One of the best parts of visiting Kodiak was basically everybody that lived there was Orthodox. This was very amazing because you would see people in church you had seen at the local café “Monk’s Rock”, walking around town, going out on their fishing boats and even the owner of the local pizza place was Orthodox. Orthodoxy could also be seen in many of the town stores but the best known to us was Monk’s Rock which was a local café slash Icon store. The whole Orthodox community in Kodiak greatly amazed me because Orthodoxy was present in almost every area of the town, from people to stores.
The majority of the beginning of the week consisted of back breaking work. The first day was absolutely miserable because of the amount of rain that had come down on us when we were weeding and digging trenches but, the rain eventually let up. The afternoon and the next few days involved carrying buckets full of rocks weighing about 30 to 40 pounds each but, this was not in the rain so it was ok. A few people would bring the buckets over while some others would throw them in to a trench we needed to fill up due to their drainage problems. This system was very fast and effective and we got it done in about two afternoons. Other jobs during the first two or three days were painting classrooms and decks and then polishing brass in the seminary chapel. The last day of work was on Spruce Island and involved clearing a path though the kelp, which smelled terrible and had maggots in it. After the Spruce Island job we were free and were ready for the Pilgrimage.
Our pilgrim to Spruce Island was a huge success even though the other pilgrims didn’t the trail that we made through the kelp because the high tide cleared most of it away but, the service and the Metropolitan’s arrival went smoothly. The service lasted close to two hours, plus a sermon by Metropolitan Jonah explaining how we should be good Orthodox Christians, how we should surrender ourselves to God and to do what God wants us to do in our life time on earth, which was very well done. After the service, everyone walked down to the picnic and had fish pie, chips, spaghetti with meatballs and other delicious food, which was then followed thirty minutes later by a boat ride back to the seminary.
Also, our group had a great time in Alaska besides just working and going to Church services. We made two new friends, Gabe and Shelby, who were both the kids of priests at the seminary and the Cathedral. We also saw beautiful places like Fort Abercrombie, an old World War II fort on the side of a cliff. We also drove to the top of a mountain where we saw the whole town of Kodiak and other neighboring towns. These places have the same beauty that we DC residents can see in a place such as Great Falls. We played a game called Scoot-Your-Boot which was like a wresting version of musical chairs; this game was very, very entertaining.
Overall, the mission trip was very successful in many ways. We helped the seminary by doing work around their grounds and also we succeeded in going on the pilgrimage to Spruce Island. This trip would not have been possible without your prayers and donations and I thank you very much!!!
Peter T
Saturday, August 22, 2009
Friday, August 21, 2009
Postcard of Reflection... from Mat. KellyO
After much "encouragement" (cough)... from Dn. Mark... I've finally the chance to reflect and share my thoughts of the trip.
I guess I can sum it up by saying I feel kind of like I do that day after Christmas. So much anticipation, preparation, whirlwind, and then just like that... it's over. And while the whole time we're in it - loving it, enjoying it, going with it - it's kind of a downer when it's over.
I cried at the airport saying goodbye to everyone (again). This time though, it wasn't about leaving Maryland for our new life in Pennsylvania. My sadness was about parting with a group of people I traveled, worked, ate, played, prayed, and laughed with. We were a unit... a family, and it's always hard to leave the ones you love.
There were tears too for the people we shared our days with. I'm grateful for the kind, loving and insightful interactions with Seraphima, Fr. John, Fr. Juvenaly, Dn. Ishmael, and Fr. Innocent... to their families. And of course, the children of all ages that frequented the hall during our stay to spend time with our teens.
I have a greater respect for seminarians and for the sacrifices they make, together with their families to serve our God. It's a humble, simple and probably at times, difficult life. I think the teens got a real look at that life - a lasting impression that will be a marker in their lives.
I also walk away with a personal experience with a Saint. An American Saint. I'm always looking to add to my team. Thankfully, there are no 'extra man penalties' in fostering one's faith. And although revered as Saint Herman... I will do as the Alaskans do... and call upon Father Herman for my intercessions.
It was a great time and it was His Will. It was hard work and it was great reward. It was a rightful cause and the beginning of an effort that should never end. Support those seminarians!
I miss you all my family of 15... and my cradle in the Saint Mark Community as well.
With my love and prayerful hope for His Blessings, in all things...
