+Metropolitan Herman (OCA): Nativity Epistle

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Archpastoral Message of Metropolitan Herman for the Feast of Our Lord's Nativity

Article posted: 12/20/2005 3:02 PM
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Nativity of Christ 2005

Christ is born! Glorify Him!

To the Very Reverend and Reverend Clergy, Monastics, and Faithful of The Orthodox Church in America

Dearly Beloved in the Lord:

“All the angels in heaven are of good cheer and greatly rejoice today! The whole creation leaps with joy, for the Savior and Lord is born in Bethlehem! Every error of idolatry has ceased, and Christ reigns unto all ages!” Nativity Litiya

As we celebrate the birth of Our Lord, God, and Savior Jesus Christ, we join our voices with those of the angels in praising the One Who took on our human nature in order to renew us and all creation, that we might become “partakers of His divine nature, as Saint Peter reminds us. This is indeed a reason to be “of good cheer” and to “greatly rejoice!”

Yet the world in which we live so often fails to delight in this wonder, this unspeakable joy. Too often, the very mention of Christ and His birth is often surrounded with controversy. There are those who would reduce the pivotal event in mankind’s history to one of many “holidays” to be privately and quietly observed, but never proclaimed. While “Christ reigns unto all ages,” the idolatry which His incarnation erased continues to exist, challenging those who see Him as “the Wonderful Counselor, the King of Kings and Lord of Lords, the everlasting Father, the Prince of Peace” to be all the more fervent in proclaiming that “God is with us” not only with their words, but most importantly, by their actions and deeds.

The ministry of Christ was hardly a private one. He preached to vast throngs of people. He healed the sick in the presence of many. He revealed the fullness of truth to all who would listen and accept His invitation to “come and see.” The message of repentance and forgiveness revealed in His parables and miracles was sealed by the very blood He shed in His very public passion and death. His resurrection, announced to thousands in Jerusalem on the great day of Pentecost and to the whole world in the days that followed, opened the doors to a greater reality – eternal life in the Kingdom.

We recall the words of the Prophet Isaiah, “He came unto His own, yet His own knew Him not.” The Gospel Christ proclaimed was – and still is – surrounded in controversy, precisely because it challenges the “error of idolatry” that insists that this world, and not the world to come, offers all that is necessary, all that is real, all that man needs to attain “fulfillment” and “self actualization.” The earthly cares Christ challenges us to lay aside – beginning with the idolatrous desire to see ourselves rather than God as the center of all things – remain obstacles to discerning His will, to sharing His life, and to partaking of His divine nature.

In today’s world, so burdened with wars, natural disasters, “political correctness,” and an overall lack of loving-kindness, it is easy to succumb to temptation and doubt. It becomes all too easy to focus on earthly cares rather than heavenly delights. The incarnation invites us to look beyond these burdens, to recognize that while we still live in a fallen world, the victorious Kingdom yet to come is already fully present to us in the Church, if only we respond to Christ’s call: “Come… and I will give you rest.” It is in this light that all the angels of heaven are of good cheer as they announce to mankind that freedom from selfishness and isolation from its Creator has been lovingly granted to all who, fleeing the idolatry of this life, freely seek and accept the gift of eternal life discovered in the fullness of Bethlehem’s cave and, at the same time, in the emptiness of Jerusalem’s tomb.

It is my prayer that this year’s celebration of the Nativity of Our Lord will be filled with the joy that comes when we truly repent, when we truly strive to lay aside the world’s idols and passing concerns, when we discern that Christ indeed “reigns unto all ages.” May we, now and in the year to come, flee from the temptation to bear our burdens without Him. Let us recommit ourselves to embracing His very presence in our midst with renewed zeal and conviction, striving to become the “light of the world” He calls us to be.

