Annual Picnic & Festival

Come join us!

Everyone welcome!

Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission

Annual Picnic & Festival

(including the blessing of first fruits)

Sunday, Aug. 9, 2009

11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Burrows Park Shelter ~ Madison Wisconsin

Please bring a dish to share

& fruit for the blessing

Food … Fellowship … Children’s games

Burrows Park is at the intersection of N. Sherman & Fordem Aves, near Maple Bluff.

The picnic will follow early Sunday services at the chapel ~ 8:30 a.m.

Holy Transfiguration Chapel is located at 621 N. Sherman Avenue, Suite B3

More information: www.maruroopa.blogspot.com, 608-242-4244, transfiguration@usa.com

download flyer

http://www.angelfire.com/wi/theosis/HTOM_picnic_flyer_2009.pdf

Beautiful Day: Dedication of Bishop Mar Makarios Memorial Sculpture

From: ICON Moderators
Sent: Wednesday, June 10, 2009

Please click the following link to read a brief report by Rev Fr John-Brian Paprock and Teresa Paprock about the dedication service of Bishop Mar Makarios Memorial Sculpture at Alma College, Michigan on May 16, 2009.

http://www.icon.org.in/article/BeautifulDay.pdf

Thank you Achen for this nice report.

~ICON Moderators

From: John Brian Achen
Sent: Wednesday, June 11, 2009

Renu Paul, Mar Makarios personal secretary at Alma College was one of the principal organizers of the dedication ceremony. Here she is with sculptor, Mark Chatterley and working on last minute details at the event.












Below, Renu is standing next to the Bishop's brother, Lazarus Rembanachen, who was one of several family members of the bishop at the dedication. Fr Lazarus led the memorial prayers. The next picture is the bus-load from Chicago! It was so good to see so many friends.


~ photos by Teresa Kochamma ~



Below are links to more pictures and the text of most of the speeches at the dedication.


1. Bishop Makarios Memorial Sculpture Unveiled and Dedicated http://orthodoxmissionamerica.blogspot.com/2009/06/bishop-makarios-memorial-sculpture.html

2. Bishop Makarios Memorial Dedication Program - photo collage
http://orthodoxmissionamerica.blogspot.com/2009/06/bishop-makarios-memorial-dedication_3584.html

3. Saundra Tracy, Alma College President
The text of her opening remarks at the dedication; includes the complete
text of Dr. Ross Mackenzie of Union Theological Seminary whose remarks that
were read aloud at the dedication.
http://orthodoxmissionamerica.blogspot.com/2009/06/bishop-makarios-memorial-dedication_3429.html

4. Orthodox Memorial Service - photo collage
http://orthodoxmissionamerica.blogspot.com/2009/06/bishop-makarios-memorial-dedication_08.html

5. Dr. Madhavan Anirudhan is the founder President of FOKANA complete text
of remarks read aloud at the dedication
http://orthodoxmissionamerica.blogspot.com/2009/06/bishop-makarios-memorial-dedication-dr.html

6. Dr. Ronald L. Massanari, Professor Emeritus, Department of Religious
Studies at Alma College - this is a complete text of his remarks at the dedication
http://orthodoxmissionamerica.blogspot.com/2009/06/bishop-makarios-memorial-dedication.html


These photos and articles have been posted for our edification. May the Lord have mercy and bless us all!

a servant,
JB+Achen
Fr John Brian
*****************************************
o HEALING LIFE o DEEPENING FAITH
o ENRICHING PRACTICE o REFRESHING SPIRIT

Activity and Upcoming Events

Holy Transfiguration Annual Picnic will be Sunday, AUGUST 9, 2009
Holy Qurbana for our mission feast day (perunal) will start at 8:30am - an hour earlier. The picnic with the blessing of fruit and family games will begin around 11am at the Burrows Park shelter (same place as last year) in Madison, Wisconsin.

Congratulations to Mesi on her graduation from Waunakee High School and best wishes for her studies at UW-Milwaukee this fall!
Congratulations to Dr. Jacob Ninan and his new wife Glynus. They were married at St Thomas - Detroit this spring. Dr. Ninan is studying under a fellowship at UW Hospital.
Congratulations to Mulusew and Mesi for running and completing the annual Madison Marathon in May!
Congratulations to Christopher who won a thespian award for Best Special Costume for his design of the crowns in Middleton HIgh School's MacBeth!
Congratulations to Renu Paul for completing her first term as a college professor and completed her Master Degree in Philosophy at Michigan State University. She has been accepted for doctoral work at UW-Madison and plans on moving to Madison soon. She was also one of the principal organizers of the Bishop Makarios dedication ceremony held at Alma College (see below)


Mission Represented by Fr John Brian and Teresa Kochamma at the Dedication of the Memorial Sculpture in honor of our departed Makarios Thirumeni (Metropolitan Thomas Mar Makarios) in Alma College in Michigan on May 16, 2009. see separate article in this blog - which has links to pictures and text of speeches given that day.
http://maruroopa.blogspot.com/2009/06/beautiful-day-dedication-of-bishop-mar.html

Pray for Teresa Kochamma who will be getting medically necessary jaw surgery on June 15, 2009. She has been preparing with orthodontics for over a year and will have up to six months of recovery.


Memorial Prayers have been said for these Orthodox Christians related to our mission:
Dr Kenneth Paprock, PhD - April 1, 2009 - through 40 days
Dr Yuri Shcheglov, PhD - April 11, 2009 - through 40 days
Dr Daniel George Siewert - May 20, 2008 - 1st anniversary


Special Thank You to St. Silouan Orthodox Church (Antiochian) in College Station, Texas for their support of Fr John Brian when he was there for his father's secular memorial. (photo of Fr John Brian with Fr Gregory - priest at St Silouan)

Again, Fr John Brian would like to thank everyone for their prayers and best wishes during the initial time of mourning the death of his father. The cards the emails and the phone call were all appreciated and deeply felt.

Local church members to attend memorial sculpture unveiling

A delegation of members of Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Church, Madison, Wisconsin will attend a dedication ceremony at Alma College, Michigan, on Saturday, May 16, 2009, during which a figurative sculpture representing the spiritual ideals of the late Bishop Thomas Mar Makarios will be unveiled.

Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Church is a small multiethnic Malankara Orthodox Syrian mission parish that meets at 621 N. Sherman Avenue, Suite B3, (Madison, Wisconsin) on Sunday mornings. More information about the church is available by calling 608-242-4244. Since 2001, it has been a mission parish of the Mission Society of St. Gregorios of India founded by Bishop Makarios.

Bishop Makarios, who had been the bishop of the Mission Society of St. Gregorios of India until his death, was also a much-beloved professor of religious studies at Alma College who passed away in February 2008. In his 25 years at Alma, he introduced students to Indian philosophy and culture and helped develop the Alma India Program, which has a relationship with the Mathen Mappilai Memorial Public School in the village of Ayroor in the state of Kerala.

Many Alma students have performed volunteer work at the school over the years. In addition, the Bishop was a prelate of the Malankara Orthodox Church of India. He was founder of the American Diocese and the first Metropolitan Bishop of Canada, UK and Europe, and South Africa.

Following his passing, an Alma College campus committee selected Michigan artist Mark Chatterley to create a campus sculpture that memorializes the Bishop's impact on the faculty and students of Alma College.

"Mark Chatterley's figures have a very timeless, universal feeling to them," says Carrie Parks-Kirby, faculty artist and committee member. "Even though he never knew or met the Bishop, he took our descriptions and came up with a sculpture that is very fitting and descriptive of our former friend and colleague."

The sculpture depicts a central figure with wings standing, arms raised and palms together in a prayerful gesture. The wings, at close inspection, are made up of figures that get progressively smaller.

"This beautiful work of art provides a fitting and enduring reminder of the Bishop's legacy at Alma College, in his beloved church, and in the world religious community," says Alma President Saundra Tracy.

"It's a beautiful image for a leader of a church and teacher who impacted so many individuals," says Parks-Kirby. "The sculpture is not a likeness of the Bishop but represents his spiritual wisdom, love and leadership of the people around him."

The clay sculpture cast in bronze will be located at the center of the Alma College campus along a sidewalk amidst a grove of evergreen trees.

Alma College is a selective liberal arts college committed to academic excellence and development of responsible leaders. Alma's undergraduates thrive on challenging academic programs in a supportive, small-college environment emphasizing active, collaborative learning and close student-faculty interaction. The College offers coursework in 28 majors, plus pre-professional programs in law and medicine.

In addition to India, Alma College also offers international study and research opportunities in Australia, Austria, Ecuador, England, Germany, Italy, New Zealand, Peru and Scotland.

In Midwest America, only one other Indian leader has a dedicated public statue: Mahatma Gandhi in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

For more information:

http://www.alma.edu/about/offices/publicrelations/pinecone/features/archives/2009/04/16/memorial_sculpture

Easter 2009 - Holy Pascha

CHRIST IS RISEN!

The paschal services and celebrating the festival!

photos by CC, Rachele, and Teresa Kochamma ~ 2009

A Special Talk: Nonviolence from a Christian Perspective

+ The Cross is central to the Christian understanding of nonviolence +

"Taking a Vow of Nonviolence from a Christian Perspective"
A Special Talk ~ Saturday, March 21, 2009

Using references to Orthodox Christian resources from New Testament era to the present time, Father John Brian Paprock, Orthodox Christian priest, draws on the writings St Matthew, St Paul (Romans chapter 12), St John Chrysostom, Armenian Catholicos H. H. Karekin II and others. He uses stories and examples from the lives of the desert fathers, St Seraphim of Sarov, Martin Luther King Jr and Gandhi. In addition to his own life examples and experience.

This is the two hour talk (in three parts) by Father John Brian at the invitation of the Joyful Path Buddhist Center in Blue Mounds, Wisconsin. [photos by Teresa Kochamma]

Listen on-line (streaming):
Part 1 of 3
http://frjohbrian.blogspot.com/2009/03/nonviolence-from-christian-perspective.html
Part 2 of 3
http://frjohbrian.blogspot.com/2009/03/part-2-nonviolence-from-christian.html
Part 3 of 3
http://frjohbrian.blogspot.com/2009/03/part-3-nonviolence-from-christian.html

PODCAST OR DOWNLOAD: http://feeds.feedburner.com/frjohnbrian OR
http://frjohnbrian.hipcast.com/rss/spiritual_reflections_or_fr_john_brian.xml
OR http://frjohnbrian.hipcast.com/rss/interfaithsociety.xml

More information at http://www.interfaithsociety.blogspot.com/

Audio Sermons for the Lenten Fast

Since 2006 recorded sermons and talks at Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission in Madison, Wisconsin have been offered on-line. Since the sermons and talks are almost all extemporaneously given, there is no text and no notes for these sermons.

Starting with an initial request for recorded sermons from a member who moved from Wisconsin to California, this has evolved from cumbersome attempts at cassette tape recording to audio podcasting and on-line listening.

With close to 200 on-line audio sermons and talks available (downloaded over 10,000 times worldwide), Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission ministry is regularly shared from its small chapel in Madison, Wisconsin USA to places around the world. The archives are searched almost daily for spiritual teachings and direction. The Mission has been honored to provide all of this freely. We are grateful to God for this privilege and ask for your prayers and support to continue this local, national and international ministry.

Here are some sermons, especially gathered for Lent, from the past few years on spiritual work of fasting and healing in Orthodox Christianity, :


To podcast or download any or all of these sermons go to: http://feeds.feedburner.com/frjohnbrian or http://frjohnbrian.hipcast.com/rss/spiritual_reflections_or_fr_john_brian.xml

In The Wilderness With Animals and Angels
http://frjohbrian.blogspot.com/2009/02/in-wilderness-with-animals-and-angels.html
More Than Animal Nature
http://frjohbrian.blogspot.com/2008/03/more-than-animal-nature.html
Better Than A Donkey
http://frjohbrian.blogspot.com/2007/03/better-than-donkey-march-2007.html
Nineveh - Christian Refuge?
http://frjohbrian.blogspot.com/2007/02/nineveh-christian-refuge.html
Our Divine Purpose in Lent
http://frjohbrian.blogspot.com/2007/02/our-divine-purpose-in-lent-february.html
Necessary Weakness
http://frjohbrian.blogspot.com/2008/03/necessary-weakness.html
When Light Increases Fast
http://frjohbrian.blogspot.com/2008/03/when-light-increases-growth-fast.html
Giving Giving Up Giving Away
http://frjohbrian.blogspot.com/2008/04/sermon-giving-giving-up-giving-away.html
Healing in Community
http://frjohbrian.blogspot.com/2006/03/healing-community-sermonhomily-march_17.html
Further Healing in Community
http://frjohbrian.blogspot.com/2006/03/further-healing-in-community.html
Insanity?
http://frjohbrian.blogspot.com/2006/03/insanity-sermonhomily-march-2006.html
Carried and Forgiven
http://frjohbrian.blogspot.com/2007/03/carried-and-forgiven-march-2007.html
Blind Generosity
http://frjohbrian.blogspot.com/2007/03/blind-generosity-march-2007.html
Birthright Salvation
http://frjohbrian.blogspot.com/2007/03/birthright-salvation-march-2007.html
Living Through Death On Both Sides
http://frjohbrian.blogspot.com/2008/03/living-through-death-on-both-sides.html
Living Limitless Life
http://frjohbrian.blogspot.com/2008/03/living-limitless-life.html
Born Again and Again
http://frjohbrian.blogspot.com/2006/03/born-again-and-again-sermonhomily.html

May the Lord bless and increase all good things to you and all your loved ones!
Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission
P. O. Box 5207, Madison, Wisconsin 53705
1-608-242-4244 ~ transfiguration@usa.com

Buddhists Nuns Among Recent Visitors at Chapel

Buddhist nuns from the Joyful Path Healing Center in Blue Mounds visited the chapel on Sunday, February 9, 2009. Pictured to the right of Father John Brian are Menma-La and Ngawang Gema. They were visiting in concert with an interfaith program they have initiated "I Take the Vow - Committing to Non-Violence" where they are asking spiritual leaders from different faith communities to come and speak on topic of peace and true nonviolence in body, speech, and mind. Father John Brian was recommended to Joyful Path as a representative of the Christian Faith, based upon his commentaries and involvements. He will be speaking at the center on Saturday March 21, 2009 at 10am. The Joyful Path Healing Center event is open to anyone. Click here for more information on this event. The nuns expressed gratitude at the warm welcome.

