21 MAY 2013
The steady rain kept me from doing any outside work of which, alas, there is so
much to be done. Father Moses came across a jar of Saskatoon jam that was
several years old but, since it was well sealed, we tried it and it was
delicious and, hopefully, safe to consume. I copied some prayers in Old Church
Slavonic that our Old Believer people had asked for. Soon our last visitors
will arrive and after that, it will be bedtime for me
20 MAY 2013
It
was a disappointment to realize this morning that, since this is the Victoria
Day weekend, we cannot take our garbage away and it will be with us until
Saturday. Well, it could have been worse. The returning holiday traffic has
been terrible and on such days it is better to stay put. On the other hand, a
number of people came to visit the monastery and it was a joy to receive them.
I tried to weed but some of the weeds have grown so tall that it is almost
impossible to deal with them
19 MAY 2013
Our neighbour saw a large bear on the monastery road last night so they must be
getting hungrier to come out so far out of the forest. Everyone kept warning us
to be careful when we are outdoors. When Misha arrive in the morning he had his
vehicle full of boxes that were sent to us from two food stores, one in Seattle
and the other in Vancouver. There were bags and bags of buckwheat groats,
noodles, many boxes of tea, biscuits, Russian kvas and Romanian mineral water,
so we are well stocked with these products
18 MAY 2013
I was pleased to see the Georgians arrive this morning, as they began placing
the metal roof in place and working on the exterior. The first crowning began
at ten, after which a reception was held, naturally with all kinds of delicious
food. The second crowning began shortly after one and, again, there was a
reception so I spent much of the time trying to avoid the rich dishes. Later
others came unexpectedly and then it was rime for Great Vespers. As soon as
this diary is finished I shall have to retire, still it was a wonderful day for
all of us
17 MAY 2013
At last the lawns have been brought back into shape using some heavy industrial
machinery which will at least make it easier to mow with a regular mower. The
Fraser River is rising gradually and in places has spilled over its banks. We
are fairly safe, especially since new pumps have been installed at Hatzic Lake
16 MAY 2013
More painting was done in the new church by David who is doing a great job which
is not surprising since he is a professional painter. Our tractor lawn mower
was back in service but not for long. Something else is wrong with it and it
will have to be taken back to the repair shop. Perhaps we should turn our lawns
into hay fields. Visitors came bringing food and delicious food at that so it
was a day when we ate much too splendidly
15 MAY 2013
The good news is that our tractor lawn mower is ready after its visit to the
repair shop. The grass is already very high and so the mowing will be slow but
at last we can begin on the lawns, all four of them. We bought an outdoor solar
lamp which, if it works well, will be of great use. A couple of small ones
worked quite well and I hope that this large one will be satisfactory
14 MAY 2013
It is election day in British Columbia but I have not yet heard the results. In
another sense it has been an important day in that we had an adult baptism of a
man whose family is already baptized and now he himself was ready for this
regeneration. I am so accustomed to baptizing babies and little children that it
was enjoyable having an adult for a change. We have almost finished off all the
Paschal eggs and breads, enjoyable that they are, yet slightly heavy and rich.
13 MAY 2013
While hurrying to complete yesterday`s diary I forgot to mention that, as I was
going to bed on Saturday night, I suddenly realized that no prosphora had been
baked for Sunday`s Liturgy. It was too late to begin so I arose earlier than
usual on Sunday morning and baked a large prosphora which, when it was cut open
during the Proskomedia, steam was observed coming from it. It was only the
second time in about 35 years that no prosphora had been baked. The other times
were not disastrous because there always was a spare one in the freezer. Our
neighbour confirmed our suspicions that someone had set a fire in our meadow
because a car was doused with gas on his road recently and set ablaze. I hope
that there will be no repetition of this 12 MAY 2013
We had a terrible downpour during the liturgy which was served in the old church
since the new one is being painted, at least with a prime coat. The Agape meal
was scarcely over when we drove to Vancouver to attend the Victory Celebration,
that is, the end of World War Two. The programme was diverse and of excellent
quality. It was organized mainly by people who attend services at the monastery
and it even included those of different faiths since it was not a religious
event. The large hall was packed and I was so pleased to see many familiar
faces and to be able to greet them with "Christ is Risen". 11 MAY 2013
This was a day of baptisms, the first one in the morning for Yoanna, a small
baby girl of Bulgarian descent. Most of the people who attended were
neighbours and friends, mainly Canadians, who thought the the baptism was
interesting even if they really had no idea of what it was all about. The
second baptism was of a two month old baby girl, Polina, whose background is
Ukrainian. In addition there were visitors coming and going much of the day
and by mid evening I felt quite frazzled and had to retire to get enough rest
and sleep for the following day. 10 MAY 2013 I visited our local eye specialist, a wonderful and skilled man who is Coptic . Between waiting for the eyedrops to take effect we were able to chat. He used a laser treatment on one of my eyes which has made a great difference. A quick trip across the border to mail books was followed by a hospital visit to a man who is gravely ill. Since it is the feast of the Life Giving Spring, I went out to bless the spring and cross behind our main building. The huge wisteria had to be cut back and dug out before the main construction began and it was replanted some distance away. I am pleased to say that it has recovered and is doing very well but it will not have any flowers this year. 9 MAY 2013 Despite the heat I set out to make a round of candles, this time mainly ten inch long tapers. With the dipping tank and three pots of hot wax, the candle factory was very hot. Even the term "candle factory" is misleading because it is no more than 8 x 10 with an an extra area for storing the blocks of beeswax. Tomorrow is the feast of the Life-Giving Spring and we shall bless our spring which is used by many people. I often see people drive up,take our their containers and go directly to the spring to get their supply of water. 8 MAY 2013
Although no one saw the bear, it left its calling card right in the middle of
the road, so it is lurking about and I should think that it will not be a
problem except when the pears, apples and berries ripen. It was quite enjoyable
speaking with our pilgrim today and, when a local First Nations man {Salish
Indian} dropped in I had no time to show him around but he will be back one day
to look at some of the sculptures that a Lebanese man had done some time ago.
7 MAY 2013
The fire that had raced through part of our field did little damage but some
trees were scorched. They should survive but they look somewhat pathetic right
now. I think that we shall be cleaning up for the rest of the week and, with the
sudden heat that has come upon us, we all tire more easily. As well, having
almost no one around us feels unusual, after having had workers, visitors and
pilgrims coming and going this past while. 6 MAY 2013
Although we all still feel tired, it was a new day with its own rhythm and
chores. Still, everyone felt joyous as this always happens for a long time
after Pascha. A couple of strangers showed up in the afternoon and as soon as
they left a fire broke out in the field which did not really do any damage but
it could have been serious if the fire brigade had not come to put it out. The
police were here also and it seems that these two men are familiar to them. CHRIST IS RISEN ! 5 MAY 2013 TRULY HE IS RISEN !
On
this most holy day we all cry out CHRIST IS RISEN ! and then reply TRULY HE
IS RISEN ! ------the reason I do not like the usage of INDEED HE IS RISEN is
because, at least in my opinion, it sounds terribly insipid and even uninspiring
and more Anglican than Orthodox-------. The Paschal Service ended triumphantly
and we descended to the refectory to bless the baskets filled with kulitches,
cheese paschas, coloured eggs and many other things. In fact so much was
brought that there was not enough room on all the tables and so the women spread
out sheets on the floor upon which were placed the baskets that were brought
later than the other ones. Then, while we unvested, the main serving table in
the hall was filled to overflowing with both food from the baskets and other
dishes brought for the breaking of the fast. Although many people left for
home to break the fast there or with friends, the majority stayed on here at the
monastery. Extra tables were squeezed in but many had to sit in the kitchen,
the refectory, the staircase or, since it was a warm night, on the balcony
that wraps itself around half the main building. Visitors from the interior of
BC and from Washington and Colorado were a welcome sight especially since they
come here for Pascha every year. The last people left at five in the morning
and half an hour later we all were in bed, not having the energy to clear off
all the tables. But, by half past nine, new visitors began arriving, those who
were not able to attend the night service because of little children or being
unable to drive at night. Each group brought baskets of food to be blessed, and
many of them stayed on to both visit and to eat the food that had been blessed.
By the end of the day at least eighty to one hundred people arrived with
baskets or else just to greet us with the feast, this in addition to the
hundreds who attended the night service---well, maybe not hundreds but only
about three hundred. By evening we were tired, in fact, exhausted, but
spiritually uplifted and full of joy that we were once again deemed worthy to
celebrate the Holy Resurrection of Christ. CHRIST IS RISEN ! 4 MAY 2013
Having come to the conclusion of Great Lent and Holy Week, we tried to rest a
little for the night service. People came to help with last minute tasks and to
bring food for the feast. Even though a number of people would attend their
own parishes for the Feast of Feasts, they still came to the monastery for
confessions. By mid evening there was a feeling of anticipation and excitement
among those who came early [some arrived at seven to be of help and simply to
wait for the service to begin]. By midnight the church was packed and the
procession began with the largest bell ringing slowly. Since we cannot yet
process around the church and the main building, we went through the gate chapel
and up the road until everyone had left the church. When we turned back, the
sight of hundreds of candles in the dark of the night was overwhelming. Also,
we had put up a number of bamboo torches along the way, not so much to light the
way as to simply mark the road. When we returned and began to enter the church,
using the new ramp, all the bells rang out joyously. As always, the service
seemed to pass quickly except that I wrenched my back an hour or so before the
service began and so I had to sit during part of the service. 3 MAY 2013
Sorry, this is being written up on Bright Monday because there was not enough
time to do anything earlier. Finally everything came together and we were more
or less ready for Pascha. Anastasia brought two floral arrangements that she
herself had prepared, all white flowers consisting of roses, snapdragons, and
several other varieties, all of which made a stunning display. Some women
arrived to decorate the tomb with multicoloured chrysanthemums and baby`s
breath. At the end of the service, each person was handed a carnation, either
red or white, after they had reverenced the plashchinitsa. 2 MAY 2013
We began the day with the Holy Thursday Liturgy for which a number of people
came and right after it, there were dozens of tasks to be finished.
