Точний український переклад буде вміщено в тижневому бюлетені
Dear parishioners and friends,
My heartfelt thanks to all of you for your prayers, your support, and your patience during +Fr. Roman’s illness. Thank you for helping fulfill his very specific wishes regarding his funeral, burial and subsequent reception. Attendance was overwhelming! Your response to the call for help in offering hospitality to thousands of guests is a testamony to your love of +Fr. Roman. On behalf of our family, thank you and may God reward you for your kindness.
As we move forward in this period of transition and search for a new shepherd for St. Elias many are asking "what next?”. The following information should answer many questions you may have:
On August 1st, Protodeacon David Kennedy was officially assigned as the parochial administrator (equivalent to Pastor in canon Law) of St. Elias Church until such time as a new priest is assigned to St. Elias.
Protodeacon David has been fulfilling many of the administrative tasks at the parish for a number of years, so he continues to do so with the addition of being the official signing authority on parish documents, President of the Parish Council, head of the Cemetery Board, and the person communicating with the Bishop’s office on parish matters.
Protodeacon David and Reader Ilya will work together to maintain the established liturgical life at St. Elias, which includes scheduling temporary help of clergy for weekends and feast days. Baptisms, weddings and funerals will be arranged as needed so call the office - don't wait.
Parishioners can call the parish office with questions or concerns. For as long as necessary, Pani Iryna will continue to live in the parish house, answer the office phone, respond to questions, take messages for Protodeacon David and host visiting clergy.
The current Parish Council members remain in their position and will work with Protodeacon David to resolve any issues that arise.
The Chancery Office (Bishop Bryan and staff) is prepared to offer whatever help is necessary in this period of transition and is most sympathetic to the challenges we face especially in our search for an appropriate pastor for our community.
The search for +Fr. Roman's successor began even before his illness took away his ability to serve. Two meetings on this issue with Bishop Bryan, Fr. Roman, Protodeacon David, parish council representative, pani Iryna and elders of the parish chosen by Fr. Roman were held to determine St. Elias Parish’s uniqe needs and process for fulfilling them. Please be aware that there is a process in place that needs to be respected. Any questions about a possible successor or suggestions parishioners may have must be addressed to Protodeacon David (905-559-6240) or by email <bdavidkennedy@yahoo.ca>) who is working with the parish pastoral team, including the Parish Council, and the chancery office.
Be assured that some excellent candidates have been contacted, but we are not at liberty to share this information except with Bishop Bryan (who is the final decision maker) as it would jeopardize the process established by His Grace. The parish council and parishioners will be informed as soon as Bishop Bryan approves the choice of a new pastor.
Please be assured that Bishop Bryan is most sincerely concerned about the pastoral good of our parish and its individuals.
Our day-to-day and week-to week activities continue as always with our team of parishioner doing what they always do for St. Elias to keep it functioning smoothly. Good clergy - friends of +Fr. Roman - are helping with liturgical services. Hieromonk Chrysostomos (whom many of you know) will be here for two months and Hieromonk Teodosy promises to return. We are well looked after spiritually! Please do your part by staying actively involved in parish life.
Please be patient and don't worry- alll will be well. God is in charge and will send us the pastor St. Elias needs and deserves.
Mark on your calendar Saturday, September 9th, the 40th day of +Fr. Roman’s repose.
Parastas at 10 a.m. followed by memorial lunch and an opportunity to share memories.
With love and prayers,
Pani Iryna
SAINT ELIAS THE PROPHET CHURCH saintelias.com
10173 Heritage Road Brampton Ontario L7A 0A1
905.453.6565