A Little Spiritual Help

For "A Little Spiritual Help" join a new yahoo group - email list sponsored
by our mission this month.

"A Little Spiritual Help" is for

HEALING LIFE,
DEEPENING FAITH,
ENRICHING PRACTICE, and
REFRESHING SPIRIT

This service will be mostly helpful quotes and useful notes for a little
spiritual help on our journey. The sources will be mostly Christian from
Apostolic and Orthodox traditions, but contemporary and other sources may be
used.

The intention of this list is for there to be "spiritual help" in the form
of new posts on most Wednesdays and Fridays, which are considered days of
introspection and meditation in Orthodox Christianity. However, spiritual
help is available always and everything posted will be available in the list
group archives - http://groups.yahoo.com/group/spiritualhelp/messages

The first two posts for "A Little Spiritual Help" have been:
010209 The Transcendent
010709 Love of Goodness

This group is supervised by Fr John Brian Paprock, Orthodox priest who
serves a multi-ethnic mission parish and as a chaplain for local hospitals
and hospice care. He has been a pastoral counselor for many years, working
with diverse people with diverse problems and life difficulties.

However, anyone may submit short quotes for inclusion and help. The shorter
the better, but spiritual helpfulness and inspiration are most important.

May the Lord bless and keep each of us in His light and Love. May He bless
this simple endeavor to be a help to those along the way.

Please pray for this effort, for the moderators.

Subscribe: spiritualhelp-subscribe@yahoogroups.com
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/spiritualhelp/

*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*
Sponsored by Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission Parish
621 N. Sherman Avenue, Suite B3, Madison, Wisconsin 53704
Sundays 9:30am ~ 608.242.4244
transfiguration@usa.com

Nativity Sermon ~ St. Isaac the Syrian

Nativity Sermon
St. Isaac the Syrian ~ d.700 AD

This Christmas night bestowed peace on the whole world;
So let no one threaten;
This is the night of the Most Gentle One -
Let no one be cruel;
This is the night of the Humble One -
Let no one be proud.
Now is the day of joy -
Let us not revenge;
Now is the day of Good Will -
Let us not be mean.
In this Day of Peace -
Let us not be conquered by anger.
Today the Bountiful impoverished Himself for our sake;
So, rich one, invite the poor to your table.
Today we receive a Gift for which we did not ask;
So let us give alms to those who implore and beg us.
This present Day cast open the heavenly doors to our prayers;
Let us open our door to those who ask our forgiveness.
Today the DIVINE BEING took upon Himself the seal of our humanity,
In order for humanity to be decorated by the Seal of DIVINITY.

Mission: A Healthy Church

Orthodox Christian mission in America can be challenging. But when a recent article in "Christianity Today" focused on the three principles of a healthy church, it was a delight to see how these principles are at the core of Holy Transfiguration mission parish.

In the article, "Denominational Diagnostics: What I Look For to Find a Healthy Church ," Philip Yancey visited all the churches in his area that were in the local phone book. He noticed three qualities of a healthy church: diversity, unity and mission or purpose.

First of all, unspoken in the article – but obviously an indication of a healthy church – is its openness and accessibility to visitors. Being in the phone book is obviously a good way to let people know that an Orthodox church is in their backyard, but we also depend on those who attend our services regularly to spread the word to their friends and relatives that our unique congregation is an option for them.

Then, Yancey pointed out that he could sense an "aliveness" in a congregation that had very little to do with theology. This seems an important consideration for Orthodox churches and mission parishes to pay attention to. Yancey equates "aliveness" to congregational health. From his perspective as a visitor, WHAT was taught was not as important as HOW it was taught. But "how" wasn’t a style of worship or a liturgical tradition; it was demonstrated in who was welcome and how parishioners interacted with each other and the community beyond the Sunday gathering.

DIVERSITY: From the beginning of the Church, Yancey reminded us, Christians were welcoming of different economic classes, divergent ethnicities, cultures and races. Holy Transfiguration mission parish is a singularly multiethnic and multiracial congregation in our community. Our small mission has individuals and families across the economic spectrum, and people who are from countries around the world. People are accepted as created uniquely by God and having unique life experiences which are treasures to the community.

UNITY: Yancey wrote that diversity can only work with a shared common vision. Holy Transfiguration utilizes English as a common language for visitors as well as the Orthodox Christian immigrants and residents, who come from diverse lingual backgrounds. The use of English also helps those first-generation Orthodox Christians, born in America, who have not learned the language of parents and grandparents well enough to understand the powerful spiritual teachings of Holy Traditions of the Church. This includes the songs, hymns, and prayers, many of which have been within Orthodox services since the beginning. The experiential nature of Orthodox liturgy and prayers unifies Orthodox Christians with a common vision shared in Holy Communion (Korban).

MISSION: "Saddest of all are those churches whose vision does not extend beyond their own facilities and parking lots," wrote Yancey. Holy Transfiguration mission parish takes service to the community seriously, contributing to just and needy causes regularly with small grants (as there has been availability of resources) and volunteerism – locally, nationally and internationally. The mission priest, and his wife and son, lead by example in hours of volunteer service and out-of-pocket donations.

"In my visits," Yancey concluded, "I never found a perfect church (nor should we expect to, if the New Testament gives any indication). But when tempted to judge, I simply remind myself that disappointment with the church traces back to God’s own bold experiment: to allow ordinary people like us to embody his presence on earth."

Indeed, Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission in Madison, Wisconsin is honored to be among the non-perfect as God shapes and molds the mission and ministry into a better vehicle for His mercy, light and love, and is honored to be a healthy congregation in service to contemporary America while retaining the wholeness of Holy Orthodoxy.

Pray for this mission effort; for its priest and members; and for seekers and visitors who may discover that Holy Transfiguration is the church they’ve been searching for.

Blessing of Water Presentation

"Blessing of Water in the Eastern Christian Tradition" was a presentation of Fr John-Brian at Edgewood College in Madison, October 12, 2008 - as part of the Gathering of Waters. Assisted by members of the mission parish, the presentation included a slide show and the blessing of water for our mission use.

The audio recording of the presentation with more pictures and a link to the slide show are at www.frjohbrian.blogspot.com

This is where audio of Sunday sermons and other blog entries by Fr John Brian can be found. Entires are made at least once a week at www.frjohbrian.blogspot.com

Cross Making - 3 sermons on the Cross

The Festival of the Cross is also called the Exaltation or Elevation of the Cross. It is an important occasion of Holy Church. These sermons focus on the history and the power of the cross.

+++ Cross Making More!
1st Sermon on the Cross ~ Festival of the Cross begins
This sermon given on Sunday September 14, 2008 by Fr John Brian Paprock at Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission Chapel, Madison, Wisconsin.
LISTEN ONLINE HERE:
http://frjohbrian.blogspot.com/2008/09/cross-making-more.html

+++ Making Cross More
2nd Sermon on the Cross ~ Festival of the Cross continues
This sermon given on Sunday September 21, 2008 by Fr John Brian Paprock at Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission Chapel, Madison, Wisconsin.
LISTEN ONLINE HERE:
http://frjohbrian.blogspot.com/2008/09/making-cross-more.html

+++ More Cross Making
Intersections of the Cross ~ 3rd Sermon on the Cross
Festival of the Cross continues
This sermon given on Sunday September 28, 2008 by Fr John Brian Paprock at Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission Chapel, Madison, Wisconsin.
LISTEN ONLINE HERE:
http://frjohbrian.blogspot.com/2008/09/more-cross-making.html

THESE CAN BE PODCAST OR DOWNLOAD:
http://feeds.feedburner.com/frjohnbrian or
http://frjohnbrian.hipcast.com/rss/spiritual_reflections_or_fr_john_brian.xml
Over 100 sermons of Fr. John Brian are online!

Orthodox Priest Wins Community Award

From: Teresa Kochamma

FYI...

Rev. Fr. John-Brian Paprock, a Chaplain in the UW Hospital Spiritual Care Services Department and at HospiceCare, received the "Middleton Good Neighbor Award" in a ceremony at the Good Neighbor Festival on Sunday, August 24.

GNF Committee President Rich Schmidt said the committee voted "unanimously and without hesitation" to present the award to Rev. Paprock, who was nominated by retired Boy Scout Troop 940 Scoutmaster Ron Berman, with whom he worked for many years.

Schmidt said Rev . Paprock "is truly an asset to our community."

Rev. Paprock, priest of Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Church, was honored for his community volunteer service including:

* Activities with the Middleton Boy Scouts since his son Christopher became a member. Rev. Paprock was Cubmaster of Middleton Cub Scout Pack 540 (and maintained the website at the time). Since then he has done a great deal of volunteer fundraising for the pack/troop such as face-painting, dunk-tanking, and working at Brat Fest.
* Volunteering in the Middleton Schools, including doing Art in the Classroom ... speaking to classes about Native American Effigy Mounds ... talking to children at Sauk Trail School about their concerns right after 9-11 ... providing a display at the intercultural awareness day ... and
helping out regularly in the high school library

* Founding Madison's annual Interfaith Awareness Week 10 years ago and bringing the event to Middleton two years ago ... organizing an annual program at the Middleton Public Library that attracts Middleton residents representing a variety of religious traditions - including Sikhism, the Baha'i Faith, Islam, Buddhism, and Christianity - for education and dialogue
* Many contributions to the Madison community in years past, including helping to found the Teen Loft ... serving on the religious advisory committee at the Wisconsin Department of Corrections ... founding the Madison Region Chapter of the World Future Society ... serving on the mental health services committee of the local American Red Cross ... serving on the
board of directors of Madison Urban Ministry ... and more.

The GNF Committee gives three Good Neighbor awards each year. The other two awards went to Kathy Olson and to Brenda & Bob Rosebrough. A press release from the committee said "Collectively, these award winners have participated in a staggering number of volunteer efforts ... Nominees must reside in the Middleton area and their contributions to the community should be of sufficient duration to warrant recognition."

For more information - http://www.goodneighborfestival.com/

"Reflections on Receiving the Good Neighbor Award" by Fr John Brian (just posted)
http://frjohbrian.blogspot.com/2008/09/reflections-on-receiving-good-neighbor.html

Holy Transfiguration Annual Festival Picnic 2008

People from all around the Madison area came to Burrows Park on Sunday, August 10, to celebrate the annual feast day and picnic for Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Church. Over 30 people gathered for the group photograph this year. As always, some did not get in this photograph. The group included Americans, as well as people of Ethiopian, Eritrean, East Indian and Syrian descent. The multiethnic, multicultural parish is located at 621 N. Sherman Avenue, Suite B3. Information is available by calling 242-4244. PHOTO BY WILMA MATTINGLY

Annual Mission Picnic 2008

August 10, 2008 - Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission Annual Picnic was good food and good fun for all - it was a great day for a picnic!

Blessing of Fruit - Transfiguration Festival 2008

August 10, 2008 - Blessing of Fruit at Holy Transfiguration Festival Picnic at Burrows Park shelter, Madison, Wisconsin

Festival Liturgy/Qurbana at Holy Transfiguration

August 10, 2008 - Holy Transfiguration Mission Chapel Festal Services before the annual picnic.

Transfiguration Mission Annual PicnicSunday, August 10

Come join us! Everyone welcome!
Annual picnic & feast day
(including the blessing of first fruits)


+ Sunday, August 10, 2008
+ 11 a.m. to ??
+ Burrows Park Shelter - Madison, Wisconsin

Food …
Fellowship …
Children's games

Please bring a dish to share & fruit for the blessing
+ More information:608-242-4244

Burrows Park is at the intersection of Sherman and Fordem Avenues, near Maple Bluff.


The picnic will follow Chapel services that will begin at 8:30 a.m.
Chapel: 621 N. Sherman Avenue, Suite B3.

o HEALING LIFE o DEEPENING FAITH
o ENRICHING PRACTICE o REFRESHING SPIRIT

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Mission Visit Reflections

My Visit to Transfiguration Mission

By  Renu Paul 
Sunday, June 29, 2008
 
[Renu Paul was the personal secretary of our departed Bishop, Dr. Thomas Mar Makarios at Alma College in Michigan. She visited the Mission in Madison June 19-24, 2008 and was kind to offer these reflections of her visit.] 