Fortunately everyone is pulling together with help from Sergey who decided to
spend a couple of days helping us. Others will be here tomorrow to pitch in so
that Pascha can be gloriously celebrated. 1 MAY 2013
It
is the first of May and around the world people are celebrating May Day. Here
at the monastery we are frantically racing to have everything prepared for
Pascha. The new church has been emptied and vacuumed several times and a
temporary rug put in the sanctuary. More loads of gravel were brought in to
enlarge the parking area. Father Vasily arrived from Florida, a long trip for
him and we are pleased to see him again. I am afraid that for the next few days
I may not be able to post the diary entries regularly. 30 APRIL 2013
It was not possible to take away the garbage yesterday so today it was taken to
another recycling centre, our regular one being closed on Tuesdays. Much to my
dismay it was not open so all the garbage had to brought back. Now it might
have to sit until Friday although I almost felt like strewing it along the
roadside but, of course, that would never do. Now we have to clean carefully,
even two or three times to remove all traces of drywall and plaster before the
feast. Some people have volunteered to do that which is a great relief. The
large chandelier was raised in the sanctuary and it looks absolutely
breathtaking. 29 APRIL 2013
The sky was brilliant blue and the sun shone brightly but standing in the
middle of the cemetery was almost an ordeal because of the strong and cold wind
that blew across the wide expanse of the cemetery. My outer ryasa fluttered in
the wind and I felt like an old sailing ship with my ryasa as a sail. Still, it
was good to have George at rest together with his parents, all buried together
with other Russians from Shanghai and Harbin. Although countless bottles of Holy
Water are available each year, there were only three bottles left---and this
was after the third time more bottles had been prepared. This time there are
only about four or five dozen empty bottles on hand and so they had to be filled
for distribution. By the end of the year no doubt at least one thousand
bottles of Holy Water will be passed out to the countless people who take a
small drink of it each morning, whereas a few years ago I thought that the one
hundred bottles or so that were given out was a large number. 28 APRIL 2013
How fortunate we are that the rain stayed away until later in the evening. The
very first to arrive were our Russian Old Believers who are accustomed to
arriving in church early in the morning and standing throughout their long
services. I spent all the time before the Liturgy began in hearing confessions
which carried on until time for Holy Communion. The church was so crowded that
the people in front were almost up against the iconostas, while many were lined
up on the stairs and in the hall below. The singing was marvelous with almost
everyone joining in. We ran out of palms although some brought pussy willows
and even flowers to pass out. The Agape meal turned out to be an actual feast
and many had to either stand or else go outdoors because of a lack of sitting
space. Needless to say, it was a moving experience to have had over 200
worshippers crowded into the church and adjoining areas, so that our new church
is certainly needed. 27 APRIL 2013
We served George's funeral this morning at which many people were present. At
the end of the service some people said a few words about George whom we shall
miss because he was one of the last of his generation of Shanghai Russians. We
need not have worried about food for the meal, as everyone brought enough lenten
food to last for a couple of days. The rest of the day was spent mostly
visiting with the mourners and reliving George's life. Now I must put together
the service for tomorrow's Church Slavonic Liturgy 26 APRIL 2013
Holy Week is almost upon us and this is the first time that I have felt
unprepared. Let it be just my imagination but we have been so busy that there
seemed to be not enough time to look over the services and to try singing the
special hymns etc. I hope that God will be merciful and aid us in all the Holy
Week services. More gravel was brought today and spread in the parking area and
our young lads are back to continue their work. The weather forecast is for
some rain tomorrow and, if there is to be any, let it begin later in the
afternoon, after the funeral. Elia brought a huge amount of palms for the Palm
Sunday service. 25 APRIL 2013
My ears feel somewhat soggy after having had numerous telephone calls today.
Since each call lasted at least 30 or 45 minutes, I must have been on the
telephone at least 4 1/2 or 5 hours, aside from speaking to people who came to
visit. Not every day are there constant calls, but one must be ready and
willing to speak with anyone who desires such contact. It is becoming dark and
I can hear the boys still working outside. 24 APRIL 2013
This
entry is being prepared even though the day has not yet ended because there
might not be enough time to do it tonight. I had to be away much of the day to
serve a memorial service and to be with and comfort the mourners. Kenny is here
at the moment with his bobcat, spreading the pile of gravel that had been
delivered and improving the parking lot. The ramp looks quite finished except
for the railings. I hear voices outside so I should go up to the church and get
everything ready for today's service. 23 APRIL 2013
It is almost impossible to keep the weeds down, especially now that it has
become so warm. I struggled for a while but gave up feeling exhausted. Andrew
and his friend are still working on the ramp which looks better each day.
Railings will have to be added before it can be used and perhaps later in the
year a roof can be put on it, as one sees in ancient northern Russian wooden
churches. All of a sudden a number of memorial services have had to be served
and, as Holy Week nears, we seem to be inundated with a multitude of requests. 22 APRIL 2013
Much of the day was spent in arranging for George's funeral which should be
quite simple and direct but, as it often happens, there are some delays and we
are always impatient. It feels rather odd not having him here amongst us,
although he is not forgotten by the many people who are remembering him in their
prayers. The sun has shone brightly all day, making us feel that we are
getting sun burned when, in fact, it is simply that we have forgotten how it
feels to have it shining so brightly and warmly. When we drove up to the
garbage and recycling depot we were told that there was no room left. It meant
that we would have to wait until Friday when fortunately we remembered that
there is another depot on the Indian reserve not far from here. 21 APRIL 2013
Late last night, just before midnight our George Patrikeeff died in hospital.
He had been rushed there earlier in the evening and then peacefully passed
away. This being Sunday, it was not possible to make full arrangements so
perhaps it can be done tomorrow. He had such a full life; born and raised in
Shanghai he came to Vancouver with his parents and lived there ever since. He
served as an altar boy for Vladika John of San Fransisco and he was one of the
pallbearers at Vladika's funeral. He was a great raconteur and could speak on
any subject at great length. Those who knew him will miss his humour and wit.
We will undoubtedly miss him but at least his pain and suffering have ended.
Eternal be his memory, 20 APRIL 2013
This has been a long day, starting with confessions in the morning, followed by
a baptism of little Luca, whose older brother Nicholas was baptized here two
years ago. Then we had a memorial service for Victor whose life ended
prematurely because of Chernobyl and then another memorial service followed by a
huge lenten meal of mostly Romanian dishes. Meanwhile, others worked on the
arched ceiling in the sanctuary and especially on the outdoor ramp. Visitors
were amazed at the speed of all this construction. We have been blessed with
such great volunteers, many of whom came out today to clean, wash and to bring
things into order. 19 APRIL 2013
More
work was accomplished today with Deacon Philip concentrating on the electrical
wiring and Andrew with his friend tackling the ramp. Kenny came with his bobcat
to level the parking area and so on for the entire day. Our dear friends in
Virginia telephoned to inform us that lightning had struck their house in a
terrible storm and the house caught on fire. Although the fire brigade had
arrived, they wanted spiritual aid as well, so our spiritual brigade went into
full force to pray for their well being. Once again our kitchen was overflowing
with bags, boxes and cans of food that were donated which will come in handy for
all our workers. 18 APRIL 2013
Vladika Lazar saw his oncologist this morning who announced that the surgery had
been successful. Glory to God for that and for all things! Perhaps he can now
make a good recovery and spend a few years yet, writing and teaching Orthodoxy
as it has been handed down to us by the God-bearing Church Fathers rather than
what we see too often---one form of Protestantism or another in the guise of
Orthodoxy. I made a round of candles today, probably only about 700 or so and
perhaps I can make another 700 for Pascha. Father Moses is cutting them down.
The Georgian lads worked all day on their construction site but hurried here
after work to spend a few hours to finish as much as possible before Pascha
arrives. 17 APRIL 2013 I got to see my retina specialist this morning who has referred me to another
specialist to look at my right eye which is not quite up to par. She felt that
he could improve my vision which is encouraging. I expected to have a quiet
Presanctified Liturgy with just as alone attending but, much to my surprise, a
lot of people came streaming in, making the service even more beautiful than
usual. More candles have to be made, so the wicking part of it has been
finished. 16 APRIL 2013
If
this weather could hold out for some time it would be wonderful. I bought some
wall flowers, English daisies and marigolds to transplant because it is time for
that. The ramp is at last being set up and in the morning I rented a lawnmower
since our tractor lawnmower will not be in use for a few weeks; a part had to
be ordered. This lawnmower is completely inadequate and I do not know what we
can do, as no one wishes to cut grass that is eight or nine inches high in
places. One of the joys of living in the country is that you never know what to
expect from day to day. 15 APRIL 2013
This was one of those "April shower" days when the sun comes out and deceives
you into thinking that all is well when suddenly there is a cloudburst with
sleet and thunder and lightning. Then the sun reappears as if nothing at all
had taken place. It feels so quiet after all the workmen we had over the
weekend, no more sawing, hammering or stapling and it feels rather odd, but they
will be back before long. Perhaps we can now catch up on our tasks, obediences
and other creative work that requires silence and concentration. 14 APRIL 2013
Another beautiful sunny day brought out many people for the Divine Liturgy, the
majority of whom stayed for the Agape meal. Another Old Believer family was
present for the service so that we have even more Russian Old Believers at many
of our services. Most of them are Lipovani, that is, Russian Old Believers of
the priestly group from Romania and Moldova. Everyone is getting excited about
the new church being completed before Pascha, at least in the interior. It will
be a relief when it is finished. 13 APRIL 2013
On this bright and sunny day, which began with rain, the troops came out to
help. Sasha and Sergey came to offer their help which was much appreciated, the
latter spending most of the time cleaning up around the monument in the field.