Mat. KellyO
I guess I can sum it up by saying I feel kind of like I do that day after Christmas. So much anticipation, preparation, whirlwind, and then just like that... it's over. And while the whole time we're in it - loving it, enjoying it, going with it - it's kind of a downer when it's over.
I cried at the airport saying goodbye to everyone (again). This time though, it wasn't about leaving Maryland for our new life in Pennsylvania. My sadness was about parting with a group of people I traveled, worked, ate, played, prayed, and laughed with. We were a unit... a family, and it's always hard to leave the ones you love.
There were tears too for the people we shared our days with. I'm grateful for the kind, loving and insightful interactions with Seraphima, Fr. John, Fr. Juvenaly, Dn. Ishmael, and Fr. Innocent... to their families. And of course, the children of all ages that frequented the hall during our stay to spend time with our teens.
I have a greater respect for seminarians and for the sacrifices they make, together with their families to serve our God. It's a humble, simple and probably at times, difficult life. I think the teens got a real look at that life - a lasting impression that will be a marker in their lives.
I also walk away with a personal experience with a Saint. An American Saint. I'm always looking to add to my team. Thankfully, there are no 'extra man penalties' in fostering one's faith. And although revered as Saint Herman... I will do as the Alaskans do... and call upon Father Herman for my intercessions.
It was a great time and it was His Will. It was hard work and it was great reward. It was a rightful cause and the beginning of an effort that should never end. Support those seminarians!
I miss you all my family of 15... and my cradle in the Saint Mark Community as well.
With my love and prayerful hope for His Blessings, in all things...
Mat. KellyO
Thursday, August 20, 2009
Final Words
Deacon Mark asked us all to say a few words looking back on our trip, so here I am (Sally) with a few final words:
First, it was an amazing experience as a whole to be so far away, and yet feel so close to home (Which I did). Part of that was that nearly everyone (if not everyone) there was Orthodox, and it was a wonderful community. Everywhere you went, you could talk about the church and traditions and everything else because everyone (more or less) shared the same view as you, bringing true meaning to the phrase 'brothers and sisters in Christ'. It was so close and tight that I managed to catch the stomach flu and completely recover (well almost completely ) during the time when I was up there (one part of the trip that was NOT fun).
Also, it was great to help work on the Seminary and go on the Pilgrimage. Nothing is better than having fun with God (although it wasn't all fun- I had some serious moments of prayer as well).
Third, I would again like to thank everyone who helped send us on our trip, because its made the hugest impression on me and I am eternally grateful for that chance. God Bless You.
Last, I would just like to say that mission trip, in my opinion was a great success. We all worked hard, and helped out, and were brought (hopefully) closer to God. We got to go on a pilgrimage and carry new experiences with us and see beautiful things while we were gone. We did what we intended to do, and more, not only working on this trip but growing in ourselves
First, it was an amazing experience as a whole to be so far away, and yet feel so close to home (Which I did). Part of that was that nearly everyone (if not everyone) there was Orthodox, and it was a wonderful community. Everywhere you went, you could talk about the church and traditions and everything else because everyone (more or less) shared the same view as you, bringing true meaning to the phrase 'brothers and sisters in Christ'. It was so close and tight that I managed to catch the stomach flu and completely recover (well almost completely ) during the time when I was up there (one part of the trip that was NOT fun).
Also, it was great to help work on the Seminary and go on the Pilgrimage. Nothing is better than having fun with God (although it wasn't all fun- I had some serious moments of prayer as well).
Third, I would again like to thank everyone who helped send us on our trip, because its made the hugest impression on me and I am eternally grateful for that chance. God Bless You.
Last, I would just like to say that mission trip, in my opinion was a great success. We all worked hard, and helped out, and were brought (hopefully) closer to God. We got to go on a pilgrimage and carry new experiences with us and see beautiful things while we were gone. We did what we intended to do, and more, not only working on this trip but growing in ourselves
Sally
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
A Look Back - One week later (Deacon Mark)
It’s been a over week since our mission trip ended and the thoughts and feelings from our short time in the land of the first American saints remain fresh and crisp. It was just eight days ago that we were in the park just below the Cathedral enjoying the warmth and love of the Kodiak community led by the enthusiastic members of the St. Innocent Academy.