 

I felt as if I were going to an Orthodox family reunion of sorts when I made a visit to the Transfiguration Mission in Madison, WI in June 2008.  Born to parents who raised me in the rich traditions of the Malankara Orthodox Church of India, I am proud to say that my Christian roots can be traced as far back as 52 A.D. when “doubting” Thomas arrived in a small island off the southwestern coast of India to share the gospel message with high-caste Hindus.  I inherited the Orthodox faith from these high-caste Hindus who were my ancestors. 

 

Growing up, studying, and eventually becoming an American citizen, I was curious how my Oriental Orthodox faith could possibly be sustained and, perhaps even, be enriched and enlivened in the mainstream society, particularly in a country where materialism and the political guarantees of religious freedom go hand-in-hand.  With a panoply of cultures and peoples from all corners of the world congregating in the public square, I wondered how (and if) the beauty and depth of Indian Orthodox Christianity could be shared with others.  Would it be feasible outside my immediate ethnic milieu especially since evidence suggests otherwise? 

 

Linguistic, cultural, and religious barriers are pernicious such that they seem to pose a formidable impediment to human progress and growth.  When we monitor the political happenings in the world today, national, ethnic, and racial antagonisms—whether it be in Iraq, Israel, Pakistan, Israel, or Northern Ireland—supersede the hope of human unity, no less any sense of religious unity. 

 

After witnessing firsthand how the faithful of the Transfiguration Malankara Orthodox Mission of Orthodox Christian participated in the Divine Liturgy, I have come to the realization that Orthodox Christianity means “global” Orthodox Christianity.  There are realistic challenges,  of course, but they are, surmountable because of the common unity we have in the figurehead of Jesus Christ, who is our universal Shepherd, and the Church, who is our universal Mother.  I am grateful to the Lord who has opened my eyes after my visit to the Mission that “[w]ith God, all things are possible” (Mark 10: 27).  I am especially impressed by the able leadership of Fr. John Brian Paprock along with the loyal acolytes on the altar who continue the apostolic tradition handed to us so long ago.  The members of the Transfiguration Mission family—from the indefatigable energy of Teresa Kochamma  to the devotion of the old and young alike— make this community a vibrant place to worship and be.  May God continue to bless and protect His Church.

 
In His service,

Renu

Introduction to Orthodoxy: visit from Merrimac UMC

On Wednesday evening, May 28, 2008, we were honored to receive the youth group (and its adult leaders) of Merrimac United Methodist Church for a program about our church and mission. Pastor Anita Genrich authorized this visit as part of the youth education at their church in learning about Christian diversity and history. She includes these types of visits as important parts of their catechism curricula. Pastor Anita met Fr John Brian while they both served as fill-in hospital chaplains. [pictures of the group with Kochamma and Fr John Brian were taken by Christopher who assisted in the evening]

Orthodox Christianity: Introduction

About a dozen people came to Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission recently to learn a little of other churches.


Fr John Brian condensed history and theology, doctrine and practice into about 45 minutes (in two parts) which can be listened to online or podcast.
Recorded at Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission Chapel, May 28, 2008 in Madison, Wisconsin


PODCAST OR DOWNLOAD:http://feeds.feedburner.com/frjohnbrian or http://frjohnbrian.hipcast.com/rss/spiritual_reflections_or_fr_john_brian.xml

LISTEN ONLINE HERE:
Part 1 of 2
http://frjohbrian.blogspot.com/2008/05/orthodox-christianity-introduction-part_31.html


Part 2 of 2
http://frjohbrian.blogspot.com/2008/05/orthodox-christianity-introduction-part.html

a children's book!

From: Teresa Kochamma

Greetings, friends ... relatives ... church folks ... co-workers...

I'm sending this out to everyone I can think of that has young kids, or
grandkids, or nieces or nephews - well, anyone who enjoys a good story with
a spiritual message.

Fr. John-Brian has just published a children's book, "What the Grub Found
Out." Actually, he wrote and illustrated this book back in 1992. But now
through Lulu Press, he was able to publish it.

"What the Grub Found Out" can be can be purchased as a regular book for
$10.63, or downloaded on to your computer for $2.50. It makes a great gift
for little ones ... hint, hint. ;)

http://stores.lulu.com/transfiguration

Half (50%) of the proceeds from this book (as well as "Living in the Eighth
Day") go to mission efforts.

View or download the latest mission report, Holy Transfiguration Mission
2008, written in the words of members and those who participate and benefit
from the Madison area (Wisconsin) mission -
http://www.angelfire.com/wi/theosis/mission08bklt.pdf (large file ~2M)

Love and Blessings!

Teresa Peneguy Paprock
words&stuff freelancing

Transfiguration Mission 2008: a report in members words

Peace be with you.

There is a very nice full color 15 page report about our mission in Madison, Wisconsin in the words of the people who have participated and benefited from our efforts.

Teresa Kochamma is a journalist and editor at the local newspaper. She gathered and arranged these pages out of the love she has for our missionand for the Orthodox faith.

She felt not enough people really know of the positive work being done for the Orthodox faith in the Madison area. It is important to her that you have this information and to distribute it as you wish.

This PDF file is large (~2MB) - too big to send to everyone. So, if you would like to have a copy and can handle a ~2MB attachment, we will be glad to email it to you. Another option is to view it or download it from the Yahoo Groups site for our mission email group. If you are a member of that group, you can access it at the URL:
http://www.groups.yahoo.com/group/madisontransfiguration/files/ and look for
"transfiguration mission 08.pdf " at the bottom of the list.

If you are not a member, you can join by following the instructions at the group site
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/madisontransfiguration/

If there is a problem with opening the PDF or with printing it, please let us know as soon as possible, sothat we can send a hard copy to you.

Our beloved Makarios Thirumeni was familiar with our mission effort andimpact. Since he has passed to eternal memory this spring, it may behelpful for others to know us like he did.

Please feel free to contact us with any questions. I am sure Kochamma wouldalso answer any questions you may have.

Remember us in your prayers as we continue to labor in the Lord's vineyard.

your servant,
Fr John Brian Paprock
Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission Parish
621 N Sherman Avenue, Suite B3
Madison, Wisconsin 53704
608.242.4244 ~ transfiguration@usa.com
HEALING LIFE o DEEPENING FAITH
ENRICHING PRACTICE o REFRESHING SPIRIT

Holy Days 2008

These images from Palm Sunday and Easter were taken by Teresa Kochamma.

Mar Makarios 40day Memorial Tribute

A Tribute to Mar Makarios Thirumeni

This tribute eulogy given by Fr John Brian was recorded at Holy
Transfiguration Chapel in Madison, Wisconsin on the 40th day memorial
occasion of His Grace, Metropolitan Thomas Mar Makarios on the evening of
April 2nd, 2008.

This tribute was delivered by Fr John Brian at St Gregorios Cathedral in
Chicago (Bellwood), Illinois on April 5th for the memorial gathering there.

PODCAST OR DOWNLOAD:
http://feeds.feedburner.com/frjohnbrian or
http://frjohnbrian.hipcast.com/rss/spiritual_reflections_or_fr_john_brian.xml

OR LISTEN OR READ THE TEXT HERE:
http://frjohbrian.blogspot.com/2008/04/mar-makarios-40day-memorial-tribute.html

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Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission Parish
621 N. Sherman Avenue, Suite B3
Madison, Wisconsin 53705
Sundays 9:30am ~ 608.242.4244
transfiguration@usa.com

o HEALING LIFE o DEEPENING FAITH
o ENRICHING PRACTICE o REFRESHING SPIRIT

An American Faces East: My Journey to the Mission Society

An American Faces East: My Journey to the Mission Society
By Fr John Brian – Madison, Wisconsin USA

Shortly after our Madison mission became part of the Mission Society of St. Gregorios of India (which is a mission effort of the Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church) in 2001, a young Malayalee from New York complimented our mission efforts and then detailed all of the issues confronting the Malankara Orthodox Church. After that, he asked: “What did you find in the Malankara Orthodox Church that made you join it? My question is a sincere attempt to learn more about the vast treasure of my Church, which sadly many of my own brethren have failed to see.”

(This response was found among email archives. It has been updated and edited. Photo: Metropolitan Thomas Mar Makarios with Fr John Brian)

Truly we are honored by compliments and love to hear about the good that can be seen by others, but all honor and praise belongs to God first and foremost who has brought us together. Holy Orthodoxy is a religion of community. It is nearly impossible to be Christian without community as we are One Body in Christ.

All temporal conflicts and separations in that body are wounds that will be healed by the love of our Lord. Like children, we often view our scrapes and bruises as an eternity of suffering. We sometimes deal with emotional problems and difficult times with child-like absolutes that we often regret. We need to always be working for mature wholeness, health and unity of Holy Church. There is a lot of room in God's kingdom for diverse manners and practices. Bishop Kallistos of Oxford has said that "all cultures have a facet of God's intent."

Truly, the Malankara Church is a light from the east that can help those of us in the west to see more clearly the path laid before us. Despite politics and conflicts, the Holy Spirit reaches forth to touch those that wait with wakeful hearts. We must be aware of this lest we begin to believe that God is limited by human conflict and politics. No, God is much much greater.

It is with great mystery that we are allowed to disagree and have dispute with one another. It is a symptom not only of our free will, but of our human frailty as well. In addition, we cannot know if God is working His will in the midst. We can pray for wisdom and love and light to prevail...and it will. When Mahatma Gandhi reached a point of despair, he said something like, "I remember that throughout human history no evil dictator, no vicious regime, no brutal leader has survived. All of them - 100% - have been destroyed. Then I am renewed." If this can be said about greater conflicts and difficulties, then certainly God will free us from "petty politics."

There may be a need to communicate differently; plan differently. There may be a need for mission work within the communities of Indian Orthodoxy, not just outside them. There may be a need for a re-dedication of bringing forth the spiritual nourishment and untold treasures seemingly locked within the Malankara Church. Many see these things.

Two such lights for me were Metropolitans Paulos Mar Gregorios and Thomas Mar Makarios. The soil, the good ground of the Malankara Church, which brought forth such bishops, must be fertile soil indeed. Although you may say there is drought-like conditions, through Mar Gregorios Thirumeni's writings I see fertile ground and trees with deep roots waiting to blossom, waiting to be nurtured to bring forth fruit for all humankind. I bear witness to the sowing, planting and nurturing efforts of Mar Makarios Thirumeni in that garden. I see Christ tilling the soil, gently touching young leaves and sprouts, encouraging new growth and weeding the gardens...

I was led to this church by a dream that came during a period of intense fasting and prayer. Paulos Mar Gregorios simply beckoned me to come his way, assuring me that it would be all right to do so, like one would with a frightened pet. He smiled as he waved me forward. He did not instruct me on what I should do or how I should do it.

Ordained to the Orthodox priesthood in 1987 in a now defunct American mission of the Holy Synod of Russian Orthodox Church Outside Russia, the only church membership I had known. I took a personal and voluntary leave of absence from active status in 1992. After the initial six months passed, I was placed on “inactive status” according to protocol. Through a series of events that can only be attributed to the Holy Spirit in 1998 and 1999, I was fully re-activated to the priesthood – even before my formal request. It was during that time I entered a retreat for discernment and realized to the depth of my heart that I needed to follow Mar Gregorios Thirumeni as best as I could, even though he had departed to eternal memory in 1996 and what I knew of him mostly came from a few of his books that I had read. I was willing at that time to accept whatever course was to be laid before me. I eventually talked with Fr. Michael Hatcher, Chorepiscopos for the Mission Society, and arranged to meet with Mar Makarios Thirumeni in Chicago in October 1999.

It would be nearly three years following that dream of Mar Gregorios Thirumeni before Thomas Mar Makarios announced our acceptance into the Mission Society of St. Gregorios of India in July 2001. I can only give praise and credit to God for any good that has come from this unusual path. If He has blessed our mission efforts or any of the ministries we have done, then it is only due to the spiritual direction given, even to unfamiliar places to meet with and worship with unfamiliar people in unfamiliar ways – all within the Holy Orthodox Christian Church. I asked only to serve God and humanity.

Please pray for us lest in our humanness we stray from the path that God has lit before us.

"We have this treasure in earthen vessels that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not us." IICor4:7

In service to Christ and His Church,
Fr. John Brian Paprock
Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission
Madison, Wisconsin

Photo: Mar Militios visits Holy Transfiguration in Madison, Wisconsin - August 2001

In Honor and Memory of Makarios Thirumeni

facebook John Brian 11:56am Mar 14th Makarios Thirumeni Here is a picture album of some pictures of Bishop Mar Makarios of eternal memory! Many ofthese are related to the Mission Society he founded. To view the album or to reply to the message, follow this link: http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=97348&l=37512&id=522860290 Are your friends bothering you? You can opt out of emails from friends on Facebook.

Eternal Memory! - Bishop Thomas Mar Makarios

Eternal Memory!
O Son of God grant rest to Your servant among the righteous in that eternal
kingdom with Your saints!