Jonathan was picked up by his sisters and set out on their lengthy trip to
Creston. Special windows had to be ordered for the new sanctuary and everything
looks more finished each day. Since this is Memorial Saturday, we served a full
panikhida before Great Vespers. All the relics were brought out into the
church, as we usually do on the second Sunday of each month. 12 APRIL 2013
The boys came later in the afternoon and began to work on the iconostas, or the
beginning of it. Tomorrow, weather permitting, they will waterproof the
exterior which is necessary with all the rain that we are having. After the
Presanctified Liturgy everyone stayed to eat and visit which was most pleasant.
The boys will spend the night here so that they can get an early start tomorrow
morning. Jonathan will be leaving early tomorrow when his sister picks him up
and they will have a long trip ahead of them to Creston. We left the three
larger bells to be sand blasted having seen the result of the first bell. I
rather think that by Pascha they will already be hanging in the belfry.
Part of this day was spent outdoors because it was warm and sunny, and I also
transplanted a newly bought hydrangea. The man from the sand blasting shop
telephoned to say that the smallest bell we had left for him was ready. Indeed,
it looks beautifully polished---they do not use sand but rather glass pellets.
The other bells will be taken there soon, also to be polished. We had no
visitors today other than Jonathan who was set to work on various tasks. It
seems that the work crew will be here again tomorrow. 10 APRIL 2013
I almost forgot to bless a house this afternoon and it was only thanks to
Vladika Lazar who reminded me of it that I arrived almost on time. tI was an
enjoyable afternoon and soon after I returned to the monastery we served the
Presanctified Liturgy at which a number of people were present including the
Monastery Kids, that is, the young people who come here for many of the
services, although it is often difficult for them to come from Vancouver.
Jonathon stayed on and he will be picked up on Saturday by his sister as they
return to Cranbrook. In the meantime he can be occupied with a number of tasks
here. 9 APRIL 2013
Aside from taking books across the border for shipping, this has been a quiet
day. Father Moses finished collating the booklet on angels and is now beginning
to collate the recently printed book by Father Michael Azkoul about the myth of
tollhouses which Segei Moukhine translated into Russian. Perhaps this will be of
use in the struggle to inform people in general, and Russians in this case, of
the Gnostic teaching of tollhouses. It is a pernicious idea that has
infiltrated into Orthodoxy and is now fervently adhered to by those on the
extreme ends of our Faith. 8 APRIL 2013
Another
monthly visit to the chiropractor and it certainly is worth it. Kenny and
Deacon Philip worked on the ramp that will be used for the main door of our new
church. Everything is happening so quickly that I cannot keep up with the
pace. After I spent considerable time shopping for various supplies I found
that I could not pay for them because something happened so that no cards could
be used and I did not have enough cash on me. Everything had to be left and I
will have to repeat this tomorrow---what an annoyance
*** 7 APRIL 2013
On this feast of the Annunciation rain fell most of the day, thankfully not
always in a downpour but it did not keep the worshippers away. The church was
filled with camellia blooms and the analoy with the feast's icon and the cross
[since it is also the Sunday of the Cross] gave the church a festive look.
After the Agape meal we served a baptism and later still a large group of
Mennonites from Abbotsford came for a visit. Vladika Lazar gave them a tour of
the monastery and a spiritual talk. It must have been successful since they
wanted to return for another visit. Many people wanted to see the progress of
the work in the new church and it is amazing how quickly it has come together.
Misha is making plans for teams to be ready for Pascha---some for directing
parking at night, others for kitchen work and all that is needed for the evening
and night to run smoothly. *** 6 APRIL 2013
Our work crew was out all day again but now we are already thinking about where
to erect the iconostas and some of the finer details. Sergei and Deacon Philip
poured cement where the foundation had been made while Anastasia washed dishes
and did laundry. Her pug Bailley was a joy and it is the kind of dog I would
like to have as a house pet. Joana came with soup and other dishes to feed the
working men. In addition I had prepared some food but a group of Romanians
arrived for a memorial service and brought enough food to feed half our village.
In Great Lent we try to abstain from rich food and even the quantity of food
that we consume, yet others take pleasure in bringing us all this delicious
lenten food. Fortunately we are able to distribute much of it to the needy. 5 APRIL 2013
When I walked into the kitchen this morning I could scarcely believe my eyes.
There were boxes, cartons and bags piled in the middle of the kitchen and on the
tables. Judging by the contents it had to be from Euro Foods in Coquitlam but
who brought them? It turns out that both Gigla and Kakha delivered them after
having stopped at the store yesterday. There were 12 loaves of the most
delicious Russian black bread that I have ever tasted, and dozens of jars of
pickles, marinated tomatoes, rice salad, sauerkraut, Bulgarian peppers, two
dozen large boxes of Ceylon black tea, and numerous other things that I cannot
recall. Oh yes, there also was a bag, probably weighing about 100 pounds, of
buckwheat groats. This certainly allows us to feed not just ourselves but
visitors and pilgrims as well. I shall have to telephone Svetlana and Grigory
to thank them for their generosity 4 APRIL 2013
While it was still pleasant and before the rain began I spent an hour or so
raking leaves, branches and dried bramble vines. Several large piles were
amassed with a lot of work still left. This area is behind the old workshop and
also behind my little dwelling which had been neglected for some time but now
that I have more strength, I was determined to tackle it and to bring it to some
order. It really is attractive with a gigantic granite cliff at the foot of
the mountain. Over the centuries many boulders have come crashing down but only
one that I can recall. A rock weighing about two hundred pounds came flying
down and hit the side of my house with enough force to bounce back several
feet. Fortunately little damage was done to the building. All the camellias
are out and one bush, situated next to the bright yellow forsythia looks
absolutely grand 3 APRIL 2013
It was to have been a rainy day but instead the sun was with us much of the
day. After the previous heavy rains and this warm weather, all the plants are
doing their very best to show their beauty and even many of the weeds look quite
attractive, although weeding them is another matter. Some time was spent in
reorganizing the print shop or rather the shelves for the books that we have
printed. Much of our village news comes from the postmaster and his assistant
who told us of an unfortunate attack by a pitbull of a young girl riding on her
horse, both of whom were seriously injured. I will gladly stick with our two
cats! 2 APRIL 2013
Vladika Lazar was at the hospital early this morning for a scheduled
procedure. Later, I took Father Moses along with me, first
dropping off our garbage {we could not do it yesterday since it was a
public holiday---Easter Monday} and then continuing on to Abbotsford
for my appointment with a specialist who was well pleased and asked me
to return in a few months. Before returning home we stopped at the
Asian Garden situated next to the Public Library where we enjoyed the
waterfall, the blooming plants and all the plum and cherry trees
covered in blossoms. Vladika Lazar is resting and recovering and should
be up and about before too long. 1 APRIL 2013
Finally our sewage system seems to be in order once again and I hope it remains
so for many years. A subcontractor for the company that pumped out the septic
tank came and informed us that it would cost, in our view, a fortune for him to
replace one pipe. Father Moses related all this to me later, saying,"Do you
want to hear an excellent example of chutzpah?" Naturally I was anxious to hear
it. Apparently the man wanted $300 just for labour, then he turned around and
asked Father Moses and our friend Mike to do the digging, whereupon Mike, in his
usual Bristol manner, told him to depart or something much stronger than that.
Our neighbourhood plumber Massimo was called out and in no time he had completed
the task. I was going to give him some of Glyko's spanakopita which she brought
today but Massimo had already sped off to another job. 31 MARCH 2013
Since it was the last Sunday of the month, the Liturgy was served in Church
Slavonic. I thought that the confessions would never end and the great
majority of people received Holy Communion. Misha had to motion to the people
three or four times to step forward so that others could enter. It almost
seemed that some of them would be hanging out the windows but the singing was
absolutely beautiful, completely without a choir but entirely congregational and
a number of people remarked how much this type of singing meant to them. Of
course, we have always favoured everyone singing, not just a professional choir
that leaves the worshippers out of the service. What made it different today
was that we had a number of Russian Old Believers who were present for the
Liturgy and who stayed for the Agape meal. 30 MARCH 2013
It has been somewhat of a stressful day because of the problem we had with out
septic tank. MrSwirl. the name of the company, arrived mid-afternoon and pumped
out the tank which meant that the washrooms and sinks could once again be
used---what a relief. Elena and Tri arrived from Olympia Washington to attend
Vespers and the Sunday Liturgy. Quite a few people came for Vespers so that our
supper was held both at the refectory and the kitchen tables. 29 MARCH 2013
This is Good Friday for the heterodox but for us it was just another day except
that we had to call out a plumber because everything began to back up. It seems
that the septic tank is full and someone will come tomorrow to pump it out. We
had to warn all those who arrived for the Presanctified Liturgy that the
washrooms could not be used and nothing poured down the sink. It is an
inconvenience but surely it will be rectified tomorrow. A large group of women
, mainly from Kazakhstan, came for a visit, fortunately before we had the sewage
problem. 28 MARCH 2013
We got into a double line of huge transport trucks at the border and there was
the possibility of having to wait for an hour or more, yet the trucks kept
moving quickly. The official on the American side is someone of Romanian
descent and he always greets us politely, not that the others are not. Traffic
moved more quickly today because they were unable to charge the required $10.75
from each vehicle for some reason. We stopped at our favourite used book store
and found several interesting books to bring back. 27 MARCH 2013
In these daily diaries I select only one or two things that happened on a
particular day and readers must not think that nothing else happened on any
day. Much of what we do is repetitive and our tasks and obediences need not be
mentioned constantly. Today's excitement, if it could be called that, was on
our main road, just in front of the neighbour's driveway where a young woman,
texting while driving, lost control of her car and crashed into a power pole.