With love in the Newborn Lord,

• HERMAN
  Archbishop of Washington and New York
  Metropolitan of All America and Canada

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Metropolitan Herman to preside at Nativity, Theophany services at St. Nicholas Cathedral, Washington, DC

Article posted: 12/22/2005 3:34 PM
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St. Nicholas Cathedral, Washington, DC
WASHINGTON, DC [OCA Communications] — His Beatitude, Metropolitan Herman, Primate of the Orthodox Church in America, will preside at services marking the Great Feast of the Nativity of Our Lord at Saint Nicholas Cathedral here on Saturday and Sunday, December 24-25, 2005.

On Saturday evening, December 24, Metropolitan Herman will preside at the celebration of the Nativity Vigil at 5:00 p.m. On Sunday, December 25, he will preside at the Nativity Divine Liturgy at 9:00 a.m.

Metropolitan Herman will also preside at services for the Great Feast of the Theophany on Thursday and Friday, January 5-6, 2006.

On Thursday evening, January 5, Metropolitan Herman will celebrate the Theophany Vigil at 5:00 p.m. On Friday, January 6, he will preside at the Theophany Divine Liturgy at 10:00 a.m.

Saint Nicholas is the main cathedral of the Primate of the Orthodox Church in America. The cathedral recently observed its 75th anniversary in the fall of 2005.

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See these beautiful pics!
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CHRIST IS BORN! GLORIFY HIM!

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Tax act offers advantages for end-of-year giving in 2005

Article posted: 12/19/2005 5:37 PM
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SYOSSET, NY [OCA Communications] — In August 2005, the Katrina Emergency Tax Act went into force, providing special opportunities for those wishing to make donations to not-for-profit organizations and churches before the end of 2005.

According to the Very Rev. John Dresko, OCA director of development, the Tax Act offers individuals a one-time charitable giving opportunity to make larger than usual gifts. Funds for charitable giving may also be withdrawn from IRA accounts without penalty.

Through the end of 2005, the maximum charitable donation, including IRAs, has been increased from 50% of Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) to 100% of AGI. Donations must be outright gifts of cash made by December 31, 2005. Individual contributions may be directed to the Orthodox Church in America.

As always, donors may have a special affinity for one of the programs or projects of the Orthodox Church in America. An unrestricted donation may be made, allowing the Church to direct the funds to the greatest need. A restricted donation may also be made, with the donor giving a gift towards a specific area of Church ministry or to one of the Church's endowments providing for future needs.

Donors should consult their financial or tax advisors about both the optimal amount to contribute in 2005 and the advisability of making contributions from IRAs or other qualified plans.

Below please find the text of a pamphlet titled "Giving in 2005: New Tax Law Offers Special Window of Opportunity," which offers a comprehensive explanation of the Act's provisions.

Additional assistance is available from the Orthodox Church in America by contacting the office of development at 516.922-0550 or via email at stewardship@oca.org.

GIVING IN 2005: NEW TAX LAW OFFERS SPECIAL WINDOW OF OPPORTUNITY

New tax law brings new opportunities. Events in 2005 have called for an unprecedented response from individuals, non-profit organizations, and government to aid victims of natural disasters. Americans have responded with record levels of charitable giving to assist those in need.

Now Congress has acted to encourage additional charitable giving during this critical time by changing income tax laws to help Americans fund relief efforts while continuing to support their traditional charitable interests.

The Katrina Emergency Tax Relief Act of 2005 includes a number of important charitable giving provisions. Of particular note, the Act includes special new incentives for those who make charitable gifts of cash before the end of 2005.

EXPANDED TAX INCENTIVES. Our nation’s tax system has long encouraged charitable giving. Gifts to churches, for example, may be deducted from income that would otherwise be subject to tax.

Likewise, charitable deductions are allowed under gift and estate tax laws. However, unlike the unlimited federal gift and estate tax deduction, the amount one can deduct for income tax purposes in a given year may be limited.

Contributions of cash are generally deductible in amounts up to 50% of what is known as the donor’s "contribution base." For most individuals, the contribution base is the same as their adjusted gross income [AGI].

For gifts of securities and certain other properties that have increased in value, the limit is normally 30% of AGI. Any gifts of cash or other property in excess of these limits may be carried over for use as a deduction in up to five additional years.

