come to the group for help,
input, unabashed acceptance and Christian love.
Principle #12: AUTHORITY
Youth ministry prospers where the Bible is taken
seriously and is used as a basis for faith and life.
'Nuff said!
I trust and pray that the principles will be
helpful as you continually evaluate the ministry for
youth in your parish. Many of the principles are put
powerfully into work in many of your groups, thank
God! Perhaps a few of the principles will help to
define more clearly the work you have before you. In
sum, your work in bringing the Lord Christ into the
lives of your youth will cause Him to rejoice in you!
In closing, until next time, I'd like to leave you with a
few Scriptural aids that will carry you powerfully to
your youth:
SCRIPTURAL QUALITIES OF YOUTH WORK-
ERS:
2 Corinthians 2:15 & 3:2;
Philippians 2:15;
Matthew 4:19 & 5:13,14;
Ephesians 5:2.
OUR MOTIVATION FOR REACHING YOUNG
PEOPLE:
Romans 10:1;
1 Corinthians 9:16;
Luke 19:41.
RELATIONAL YOUTH MINISTRY:
Philippians 2:20;
1 Thessalonians 2:8;
1 Corinthians 9:22.
GIVE THEM ENCOURAGEMENT:
Philippians 4:13;
2 Kings 6:8.
BE ENTHUSIASTIC:
Acts 4:20
SHOW UNCONDITIONAL LOVE:
Philippians 2:5,
1 John 4:9.
SOCL
Youth
Ministry
26 God’s Field — March 2016
Website of the P.N.C.C.: pncc.org Official P.N.C.C. Facebook Page: PNCC1
Central Diocese
Holy Mother of Sorrows Welcomes New Member
Dupont, PA
We welcome our new member, Karissa Josephine
Kazinetz, daughter of Paul & Heather Kazinetz, who
was baptized on Saturday, February 20, 2016 at Holy
Mother of Sorrows Church, Dupont by Very Rev.
Zbigniew Dawid. Karissa's godparents are: Fr. Jason
& Natalie Soltysiak. Submitted by Very Rev. Zbigniew Dawid
Natalie Soltysiak, Heather Kazinetz, Paul Kazinetz, Rev. Jason Soltysiak and Karissa Josephine Kazinetz
To order a 2016 Liturgical Reference Calendar (Ordo), please fill out the order form, below, and make check or money order
payable to The Polish National Catholic Church – LRC and send to:
The Polish National Catholic Church – L R C
Attn: Secretary to Prime Bishop
2016 ORDO Quantity Cost/Ordo Total
2016 Liturgical Calendar (Ordo) - $15.25 U.S.; $18.60 Canada
TOTAL
ENCLOSED
Shipping Name and Address:
Thank you for your order.
Polish National Catholic Church - LRC
1006 Pittston Avenue
Scranton, PA 18505
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Volume 94, Issue No. 3 27
Holy Mother of Sorrows Parish Hosts Sermon, Soup & Sandwich
Dupont, PA
A Sermon – Soup – Sandwich Event was held at
Holy Mother of Sorrows Parish on February 20,
2016. John (Jack) Kuligowski gave the presentation
“Who was Kosciuszko?" Jack is an active member of
the Polish American Citizens Club, Dupont and
chairman of their Scholarship committee. He attends
Sacred Heart of Jesus Church, Dupont, where he is a
member of the choir and serves as an Extraordinary
Minister. Jack also is a member of the Friends of
Poland of Lackawanna County. His hobbies include
traveling, outdoor walks, local brewery history and
Polish history, along with walking with the Friends
of Poland in the annual St Patrick’s Day Parade in
Scranton.
In August 2015, he and his wife visited Poland. At
that time he visited the 2 major battlefields of the
Kosciuszko Insurrection of 1794 – Raclawice and
Maciejowice. Submitted by Very Rev. Zbigniew Dawid
John (Jack) Kuligowski
Everyone in attendance enjoyed discussing the presentation and sharing some soup and sandwiches.
Portrait by Karl Gottlieb Schweikart. Kościuszko is shown
wearing the Eagle of the Society of the Cincinnati, awarded to
him by Gen. Washington.