Bishop Thomas Mar Makarios, founder of the Mission Society of St Gregorios
of India, died February 23, 2008 at the hospital in England where he had
been since an automobile accident (January 5, 2008). This is a great loss to
our small mission, but also to the whole Orthodox Church.

"In the abodes of the just, in the habitations of the righteous, and in the
congregations of the elect, who of old were pleasing unto You, grant, O
Lord, through Your loving-kindness, rest and delight to this Your servant
Thomas Mar Makarios Thirumeni, who has departed and journeyed to You, where
the saints rejoice, so that with them he may offer You glory and praise now
and at all times forever and ever. Amen."
Opening prayer from the memorial service

The MGOCN(Mar Gregorios Orthodox Christian Network) has set up a way for
anyone to participate worldwide in praying for Thirumeni's eternal rest and
posting condolences at the official site of the Parumala Church

http://makarios.thirumeni.com/pages/condolence/view.php

Makarios Thirumeni's Mini Site: http://www.makarios.thirumeni.com

Reflections on Mar Makarios Thirumeni

This is a very nice reflection from one of our members, Dr. Geoffrey Gyrisco, PhD who is seen in this picture (on the right) serving as a deacon at Holy Qurbana with Fr John Brian.

Pray for Mar Makarios, who, having survived a severe motor vehicle accident on January 5th, continues intensive care treatment in England.

---

From: Geoffrey M. Gyrisco
Sent: Tuesday, January 22, 2008

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

Since I was blessed to meet Mar Makarios Thirumeni several times, it seems appropriate to say a few things about him, so that more members of our congregation may know of his work. Though late in years and frail in body, he possessed great spiritual strength, a keen mind, and traveled extensively across a diocese that at one time comprised all of the U.S., Canada and Europe, as well as making frequent trips to India. Unlike other bishops--who lived, worked and traveled in regal grandeur--Thirumeni's staff to administer the vast diocese comprised perhaps three persons, and he traveled with a single assistant.

The Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church in America, Canada and Europe was not he result of a planned missionary effort. Rather, Christians from Kerala, in southern India, arrived in America, and then began establishing congregations in far flung cities. Thirumeni did much to organize these widely dispersed congregations into a diocese.

I will never forget how at the annual church retreats, though gentle in manner and seemingly frail in body, (and indeed a broken arm seemed to take a very long time to heal) he spoke with an exceptionally keen mind and a strong voice.

Thirumeni was a strong supporter of mission work, in a church where many question its outreach to those who did not originate in Kerala, in southern India. He recognized that the precious jewel of early Christianity, preserved in the hills and coasts of Kerala, in the mountains of Eretria and Ethiopia, the mountains of Armenia, and the mountains of Syria and Lebanon, deserved to be shared with many persons of diverse backgrounds. In particular, he was a strong supporter of our mission here in Madison, Wisconsin, and of its largely Eritrean and Ethiopian membership.

He possessed an exceptionally keen spiritual mind. On one occasion, when many achens had spoken for a very very long time, and the congregation was very very hungry, he spoke last, and connected our physical hunger to important spiritual matters in a powerful 7 minute homily.

Our patriarch, the Catholicos of India and all the East, relied heavily on Thirumeni. When a sad legal dispute within our church, which had been the subject of court cases for over 90 years reached the Supreme Court of India, the Catholicos sent Thirumeni to New Delhi to find a lawyer to represent us. Thirumeni had not lived in New Delhi in 30 years, did not know anyone, and did not know where to turn. An influential Hindu family recognized him, although a Christian, as a man of great holiness, and took him in. They also provided the connections to obtain the legal representation we needed.

I am sure that more profound things could be written about this great man. These are a few that come to my mind.

Let us pray that the Lord will be merciful to Thirumeni and all of us. This tragic accident is a reminder that the work that Thirumeni has begun is soon to be passed on to all of us.

Geoffrey
Holy Transfiguration Mission
Madison, Wisconsin

First Qurbana at New Chapel Location (with map)

The First Qurbana at Maruroopa Palli (Holy Transfiguration Chapel) 621 N Sherman Avenue in Madison, Wisconsin were held on January 6, 2008 and included readings and songs for Holy Nativity and the Blessing of Water. Christopher, Haben, Markos and Mikas all assted Fr John Brian in a truly blessed liturgy. Remarked on elder, "This is what an Orthodox Chapel should be like." Naomi, one of the youngest present, said, "I could hardly believe a whole church was in there!" Regular Sunday services start at 9:30am. The chapel is on Madison Metro City Bus route 2 and only 6 minutes from the North Hub and 10 minutes from the Capitol Square. It is wheelchair accessible. Other services and events will be held. Join our email list to be kept up to date - send an email to: madisontransfiguration-subscribe@yahoogroups.com (photos by TBP/JBP)

621 N. Sherman Avenue is just north of Commercial Avenue (and before the railroad tracks) on the north side of Madison's Isthmus (Maple Bluff). The gray area in the upper right of the map is the Dane County Airport. The blue on the left is Lake Mendota. As you can see on the map, Hwys 113 and 151 are near. If you need directions, please call or email us. (Map courtesy of Map Quest)

Saying Farewell to St. Dunstan's

December 23, 2008 marked the day of the last services of our mission chapel at St. Dunstan's Episcopal Church Parish Hall. St. Dunstan's had been the host of our humble mission effort even before Metropoltian Thomas Mar Makarios accepted our congregation and priest into the Mission Society of St. Gregorios of India (Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church) July 2001. The top row show the Fr John Brian and the deacons (servers) Haben, Christopher, Mikas and Markos. The "Moving/Cleaning Team" that helped move the chapel items and cleaned the parish hall included: Banchi, Cienna, Dave, Eric, Fr. John Brian, Rachele, Robb, and Teresa Kochamma. (photos by JBP and TBP)

From Office Suite to Chapel

Our new chapel was remodeled from an office suite. Upper left is the completed chapel from the doorway. Each of the successive shots are from the same doorway. Center top is the space with a wall dividing the suite. The upper right is after the wall was removed. The bottom row shows one step before completion, day before first services, and zuhoyo at the blessing of water first services January 6, 2008. Mission members volunteered their time for the remodeling. The "Remodeling Team" included: Christopher, Cienna, Haben, Fr. John-Brian, Mulu, Rachele, Robb, and Teresa Kochamma. (photos by TBP/JBP)

October/November Sermons On-line

Orthodox Christian Sermons
October/November 2007
Fr. John Brian, priest
Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission Chapel Madison, Wisconsin
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NOVEMBER 2007
http://frjohbrian.blogspot.com/2007_11_01_archive.html
<+> Encounter Divine Changes : Sunday November 25, 2007
<+> Angels Incense Rise To Get Our Attention: Sunday November 18, 2007
<+> Every Place You Are The Temple: Sunday November 11, 2007
<+> Baptism of Lydia: Saturday November 10, 2007
<+> Man Building God Building : Sunday November 4, 2007

PODCAST OR DOWNLOAD: http://feeds.feedburner.com/frjohnbrian or
http://frjohnbrian.hipcast.com/rss/spiritual_reflections_or_fr_john_brian.xm
l
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OCTOBER 2007
http://frjohbrian.blogspot.com/2007_10_01_archive.html
<+> Our Altar-native Opportunity : Sunday October 28, 2007
<+> technical problem - no audio for sermon : Sunday October 21, 2007
<+> A Charge Account With Interest : Sunday October 14, 2007
<+> God Knows Hearts God Loves : Sunday October 7, 2007

PODCAST OR DOWNLOAD: http://feeds.feedburner.com/frjohnbrian or
http://frjohnbrian.hipcast.com/rss/spiritual_reflections_or_fr_john_brian.xm
l
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God bless and keep you according to His mercy and lovingkindness.
May the peace that passes all understanding be with you and all your loved
ones.

Pray for us.

+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+

Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission Parish
P. O. Box 5207, Madison, Wisconsin 53705
Sundays 9:30am ~ 608.242.4244 ~ transfiguration@usa.com
o HEAL YOUR LIFE o DEEPEN YOUR FAITH
o ENRICH YOUR PRACTICE o REFRESH YOUR SPIRIT

BAPTISM OF LYDIA

BAPTISM OF LYDIA
Saturday November 10, 2007
Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission in Madison, Wisconsin.
(Pictures in collage above taken by several in the congregation as Kochamma stood in for Godmother, who is in Washington DC)

The homiletic sermon delivered on this auspicious occasion by Fr John Brian focused on the scriptures appointed to be read at the baptism of a daughter (end of John Chapter 3 and end of Galations Chapter 3) as well as the story from Acts 16 about Lydia in Phillippi. It can be heard on-line or podcasted. It was 16 minutes, 27 seconds.
Listen on-line: http://frjohbrian.blogspot.com/2007/11/baptism-of-lydia.html
PODCAST OR DOWNLOAD: http://feeds.feedburner.com/frjohnbrian or
http://frjohnbrian.hipcast.com/rss/spiritual_reflections_or_fr_john_brian.xml

September 2007 sermons online

PODCAST OR DOWNLOAD: http://feeds.feedburner.com/frjohnbrian or

http://frjohnbrian.hipcast.com/rss/spiritual_reflections_or_fr_john_brian.xml

 

September 2007 sermons

<+> Light Crosses Dark, Life Crosses Death : Sunday September 30, 2007

Romans Chapter 8 and a passage from Matthew Chapter 5 and other scriptures appointed for the 3rd Sunday of the Holy Cross. 26 minutes, 21 seconds

http://frjohbrian.blogspot.com/2007/10/light-crosses-dark-life-crosses-death.html

<+> Together With God : Sunday September 23, 2007

2nd Sunday of the Holy Cross: 1 Kings 3:5-9, Isaiah 48:12-16, Act 5:17-32, I Corinthians 2: 14-3:9 and St. Matthew 16-5-12. 27 minutes, 45 seconds

http://frjohbrian.blogspot.com/2007/09/together-with-god-september-2007.html

<+> As Time Runs Out, Happy New Year: Sunday September 16, 2007

Sunday of the Holy Cross: I Corinthians 2: 10-16 and St. Mark 13: 28 -37. 26 minutes, 55 seconds

http://frjohbrian.blogspot.com/2007/09/as-time-runs-out-happy-new-year.html

<+> Loving Enemies Among Us: Sunday September 9, 2007

4th Sunday after Assumption of St. Mary: Beginning of Book of Job, Isaiah 1:15-20; Beginning of Chapter 2 of Peter's First Epistle, End of Chapter 3 of First Corinthians; and End of Matthew's Gospel Chapter 5.  30 minutes, 21 seconds

http://frjohbrian.blogspot.com/2007/09/loving-enemies-among-us-september-2007.html

<+> Dear Sweet Unlovable You: Sunday September 2, 2007

3rd Sunday after Assumption of St. Mary: End of Ezekiel Chapter 18; Beginning of 2 Corinthians Chapter 10; Beginning of James Chapter 5; and End of Matthew Chapter 17. 29 minutes, 48 seconds

http://frjohbrian.blogspot.com/2007/09/dear-sweet-unlovable-you-september-2007.html

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God bless and keep you according to His mercy and lovingkindness. 
May the peace that passes all understanding be with you and all your loved ones. 

Pray for us.

+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+

o HEAL YOUR LIFE o DEEPEN YOUR FAITH

o ENRICH YOUR PRACTICE o REFRESH YOUR SPIRIT

Summer Sermons Online

Orthodox Christian Sermons
Fr. John Brian, priest
Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission Chapel
Madison, Wisconsin

AUGUST 2007
http://frjohbrian.blogspot.com/2007_08_01_archive.html
>> Living a Problem - August 26 2007
>> Living A Transfigured Life - August 12 2007
>> As Little Ones Enter - August 5 2007

http://feeds.feedburner.com/frjohnbrian
RSS Feeds - podcasting

JULY 2007
http://frjohbrian.blogspot.com/2007_07_01_archive.html
>> Greatest Humility - July 29 2007
>> Mystery and Power of Holy Communion - July 22 2007
>> Satan Will Not Stand - July 15 2007
>> Crisis of Faith and Hunger - July 8 2007
>> Apostolic Love - July 1 2007

http://feeds.feedburner.com/frjohnbrian
RSS Feeds - podcasting

JUNE 2007

http://frjohbrian.blogspot.com/2007_06_01_archive.html
>> The Ministry of Reconciliation - June 24 2007
>> Father and Son - June 17 2007
>> Of Lions and Wolves - June 10 2007
>> Filled for the Journey - June 3 2007

http://feeds.feedburner.com/frjohnbrian
RSS Feeds - podcasting

Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission Parish

P.O.Box 5207, Madison, Wisconsin 53705

Sundays 10 am ~ 6205 University Avenue

608.236.9622 transfiguration@usa.com

www.maruroopa.blogspot.com

www.angelfire.com/wi/inroads/transfig.html

o HEAL YOUR LIFE o DEEPEN YOUR FAITH
o ENRICH YOUR PRACTICE o REFRESH YOUR SPIRIT

Blessing of the New Millennium

Fr John Brian was honored to give the blessing prayer for the Ethiopian New Year which marked the New Millennium on their calendar. Of course, he had lots of help from Holy Transfiguration congregation present. "Our Father" was said in both English and Ge'ez.
The celebration was held at the Eagles Heights Community Center - UW Madison on September 15, 2007.
(photos by TBP)

Ethiopian Millennium Celebration in Madison

Ethiopian Millennium Celebration at Eagle Heights Community Center (UW-Madison)
The Ethiopian calendar just marked the year 2000!
Happy New Year! Happy New Millennium!
(photos by TBP - except the one's she's in)

Congratulations to Brhne and Rahel!