A WINDOW OF OPPORTUNITY. Because many individuals may wish to make additional gifts this year that could cause them to encounter charitable deduction limitations, Congress has temporarily suspended limits on deductions for gifts of cash to qualified charities made during the period beginning on August 28, 2005 and ending on December 31, 2005. Thus, donors may deduct qualified charitable gifts in amounts up to 100% of their AGI, if so desired.

Other limits that can reduce the value of itemized deductions by 3% for some higher income taxpayers have also been suspended for qualified contributions made before the end of 2005.

Example: Ellen and George have given generously in support of disaster relief this year. They were planning to make additional gifts to other charitable interests but were told by their tax advisor that they have given all they could deduct from their 2005 income taxes and should wait until 2006 to make these gifts. They are pleased, however, to learn that under the terms of the new tax law they can make the gifts they wish and enjoy full deductibility in 2005.

OTHER SOURCES OF GIFTS. You may choose to make charitable gifts from any number of sources. For example, if you have accumulated funds in an Individual Retirement Account [IRA], 401[k], 403 plan, or other similar retirement account, this year may present special opportunities.

Assets held in tax-favored retirement accounts are subject to income tax when withdrawn during your lifetime or by survivors. They may also be subject to estate tax if left to loved ones other than a spouse. For that reason, retirement accounts may be a good choice for some when deciding how to fund charitable gifts.

If you are over the age of 59 1/2, funds can be withdrawn from IRAs and other retirement accounts and donated to charity without payment of a 10% penalty for early withdrawal. Amounts withdrawn and donated in this manner are reported as part of your income and are then deductible as charitable contributions.

For some taxpayers, however, the limits on deductible amounts, coupled with other reductions in itemized deductions, can result in a portion of retirement funds being taxed even though donated for charitable purposes.

Under the new tax law, donors can make a gift to a qualified charity of any amount withdrawn from an IRA or similar retirement plan before the end of the year and deduct the entire amount in 2005.

Remember that such gifts must be completed on or before December 31 of this year to take advantage of the suspension of rules that could otherwise limit the attractiveness of these gifts.

Example: Henry, age 62, has accumulated assets that he believes are more than sufficient to fund his retirement. He has provided for his loved ones in other ways and has often thought he would like to make a significant charitable gift to his church using a portion of his IRA. He is pleased to learn from his tax advisor that the new tax law makes it possible for him to withdraw and donate the amount he wishes to give with minimal tax consequences, as long as he completes his gift between now and the end of 2005.

GIFTS OF OTHER ASSETS. The new tax law makes no change in the tax treatment of gifts of stocks, bonds, mutual funds, and certain other property that has increased in value while you have owned it.

As in the past, you can contribute appropriate property and enjoy a tax deduction equal to the current market value of the donated asset, regardless of its original cost basis. In this way, you are able to benefit from your income tax deduction while the gift does not give rise to capital gains tax that could be due on a sale of the property. Such gifts remain deductible in amounts up to 30% of your AGI.

As an alternative, you may wish to sell securities and report gains or losses, as applicable, and use the cash proceeds to make charitable gifts that take advantage of the provisions of the new law.

ACT NOW FOR GREATEST BENEFIT. Time spent reviewing your tax and financial affairs now may bring unexpected benefits for you and your charitable interests.

Check with your advisors about the best ways to take advantage of special giving opportunities. Keep in mind that everyone’s circumstances are different and state as well as federal tax laws may affect your plans.

[NOTE: The purpose of this publication is to provide general gift, estate, and financial planning information. It is not intended as legal accounting, or other professional advice. For assistance in planning charitable gifts with tax and other financial implications, the services of appropriate advisors should be obtained. Consult an attorney for advice if your plans require revision of a will or other legal document. Tax deductions vary based on applicable federal discount rates, which can change on a monthly basis. Some opportunities may not be available in all states.]

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Clergymen of the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Sign Visit St Nicholas Patriarchal Cathedral

On December 19, the day of St Nicholas the Wonder-worker, Protopriest Andrei Sommer, Archdeacon Eugene Burbelo and Protodeacon Nicolas Mokhoff, having first celebrated Divine Liturgy at the Synodal Cathedral of Our Lady of the Sign in New York, headed for St Nicholas Patriarchal Cathedral, which was celebrating its feast day.