As I reflect on the week that was, it is evident that it was indeed a special time for all of us. When it was suggested last September that we (the parents) think BIG, I really didn’t imagine that meant going to our largest state over 3,500 miles away … but it did and I am thankful that I was able to be part of this group. (A secret … because we had many girls who expressed a desire to be a part to the group, Kelly first committed to being a part of the team so that we would have a least one chaperone for the girls ... I figured I would stay home and watch the kids.) Although I can recall many fond moments there are some that stand out for me.
First, there was a terrific fellowship within our group. This was also true of each person we met in Alaska beginning with Archimandrite Juvenaly who escorted Kelly and me upon our arrival at the airport in Kodiak. During our ride back to the seminary, we remembered that we had met Fr. Juvenaly eleven years earlier on a visit to St. Tikhon’s seminary when he was at the monastery there (and of course, we later learned that Fr. Gregory went to seminary with him :).
After that we met the seminary dean, Fr. John Dunlop (and his entire family), who was so very gracious to our whole group, Fr. Innocent Dresdow (Dean of Holy Resurrection Cathedral) who comforted us with his down to earth style (he really loves being in Kodiak and being a part of the fabric of the community), Fr. Deacon Ishmael Andrew in whom we found a true friend (with a good sense of humor), and Seraphima Carl who coordinated many of our activities, rooms, and arrangements. Each conversation with them was enlightening and informative as they shared tidbits about the history of the area, the churches, the villages and peoples of the region (if I ever am able to return to Alaska, I really want to visit the villages). The insight they provided was invaluable and worth every minute I was able to share be with them.
As I reflect on the week that was, it is evident that it was indeed a special time for all of us. When it was suggested last September that we (the parents) think BIG, I really didn’t imagine that meant going to our largest state over 3,500 miles away … but it did and I am thankful that I was able to be part of this group. (A secret … because we had many girls who expressed a desire to be a part to the group, Kelly first committed to being a part of the team so that we would have a least one chaperone for the girls ... I figured I would stay home and watch the kids.) Although I can recall many fond moments there are some that stand out for me.
First, there was a terrific fellowship within our group. This was also true of each person we met in Alaska beginning with Archimandrite Juvenaly who escorted Kelly and me upon our arrival at the airport in Kodiak. During our ride back to the seminary, we remembered that we had met Fr. Juvenaly eleven years earlier on a visit to St. Tikhon’s seminary when he was at the monastery there (and of course, we later learned that Fr. Gregory went to seminary with him :).
After that we met the seminary dean, Fr. John Dunlop (and his entire family), who was so very gracious to our whole group, Fr. Innocent Dresdow (Dean of Holy Resurrection Cathedral) who comforted us with his down to earth style (he really loves being in Kodiak and being a part of the fabric of the community), Fr. Deacon Ishmael Andrew in whom we found a true friend (with a good sense of humor), and Seraphima Carl who coordinated many of our activities, rooms, and arrangements. Each conversation with them was enlightening and informative as they shared tidbits about the history of the area, the churches, the villages and peoples of the region (if I ever am able to return to Alaska, I really want to visit the villages). The insight they provided was invaluable and worth every minute I was able to share be with them.
All the people of Kodiak were simply wonderful – warm, humble, humorous, sensible, respectful, knowledgeable, and just plain nice to be around. We found the essence of all these things in their hearts and souls and words. I miss them.
One of the things that surprised me most was how close the seminary and the cathedral are to each other (about 2 minute walk) … pictures may be able to provide a thousand words but it’s hard to put distance into perspective from a picture. Throughout the week we walked between the two places either to work or to attend services. (It reminded me of when I was growing up and lived right next to our church … my brothers and sister and I had little excuse for being late to the services ... neither did our group.)
It has been a few years since I was on “teen” trip and although there were a few times that had me starting to think, “how will I explain this to their parents” there were really no problems encountered. They were captivating in their conversations at our meals, walking around, working, and on the plane. They could talk about anything and everything … on and on and on and on … it was great enjoyment to listen in. Thanks, teens (and parents for encouraging thier efforts).