Congratulations to Brhne and Rahel!
They are to be married in Chicago on September 29!
May God grant them many years!
(photo - TBP)

First Sundays are Youth Sundays

First Sunday of the Month is Youth Sunday - Here are some photos from September's Sunday which also featured a "question and answer" session in the chapel after services. (photos - TBP)

Mission Society Conference 2007

A panel of converts at the conference “To The Ends Of The Earth” Conference 2007 demonstrate the diversity of our mission society and Holy Orthodoxy. They came to Orthodoxy in different ways and had valuable stories to tell. (photo - TBP)

Mission Society Conference

St. Gregorios Malankara Syrian Orthodox Mission in Spokane, Washington hosted “To The Ends Of The Earth” Conference 2007. Fr. John Brian and his family travelled to Spokane for the August conference. The collage includes Fredericka Mathews-Greene (upper left), Chorespiscopa Fr. Michael Hatcher (upper right), the book table and Fr Anthony and Fr John Brian with the faithful in preparation for Holy Qurbana on Sunday. (photos - TBP)

Transfiguration Festival 2007

Late summer festival for Holy Transfiguration, included the blessing of fruit. (photos - TBP)

Women's Prayer Meeting

In July, Kochamma hosted a women's prayer meeting. May the Lord bless the women of our church and may their prayers be a stronghold. May the Lord bless and protect their families and grant us peace. (photo - JBP)

Housewarming in Middleton

Housewarming for Father John-Brian's family after they moved this past spring. The blessing of famliy and friends together with the prayerful blessings appointed by the Church (Photos by Teresa Paprock, collage done with Picasa)

ANNUAL PICNIC

You and all your loved ones are invited to

 

HOLY TRANSFIGURATION ORTHODOX MISSION PARISH ANNUAL PICNIC

 

SUNDAY, AUGUST 12, 2007

 

o HEAL YOUR LIFE o DEEPEN YOUR FAITH

o ENRICH YOUR PRACTICE o REFRESH YOUR SPIRIT

 

 

 ><+> ~9:00 AM  CELEBRATION LITURGY/HOLY QURBANA BEGINS

 ><+> ~11:00 AM  >> BLESSING OF FRUIT <<

               - traditional Transfiguration celebration blessing

               - bring your favorite fruit to be blessed and to share

 ><+> ~11:00AM-1:00PM  >>> PICNIC <<<

               - bring a dish to share - vegetarians foods please

               - there will be youth/children activities

 

Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission Parish

meeting at 6205 University Avenue, Madison, Wisconsin

608.236.9622 (CALL IF YOU NEED A RIDE)

EMAIL: transfiguration@usa.com

www.maruroopa.blogspot.com  ~  www.angelfire.com/wi/inroads/transfig.html

 

SUMMER RETREAT

DEVELOPING A SENSE OF THE SACRED
~ + ~
MEDITATION PRACTICES OF THE CHRISTIAN EAST


PRAYER & MEDITATION RETREAT ACCORDING TO EASTERN CHRISTIAN TRADITIONS
Led by Rev. Fr. John-Brian Paprock
Priest, Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Church, Director, Inroads Ministry
over 25 years of service to spiritual renewal and recovery

JULY 13 & 14, 2007
Friday, 7pm – 9pm & Saturday, 9am – 3pm
Pre-register by July 5, 2007
608-236-9622 ~ transfiguration@usa.com
+ + +
$115 single occupancy room; $105 double occupancy room; $50 Saturday only
includes rooms Friday night, meals Saturday and $25 donation
Make checks payable to
INROADS, P. O. BOX 5207, Madison, WI 53705
+ + +
RETREAT WILL BE HELD AT
DeKoven Center ~ Taylor Hall ~ 600 21st Street
RACINE, WISCONSIN
+ + +
limited enrollment -OPEN TO ALL - MORE INFORMATION IS AVAILABLE
please contact us for any special needs

The cross IS an Ascension symbol - festal sermon

The cross IS an Ascension symbol

This short sermon gives insight into the ancient traditions of the altar cross and the cross atop churches and then brings this to personal spiritual development. Ascension sermon delivered Sunday May 20, 2007 by Fr John Brian at Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission in Madison, Wisconsin. Inspired by the Zuhoyo (procession with the cross) at Holy Ascension. 14 minutes, 3 seconds

LISTEN ONLINE: http://frjohbrian.blogspot.com/2007/05/cross-is-ascension-symbol-may-2007.html

PODCAST OR DOWNLOAD: http://frjohnbrian.hipcast.com/rss/spiritual_reflections_or_fr_john_brian.xml

+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+

Previous weeks sermons:

<+> Proving and Improving: Sunday May 13, 2007

Scriptures: end of Luke Chapter 9; end of Hebrews Chapter 11 and the end Chapter 4 of the first Epistle of Peter. 32 minutes, 51 seconds

http://frjohbrian.blogspot.com/2007/05/proving-and-improving-may-2007.html

<+> Recognizing Christ Everywhere: Sunday May 6, 2007

Scriptures: Luke Chapter 24 (the walk to Emmaus); beginning of Hebrews Chapter 11 and the end of the first Epistle of John. 21 minutes, 53 seconds

http://frjohbrian.blogspot.com/2007/05/recognizing-christ-everywhere-may-2007.html

Also on the same scriptural passages: Dull Minds and Heavy Hearts, sermon/homily May 21, 2006. 34 minutes, 41 seconds

http://frjohbrian.blogspot.com/2006/05/dull-minds-and-heavy-hearts_24.html

PODCAST OR DOWNLOAD: http://frjohnbrian.hipcast.com/rss/spiritual_reflections_or_fr_john_brian.xml

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God bless and keep you according to His mercy and lovingkindness.
May the peace that passes all understanding be with you and all your loved ones.

Pray for us.

+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+

Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission Parish

P. O. Box 5207, Madison, Wisconsin 53705

Sundays 10 am ~ 608.236.9622 transfiguration@usa.com

www.maruroopa.blogspot.com

www.angelfire.com/wi/inroads/transfig.html

o HEAL YOUR LIFE o DEEPEN YOUR FAITH

o ENRICH YOUR PRACTICE o REFRESH YOUR SPIRIT

Pictures of Easter Liturgy 2007 by Teresa Kochamma. Fr John Brian with all who served as deacons. In the bottom picture, left to right, there is Habno, Robb Joshua, Geoffrey, Fr John Brian, Christopher and Zerzghi. Sumptious feast afterwards with one of the largest congregations for Easter liturgy (feast and congregation not pictured this time) Pray for our small mission effort.

No More Chains! EASTER 2007 SERMON

NO MORE CHAINS!

Easter 2007 sermon delivered after midnight, Sunday April 8, 2007 by Fr John Brian at Maruroopa Palli (Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission) in Madison, Wisconsin.  12 minutes, 8 seconds

LISTEN ONLINE:
http://frjohbrian.blogspot.com/2007/04/no-more-chains-easter-2007.html

PODCAST OR DOWNLOAD:

http://frjohnbrian.hipcast.com/rss/spiritual_reflections_or_fr_john_brian.xml

ALSO
Sermon of St John Chrysostom is read aloud at Easter - Pascha - Pesaha throughout Christian churches. This is recorded live at middle night service, early morning of April 23, 2006 at Maruroopa Palli (Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission Chapel) Madison, Wisconsin USA -
3 minutes, 41 seconds 
 
LISTEN ONLINE:
http://frjohbrian.blogspot.com/2006/04/sermon-of-st-john-chrysostom-is-read.html

PODCAST OR DOWNLOAD:

http://frjohnbrian.hipcast.com/rss/spiritual_reflections_or_fr_john_brian.xml


God bless and keep you according to His mercy and lovingkindness. 
May the peace that passes all understanding be with you and all your loved ones. 

CHRIST IS RISEN!

Pray for us.

HOLY WEEK SERVICES 2007

HOLY WEEK SERVICES 2007

HOLY THURSDAY - PESAHO (WASHING OF FEET & THE PASSION OF CHRIST) THURSDAY NIGHT 7:00 PM

GOOD FRIDAY - CRUCIFIXION & BURIAL
FRIDAY - PENANCE/MEDITATION 12:00 NOON - BURIAL 3:00 PM

HOLY PASHA - HOLY RESURRECTION
DOORS OPEN 11:00 PM SATURDAY NIGHT
MIDNIGHT LITURGY OF LIGHT - FEAST OF FEASTS

HOLY TRANSFIGURATION ORTHODOX MISSION PARISH
6205 (2) UNIVERSITY AVENUE, MADISON, WISCONSIN
608-236-9622 - TRANSFIGURATION@USA.COM
Rides available - Call Ahead

(Palm Sunday 2007 - procession for the blessing of palms - photo by Teresa Kochama)

February 2007 recorded sermons

Please pray for our mission efforts
Your comments and suggestions are always welcome
*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*
FEBRUARY 2007

25FEB07\no sermon

18FEB07\Our Divine Purpose in Lent - homiletic sermon by Fr John Brian
recorded Sunday, February 18, 2007 at Maruroopa Palli (Holy Transfiguration
Orthodox Mission Chapel) in Madison, Wisconsin USA. Focusing on the Prophecy
of Isaiah (58:3-14) and the Epistle of St Paul to the Colossians (3:1-17)
with a reference to Joel 2:12-14.
Listen to it online now
http://frjohbrian.blogspot.com/2007/02/our-divine-purpose-in-lent-february.h
tml
available for podcast/download/rss feed
http://feeds.feedburner.com/frjohnbrian

11FEB07\Blessed is That Servant - homiletic sermon by Fr John Brian recorded
Sunday, February 11, 2007 at Maruroopa Palli (Holy Transfiguration Orthodox
Mission Chapel) in Madison, Wisconsin USA. Focusing of the Gospel reading
from Luke 12:32-48 with verses from James Chapter 3.
Listen to it online now
http://frjohbrian.blogspot.com/2007/02/blessed-is-that-servant-february-2007
.html
available for podcast/download/rss feed
http://feeds.feedburner.com/frjohnbrian

04FEB07\Fulfillment of Life - homiletic sermon by Fr John Brian recorded
Sunday, February 4, 2007 at Maruroopa Palli (Holy Transfiguration Orthodox
Mission Chapel) in Madison, Wisconsin USA. Focusing of the Gospel reading
from Luke 2:22-40 with a passage from Ephesians Chapter 3.
Listen to it online now
http://frjohbrian.blogspot.com/2007/02/fulfillment-of-life-february-2007.htm
l
Also now available for podcast/download/rss feed
http://feeds.feedburner.com/frjohnbrian

*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*
JANUARY 2007

28Jan07\Refusing To See Divinity - homiletic sermon by Fr John Brian
recorded Sunday, January 28, 2007 at Maruroopa Palli (Holy Transfiguration
Orthodox Mission Chapel) in Madison, Wisconsin USA. Focusing of the Gospel
reading from Mark 6:1-6 with a passages 1 Thessalonians Chapter 4 and James
Chapter 5.
Listen to it online now
www.frjohbrian.blogspot.com/2007/01/refusing-to-see-divinity-january-2007.ht
ml
Also now available for podcast/download/rss feed
http://feeds.feedburner.com/frjohnbrian

21Jan07\Illumination of the Faithful - homiletic sermon by Fr John Brian
recorded Sunday, January 21, 2007 at Maruroopa Palli (Holy Transfiguration
Orthodox Mission Chapel) in Madison, Wisconsin USA. Focusing of the teaching
of Jesus Christ given to Nicodemus in John Chapter 3 with a passage from the
beginning of 1 Corinthians Chapter 4.
Listen to it online now
www.frjohbrian.blogspot.com/2007/01/illumination-of-faithful-january-2007.ht
ml
Also available for podcast/download/rss feed
http://feeds.feedburner.com/frjohnbrian

14Jan07\Call to the Fullness of God - sermon by Fr John Brian recorded
Sunday, January 14, 2007 at Maruroopa Palli (Holy Transfiguration Orthodox
Mission Chapel) in Madison, Wisconsin USA. Focusing of the lessons of the
Baptism of Jesus Christ by St. John the Baptist.
Listen to it online now
www.frjohbrian.blogspot.com/2007/01/call-to-fullness-of-god-january-2007.htm
l> at 1/27/2007 04:27:00 AM
Also available for podcast/download/rss feed
http://feeds.feedburner.com/frjohnbrian

07Jan07\Theosis and Nativity - a very special message given on Ledet (Holy
Nativity celebrated by Habisha parishioners) by Fr John Brian on January 7,
2007 recorded at Maruroopa Palli (Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission) in
Madison, Wisconsin USA
Listen to it online now
www.frjohbrian.blogspot.com/2007/01/theosis-and-nativity-very-special_27.htm
l
Already available for podcast/download/rss feed

*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*
One unique feature of these recorded sermons is that they are
extemporaneously given - no written text or outline is used besides the
scriptures.
*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*

Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission Parish
6205 University Avenue, Madison, Wisconsin 53705
Sundays 10 am ~ 608.236.9622 transfiguration@usa.com
www.maruroopa.blogspot.com
www.angelfire.com/wi/inroads/transfig.html
o HEAL YOUR LIFE o DEEPEN YOUR FAITH o ENRICH YOUR PRACTICE o REFRESH YOUR
SPIRIT
*****************************************
LIVING IN THE EIGHTH DAY
By Fr. John-Brian Paprock
www.lulu.com/transfiguration
*****************************************

January sermons are now available online

Technical issues are resolved - January sermons are now available
Please pray for our mission efforts
Your comments and suggestions are always welcome
*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*

28Jan07\Refusing To See Divinity - homiletic sermon by Fr John Brian
recorded Sunday, January 28, 2007 at Maruroopa Palli (Holy Transfiguration
Orthodox Mission Chapel) in Madison, Wisconsin USA. Focusing of the Gospel
reading from Mark 6:1-6 with a passages 1 Thessalonians Chapter 4 and James
Chapter 5.
Listen to it online now
www.frjohbrian.blogspot.com/2007/01/refusing-to-see-divinity-january-2007.ht
ml
Also now available for podcast/download/rss feed
http://feeds.feedburner.com/frjohnbrian

21Jan07\Illumination of the Faithful - homiletic sermon by Fr John Brian
recorded Sunday, January 21, 2007 at Maruroopa Palli (Holy Transfiguration
Orthodox Mission Chapel) in Madison, Wisconsin USA. Focusing of the teaching
of Jesus Christ given to Nicodemus in John Chapter 3 with a passage from the
beginning of 1 Corinthians Chapter 4.
Listen to it online now
www.frjohbrian.blogspot.com/2007/01/illumination-of-faithful-january-2007.ht
ml
Also available for podcast/download/rss feed
http://feeds.feedburner.com/frjohnbrian

14Jan07\Call to the Fullness of God - sermon by Fr John Brian recorded
Sunday, January 14, 2007 at Maruroopa Palli (Holy Transfiguration Orthodox
Mission Chapel) in Madison, Wisconsin USA. Focusing of the lessons of the
Baptism of Jesus Christ by St. John the Baptist.
Listen to it online now
www.frjohbrian.blogspot.com/2007/01/call-to-fullness-of-god-january-2007.htm
l> at 1/27/2007 04:27:00 AM
Also available for podcast/download/rss feed
http://feeds.feedburner.com/frjohnbrian

***below are sermons already Podcast available, but now can be heard
online***

07Jan07\Theosis and Nativity - a very special message given on Ledet (Holy
Nativity celebrated by Habisha parishioners) by Fr John Brian on January 7,
2007 recorded at Maruroopa Palli (Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission) in
Madison, Wisconsin USA
Listen to it online now
www.frjohbrian.blogspot.com/2007/01/theosis-and-nativity-very-special_27.htm
l
Already available for podcast/download/rss feed

31Dec06\Another Chance to Bear Fruit - a sermon at the end of 2006, recorded
December 31, 2006 at Maruroopa Palli (Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission)
in Madison, Wisconsin USA focusing primarily on Luke 13: 6 - 9 and St
Baselios the Great. The parable in Luke is unusual and is appointed to be
read the evening of the secular new year, during vespers. It poses several
questions about being fruitful....
Listen to it online now
www.frjohbrian.blogspot.com/2007/01/another-chance-to-bear-fruit-at-end-of_2
7.html>
Already available for podcast/download/rss feed

17Dec06\Are You Ready for a Holy Task - homiletic sermon by Fr John Brian
recorded Sunday, December 17, 2006 at Maruroopa Palli (Holy Transfiguration
Orthodox Mission Chapel) in Madison, Wisconsin USA. Focusing of the lessons
of the dream of Joseph - Matthew Chapter 1:18-25 and St Paul to the
Galatians Chapter 1: 11-24 and 1 Peter 2:11-17.
Listen to it online now
www.frjohbrian.blogspot.com/2007/01/r-u-ready-for-holy-task-december-2006.ht
ml
Already available for podcast/download/rss feed

One unique feature of these recorded sermons is that they are
extemporaneously given - no written text or outline is used besides the
scriptures.

All sermons can be downloaded - Podcast at
http://feeds.feedburner.com/frjohnbrian

your servant,

Fr John Brian
Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission Parish
6205 University Avenue, Madison, Wisconsin
Sundays 10 am ~ 608.236.9622
http://maruroopa.blogspot.com/
www.angelfire.com/wi/inroads/transfig.html
o HEAL YOUR LIFE o DEEPEN YOUR FAITH o ENRICH YOUR PRACTICE o REFRESH YOUR
SPIRIT

*****************************************

LIVING IN THE EIGHTH DAY

By Fr. John-Brian Paprock

www.lulu.com/transfiguration

Buy the book and help the mission effort

*****************************************

Holy Baptism Times Two

The mission was blessed with the sacred duty and honor of baptizing infant cousins. Kidus Abebe Daniel and Yonatan Abebe Abichu were baptized and chrismated on December 3, 2006 at Holy Transfiguration Chapel with over 50 faithful and guests in attendance. Father John Brian is seen here between the infants and their godfathers. Some guests came from Chicago and Minneapolis. A reception was held at Baruka's, and Ethiopian restuarant on State Street in downtown Madison, Wisconsin, hosted by godfather Markos Regassa (on the right) - "Uncle Abebe" was the other godfather.

Theosis and Nativity - a very special message given on Ledet

Theosis and Nativity - a very special message given on Ledet (that is, Holy
Nativity celebrated by our African parishioners) by Fr John Brian on January
7, 2007 recorded at Maruroopa Palli (Holy Transfiguration
Orthodox Mission) in Madison, Wisconsin USA
10 minutes, 37 seconds

One unique feature of these recorded sermons is that they are
extemporaneously given - no written text or outline is used besides the
scriptures.

Due to continuing technical difficulty between website and service at this
time, this sermon is only available for podcasting or download go to
http://feeds.feedburner.com/frjohnbrian

"Theosis and Nativity - a very
special message given on Ledet " should be the top listed audio file.

All sermons can be downloaded - podcast at
http://feeds.feedburner.com/frjohnbrian

More sermons and articles are posted at www.frjohbrian.blogspot.com

*****************************************
LIVING IN THE EIGHTH DAY
By Fr. John-Brian Paprock
Available at Amazon.com and other fine book sellers
Or at a special price at www.lulu.com/transfiguration
Buy the book and help our mission effort
******************************************

Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission
6205 University Avenue, Madison, Wisconsin 53705 USA
608.236.9622 voice mail
http://maruroopa.blogspot.com/
www.angelfire.com/wi/inroads/transfig.html

Orthodox Christmas: A celebration of Christ's birth

Wisconsin State Journal

http://www.madison.com/wsj/home/local/index.php?ntid=113963&ntpid=3

 

POSTED ONLINE: MON., JAN 8, 2007 - 12:23 AM

 

Orthodox Christmas: A celebration of Christ's birth

DANYA HOOKER 608-252-6120

dhooker@madison.com

 

 

While many Christians have already packed away their Christmas decorations and disposed of their trees, millions of Orthodox Christians waited until early Sunday to celebrate Christ's birth.

In Madison, 15 Oriental Orthodox Christians gathered at Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission Parish Chapel, 6205 University Ave., at midnight for a night of celebration and worship.

Women arrived draped in white - the color of purity - took off their shoes and knelt to pray before the altar. A thick fog of sweet-smelling frankincense permeated the small room, lit only by candles.

For two hours, worshipers led by the Rev. John-Brian Paprock celebrated their savior's birth according to ancient Christian traditions.

The service "is the oldest continuous expression of the Christian church," said Paprock's wife, Teresa. "When you come to a service, you're experiencing a tradition and liturgy that has existed, literally, for 2,000 years. That's what makes it so interesting."

Worshipers gathered in a circle around a makeshift bonfire - representing the fire the shepherds sat around when they were told of Jesus' birth - and one-by-one threw incense and palm fronds left over from Palm Sunday into the fire.

Nearly every aspect of the service is symbolic of the environment of the Nativity. Breathing the same incense, surrounding the fire and hearing the bells ring - representing angels - are some of the steps in becoming more like God, John-Brian Paprock told worshipers.

"Salvation is not a one-shot deal. It's a process, as we become more like God," Paprock said.

All Orthodox Christian churches recognize Dec. 25 as Christmas, but a disagreement about exactly when that date occurs has resulted in some churches celebrating the holiday 13 days later. Those celebrating on Dec. 25 follow the Gregorian calendar used by most of the world. But a few churches have opted to stick with the older Julian calendar, which is 13 days behind the Gregorian.

"I think there's a certain stubbornness in accepting what you've been given as truth. I think that's really a fundamental of Orthodoxy, that we honor what our spiritual ancestors have given us," Paprock said. "There's this idea that we're continuing, not starting over all the time. . . . Sometimes a calendar becomes a major way of doing that."

Paprock estimated there are 300 million Orthodox Christians worldwide and 20 million in the U.S.

Paprock's small congregation of mostly Ethiopian and Eritrean immigrants practices under Oriental Orthodox traditions, the original Christian practices of North Africa, the Middle East and India.

The Madison church's existence - it's one of only a handful outside major Midwestern cities - was surprising to many of the immigrants who came here expecting to either have to travel great distances or forgo going to church.

"I was really excited," said Banchiygezu Wolde, who immigrated to Madison from Ethiopia in 1999, of when she learned of Paprock's church. Wolde said the only major difference between Paprock's services and those she attended in Ethiopia is the language.

The influx of Ethiopian or Eritrean immigrants to the church was an unexpected but pleasant surprise, Teresa Paprock said.

"We thought we were going to be a mission of American converts," she said. Instead, the congregation is a diverse group representing different cultures, languages and backgrounds.

Because of the diversity of native languages in his congregation, John-Brian Paprock conducts services in English. And although that can pose problems at times, the diversity is a blessing, he told his congregation during the Christmas service.

"This is what's so great about our little mission. We are proof that God works regardless of our race, regardless of our language regardless of our culture."

 

[photo BY ANDY MANIS - For the State Journal ]

http://www.madison.com/wsj/photo.php?image=/images/articles/wsj/2007/01/08/38732.jpg

[photo caption]

 

Rev. John-Brian Paprock leads a procession of Orthodox Christians through a tradition of sprinkling frankincense over a flame symbolizing the fire the shepherds were gathered around when an angel told them of Jesus' birth. The service was part of Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission Parish's midnight service Sunday in celebration of the Orthodox Christmas.

 

 

Are You Ready for a Holy Task - homiletic sermon Sunday December 17, 2006

Are You Ready for a Holy Task - homiletic sermon by Fr John Brian recorded
Sunday, December 17, 2006 at Maruroopa Palli (Holy Transfiguration Orthodox
Mission Chapel) in Madison, Wisconsin USA. Focusing of the lessons of the
dream of Joseph - Matthew Chapter 1:18-25 and St Paul to the Galatians
Chapter 1: 11-24 and 1 Peter 2:11-17.

One unique feature of these recorded sermons is that they are
extemporaneously given - no written text or outline is used besides the
scriptures.

Due to technical difficulty between website and service at this time, this
sermon is only available for podcasting or download go to
http://feeds.feedburner.com/frjohnbrian

"Are You Ready for a Holy Task"
should be the top listed audio file.