28 God’s Field — March 2016
Website of the P.N.C.C.: pncc.org Official P.N.C.C. Facebook Page: PNCC1
Northeast Seniorate Lenten Retreat
Holy Trinity Cathedral Parish, Manchester, NH
Following the directives from our past 2014 Holy
Synod and our P.N.C.C. Future Direction Action
Plan for 2016, 30 faithful and clergy of the Northeast
Seniorate gathered at Holy Trinity Cathedral parish
on Saturday, February 27, 2016 for a Lenten Retreat.
The retreat began with the Holy Mass celebrated by
Fr. Sr. Rob Nemkovich. The Mass of the day was
celebrated and Fr. Henryk Wos preached an excellent
sermon on the parable of the Prodigal Son. In his
exegesis of the parable, Fr. Henryk spoke about the
two sons and the father. He reminded us about the
unconditional love and mercy God the Father has and
that we need to grant forgiveness and repent of our
sinful ways.
Following Mass, Karen Sobiechowski presented a
moving session on prayer and our Lenten Journey.
She shared with us her prayer journey and brought
some beautiful prayers to share with us that we
offered. One powerful one was The Mercy Prayer:
For those who sin and those who suffer, For those
who suffer because of sin, For those who sin to
alleviate their suffering, Lord have mercy on us. –
Robert Gelinas. Following the session the group
spent time in quiet prayer, reflection and meditation.
Fr. Andrzej Tenus led the group in a meditation on
the Stations of the Cross. Some of the folks walked
the way of the cross, while others prayed from
various locations in the church. Several different
readers offered meditations for each of the stations.
Silent prayer and meditation followed.
Midday Prayer from the Liturgy of the Hours was led
by Bishop Paul Sobiechowski. After offering this
prayer of the Church the folks enjoyed soup and
sandwiches.
The afternoon portion of the retreat began with a
guided Lenten Meditation from Fr. Sr. Rob
Nemkovich. He began with the song “Ashes to
Glory” and then shared with the participants
meditations for our Lenten journey: 40 Days of
Opportunity; Trust in God’s Mercy; Love One
Another; Staying the Course; Striving to Forgive. He
ended his presentation with “Lenten Song” by John
Michael Poirier. Please give this a view on YouTube
at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AflpKCF3BnM.
The retreat then focused on Lenten Songs and
Reflections lead by Karen Sobiechowski. The
following hymns were enjoyed with questions for
Eastern Diocese
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Volume 94, Issue No. 3 29
reflection: “How Deep The Father’s Love”: Consider
what Jesus was willing to suffer so that you could be
forgiven – God the Father sees you as “His treasure.”
How do you respond?; “Just As I Am”: Picture Jesus
welcoming you, just as you are, with His arms open
wide. What do you need from Him right now? He
is able to heal, mend, restore, forgive…; “Remember
Me”: You have a spiritual legacy to leave to future
generations. How will you share your experience of
Jesus with them? What is your reaction when Jesus
calls us “Child of wonder, Child of God?” I
remember you…remember me. Appreciation is
again given to Karen Sobiechowski for preparing this
portion and sharing these moving hymns.
After some time in silent reflection, Fr. Sr. Rob
Nemkovich and Ray Pieczarka led the group in a
congregational reading of the Passion of our Lord
and Savior, Jesus Christ, from Luke’s Gospel.
Various participants read portions of the passion such
as Pilate, Peter, the Centurion and others. Silent
prayer and meditation followed.
This Lenten Retreat concluded with a Lenten
Penitential Service celebrated by Bishop Paul
Sobiechowski – In God’s Merciful Love - a time
where the participants received the Sacrament of
Penance. Bishop Paul offered a beautiful sermon in
which he spoke about being good stewards of the
gifts God has given to us and that we are to use them
for the benefit of the Church and helping those in
need in our materialistic society. The retreat
concluded with Bishop Paul giving his Benediction
and thanking everyone for making the time and effort
to spend a day in prayer and meditation sharing in the
saving events of our Lord’s journey that leads to
Resurrection.