The most precious and memorable moments, however, were when we gathered together in worship and prayer – be it in the seminary chapel for our morning prayers or at the end of the day for Vespers or at the Cathedral for the various other services. It was especially awe-inspiring to celebrate Divine Liturgy’s on Spruce Island (Saturday) over the place where St. Herman was originally buried and then in Holy Resurrection Cathedral (Sunday) where many of the saints of the church did likewise throughout the years. It is in the Cathedral where St. Herman’s reliquary is located and at the conclusion of the Akathist to St. Herman on Friday evening, the top of the reliquary was opened and I was permitted to hold the top of it open as each of the clergy and pilgrims venerated the relics of St. Herman. It was very humbling and moving experience.
As I look back on how we went from a simple suggestion last September to do something that could change the lives of the teens, I know it was only possible through the grace of God. My sincere prayer is that the teens (and all the participants) will share their thoughts and experiences with their peers and friends now and throughout their lives. I especially pray that this trip will NOT be a one-time pursuit (e.g., been there, done that) but rather the first seed planted that will give all of us confidence and encouragement to be a missionary for the remainder of our lives.
One of the things that surprised me most was how close the seminary and the cathedral are to each other (about 2 minute walk) … pictures may be able to provide a thousand words but it’s hard to put distance into perspective from a picture. Throughout the week we walked between the two places either to work or to attend services. (It reminded me of when I was growing up and lived right next to our church … my brothers and sister and I had little excuse for being late to the services ... neither did our group.)
It has been a few years since I was on “teen” trip and although there were a few times that had me starting to think, “how will I explain this to their parents” there were really no problems encountered. They were captivating in their conversations at our meals, walking around, working, and on the plane. They could talk about anything and everything … on and on and on and on … it was great enjoyment to listen in. Thanks, teens (and parents for encouraging thier efforts).
The most precious and memorable moments, however, were when we gathered together in worship and prayer – be it in the seminary chapel for our morning prayers or at the end of the day for Vespers or at the Cathedral for the various other services. It was especially awe-inspiring to celebrate Divine Liturgy’s on Spruce Island (Saturday) over the place where St. Herman was originally buried and then in Holy Resurrection Cathedral (Sunday) where many of the saints of the church did likewise throughout the years. It is in the Cathedral where St. Herman’s reliquary is located and at the conclusion of the Akathist to St. Herman on Friday evening, the top of the reliquary was opened and I was permitted to hold the top of it open as each of the clergy and pilgrims venerated the relics of St. Herman. It was very humbling and moving experience.
As I look back on how we went from a simple suggestion last September to do something that could change the lives of the teens, I know it was only possible through the grace of God. My sincere prayer is that the teens (and all the participants) will share their thoughts and experiences with their peers and friends now and throughout their lives. I especially pray that this trip will NOT be a one-time pursuit (e.g., been there, done that) but rather the first seed planted that will give all of us confidence and encouragement to be a missionary for the remainder of our lives.
Finally, thanks to all who supported our team and prayed for our safe journey.
With love in Christ,
Deacon Mark
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
Made it home safely on Tuesday from Kodiak!
The last day there on Kodiak Island was spent cleaning up after ourselves, our rooms, the main refractory building, and doing laudry. Some of us who didn't get to the museums during the week spent some time there. Actually, that was one of my favorite parts. There was much histroy about Kodiak and Orthodoxy there and although, we saw no real bear, the one at the museum was a brown gigantic bear. They are known to be the largest! We also spent our time saying our goodbyes and taking pictures and at 3:00 we headed to the airport. Fr. Gregory, son Alex, Deacon Mark and Matushka Kelly, the teen mission group and the adult chaperons made it back home safely on Tuesday. The travel was long, but a small price to pay for the week we had in Kodiak. Except for the first day in and maybe one or two rain showers, the rest of the week was sunny and beautiful. I hope I am speaking for the whole group by saying thanks to everyone for making this trip a success!!! Everyone had a wonderful time, including myself. The girls and boys and people in Kodiak who came down with sickness, I hope all is on way to getting well. To all the wonderful people we met in Kodiak, thanks for making the trip memorable forever. We will surely miss our Orthodox family from Kodiak. The pilgrimage went off without a hitch. Hope all who participated including Metropolitan Jonah and Bishop Benjamin and all clergy had safe travels home as well. I cannot leave out St. Innocent's Academy, St. Herman's Seminary and Holy Resurrection and all that they did. The pilgrimage made front page of The Kodiak Daily Mirror paper. The things I take away from this mission trip are teamwork, leadership, responsibilities, "great cooks", prayer, fasting, vigil, "fun", gorgeous views, and hospitality. For all of us, the pilgrimage was a life changeing experience. The veneration of St. Herman's relics, actually having holy oil to take with us, and the walk on Monks Lagoon and Spruce Island all hightened our human senses and strengthened our Orthodox Faith. No doubt if I had the chance to go again, I would!! God Bless.