She was not hurt but the poor pole snapped in half. At least we did not lose
our power as when a silly swan flew into the power lines some time ago and we
were left with no power for hours. 26 MARCH 2013
Another very warm day to gladden our hearts. We have to get our lawnmower
ready, as the grass is growing so quickly. We checked the monument in the field
and the shrubs and plants around it. The oak tree is becoming immense and the
other trees are doing very well. I am glad that we dug out the peonies last
year because their colour was not attractive and for the rest of the year they
looked bedraggled. We actually had a gourmet supper tonight, feasting on cold
daikon soup, steamed young dandelions and potatoes with sweet Bulgarian
peppers. What more could one ask for? 25 MARCH 2013
We could not have asked for a more perfect spring day. I saw the first
camellias in Mission this morning and other shrubs and flowers are popping up
everywhere. In fact, we have started picking dandelions and stinging nettles
for our soups and salads, something we look forward to each spring. Kenny
arrived early this morning to dig holes for the pillars to support the ramp that
will be built to enable everyone to reach the second floor of the new church
easily 24 MARCH 2013
Please do not ask me for an explanation but I could do nothing with my computer
in the evening of 24 March, so this is being posted on Monday morning of 25
March. Sunday began gloriously with a bright sun and a more than cool wind
which eventually warmed up. Since we had our first Liturgy in Great Lent, the
music was somewhat different and our singing began rather weak and unsteady
although midway througa the service we began to sing more melodiously and with
greater confidence. It was so good to see Svetlana [Fotinya] who hails from
Volgograd and who has come to stay with her family nearby for a few months. She
had acted much like our Guardian Angel in the past, always taking care of us and
the monastery, never sitting idly for a minute. Later we had a singing
rehearsal for the Pascal Matins and Liturgy and it was amazing to note how much
of it had been retained since last year 23 MARCH 2013 The Georgian boys were were at the crack of dawn when it was still cold
although the sun was out. Nicolae had spent the night here and is completing
the renovation of the main washroom with Deacon Phillip's assistance. Others
are finishing the last touches on the double doors, while others arrived to do
general cleaning, starting with the gatehouse chapel and going on to the outdoor
chapel, cleaning and bringing everything in order for the great feast of Holy
Pascha. People who came to pray and light candles during the day had to step
over tools and equipment but that made it more evident that actual work was in
progress. 22 MARCH 2013
A number of people showed up to help, starting with Virgil and Valentina who
have almost completed installing the new doors, then Mike came for a brief visit
and promised to build the ramp with his son Phillip, then Nicolae drove all the
way from the University of B.C. to install a new floor, lights and sink in the
main washroom where he was aided by Deacon Phillip. Others arrived for the
Presanctified Liturgy after which we had a lenten potluck supper. In addition
Father Michael and David came and dug up huge stones for the proposed path.
Also, someone came for spiritual advice so. all in all, it was a full and busy
day. 21 MARCH 2013
Just before noon there was a sudden rain that turned to sleet so that the ground
was entirely white. What a way to begin spring but, being what spring usually
is, it melted in a few minutes, the sun came out and this area of the Fraser
Valley had the highest temperature in the country, even higher than Vancouver
and Seattle. The double door is in the process of being installed and our main
waterway had dozens of saplings planted yesterday by the Fisheries volunteers,
replacing the ones that had not been protected against the beavers. 20 MARCH 2013
We
had our first Presanctified Liturgy today and it was wonderful to be in that
grace-filled atmosphere that is so different from the rest of the year.
Because it began at 7 pm and people had fasted all day, we had a light supper
of root vegetable soup with no oil, buckwheat kasha and couscous that Glyko
brought----tasty and nutritious. The double door for our new church was
delivered today on a gigantic delivery truck that no doubt could have carried a
giant yacht. 19 MARCH 2013
I did not realize how much of today was going to be devoted to health issues.
My annual cancer check-up was due today so it meant a trip to the Cancer
Clinic.The specialist I saw was new, a recent arrival from India who was
thoroughly professional. He then asked me to return in a year's time in which
I undoubtedly will. On the way back I stopped at the office of the retina
specialist because there was some confusion, on my part, about the next
appointment and then, on an offchance, I stopped at the chiropractor's clinic to
make an appointment but, since there was a lull, I was given an immediate
adjustment. Once again I am grateful that all these treatments and adjustments
are paid for by the government in our universal medical care system 18 MARCH 2013
Great Lent has begun and so has our wondrous journey to the joyous feast of
Holy Pascha. No doubt there will be many temptations, but let none of us become
weary or lost but rather rejoice in this special time of the year. Aside from
the many flowers that have opened up, I saw this year's first rhododendron bush
ablaze with blooms. Soon the entire valley will be covered with colours of all
sorts. Someone brought us some lenten Middle Eastern bread about a metre long
and half that width which we had with a bit of jam. 17 MARCH 2013
This day has both overwhelmed and exhausted me and it will not be repeated until
Pascha arrives. The Divine Liturgy was, as usual, touching and beautiful with
the church crowded with people, young and old. It was good to see the
Spiridonov family from Kelowna as well as the Gusevs who came with Liudmila who
had just arrived from Russia yesterday. And then the bliny at the Agape were
enjoyed by all, especially with the lingonberry jam and sour cream. Lilia and
Galina entetrainted us with folk songs with many people joining in. The
Honourary Consul of the Russian Federation and his secretary were present which
made the event somewhat official but informality reigned throughout the
afternoon. I forgot to mention that the forgiveness ritual was observed with
everyone asking forgiveness of each other and also forgiving others of any
offences. It is both heartfelt and encouraging to observe and to participate
in. 16 MARCH 2013
The work crew was here all day laying the foundation and a new man came with the
boys. He is Elizibar, a Georgian who has spent the last few years living on the
Azores, islands belonging to Portugal. Even though the rain was very heavy at
times, they continued to work under a gigantic tarp. Much of the afternoon was
spent with a large group of youth from the Coptic Church who came for a
spiritual retreat. You can see part of it on Youtube. Almost everyone stayed
after Vespers so that we had to squeeze to fit in around the joined tables. Of
course there were bliny and plenty of jam and sour cream. 15 MARCH 2013
Much
of this day was spent in the city, as we were asked to visit a Russian food
store where we were given a tour, then we blessed the entire store, the owners
and the employees. Then we were invited to a table covered with Russian food
and especially a huge stack of bliny which we had with apricot and black current
jam and sour cream. Tea was served from an authentic samovar and we left,
loaded with boxes and bags of tinned food and many jars, including boxes of
birds' milk [a popular Russian chocolate filled with a white cream]. Then we
went to bless a house after which we had a full meal ending with more bliny.
Again, we were given bags of goodies to take home. All this hospitality was
touching and I think that we have enough food for a while to come. 14 MARCH 2013
After a brief visit to the hospital for an examination, I feel much better and
it is so encouraging to have the strength to begin the great journey of Great
Lent. A large amount of coarse gravel was delivered for both the parking area
and the foundation for the wall of the extended altar. We were fortunate that
our friend Kenny could come with his Bobcat to spread the gravel where it is
most needed. It also was a relief that the "Pineapple Express" did not
materialize so that we had less rain than anticipated.. 13 MARCH 2013
I hope that this will be the last time I mention slugs, for I saw at least a
dozen small ones today. Vladika Lazar spoke to a group of seniors in a
continuing education group about Orthodox icons. He took four slides to use as
examples of proper iconography. The talk could have been dicey because someone
was going to bring four of their own icons and we know what that can be. How do
you tell people that their icons are terrible without offending them? In this
case, the icons were excellent examples of iconography. The group asked to
visit the monastery as they have done in the past. They do like the
refreshments and tea offered because, in monastery fashion,everything is simple,
tasty and served in abundance. Perhaps we can use our old charcoal burning
samovar. A new batch of candles is in the process of preparation.
12 MARCH 2013 What we refer to as a "Pineapple Express" is a heavy rain, usually lasting a couple of days and originating in the mid Pacific. Today we are experiencing a similar front coming from near Hawaii. It is mild but the rain is relentless. Worse still, we might have it for the rest of the week. We hope that there will be no flooding since we can easily be stranded. Vladika Lazar returned today and everything has fallen into its own routine which is a comfort to us. Joanna brought Elena and Miriam Mann who are on a brief visit from Toronto. We saw them regularly when they lived in Abbotsford but now that they live in Toronto we seldom see them. Miriam came to participate in the Canadian Rhythmic Gymnastic Competition where she placed second. She has grown from a tiny child to a beautiful, graceful and talented teenager in such a short time. Elena informed us that our dear "Granny" Svetlana will arrive from Volgograd next week to once more spend a few months with her children. She had been such a help to us, a constant helper full of enthusiasm.
Although the wrens have been here for some time, they were especially
melodious today which is always so pleasant in spring. Alas, a
second slug was found and now they will be everywhere. Father
Moses and I drove to Mission to tend to some errands and there we
treated ourselves to a meal, since this is "maslenitsa". We have
to be careful when we step out of the main building because of the
trench prepared for the foundation of the extension to the new church.