Thanks are extended to Holy Trinity Cathedral Parish
for hosting this retreat, to all the clergy of the
seniorate as they led portions of the retreat and to all
who shared in this uplifting, inspiring journey with
Christ. Prepared by Fr. Sr. Rob Nemkovich
30 God’s Field — March 2016
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Valentine’s Tea
Holy Cross Parish, Enfield, CT
Holy Cross Parish, Enfield, CT hosted a Ladies’
Valentine’s Tea on Saturday, February 13, 2016. A
variety of hot teas, fancy tea sandwiches and pretty
desserts were served while soft music was playing in
the background. The lovely table linens, individual
floral patterned china, tea cups and saucers with
fresh flower centerpieces made for beautifully
decorated tables! This was our second Ladies’ tea;
our first was last November…each one becoming
more popular! Some of our returning attendees drive
over 50 miles one way to join us! We had many
return from our November tea and a few new faces
as well. Our next one may be in early May…stay
tuned for upcoming event dates!
Submitted by Nancy Lee
Joan Turbridy of Trumbull, CT, Cheryl Sayles of Milford, CT,
Eileen Kirby of Fairfield, CT
Renee White of Farmington, CT, Julie Fredrickson of
Manchester, CT, Darlene Anderson of Farmington, CT
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Volume 94, Issue No. 3 31
32 God’s Field — March 2016
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Western Diocese
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Volume 94, Issue No. 3 33
The New Year Brings “Firsts” to St. Mary’s Parish South Bend, IN
The year 2016 has brought several “firsts” to our parish. On January 24, the Annual Parish Meeting was held.
Elections for the Parish Committee presented the parish with all female officers and our second female
Chair. The Oath of Office was administered by Reverend Charles Zawistowski on February 7 prior to Mass.
Congratulations were extended to all newly elected members of the Board.
Chairperson Kathy Martinczak
Vice Chairperson Fran Lemanski
Recording Secretary Pat Lynch
Financial Secretary Kim Bjorkland
Treasurer Carol Kolecki
Assistant Financial Officer Susan Zawistowski
The next “first” was on Sunday, February 14, when the Frederic Chopin Choir presented bookmarks to all
parishioners immediately following Mass. The bookmarks read “Give me your heart.” (Proverbs 23:26). The
hymn “Give Me Your Heart” was also sung during the Mass. All parish members were delighted with the gift.
Another “first” began prior to Lent when Reverend Charles and Susan Zawistowski provided a poster bearing
the shape of a cross to parishioners. By releasing the cross from the poster, it can be folded into a cube. The
sides of the cube contain several scripture verses and prayers for the Lenten season. By turning the cube to the
inside and folding it again, additional scripture verses and prayers are displayed for the Easter season. By
rolling the paper cube on a table every day, a different scripture verse and prayer can be read. This can be fun
for both children and adults.
The next “first” began on February 17 when parish members joined together in a “potluck” meal prior to the
Wednesday evening Lenten service. The variety of delicious food items, coupled with fellowship during the
meal, and conclusion of the evening with the Lenten service provided a wonderful experience for all. The idea
of a potluck was proposed by the Ladies Adoration Society, and parish members were asked to list their
potluck item on a sign-up sheet so items would not be duplicated. The potlucks will continue prior to our
Wednesday evening Lenten services (weather permitting).
The parish members and societies are actively pursuing other activities and ways to serve God for the
upcoming Spring season under the guidance of Reverend Charles Zawistowski.
Submitted by Fran Lemanski
Pat Lynch, Kathy Martinczak, Kim Bjorkland, Carol Kolecki, Fran Lemanski, Susan Zawistowski
34 God’s Field — March 2016
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Stations of The Cross Blessed on Ash Wednesday
St. Mary’s Parish, Parma, OH
On a snowy and blustery Ash Wednesday, February
10, the new Stations of the Cross were formally
blessed at a solemn service. Father Jason, assisted by
Father Greg Gronn and Chuck Repede, performed
the unique service to begin our 2016 Lenten Journey.
The service opened with the Blessing of Ashes
followed by blessing of portions of the Stations,
individually and as a whole.
While Father Jason read the prayers of blessing,
Father Greg went around and first blessed each
image on the Stations. After this, the prayer for the
blessing of the fourteen crosses was read, and Father
Greg again went around to each Station, blessing
each with Holy Water.
Father Jason then followed with a short homily,
explaining why the Stations not only needed to be
blessed, but each portion individually and then as a
whole. He also spoke of the symbolism of offering
Wystawienie/Benediction of the Most Blessed
Sacrament to conclude the service – how it is us as
2016 Christians proclaiming Christ’s death and
Resurrection.
Afterward, the clergy and assistant went around and
offered an intention at each Station. The Lord’s
Prayer, Hail Mary, and Glory Be were recited at each
Station, and they were blessed with incense and Holy
Water.