At the celebratory trapeza, Protopriest Andrei Sommer, Senior Priest of the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Sign, greeted Bishop Merkury of Zaraisk on behalf of the First Hierarch of the Russian Orthodox Church Outside of Russia. He relayed His Eminence's gratitude for the warm reception provided to the members of the Synod of Bishops on the days before the feast day of the Kursk-Root Icon of the Mother of God, and for their presence at the feast day services at the Synod of Bishops.

Fr Andrei personally expressed the hope that all questions hindering the fullness of brotherly communion would be resolved, so that clergymen could then work together in ministering to the Russian people of New York. Then Archdeacon Eugene intoned Many Years to Bishop Merkury. In his response, Bishop Merkury asked the clergymen of the Synodal Cathedral to relay his deep gratitude to His Eminence Metropolitan Laurus and intoned Many Years for Protodeacon Nicolas, who was celebrating his namesday.

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http://www.oca.org/News.asp?ID=897&SID=19

Archpastoral Message of Metropolitan Herman at the beginning of the New Year

Article posted: 12/29/2005 9:43 AM
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January 1, 2006

To the Very Reverend and Reverend Clergy, Monastics, and Faithful of The Orthodox Church in America

Dearly Beloved in the Lord:

The beginning of every new year finds many people making resolutions to improve their lives. Some people make a resolution to strengthen their financial or professional standing. Others resolve to lose weight or stop a bad habit. And there are many people who express the desire to improve their relationships with their families or coworkers, to help the needy, or to pursue some other lofty goal in life.

While it is natural to make such resolutions at the beginning of a new year, it is also more often than not the case that, within a few weeks, such resolutions are broken or forgotten. Life returns to “normal,” to the “status quo.” During the subsequent months, little attention is paid to broken resolutions which, by the end of the year, have been thoroughly forgotten.

The very heart of the Gospel may be summed up into a single word: repent! To be a follower of Christ means to resolve to change our minds, our hearts, and our lives, resolving to discern not our own wills and desires, but the Lord’s.

Resolving to live according to God’s will and the example we have been given by Our Lord, Jesus Christ, is something that is not restricted to the beginning of a new year, but faces us every day of our lives as Orthodox Christians. We are continually challenged to embrace change by growing stronger in our faith, by participating more regularly in the life of the Church, and by reaching out to others with compassion and love. As we begin every new day, we pray that our repentance will bring us into a more intense relationship with God, with others, and even with ourselves, seeking to accomplish not our own wills, but the will of our Heavenly Father.

The beginning of the new year offers us an opportunity to make a resolution that matters, that transcends the goals inherent in so many “new year’s resolutions” and offers us a foretaste of the very Kingdom of God that, while yet to be fully revealed, is already fully present in the life of the Church. It affords us an opportunity to pursue a new beginning, to transform our commitment and words into conviction and action, and to put our spiritual households into order, not only during the coming year but for the remainder of our lives. Ultimately, making the resolution to repent is not something restricted to the beginning of a new year; rather, it is the challenge – the Gospel’s challenge – to be renewed in body and soul every day of our lives, to change our focus and direction in our pursuit of holiness rather than our own trivial pursuits.

We are blessed by God with the beginning of a new year. In thanksgiving, let us make our resolution one of repentance and interior change, aimed at “the one thing needful” – pursuing our lives in accordance with the will of God and the example of our Savior. Let us “lay aside all earth cares” – and “resolutions” – replacing them with a firm commitment to seek renewal in the Lord. And let us resolve to remain vigilant in fulfilling this resolution, especially in times of temptation or distress – times when Our Lord is quick to hear our prayers for help, guidance, and direction. In so doing, we will discover that indeed the Lord is with us at every moment and in every circumstance, giving us the resolve to grow in and with Him now and in the days to come.

With love in Christ,

• HERMAN
  Archbishop of Washington and New York
  Metropolitan of All America and Canada