Our
clocks have been changed to Daylight Saving Time which, of course , meant that
some people forgot about it and arrived in church somewhat late. Even so
there was a good turnout and the only difference was that there were fewer
children present today. Many comments were made about the work in progress,
Yesterday the jackhammer was busy preparing for a new foundation and at times it
sounded like a giant alarm clock, at least the old fashioned kind. On the whole
people left for home a little earlier than usual, perhaps noticing that I needed
some rest. At one point in the Liturgy I was so engrossed that I forgot about
Deacon Phillip and I began the first petition of a litany only to suddenly
realize that he was standing there, waiting to begin it
Although it was bright and sunny in the morning, I noticed a bit of frost on the
windshield. That was tolerable but later, when I stepped outdoors, I
encountered a huge banana slug headed in my direction which surely must mean
that spring is here with its snails, bugs and enemies of our favourite plants.
The regular crew was assisted by Sergey who spent the entire day here. For the
first memorial service the people brought a large quantity of cabbage piroshki,
and many other dishes so that we had a huge supper afrer Great Vespers
Early this morning Vladika Lazar left on the last train from Mission and I drove
back to the monastery. Although I must not be too active for a while, I still
managed to prune the hydrangeas and another shrub. It was amazing to see what
has happened in just a couple of days. The sweet violets are out, three
different shrubs have sent forth their blossoms, the crocuses simply popped up
and so on. Tomorrow should be interesting since we are having several memorial
services
I was asked to sit near the telephone from early morning to be informed when I
should appear at the hospital. Finally just before noon, word arrived that I
should make haste because I did not have an appointment but simply was on stand
by. After some minor operating they sent me home where I have spent the rest of
the day just resting, consequently there is little that I have to say other
than to be grateful for our Canadian Health System for taking care of me,
giving me medications, etc where I had only to show my senior's Care Card and
all was taken care of. Tomorrow, Vladika Lazar will fly to New York for a consultation at a major cancer clinic. 6 MARCH 2013
Today's early drive across the border was pleasant mainly because there was so
little traffic. Even crossing back into Canada did not take that long. In the
afternoon Father Moses and I took Stavroula and Andreas for a drive through
Mission, stopping at the Benedictine Abbey where we stepped into the church.
Since both visitors are architects, they found it quite interesting in certain
areas. Someone was at the organ manual playing very loudly so we sat and
listened briefly. Then we walked across to the guest house to look at some of
their material where we were greeted by one of the monks who told us that the
organist was from one of the Evangelical churches in Mission. I must have
looked astonished because he then added that a certain Lutheran woman comes to
play on the organ quite regularly. Again, supper was prepared by Stavroula and
Glyko, and it was delicious, as expected.
Last night's diary was posted fairly early and, before midnight, I had to visit
the Abbotsford Hospital's Emergency once again, that is, three emergency visits
in one day [quite a record for me]. At least this time the diagnosis was more
accurate and after a large injection of morphine, I was sent home, feeling much
better although unsteady on my feet. As well, I managed to get some sleep and,
indeed, I saw the specialist later in the morning with another one to come the
day after tomorrow. Thank God for the Canadian Health System; not only did I
not have to pay a single cent for all the visits, tests and so forth, but they
even gave me complementary medication. Feeling much better, I tried to keep
busy and Stavroula and Glyko prepared supper for all of us, an authentic Greek
meal. 4 MARCH 2013
I was up at two in the morning with pain and I could get no rest so finally by
six I was driven to the Abbotsford Hospital's Emergency where I spent the next
four hours or so with not much success. The doctor thought that the problem
was under control and it was, at least until I returned to the monastery. This
time I did not intend to wait so, in just twenty minutes I was at the Mission
Hospital's Emergency only to find that countless children had injured themselves
on the playfields, this being a bright and sunny day, and they all came to get
patched up. This time I was in the hospital for only four hours but the doctoes
could do nothing other than poke around and give me pain killers. Fortunately,
I stopped at the specialist's office and asked to be seen soon. They said that
they would squeeze me in tomorrow morning which pleased me no end. Now I must
go and get some sleep. 3 MARCH 2013
I really began to worry about no one coming for the Divine Liturgy
because with a couple of minutes to go there were less than a dozen of us in
church. Since the sun was shining brightly I decided that everyone was driving
to some resort to enjoy the day. Needless to say, I was very pleasantly
surprised when people began pouring into the church, not as a stampede, but
certainly in a steady stream. It was also so good to see the crowd of little
children who were so well behaved and scarcely made any noise. As well, it was
good to have Father Kalleeg with us today. The day passed quickly and we all
were in such good spirits, discussing some of the events that will take place
this year. 2 MARCH 2013
It still has not yet stopped raining and our fields are standing in water. The
smaller culverts cannot keep up with the rushing water while the main culvert is
already submerged and, it this rain continues, we shall have water running over
our road. Yet, this happens every year, especially in spring and we simply have
to cope with it. Stavroula and Andreas arrived safely and it was so good to see
them again. We hope that this weather does not put them off. The Georgian boys
put up tarps and continue to do their construction, not at all concerned with
the inclement weather. Tonight's supper menu consists of a tossed salad,
roasted vegetables and a cold daikon [oriental radish] soup.
You probably know the expression "If March comes in like a lion, it will go out
like a lamb." Today is the first of March and it has been raining heavily all
day, so let us hope that the month will end with pleasant weather. The lower
fields are covered with water, the main culvert will not be able to cope with
the water if it keeps raining, and we do not want our road to suffer. Some
water has crept into the south wall of the library and the icon gallery's floor
is wet but let us be optimists and think of how it will be when the sun comes
out again. At least we have not lost our power again! 28 FEBRUARY 2013
This is the last day of February and a very rainy and wet one. Still, we see
more and more flowers coming up, especially the snowdrops and this reminds us
that spring is just around the corner [whatever that corner might be]. There
has been much to proofread and to translate lately and so, on this rainy day,
quite a bit was accomplished. I also forced myself to do as much filing and
cleaning up as possible, as the working area on my desk kept getting smaller all
the time and I was tired of having several piles of papers and books piled up
high, ready to tumble over. This entire week has been fast free which feels
rather strange, since we are accustomed to thinking of Wednesdays and Fridays as
being fast days. 27 FEBRUARY 2013
This morning I paid a visit to my chiropractor whom I have not seen since last
autumn and the visit was very worthwhile because lately I have been somewhat
crippled up. After a few manipulations I felt much better and I shall be seeing
him again next week. Then I drove to Port Moody to bless a house that some
people are just moving into. This will be their first night in their new home
and they were very glad that it could be blessed at this time. The second home
was in Coquitlam and, as chance would have it, the family is on close terms with
the previous one. So, thanks to Leonid and Svetlana, Dmitry and Marianna for
their desire to have their homes blessed. 26 FEBRUARY 2013
It was interesting this morning to look for double doors that are needed for
the new church entrance. Several looked suitable and we shall have to purchase
something soon because two young men, twins, offered to install the doors since
that is what they are doing for a living. My sciatica returned today and no
matter what I took to ease the pain, nothing seemed to work, so I made an
appointment for tomorrow with a familiar chiropractor who has helped me a number
of times. How nice it was to pick some herbs on the way to the
kitchen---parsley, sorrel and sage as well as some mint for the Moroccan tea.
Vladika Lazar visited his doctor this morning who informed him that he had a
severe case of ischemia and prescribed something while referring him to a
specialist. It has made it difficult for him to walk. Christos visited us
today and consulted about work to be done on the website. He is involved with
his studies, particularly in computer science, and we are proud of his
achievements. I am still trying to adjust to this new computer which is better
than the previous one although, in all honesty, I am not exactly a computer buff. 24 FEBRUARY 2013
Today's Liturgy flowed along beautifully with the majority of the
congregation receiving Holy Communion. It is so moving to have the
entire congregation singing the Liturgy together. A display was set up
showing the tragedy of war in general and specific battles in
particular. The Agape meal was scarcely over when people asked for
prayers for various reasons and the blessing of automobiles. We did not
need a fire in the wood burning stove because it was not all that cold
and instead the heaters took off the chill to make it comfortable for
everyone. Plans were being made for Cheese Fare Sunday to which many
are looking forward. Tatiana has offered to make a light weight cassock
for Father Moses since most of his are too heavy and he suffers from
heat 23 FEBRUARY 2013
Nicolae and Violetta {Vera} arrived with their children this morning and spent
the entire day working indoors and outside which was a great help. Then Yuri
and Dmitry came and in no time they were carrying over the wood that had been
split recently, a task that was necessary. Tatiana and Alexander came, bearing
gifts of food that we especially like. Soon after Elena came with Anya, who
works at a Russian deli and who brought us tons of food to fill our
refrigerators and pantry. After Great Vespers everyone came to the refectory
which became crowded so that an extra table had to be brought in to make room
for everyone to eat. All in all, a great day and a wonderful start for
tomorrow's Liturgy. 22 February, 2013 So much for a great start with my new computer. A little more has to be done before it can begin to function satisfactorily. Much of this day was rainy, then windy, followed by some sunshine, a typical West Coast winter day. Sunday's prosphora was baked today to avoid any rush on Saturday. Some sourdough starter has been sitting in the refrigerator for months and scarcely used but today, two loaves of spelt/rye/unbleached flour were baked. The bread was firm with an unusual flavour, thanks to the bit of crushed anise and caraway seeds. The entire building was filled with the fragrance of freshly baked bread and the seeds. Someone telephoned and asked to come here to us and to live as a hermit something that we are unable to accomodate anyone since we are not the desert fathers.