Many thanks to all who braved the terrible weather
to officially welcome these Stations into our life of
worship at St. Mary’s.
From St. Mary’s of Parma, OH Monthly Newsletter
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Volume 94, Issue No. 3 35
śp. Rev. Roman E. Misiewicz 1938 - 2016
The Rev. Roman E. Misiewicz, 77, of Columbia
passed away peacefully at home on Sunday, Feb. 28,
2016. A Holy Mass and celebration of life is planned
for June 2016 in Cleveland, OH.
Rev. Misiewicz was born March 16, 1938, in
Drohobych, Poland, to Marcin and Helena (nee
Terlecki) Misiewicz. During the Second World War,
the city was bombarded and the family was moved to
Chorzow, where he finished his schooling.
He attended theological seminary at Jagellonian
University in Krakow. On June 21, 1961, he was
ordained to the priesthood and was a pastor in
Lubliniec, Poland, where he met his future wife,
Jolanta Machnik. Rev. Misiewicz then attained his
Masters in Theology from the Pontifical Academy of
Theology, Krakow.
He came to the United States in 1970, where he was
accepted into the Polish National Catholic Church by
Rt. Rev. Francis Rowinski. Bishop Rowinski
assigned him to his first U.S. parish, St. Mary’s
P.N.C.C. in Lublin, WI., in August 1970. Rev.
Misiewicz wed Jolanta in Chicago in 1971.
In 1973 he was assigned to Holy Trinity P.N.C.C. in
Cleveland, OH, where he served the parish until
2003. In that same year he was transferred to St.
Mary’s P.N.C.C. in Parma, OH where he remained
until 2011 when he celebrated his Golden Jubilee
serving in God’s vineyard. He retired in 2011 to be
close to his grandchildren.
Besides serving the Lord, Rev. Misiewicz was
passionate about flying, obtaining his first-class
pilot’s license, including the Golden Wings. He flew
as an instrument-rated pilot. Later in his life, he was
interested in ham radio operations. At his U.S.
naturalization ceremony in 1976, Rev. Misiewicz was
asked to deliver the opening prayer to the U.S.
Congress in Washington, D.C. Additionally, he was a
college instructor for many years, teaching computer
programming at ICM School of Business and Dyke
College. He served as a translator for the Berlitz
School of Language, serving Poles in Cleveland.
Rev. Misiewicz is survived by his wife, Jolanta.
Other survivors include two daughters, Marianne and
Chris Viers of Columbia and Michele Barry of
Cleveland; a brother, Stan and Barbara Misiewicz of
Salt Lake City, UT; nephews Tomas Misiewicz of
Salt Lake City and Michael Misiewicz of
Washington, D.C.; grandchildren, Violet Viers and
Hugh Viers; and step grandchildren, Jacob and
Amanda Viers, Emily Viers and Jonathan Davis.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you please
consider a donation to St. Mary’s P.N.C.C., 5375
Broadview Road, Parma, OH, 44134.
36 God’s Field — March 2016
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71st Annual P.N.C.C./Y.M.S. of R. Bowling Tournament
The P.N.C.C./Y.M.S. of R. 71st Annual Bowling Tournament is co-hosted by Our Savior Parish, Dearborn
Heights, MI and Holy Cross Parish, Hamtramck, MI from Friday, June 3, 2016 to Sunday, June 5, 2016. The
tournament is being played at the Cherry Hill Lanes in Dearborn Heights, MI. The Awards Banquet and
Dance on June 4th is being held at American Legion Stitt Post 232, also in Dearborn Heights. Registration for
the tournament and banquet closes on April 30, 2016.
Hotel accommodations can be made at the Dearborn Country Inn & Suites. Please make reservations by April
15, 2016 to ensure group rates.
Complete information regarding this year’s tournament, along with all necessary registration forms, has been
sent to all P.N.C.C. parishes. All information and forms also can be found on the P.N.C.C. Web site at
pncc.org/?event=p-n-c-c-y-m-s-of-r-71st-annual-bowling-tournament
The purpose of this tournament is to share in Christian fellowship. We cannot think of any better way to
promote such fellowship than to share the Eucharist with our fellow Polish National Catholic Church members
from across the country. We know many of you will be traveling long distances to get home, but hope you will
take the time to be with us. We pray for your safe journey.