All sermons can be downloaded - podcast at
http://feeds.feedburner.com/frjohnbrian

More sermons and articles are posted at www.frjohbrian.blogspot.com

*****************************************
LIVING IN THE EIGHTH DAY
By Fr. John-Brian Paprock
Available at Amazon.com and other fine book sellers Or at a special price at
www.lulu.com/transfiguration Buy the book and help our mission effort
******************************************
2007 Orthodox Calendars
Dates for all major holy days
For all Orthodox jurisdictions in America www.lulu.com/transfiguration
(printed 11x18) Buy the calendar to help our mission Or, after clicking on
the calendar, choose preview (PDF file), then "save as" to download your own
copy to print
*****************************************

Other recent audio sermons posted to listen on-line:

Toward Fullness as a Holy People - homiletic sermon by Fr John Brian
recorded Sunday, December 10, 2006 at Maruroopa Palli (Holy Transfiguration
Orthodox Mission Chapel) in Madison, Wisconsin USA. Focusing of the lessons
of the birth of St John the Baptist - Luke Chapter 1:57-80 with Isaiah 62
and John's 1st Epistle 3:1-3.

www.frjohbrian.blogspot.com/2006/12/toward-fullness-as-holy-people.html

Baptizing Babies into the Fullness - homiletic sermon by Fr John Brian
recorded Sunday, December 3, 2006 at Maruroopa Palli (Holy Transfiguration
Orthodox Mission Chapel) in Madison, Wisconsin USA. Focusing of the lessons
of Holy Baptism (on the occasion of two infant baptisms), Luke Chapter
1:39-56 and Peter's 1st Epistle 3:1-7.

www.frjohbrian.blogspot.com/2006/12/baptizing-babies-into-full-members.html

Miracles and Angels Await - homiletic sermon by Fr John Brian recorded
Sunday, November 19, 2006 at Maruroopa Palli (Holy Transfiguration Orthodox
Mission Chapel) in Madison, Wisconsin USA. Focusing of the lessons of
Zachariah's vision (Luke Chapter1) and the beginning of Peter's 2nd Epistle.
Including references to 1 Samuel 1:9-18 and Isaiah 41:8-15.

www.frjohbrian.blogspot.com/2006/11/miracles-and-angels-await-homiletic.html

Why We Need The Altar - homiletic sermon by Fr John Brian recorded on
November 12, 2006 Lectionary/scripture readings for Sanctification Sunday:
Exodus 33:7-11, I Kings 8:22-40, Isaiah 55:1-13, Acts 7:44-53, Hebrews
9:1-14, and John 10:22-38
www.frjohbrian.blogspot.com/2006/11/why-we-need-altar-homelitic-sermon-by.ht
ml

Between A Rock and A Hard Place - sermon by Fr John Brian recorded Sunday,
November 5, 2006 - Focusing on the lectionary readings: Matthew 16:13-23; I
Corinthians 3:16-17; 6:15-20 and 1 Peter 2:1-12
www.frjohbrian.blogspot.com/2006/11/between-rock-and-hard-place-sermon-by.ht
ml

Last Sunday of the Cross - homiletic sermon by Fr John Brian given Sunday,
October 29, 2006 - based on the scripture readings: Matthew 5:21-25; I
Corinthians 6:9-11; 1 Peter 2:15-17 Hear about four things that are
indications of our freedom...
www.frjohbrian.blogspot.com/2006/10/last-sunday-of-cross-homiletic-sermon.ht
ml

And One More Thing - homiletic sermon by Fr John Brian recorded Sunday
October 22, 2006 based on the scriptures: Luke 18:18-27 and Isaiah 43:16-25
www.frjohbrian.blogspot.com/2006/10/and-one-more-thing-homelitic-sermon-by.h
tml

Driving Humility - sermon by Fr John Brian delivered and recorded on Sunday,
October 15, 2006 based on Matthew 23:1-12 - this homiletic sermon asks "Is
it possible to be humble while driving an automobile in America?" among
other things...
www.frjohbrian.blogspot.com/2006/10/driving-humility-sermon-by-fr-john.html

Can We Break The Rules? - sermon Sunday October 1, 2006 by Fr John Brian -
scriptures: Mark 2:23-28; Romans 8:1-8; Acts 7:2-5
www.frjohbrian.blogspot.com/2006/10/can-we-break-rules-sermon-sunday.html

Silly Foolish Children of God - sermon by Fr John Brian recorded Sunday,
September 10, 2006 that challenges: "IF YOU ARE A CHILD OF GOD, THEN ACT
LIKE IT." Based on the scriptures: 1 Peter 2:1-5; 1 Corinthians 3:16-23;
Matthew 5:38-48
www.frjohbrian.blogspot.com/2006/09/silly-foolish-children-of-god-sermon_12.
html

Proof of Salvation - sermon by Fr John Brian recorded Sunday, August 27,
2006 - based on the New Testament readings: Luke 11:9-20; 1 Thessalonians
4:13-5:11; 2 Peter 3:8-14
www./frjohbrian.blogspot.com/2006/08/proof-of-salvation-sermon-by-fr-john_31
.html

What Holds the Church Together? - a sermon by Fr John Brian recorded July
30, 2006 on John 6:47-59; 1Peter 2:4-10; Hebrews 4:14-5:5 Readings for the
8th Sunday of Pentecost
www.frjohbrian.blogspot.com/2006/07/what-holds-church-together-sermon-by.htm
l

*****************************************
LIVING IN THE EIGHTH DAY
By Fr. John-Brian Paprock
Available at Amazon.com and other fine book sellers Or at a special price at
www.lulu.com/transfiguration Buy the book and help the mission effort
*****************************************

Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission
6205 University Avenue, Madison, Wisconsin 53705 USA
608.236.9622 voice mail
www.angelfire.com/wi/inroads/transfig.html

Haben, Markos and Mikas serve around the altar

Haben serves as thurifer. Markos and Mikas serve as candle-bearers as Fr John-Brian reads the Gospel during Qurbana. November 2006

GIVING AND RECEIVING

GIVING AND RECEIVING (12-26-04)
[Excerpted from the book "LIVING IN THE EIGHTH DAY" by Fr. John-Brian
Paprock, page 125-126] www.lulu.com/transfiguration

The three wise men that came to Bethlehem and saw the newborn Savior of the
world brought gifts symbolic of the noblest of our possessions. The
scripture is clear that these gifts came from their treasure, from their
security, their savings. But if that was the only place from which they
were offered they would not have been worthy. These wise men fell down and
worshipped him and offered their gifts out of the love that was expressed in
their actions. This love is the common source of all genuine giving and
receiving. Armenian Catholicos Karekin II wrote in his book "In Search of
Spiritual Life" (NY 1994):

"Had their gifts not been proceeded and motivated by the act of love
expressed in kneeling, adoration and worship, their value would not have
been as great and as authentic as their material wealth would suggest. St.
Gregory of Narek, the greatest mystical poet of our Church, says: "I look
not upon the gift but upon the giver." It is the spirit of the gift that
makes the real gift, gives color and quality, meaning and value to what is
given. A gift in which there is no self-giving is no gift; a gift in which
love, care, sacrifice are not wrapped, is a show of gift but is not a gift
in Christ-like spirit and form, a genuinely true Christmas gift."

Yes, indeed the gifts of the wise men were graciously received.

A lot of giving and receiving seems to happen at this time of year. However,
much if it is merely buying and selling. Often it is only trading capital
investment in material objects for emotional security of the affection from
others. There is in this culture too much of the buying and selling
mentality. The gift lists are usually related to who is likely to expect a
gift, likely to give one back, likely to appreciate our giving. Of course,
I participate in this annual giving tradition, but I keep in mind the
lessons I have learned about giving and receiving.

Kochamma and our family gave to a soldier without family, to a family in
poverty and to the long-term success of a village in poverty. As a small
mission, we give of our resources to the poor, the oppressed, the suffering.
Many of us volunteer or work to the soothing of human suffering. We give
our hands to the service of our fellow human beings. Yes, we also gave
presents to individuals and to each other. But none is more important than
the loving gift that blesses both the giver and the receiver - that doesn't
wait for Christmas or tragedy to give (although these are not bad reasons to
give).

Kahlil Gibran, a Lebanese poet, wrote: "You give little when you give of
your possessions. It is when you give of yourself that you truly give."

May all our gifts so bless others and may we be gracious receivers so that
others may also be blessed. Sometimes the gift of humane presence is of
greater value - the bowing in adoring service to Christ-light of everyone
born (John 1:9).

*****************************************

LIVING IN THE EIGHTH DAY

By Fr. John-Brian Paprock

www.lulu.com/transfiguration

Buy the book and help our mission effort

*****************************************

o HEAL YOUR LIFE

o DEEPEN YOUR FAITH

o ENRICH YOUR PRACTICE

o REFRESH YOUR SPIRIT

Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission Parish

6205 University Avenue, Madison, Wisconsin 53705

Sundays 10 am ~ 608.236.9622 transfiguration@usa.com

www.maruroopa.blogspot.com

www.angelfire.com/wi/inroads/transfig.html

Over 1000 sermon downloads!

A milestone has been reached in our small mission parish efforts. Sermons of our priest, Rev. Fr. John-Brian Paprock, have been downloaded over 1000 times!


A few early members of the mission, now living in places far from Madison, Wisconsin, made
requests for recordings of Achen's mostly extemporaneous sermons and talks. Cassette recordings were difficult to manage and some, of mediocre quality. The use of digital recording began one year ago at the end November 2005, but the first sermon was not made available on the internet until March 2006.


In March 2006, an effort was made to upload the digital recordings backlog so that all the digital recordings since November 27, 2005 are available. In April, sermons became available for audio feeds. Now there are 50 audio recordings uploaded that are available for podcasting or other
downloading.


These can be downloaded
- for listening online at www.frjohnbrian.blogspot.com
- for podcasting audio feeds at http://feeds.feedburner.com/frjohnbrian

Here are the TOP 20 and Bottom Five - so far....

(Honorable mention to #14 Keeping Focus which received the most positive comments.)

1. what holds the church together? - 7/30/06
2. dull minds and empty hearts - 5/21/06
3. silly foolish children of God - 9/10/06
4. ascension power - 6/04/06
5. further healing in community - 3/19/06
6. born again and again - 1/22/06
7. the church: a house divided? - 7/23/06
8. power of women - 11/27/05
9. proof of salvation - 8/27/06
9. introduction to Orthodox Christian meditation - 6/24/06
11. healing community - 3/12/06
12. preparing to prevail - 5/07/06
13. hosanna branches - 4/16/06
14. keeping focus - 4/09/06
15. between a rock & a hard place - 11/05/06
16. who among the multitude are you? - 7/06/06
16. mothers and sheep - 5/14/06
18. driving humility - 10/15/06
18. ready to be healed? - 4/02/06
20. insanity? - 3/26/06
[tie] worthy fruit - 2/12/06

five (or so) least downloaded:
49. ancestry of the Son of God - 12/18/05
49. members of the body - 1/15/06
48. sent out as apostles - 6/25/06
47. Joseph dreams - 12/11/05
46. new year, new day - 1/01/06
[tie] dealing with interference & discouragement - 6/24/06
[tie] each, a ministry of reconciliation - 6/18/06

+ + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + +
Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission Parish
6205 University Avenue, Madison, Wisconsin 53705
Sundays 10 am ~ 608.236.9622 transfiguration@usa.com
www.maruroopa.blogspot.com
www.angelfire.com/wi/inroads/transfig.html
*****************************************
LIVING IN THE EIGHTH DAY
By Fr. John-Brian Paprock
www.lulu.com/transfiguration
Also 2007 calendars available
All purchases help the mission
*****************************************

Come and Give Thanks to God

 

 

your servant,

 

Thanksgiving Services

Come and Give Thanks to God

6:30pm Wednesday

November 22, 2006

 

Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission Parish

6205 University Avenue, Madison, Wisconsin

Sundays 10 am ~ 608.236.9622

http://maruroopa.blogspot.com/

www.angelfire.com/wi/inroads/transfig.html

Rides available

*****************************************

NEW BOOK!

LIVING IN THE EIGHTH DAY

By Fr. John-Brian Paprock

www.lulu.com/transfiguration

Buy the book and help the mission effort

*****************************************

*****************************************

LIVING IN THE EIGHTH DAY

By Fr. John-Brian Paprock

www.lulu.com/transfiguration

Buy the book and help a mission effort

*****************************************

o HEAL YOUR LIFE

o DEEPEN YOUR FAITH

o ENRICH YOUR PRACTICE

o REFRESH YOUR SPIRIT

 

New Book by Mission Priest in America

LIVING IN THE EIGHTH DAY - REVIEW & MEDIA RELEASE

Wisconsin State Journal :: ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT :: G3
Sunday, October 29, 2006
http://www.madison.com/archives/read.php?ref=/wsj/2006/10/29/0610250642.php

Footnotes - Novels By Local Authors
By William Wineke

Madison has its share of big-time authors, most notably Jacquelyn Mitchard,
Margaret George, Jennifer Chiaverini and Kevin Henkes.

Each year, however, a number of local authors pen books that have far
smaller sales but which, nevertheless, meet a need either for the author,
the reading public or, one hopes, both.

This month, [...] The Rev. John-Brian Paprock, pastor of Madison's Holy
Transfiguration Orthodox Mission Parish, published "Living in the Eighth
Day" (Lulu Press: $11.95).

Paprock explains why he doesn't usually carry a Bible with him when he makes
hospital rounds: "... in our tradition, we're taught to carry the Scriptures
in our hearts and souls. The printed words are helpful for remembering
specific scriptures, but if the meaning of those words isn't alive in us
from baptism, then it doesn't matter if we carry the Bible around with us or
not."

[...]

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

NOVEMBER 3, 2006

Local Orthodox Priest is Published

"Living in the Eighth Day" a new book by Rev. Fr. John-Brian Paprock

MADISON, WI - A unique collection of pastoral reflections and spiritual
guidance from Eastern Oriental Orthodox Christian priest, Father John-Brian
Paprock, is now available locally and over the internet. Father John-Brian
Paprock is an American priest serving a multi-ethnic Eastern Oriental
Orthodox Christian mission parish in Madison, Wisconsin.

"Living in the Eighth Day" is written by American priest for a broad
audience of believers and non-believers. The chapters are divided according
to the year of holy seasons in the Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church calendar
and deal with issues of historic Christianity and dilemmas of modern
society.

Using snippets from everyday life - birthdays, bumper stickers, the sight of
a rainbow - and church holidays across the year, Rev. Paprock brings the
reader into Orthodox thought while keeping a firm grasp on life in
contemporary America. His message is timeless and true, wherever and
whenever it is read.

Peter Farrington of the British Orthodox Fellowship says "What a wonderful
book. I am reading through the chapters one at a time rather than reading
them through all at once. The three I have read, and the others I have
cheated and taken a quick look at are really enjoyable and helpful. I will
try to integrate reading these chapters with my normal daily spiritual
practices. I will certainly recommend this to others."