I am not quite sure what happened to this day as it passed so quickly. I
managed to do some collating, folding and stapling which meant that the brochure
on Ascending Toward Great Lent in Greek has been completed, leaving several
other titles to be dealt with. It was a joy to pick up my new computer which
will be set up tomorrow I hope. Father Moses baked an entire bag of Russett
potatoes for supper, since he is the potato expert. That, with cole slaw and
"fixings" made for a delicious meal. 19 FEBRUARY 2013
Nicolae has spent two days here working on the stone facade for the new entrance way, with Deacon Phillip
helping him. The main part was finished today, although there is a lot more to
be done later, and it looks splendid, almost medieval and certainly imposing.
We should try to put it on our main page of the website so that everyone can see
what has been already accomplished. Alas, this computer is not ready to
cooperate and it may have to be exchanged for something more reliable.
I did not want to see any doctor except my regural GP. He happened to
be the "walk-in" doctor on the following day, so I waited till then.
When Father Moses and I returned to the monstery we were amazed to see
what had been delivered from Ukraine. A very kind gentleman ordered two
giant candlestands for us, the kind you might see in a huge cathedral
in Russia, two brass icons complete with poles and stands, and a large
baptismal tank. Our new church is certainly going to have some
impressive things in it. 17 FEBRUARY 2013
We
lost our power twice this day and so the diary I had prepared was lost.
Moreover, in the evening I felt unwell and eventually I ended up in the
Emergency Room at the Mission Hospital. After countless tests and examinations,
nothing was found, so I was given some pain killers and sent home. At least I
was able to sleep well for the remainder of the night and I was determined to
see my doctor the next day. 16 FEBRUARY 2013
At midmorning I sat near the telephone waiting for a call from the radio
programme "The Russian Hour" hosted by Larisa Horne. When she did call, we
spoke in Russian for about a quarter of an hour, mainly about the evening
presentation of the remembrance of the Stalingrad Battle. It took us almost
two hours to drive into Vancouver even though the traffic was not that heavy
and once we arrived, there were countless people to meet who had come for this
event. In a word, it was very successful, presented artistically and
professionally. I thought that there was going to be just tea and a few light
refreshments after but instead an entire meal was presented for the veterans
and the guests. Since the building was crowded there must have been at least
150 people present which was a good sign of how interested the public was. 15 FEBRUARY 2013
This entry is being written on Saturday because I was under the weather
yesterday and spent considerabe time in bed which was what I needed. So, there
is nothing much that I can say about yesterday. Tonight we will drive to
Vancouver to attend the evening dedicated to the Battle of Stalingrad where
over a million people died. Some of the veterans are still alive and we will be
meeting them. More on that tomorrow. 14 FEBRUARY 2013
Retail outlets have gone overboard to display products for today's Valentine Day
but somehow it seemed less forceful than in previous years. The van was taken
in for wheel alignment and some other work and it is a big improvement, despite
the cost. A number of people came to get copies of the newest book "Gehenna"
as they were anxious to read it. The cover is in a light grey with yellow
lettering which might sound unusual but in this case it was very
successful. 13 FEBRUARY 2013
It was a quick trip to the bindery in Port Coquitlam to pick up our latest
book, on Gehenna and the Orthodox understanding of hell. I feel that it will
be a popular title and it might have to be reprinted later this year. Since
there was no rain today and, in fact, the sun even appeared for a while, Deacon
Phillip filled some of the pot holeson the monastery road and did clean up work
at the monument. Having our own printing press has made our life much easier.
Whenever we need any material printed, whether a brochure or a book, we can do
it ourselves. In most cases, the covers and the binding of books are sent out
because, although we can do it and often do, it is too time consuming for us 12 FEBRUARY 2013
At
last all the Holy Water has been taken care of. There are probably
about 50 or 60 bottles ready to be given to visitors, and about 15 to
20 gallons more stored in the vestry which will gradually be given away
as well. I was relieved when people brought a few dozen empty bottles
this week, all clean with labels removed. For a while I thought that we
would run out of bottles entirely. Someone had put a few eggs to boil
and then forgot about them. When the water boiled out, the eggs began
to crack and explode all over the two stoves, the wall and the floor.
Needless to say, the kitchen was in a mess but it could have been worse. ********************************************************************************11 FEBRUARY 2013' Today's entry is actually being written on 12 February because I seem to have forgotten my daily routine. Other times, when an entry comes up late it usually means that it was written too late to post that same day. Anyhow, I had a great and long conversation with our old friend Alyona whom we first met as a refugee in the mid 1970s, a cultlured and extremely intelligent and artistic aristocrat from Russia. She and her husband, a physicist, now live in Washington state which means that we can get to visit with them at least once a year. Alyona has, at any given time, at least a dozen cats and half as many dogs in addition to a few other animals and birds. 10 FEBRUARY 2013
It has been a beautiful and sunny day, with a feeling of spring in the air. The
wood-burning stove in the big hall was started early and it felt so comfortable
all day with the dry heat coming from this stove. This being the second Sunday
of the month, the relics were brought out for people to venerate. The church
was quite crowded and, of cousre, it became progressively hot . Apparently a
man collapsed at the back of the church, possibly because of the heat, although
I was unaware of it. Some Mennonites came and stayed for a couple of hours, if
not longer, having an enjoyable time speaking to some of our people. 9 FEBRUARY 2013
Another day without any power failure! Whatever is going on? How enjoyable it
is to have young people come to discuss their future, their ambitions, their
romances and to ask for advice. Yes, there is hope for the younger generation;
it is us, the older people who have become so unfeeling and lacking in
compassion. Today's visitors were Francophone and so I ventured to use some
French which I have mainly forgotten, even though in my first year of teaching,
I taught French in a French speaking community. I never really used French
again and so most of it has been forgotten, although they say that somewhere in
the brain, it has been stored and waiting to become active once again. *** 8 FEBRUARY 2013
It is difficult to believe that this day has passed without a power failure.
Mind you. we still have four hours left before the day ends '
I finally got to dip candles this afternoon, making a total of 720 tapers, not
bad for an old man like me. Father Moses is cutting them down and then the
bottoms have to be made smooth before they can be taken to the church. We do
not have a special price for the candles and it is left up to each individual
what to pay for them. It sounds so commercial when prices are posted for the
candles as well as for special services 7 FEBRUARY 2013
Father Moses finally finished collating the lastest work and it was taken to
the bindery this morning. After his operation by the periodontist, Vladika
Lazar had pain in his jaw and gums, so he took the medication that had been
prescribed for him. It actually made him somewhat light-headed and he stumbled
while stepping onto the porch . He fell face first and injured his brow and
nose so we rushed him off to the local hospital where we waited for most of the
afternoon for him to be released. It took that long because they had to take
blood tests, etc since he has to use blood thinners. At any rate he is back at
the monastery now and hoping to get a piece of dark chocolate before calling it
a night. 6 FEBRUARY 2013
All day work continued on the belfry and before long, God willing, it will be
completed. We have not been plagued by locusts but rather by American bullfrogs
that have invaded our valley. They are huge and eat everything in sight
including the regular frogs. One can hear them as they leap into the water.
In fact, I thought that it was an otter diving but no, it was one of the giant
bullfrogs. We
congratulate all Xenias on this their nameday, and we have a fair number of
girls and women with this name. 5 FEBRUARY 2013
We dropped the kids and little Olga off at the Mission West Coast Express
station to catch the last train to Vancouver, then we went on to cross the
border to mail books. At noon Vladika Lazar had an operation on his gums,
actually a building up of the roots of the teeth that suffered in his accident
many years ago. I waited for Virgil and Valentina, in baptism Aquilina, who
wanted to have a moleben served. Moments before they arrived we had yet another
power failure. There must be some conspiracy out there or else the demons have
abandoned their "toll houses" and have invaded the earth. We all have commented
on how much longer the days have become, indeed a most welcome sign.
*** 4 FEBRUARY 2013
Everything had been planned carefully. My appointment with the specialist was
at 9:15 in the morning and Father Moses had his appointment with him at 11:30.