Love,
Christina
Love,
Christina
Sunday, August 9, 2009
Sunday on Kodiak
Hello everyone! This morning we got to sleep in a bit. Hierarchical Divine Liturgy was at 9:00. Both Metropolitan Jonah and Bishop Benjamin con-celebrated. The choir was amazing! The St. Innocent Academy boys and girls help made a full choir there at Holy Resurrection Cathedral. After Liturgy we hopped onto buses that took us to a parochial school gymnasium they used as a hall for the banquet dinner. The halibut was delicious and we also got a piece of salmon, green beans and rice with cake for dessert. Fr. Innocent from Holy Resurrection as well as Bishop Benjamin called St. Mark teen group and adults up front to recognize us for all the work we got accomplished this week and to thank us by giving a card and icon of St. Herman. Buses took us back to the seminary and off we went to Hazel and Ben's island. Yes, remember, they are friends of Fr. Gregory who own the furniture store in town and another one somewhere and yes, they literally own an island. It's just too beautiful for words, so I got plenty of pictures of their house, the view, the log cabin, the chapel, the banya, etc. Can u imagine having your own island and having a view of water and mountains on all sides?? I made a funny and asked to do a "house exchange" for vacation. They are an extremely nice couple who invited us all out to an Italian Restaurant for dinner. After dinner was done and we all got back, the church and academy put on a "block party" on the property right next to church. There was ethnic music and dancing, drinks and popcorn. Our St. Mark teens were having a blast. Yes, I too got up to do one group dance at least. Kodiak people know how to work hard and play hard! They were going to open the bookstore down town so some of our teens went there to buy things. Tomorrow is our last day here, actually our flight is at 4:30 or so. It will take us 24 hours to get home including lay overs and time changes. We will be back on Tuesday at 4:30. Pray for our safe travels back to the "lower 48" as the Kodiak people say! Goodnight.
Christina
Christina
Alex Safchuk's Segment: Day 6
My pilgrimage experience from today is going to sound a little different than the others you will read here. This is because the North American Saints project that my mom puts so much time and effort into. I went on the pilgrimage about 5 years ago and that is where I actually got the full pilgrim experience. This time, because of the NAS project, I had the distinct pleasure of being with the metropolitan and following him like a hawk the entire day with a videographer trying to gather good footage of metropolitan Jonah's first pilgrimage to spruce island ever. You would be suprised how quick this man can move from place to place. The job had its perks though. I got to travel in the boat that took the metropolitan which was by far the nicest of the fleet. This was a stark contrast to the refurbished WWII landing craft I went in last time. I also got to personally interview both Bishop Benjamin and Metropolitan Jonah for the project. Unfortunately to get all this done I had to wake up at the crack of dawn. One thing I did discover is that Metropolitan Jonah is so very personable. When talking to him, you can tell everything he says is genuine and he loves all of us. He is really the epitome of what a monastic should be as he has dedicated his life to the church. He is a great leader for the North American Church as a whole. After a long day of services and blessings and prayers, we made our way back to mainland. Here we went to another service. I wouldnt expect any less church. We are on a pilgrimage after all. After the service I had the honor to help move the relics back to their location on the church. This is the problem with having muscles...I always get volunteered to help people move haha. But i dont mind. If I got them I might as well put them to good use. After church, peter, gabe, and I royally schooled a bunch of 7 year olds at football money in the middle. They put up a good fight but we were just better in the end. We ate delicious Orthodox pizza for dinner...i hear thats the best kind. I then spent the rest of the eveing just hanging out and bonding with the other kids on the trip. We invited Fr. Innocents daughter Shelby to hang out. Shes kooler than kool and is now one of my new best friends...regardless of what abby says. Dont listen to abby, shelbz likes me better. Now it is getting late and I am delirious. Its been a long day and we have to be up for more church tomorrow.
Continue praying for us.
-Alex Safchuk
Continue praying for us.
-Alex Safchuk
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