Link to Publication: http://www.lulu.com/transfiguration

ABOUT AUTHOR

Fr. John-Brian Paprock is the priest and vicar of Holy Transfiguration
Orthodox Mission Parish which meets in the parish hall of St. Dunstan's
Church (6205 University Avenue). It has been a parish of the Mission
Society of St. Gregorios of India, Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church since
2001. Fr. Paprock was ordained to the Orthodox priesthood in 1987 and
continues to serve as a chaplain at area hospitals and hospice.

Fr. Paprock is committed to community in a diverse society by participating
in interfaith and ecumenical dialogue and service since the late-1980s,
coordinating multi-faith events since the mid-1990s and working for
multi-faith, multi-cultural competency in corrections and health care since
the turn of the century.

Fr. Paprock, along with his wife Teresa, wrote two books for Trails Media:
Sacred Sites of Wisconsin and Sacred Sites of Minnesota. He is a published
and shown artist, photographer and writer. He lives in Middleton with his
wife, Teresa and son, Christopher.

Link to Publication: http://www.lulu.com/transfiguration

Living in the Eighth Day
by Fr. John-Brian Paprock
* Paperback: 142 pages
* Download PDF
* Publisher: Lulu.com
* Rights Owner: Holy Transfiguration Publications
* Language: English
* ISBN: 978-1-84728-315-3

Available in print locally at Madison Church Supply (820 S. Park Street,
Madison, 608-236-1214) and other fine book stores.

Special price is offered at Holy Transfiguration internet store $11.95
www.lulu.com/transfiguration - Each purchase helps the mission efforts.

ABOUT LULU

Founded in 2002, Lulu is the world's fastest-growing print-on-demand
marketplace for digital do-it-yourselfers. Please see www.lulu.com for
more information.

# # #

MEDIA CONTACT: Fr. John-Brian Paprock, frjohnbrian@priest.com ,
608-236-9622, 608-836-6778

Link to Publication: http://www.lulu.com/transfiguration

Between A Rock and A Hard Place - homiletic sermon Sunday November 5, 2006

Between A Rock and A Hard Place - sermon by Fr John Brian recorded Sunday,
November 5, 2006 at Maruroopa Palli (Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission)
in Madison, Wisconsin USA

Focusing on the lectionary readings: Matthew 16:13-23; I Corinthians
3:16-17; 6:15-20 and 1 Peter 2:1-12

One unique feature of these recorded sermons is that they are
extemporaneously given - no written text or outline is used besides the
scriptures.
Posted:
www.frjohbrian.blogspot.com/2006/11/between-rock-and-hard-place-sermon-by.ht
ml

Podcast (download) all audio sermons at
http://feeds.feedburner.com/frjohnbrian

More sermons and articles are posted at www.frjohbrian.blogspot.com

*****************************************
2007 Orthodox Calendars
Dates for all major holy days
For all Orthodox jurisdictions in America
Pictures from Orthodox mission and church in Wisconsin
Support the mission - available only at
www.lulu.com/transfiguration (printed 11x18)
*****************************************

Other recently posted audio sermons:

Last Sunday of the Cross - homiletic sermon by Fr John Brian given Sunday,
October 29, 2006 at Maruroopa Palli (Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission)
in Madison, Wisconsin USA - based on the scripture readings: Matthew
5:21-25; I Corinthians 6:9-11; 1 Peter 2:15-17 Hear about four things that
are indications of our freedom...
www.frjohbrian.blogspot.com/2006/10/last-sunday-of-cross-homiletic-sermon.ht
ml

And One More Thing - homiletic sermon by Fr John Brian recorded Sunday
October 22, 2006 at Maruroopa Palli (Holy Transfiguration Chapel) Madison,
Wisconsin USA based on the scriptures: Luke 18:18-27 and Isaiah 43:16-25
www.frjohbrian.blogspot.com/2006/10/and-one-more-thing-homelitic-sermon-by.h
tml

Driving Humility - sermon by Fr John Brian delivered and recorded on Sunday,
October 15, 2006 based on Matthew 23:1-12 - this homiletic sermon asks "Is
it possible to be humble while driving an automobile in America?" among
other things...
www.frjohbrian.blogspot.com/2006/10/driving-humility-sermon-by-fr-john.html

Can We Break The Rules? - sermon Sunday October 1, 2006 by Fr John Brian -
scriptures: Mark 2:23-28; Romans 8:1-8; Acts 7:2-5
www.frjohbrian.blogspot.com/2006/10/can-we-break-rules-sermon-sunday.html

Silly Foolish Children of God - sermon by Fr John Brian recorded Sunday,
September 10, 2006 that challenges: "IF YOU ARE A CHILD OF GOD, THEN ACT
LIKE IT." Based on the scriptures: 1 Peter 2:1-5; 1 Corinthians 3:16-23;
Matthew 5:38-48
www.frjohbrian.blogspot.com/2006/09/silly-foolish-children-of-god-sermon_12.
html

Proof of Salvation - sermon by Fr John Brian recorded Sunday, August 27,
2006 - based on the New Testament readings: Luke 11:9-20; 1 Thessalonians
4:13-5:11; 2 Peter 3:8-14
www./frjohbrian.blogspot.com/2006/08/proof-of-salvation-sermon-by-fr-john_31
.html

What Holds the Church Together? - a sermon by Fr John Brian recorded July
30, 2006 at Maruroopa Palli on John 6:47-59; 1Peter 2:4-10; Hebrews 4:14-5:5
Readings for the 8th Sunday of Pentecost
www.frjohbrian.blogspot.com/2006/07/what-holds-church-together-sermon-by.htm
l

*****************************************
NEW BOOK!
LIVING IN THE EIGHTH DAY
By Fr. John-Brian Paprock
Available at Amazon.com and other fine book sellers
Or at a special price at www.lulu.com/transfiguration
Buy the book and help the mission effort
*****************************************

Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission
6205 University Avenue, Madison, Wisconsin 53705 USA
608.236.9622 voice mail
http://maruroopa.blogspot.com/
www.angelfire.com/wi/inroads/transfig.html

Last Sunday of the Cross - homiletic sermon Sunday October 29, 2006

Last Sunday of the Cross - homiletic sermon by Fr John Brian given Sunday,
October 29, 2006 at Maruroopa Palli (Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission)
in Madison, Wisconsin USA - based on the scripture readings: Matthew
5:21-25; I Corinthians 6:9-11; 1 Peter 2:15-17 Hear about four things that
are indications of our freedom...
Posted:
www.frjohbrian.blogspot.com/2006/10/last-sunday-of-cross-homiletic-sermon.ht
ml

Podcast (download) all audio sermons at
http://feeds.feedburner.com/frjohnbrian

More sermons and articles are posted at www.frjohbrian.blogspot.com

*****************************************
2007 Orthodox Calendars - printed 11x18
Dates for all major holy days
For all Orthodox jurisdictions in America
Pictures from Orthodox mission and church in Wisconsin
Support the mission - available only at
www.lulu.com/transfiguration
*****************************************

Other recently posted audio sermons:

And One More Thing - homiletic sermon by Fr John Brian recorded Sunday
October 22, 2006 at Maruroopa Palli (Holy Transfiguration Chapel) Madison,
Wisconsin USA based on the scriptures: Luke 18:18-27 and Isaiah 43:16-25
www.frjohbrian.blogspot.com/2006/10/and-one-more-thing-homelitic-sermon-by.h
tml

Driving Humility - sermon by Fr John Brian delivered and recorded on Sunday,
October 15, 2006 based on Matthew 23:1-12 - this homiletic sermon asks "Is
it possible to be humble while driving an automobile in America?" among
other things...
www.frjohbrian.blogspot.com/2006/10/driving-humility-sermon-by-fr-john.html

Can We Break The Rules? - sermon Sunday October 1, 2006 by Fr John Brian -
scriptures: Mark 2:23-28; Romans 8:1-8; Acts 7:2-5
www.frjohbrian.blogspot.com/2006/10/can-we-break-rules-sermon-sunday.html

Silly Foolish Children of God - sermon by Fr John Brian recorded Sunday,
September 10, 2006 that challenges: "IF YOU ARE A CHILD OF GOD, THEN ACT
LIKE IT." Based on the scriptures: 1 Peter 2:1-5; 1 Corinthians 3:16-23;
Matthew 5:38-48
www.frjohbrian.blogspot.com/2006/09/silly-foolish-children-of-god-sermon_12.
html

Proof of Salvation - sermon by Fr John Brian recorded Sunday, August 27,
2006 - based on the New Testament readings: Luke 11:9-20; 1 Thessalonians
4:13-5:11; 2 Peter 3:8-14
www./frjohbrian.blogspot.com/2006/08/proof-of-salvation-sermon-by-fr-john_31
.html

What Holds the Church Together? - a sermon by Fr John Brian recorded July
30, 2006 at Maruroopa Palli on John 6:47-59; 1Peter 2:4-10; Hebrews 4:14-5:5
Readings for the 8th Sunday of Pentecost
www.frjohbrian.blogspot.com/2006/07/what-holds-church-together-sermon-by.htm
l

*****************************************
NEW BOOK!
LIVING IN THE EIGHTH DAY
By Fr. John-Brian Paprock
Available at Amazon.com and other fine book sellers
Or at a special price at www.lulu.com/transfiguration
Buy the book and help the mission effort
*****************************************

Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission
6205 University Avenue, Madison, Wisconsin 53705 USA
608.236.9622 voice mail
http://maruroopa.blogspot.com/
www.angelfire.com/wi/inroads/transfig.html

And One More Thing - homiletic sermon Sunday October 22, 2006

And One More Thing - homiletic sermon by Fr John Brian recorded Sunday
October 22, 2006 at Maruroopa Palli (Holy Transfiguration Chapel) Madison,
Wisconsin USA based on the scriptures: Luke 18:18-27 and Isaiah 43:16-25
Posted:
www.frjohbrian.blogspot.com/2006/10/and-one-more-thing-homelitic-sermon-by.h
tml

Podcast (download) all audio sermons at
http://feeds.feedburner.com/frjohnbrian

More sermons and articles are posted at www.frjohbrian.blogspot.com

*****************************************
NEW BOOK!
LIVING IN THE EIGHTH DAY
By Fr. John-Brian Paprock
Available at Amazon.com and other fine book sellers
Or at a special price at www.lulu.com/transfiguration
Buy the book and help the mission effort
*****************************************

Recently posted audio:

Driving Humility - sermon by Fr John Brian delivered and recorded on Sunday,
October 15, 2006 based on Matthew 23:1-12 - this homiletic sermon asks "Is
it possible to be humble while driving an automobile in America?" among
other things...
www.frjohbrian.blogspot.com/2006/10/driving-humility-sermon-by-fr-john.html

Can We Break The Rules? - sermon Sunday October 1, 2006 by Fr John Brian -
scriptures: Mark 2:23-28; Romans 8:1-8; Acts 7:2-5
www.frjohbrian.blogspot.com/2006/10/can-we-break-rules-sermon-sunday.html

Silly Foolish Children of God - sermon by Fr John Brian recorded Sunday,
September 10, 2006 that challenges: "IF YOU ARE A CHILD OF GOD, THEN ACT
LIKE IT." Based on the scriptures: 1 Peter 2:1-5; 1 Corinthians 3:16-23;
Matthew 5:38-48
www.frjohbrian.blogspot.com/2006/09/silly-foolish-children-of-god-sermon_12.
html

Proof of Salvation - sermon by Fr John Brian recorded Sunday, August 27,
2006 - based on the New Testament readings: Luke 11:9-20; 1 Thessalonians
4:13-5:11; 2 Peter 3:8-14
www./frjohbrian.blogspot.com/2006/08/proof-of-salvation-sermon-by-fr-john_31
.html

What Holds the Church Together? - a sermon by Fr John Brian recorded July
30, 2006 at Maruroopa Palli on John 6:47-59; 1Peter 2:4-10; Hebrews 4:14-5:5
Readings for the 8th Sunday of Pentecost
www.frjohbrian.blogspot.com/2006/07/what-holds-church-together-sermon-by.htm
l

Holy Transfiguration Orthodox Mission
6205 University Avenue, Madison, Wisconsin 53705 USA
608.236.9622 voice mail
http://maruroopa.blogspot.com/
www.angelfire.com/wi/inroads/transfig.html

Living in the Eighth Day by Fr. John-Brian Paprock

Living in the Eighth Day (Paperback)
by Fr. John-Brian Paprock
www.lulu.com/transfiguration
_____________________________
* Paperback: 144 pages
* Publisher: Lulu.com (October 9, 2006)
* Language: English
* ISBN: 1847283152
_____________________________
List Price (at Amazon.com and retail stores): $13.98
Special price (at Holy Transfiguration internet store): $11.95 www.lulu.com/transfiguration Each purchase helps the mission efforts.
_____________________________

Book Description (as listed at Amazon.com)

Pastoral reflections and spiritual guidance from Eastern Oriental Orthodox Christian mission in contemporary America. Written by American priest, Father John-Brian Paprock, the reflections follow the year of holy seasons according to the Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church calendar.

From the Back Cover
LIVING IN THE EIGHTH DAY:
Follow a year of the holy seasons of the Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church.

LIVING IN THE EIGHTH DAY:
A collection of pastoral reflections and spiritual guidance by an American priest serving a multi-ethnic Eastern Oriental Orthodox Christian mission parish in contemporary America.