But, when it came time to leave, I had a problem with steering the van. Panic
set in and Vladka Lazar had to drive me to Abbotsford where I waited 50 minutes
before I could see the doctor. All was well and we returned home to ask Deacon
Philip to drive Father Moses for his appointment. On the way to Canadian Tire to
have the van checked we had to stop to drop off the garbage. I was pleased to
hear that nothing wrong could be found with the van and it is chugging along
nicely. Better still, they did not charge us for the inspection *** 3 FEBRUARY 2013
Quite a few people are still suffering from the flu, even our two stalwart atlar
boys, Andrew and Luke were still under the weather. After
the Agape meal, Elizabeth Joy played the ukulele and sang a number of songs,
much to the delight of everyone present. Many babies and children were present,
as one can hear on the youtube broadcast of the sermon. I had to wear mask,
gown and gloves while visiting George at the hospital today. He actually does
look better and he is being given a day off, that is, several hours to be away
from the hospital to tend to his personal matters. I would not have believed it
to be possibe but I was there when his doctor allowed it Can
you believe it? Another power faiure today. This reminds me of a third world
country where power failures can be a feature of daily life. At least it did
not inconvenience us. The weather was perfect and I could spend time outdoors,
weeding and cleaning up the yard. The lemon balm had to be cut down and some
nasty weeds dealt with. This has been one of those days when people have come
begging for money that we do not have. It can be difficult to explain that we
ourselves are often in need of money and can scarcely support others. The kids
came down from Vancouver with their gorgeous little Olga who is such beautiful
baby ****** 1 FEBRUARY 2013
January has ended and February appeared quietly and gently, with warmth in the
air. Mike and Kenney came this morning with a log splitter to chop the wood
that Dieter had given us some time ago. Deacon Philip went to help the men and
he ended up with the heaviest part of the work. At supper he said how stiff he
felt, mainly because the wood was so heavy and wet. By the time winter arrives
at the end of this year, the wood should be dry and seasoned. I saw a forsythia
bush in town all covered in bright yellow and it made me envious because our
forsythias have not yet put out any colour. The problem that we have here in
spring is that colours appear everywhere and so profusely that it is difficult
to enjoy them all. . *** 31 JANUARY 2013
Andrey and Alexandra came this morning, late and with apologies, for it was
their turn to have a flat tire. They are such a good looking couple and both
are artistic, he an operatic baritone and she a ballet teacher. Later Father
Michael and David arrived, bright and cheerful as usual, bearing gifts including
an episcopal throne. A man showed up offering to fill in our potholes, claiming
that he had some material left over after paving a nearby road. It sounded like
the typical road-paving scam but we refused. I am continuing checking a
translation from English into Russian and the Russian text actually sounds
better. 30 JANUARY 2013
What a way to begin the day with a flat tire. If there is such a thing as a
flat tire demon, then it surely must hang around here because we are constantly
getting flat tires. Looking at the situation from a positive point of view, it
could be much worse. We had one of the 94 cent pizzas for supper. Actually
they were about seven dollars but I picked them up on sale. I added onion to
the soy cheese but it made little difference. I suppose it was good if you like
chewing on crisp cardboard. We were informed that Vladika Lazar and Lord
Falconer will be the two guest speakers in London this May 29 JANUARY 2013
We visited George at the Abbotsford Hospital where he is recovering slowly.
This time of the year is especially difficult for the aged. Kakha and Vladika
went into town to order material for the roof and walls of the belfry which,
when completed, will surely be beautiful, All the 2013 caloendars were sold out
so I had to prepare a couple of dozen more. How convenient it is to have had the
electrician here yesterday because we had another power failure today and the
outdoor light came on as scheduled. This week alone saw three power failures
when often we have only three or four for the entire winter. 28 JANUARY 2013
I could not post yesterday's diary for some unknown reason, so I shall try to
rewrite it. Some men arrived early in the morning and put tarps on one wing of
my little house to prevent any more leakage. In spring the roof will have to be
recovered. Then the electrician came to work on the candle factory and on my
outside lamp pole. For now, my needs seem to be satisfied. Father Moses has
appeared from the land of the scarcely living and has rebounded quickly. In
fact, all of us have perked up immensely 27 JANUARY 2013
A telephone call at seven in the morning did not bode well. It was from the
nurse who visited George at home, saying that he wanted to be taken to the
hospital but did not want to go by ambulance or taxi. Fortunately we were able
to send Deacon Philip who then returned about five hours later to say that
George had finally been admitted to the hospital. Various forms of the flu
have been spreading like wildfire and he, in his weak condition, needs special
care. The usual crowd that we have on the last Sunday of the month did not
fully materialize due to sickness. People had been informing us for the last
couple of days that they were too ill to come. At the end of the Liturgy we had
a Slava service to Saint Sava of Serbia and it was filmed, mainly to show how it
is served because a few priests have contacted us, asking how it is served since
Serbs in their parishes have asked for it +++ 26 JANUARY 2013
As earlier mentioned, it was impossible to make any candles, so we hurried to
get some from Subdeacon Vasile. Upon returning, the Georgian were there to
greet us and to do more work. With them were Maryna and Igor, recent arrivals
from Odessa. While Igor worked with the boys, Maryna scrubbed the kitchen until
it began to gleam. At Vespers Deacon Philip and I sang together, if it could be
called singing. It was more like coughing and hacking in unison. Visitors
brought excellent food that we had for our supper and the leftovers were put
away for tomorrow. *** 25 JANUARY 2013
The "Shumadeski Chai" that I had prepared for myself last night was
disappointing, probably because there was not enough "Shum" in it. Again I was
up around three in the middle of the night, made myself a cup of English
"Yorkshire Gold" tea and read in peace for a couple of hours before returning to bed
for a bit more sleep. The electrician arrived, heard what had happened and, in
just a few seconds, brought the power back in the candle factory. It looked
like a classical case of legerdemain since we tried the same thing several times
and nothing had happened. He did not have the correct material with him so he
will return on Monday. At almost the same time Father Michael and David arrived
unexpectedly and we all had a good visit over a pot of tea and biscuits. Later I
prepared today's entry of the dairy but I could not send it for uploading.
Just when things began looking up there was a total power failure so a wait of
an hour and a half was needed before the power returned and now, I hope, we
shall meet with success. *****
24 JANUARY 2013
It has been another strikingly peculiar day in that all of us have been more
than under the weather, Father Moses being bedridden, yet it was a productive
day. Professor Ron Dart from our local university together with a newly ordained
Anglican priest, Father Dennis Scully, who had been a policeman for many years,
arrived in time to make two broadcasts. I had been intent on making candles,
yet after all the melting pots had been plugged in, not 15 minutes passed before
the power failed in the candle factory so that nothing could be done. A local
electrician promised to drop by later but was delayed at another job which
means that we shall have to get some candles from our old friend Subdeacon
Vasile. After being the cameraman for the broadcasts and the guests having left,
I decided to look at our flower beds To my great surprise I found a primula in
bloom, one that I bought a year ago and, after it had its day, it was simply
stuck in a flower bed where it has now come to life. As I approached the Holy
Well I was startled to see the healthy state of the Himalayan Sarcocephalus
[latifolius rubiaceae] a plant that puts out hundreds of tiny, almost minute,
flowers that emit a powerful and most pleasing fragrance. Since there are about
five plants close to each other they ought to fill the air with fragrance in a
couple of weeks. I remember encountering this exotic plant for the first time
many years ago in Vancouver while visiting a patient at the Vancouver General
Hospital. In fact it would have been on the corner of Tenth and Heather when I
was complelety overwhelmed by a most powerful yet unfamiliar fragrance. It was
this very plant but an entire hedge of it so that passersby would be either
carried away by the scent or possibly have an asthmatic attack. My two pots of
indoor Peace Lilies have sent out their unique flowers probably because I
changed the fertilizer. Before I retire tonight I shall prepare a cup of the
well known "Shumadeski Chai" a tonic that originally came from Shumadia in
Serbia. That in itself should explaine everything. At any rate I will no
doubt sleep more soundly and it might even help to control my coughing spells **** 23 JANUARY 2013
Things are looking up for me at least while Vladika Lazar and Father Moses are
possibly at the worst stage of this unpleasurable illness [as if any illness is
pleasurable!]. In the afternoon I quickly managed to prepare 14 more dipping
rounds so that tomorrow I can begin dipping candles. It has been raining
steadily all day which is not normal here at this time of the year. If we do
get any precipitation in January, it is snow and we have had no snow this
January that I can recall. I hate having to return to my pot of pteunias
outdoors but, yes, it stll has a number of flowers. The only annuals that can
survive the harsh January weather are winter pansies and ornamental cabbagte,
neither of which we have, although as I now recall, I did notice a couple of
summer pansies still struggling the other day. Now it is back to hot tea with
lemon and honey *** 22 JANUARY 2013
This has not been the best of days. I felt cold most of the day, nevertheless
candles had to be made since we are almost completely out of them. Six of the
dipping rounds were completed but no more because of dizziness. A long rest in
bed helped but Vladika Lazar and Father Moses have come down with the same
symptoms, something that I must have passed on to them. Ion, the man we visited
yesterday, died early this morning and his funeral will take place on Friday
when, I would hope, we might be able to attend it but not if we all are
spreading bacteria or viruses *** 21 JANUARY 2013
How difficult it was to get up this morning, what with all the hacking and
nose blowing. Still we set out for New Westminster to visit a man who is dying
in palliative care. It can be difficult dealing with people whose loved ones
are fast departing this life. I had to cancel a house blessing scheduled for
this afternoon as I was in no conditinon to do it. It was very foggy on our way
to the city this morning and, as a result, a number of automobile accidents took
place.On the return trip we stopped at A Taste Of Ukraine in Port Moody to thank
the owners who had provided food and gifts for the children's Yolka *** 20 JANUARY 2013
After having had a huge crowd yesterday I really did not expect too many
people At the end of the Liturgay we had a Cross Procession to the Holy Well
where the water was blessed and then we set out for the Jordan as we had done
yesterday. Andrey, a strapping middle aged man in good physical condition, made
a grand dive into the icy water and then began to swim in it. Unfortunately I
became so exhausted that by evening I could scarcely utter a word. I honestly do
not know how we managed to provide Holy Water for all the people but everyone
was quite content. Greeks brought two Vasilopitas that were blessed, cut and
distributed to all. The children were especially glad to find coins in the
bread ***
19 JANUARY 2013
Today is the joyous feast of the Baptism of Jesus Christ, Holy Theophany. Since
the crack of dawn there has not been a single moment to rest but who needs it
when there is so much spiritual joy present! In future we shall have to
approach this feast differently because we ran out of holy water even though we
had vessels holding countless gallons of water to be blessed. In addition to
all the bottles Andrei had given us, more were on hand, about one hundred in
all. I felt that it should be sufficient but little did I know that some people
took several bottles to pass out to their friends and relatives, as well as some
who brought gallon jugs to fill. We had to have a second blessing and tomorrow
we shall have to bless even more. I am happy to know that Holy Water means so
much to our people. We had a procession to Jordan, that is to the stream where
some people descended into the blessed but cold water and among them was a ten
year old girl. Perhaps more will do the same tomorrow. Vladika Lazar gave a
spiritual talk after which we baptized two month old Christina who piped up
only once just as she came out of the baptismal water. This has been both a
tiring and an invigorating day and one hopes to have many more such days in the
future 18 JANUARY 2013
As dawn began to unfold, the gentle mist slowly rose to reveal the first light
of the day. I quickly grabbed my little camera and managed to get at least one
good photograph. More time than necessary was spent in the kitchen but there
was no avoiding it because two large prosphoras had to be baked, and food for
tonight and tomorrow to be prepared.. Just before we began to eat, Igor and
Mircea appeared to inform us that they had already set up a changing tent near
the water that will be blessed tomorrow. They divided it into two sections, one
for men and the other for women so that those who will wish to descend into the
water can first change into an appropriate bathing suit and then, after being in
the water, they can change back into their regular clothes. The traditional way
is to make the Sign of the Cross, once in the water, and then go fully into it.
The second and third times are the same. We definitely will be filming it to
upload on Youtube so keep an eye open for that. After working a full day in
Vancouver, Mircea and Igor drove all the way to the monastery to set up the
tent, then drove back to the city. Tomorrow morning they will be back with
their families which goes to show one that there are people who think nothing of
driving a great distance for the joy of celebrating Theophany.
****
17 JANUARY 2013
While crossing the border into the US this morning, I became quite suspicious
because the official was so friendly and talkative, something rarely
encountered. We picked up a parcel that contained a beautiful censer with
bells, another one that is meant to be hung rather than used as ordinary ones
are, and a third that is an upright standing censer which can be used during
panikhidas when a regular censer is in constant use. Bulgarians came to talk
about baptizing their baby girl, Greeks came for a frinedly visit and so forth.
In between the visits there were telephone calls from everywhere, and
especially from people wanting to know the weekend schedule for the blessing of
water. Our black and white cat had been missing since Monday and it appeared as
if she were the victim of some predator, but upon opening the workshop, there
she was . She must have gone in on Sunday evening to take a nap and I closed
the door so that she could not get out. Once she regained her freedom, she
began to frolick about.
***
16 JANUARY 2013 Later in the mornng the visit of a lovely family from Kazakhstan was followed by a moleben and I shall bless their home next week. In fact, there will be a number of homes to bless after Theophany and it is always such a joy to do that. It has become a little tiresome preparing bottles for Theophany and, although there are over one hundred bottles ready to be passed out with the holy water, many more will be needed. I am so grateful to Andrei who brought us seven dozen bottles recently. Once again the sun warmed our bones and gave us reason to delight in the outdoors. Vladika Lazar had to reprint the 2013 calendar, as there were none left
***
15 JANUARY 2013 My visist to the dentist this morning was positive in that he assured me that all was well, and that is what I was hoping to hear. In the afternoon preparations had to be made for the upcoming services this weekend. The tank for blessing the water was brought out, cleaned and the analoys were rearranged in the church to make room for it. Incoming telephone calls can consume much time but it is very important to be in contact with people who are in need of spiritual help or simply to allow them to unburden themselves. At dusk I drove to Mission to pick up Vladika Lazar who had returned from his trip to Miami. I was quite excited with the translation into Russian Sergei did on a book of ours on the tollhouses. I hope he finishes it soon so that we could publish this worthwhile book.
***
14 JANUARY 2013
This is the beginning of the new year according to the Julian calendar and a
group of Romanians, knowing that, arrived in the afternoon to ask for a moleben
to be served which we did in front of the icon of Saint Basil the Great and a
minute part of his relics. Our main vacuum cleaner "bit the dust" last night so
that the hall and guest room were not cleaned and I had no idea of how difficult
it is to find a belt and bags for this particular model, at least in our
neighbouring town. In the end something was located and now we can return to
our cleaning duties in preparation for the weekend when we will celebrate
Theophany.
What a remarkable day! The Divine Liturgy was inspiring and I
gave what I thought was one of my best sermons, although it was
not filmed, probably just as well because the camera pointed at
me make me feel uncomfortable. But Christos was there to do
the photography. After the Agape meal the annual Yolka, or
children's programme began. Lilia and Galina as the snow
princesses were admirable in their white and silver costumes, as was
Xenia as Snegurachka. Dennis wore his 1812 uniform as the toy
soldier and Elena was splendid as Baba Yaga who tried to frighten the
little children but really did not succeed because they all know the
story so well. Then, Grandfather Frost arrived to greet the
children and to pass out gifts to them. I had been asked to be
this Grandfather Frost and I consented. No doubt there might be some
people of a puritanical or fundamentalist nature who would take issue
with this, but I thoroughly enjoyed it. In fact this was the best
Yolka we ever had and both chldren and adults were thrilled with it.
Almost the entire day was spent with people. The first baptism was in the
morning for two month old Elizabeth who cried only briefly while, the afternoon
baptism of also two month old Giulia was a little noisier but she also settled
down quickly. I find it a little uncomfortable when people say, for example,
"You must remember me from several years ago when I came to the monastery" and I
really do not remember them at all. At my age I can be forgiven for memory
lapses. While Vladika Lazar is in Florida my diary postings might be a little
late but sooner or later they will be available, I did forget to mention that
yesterday I saw not just the one very dark coyote, but two of them. I wonder if
there are more of them around.
===
11 JANUARY 2013
This was the frostiest morning yet but the bright sun was a welcome sight for
us. It was a pity that I had to be indoors all day, working on tax receipts that
are sent out to all those who have made donations. Greetings were sent from
Olga in Riga through her friend in Toronto who wished us health and good success
in all things for this new year. For two years now Olga has sent us the Moscow
Patriarchate's daily calendar with which we compare our daily readings of the
Epistle and Gospel, since there seems to be no uniformity here in North America.
I wonder how much longer we will be eating leftovers from the Nativity feast.
Since we will be having two baptism tomorrow, the second one with a meal that
will be provided, we shall have to consume even more leftovers, not that I am
complaining.
+++
10 JANUARY 2013
When I arose this morning I stepped out to check the weather and, behold, gentle
snow was falling. That was not the sight I was hoping for and so I glowered and
stepped back in. Soon after, I stepped out again and, to my great pleasure, the
snow had changed to a light rain. When Father Moses and I left for Abbotsford
we were enthralled with the beauty of our gentle mountains covered with a
brushing of snow and, as it often happenss, we were without a camera. Father
Moses was left behind at the new public library in Abbotsford while I went for
my medical appointment. When I returned to pick him up I, too, went into the
new building. It is a remarkable building within a complex of other buildings
which includes a school, an arts centre and so forth. Noticing that the book
return consisted of nothing but a few incomprehensible symbols, I suggested to
the staff that something simpler might be better. No doubt they just considered
me to be another old crabby senior citizen, although they were very polite
+++
9 JANUARY 2013Did you arrive home safely, Father Vasili? It was good having you visit us but
it was much too short. Vladika Lazar left on the last morning train to
Vancouver and I heard from him again just before he turned off his mobile phone
on the plane. Deacon Philip has been printing, although he ran out of ink which
I shall have to pick up tomorrow on the way to see a dermatologist. When one
ages, one of the most important social events seems to be visiting some doctor
or specialist. Thank God that it is possible here in Canada. The sun appeared
briefly, the storm ended and late this afternoon I admired the last of the
petunias that have been bravely surviving
Coyotes can usually be heard yelping every other night but late last night there
was a single coyote just outside my door. It may have been the lone coyote that
runs through our field, a large and dark coloured animal. I opened the door,
clapped my hands and it became silent. In the afternoon I had a dental
appointment to extract my broken tooth which was easily removed. Fortunately I
have no teeth with large or crooked roots. Because of the construction of the
belfry we are having some leaking problems, especially since the rains have been
so heavy. It is early to bed tonight and early to rise in the morning since
Vladika Lazar must catch the train to Vancouver to fly to Florida. *** 7 JANUARY 2013
Yesterday was so eventful and even tiring with so many people to visit with in
the evening, such as Elena from Olympia and Christoph , a Lutheran pastor who came
for the service with his son Ben, and others whom I had not met before, as well
as those whom I had not seen for a long time. This meant that exhaustion kept
me from sleeping well and in the morning I was rather hoarse. Father Vasili was
driven to Mission to catch an early train to Vancouver to fly back to Miami. As
it often happens there were just a few of us present for Matins and I had that
certain feeling that the Liturgy would not be well attended. How wrong I was,
as people kept pouring in, with so many of them asking for confession. Our
congregational singing was superb and we sang the Nativity tropar in four
languages. The Agape meal was actually a breaking of the fast with varied
dishes. The ones I liked best were filled with different types of cheese.
Again colinde {Romanian and Moldovian carols] and kolyadki {Russian and
Ukrainian carols} were sung. Anastasia and Xenia were dressed in typical
Moldovian costumes so that everyone wanted to be photographed with them in
front of the Yule tree. This particuoar tree is beautful and our young people
bought it for twenty dollrs whereas it was selling for almost two hundred
dollars for the Western Christmas, a bargain indeed. The only negative aspect
of this feast is that the monastery kitchen is loaded with all types of
chocolates, cakes and sweets, many of which we shall have to give away. ***
Since Vladika Lazar was to serve at the Romanian Orthodox church in New
Westminster, I hurried to prepare to serve the Divine Liturgy together with
Father Vasili. That meant, of course, that there was almost no time to hear
confessions, still the Liturgy was quite wonderful. Some people were absent
because they wanted to be present for the evening service and they could not
make two trips, although a few people stayed on for the entire day. Whenthe
Agape meal was finished we had the baptism of little Daniel who behaved
remarkably well. Soon after the evening service began and the worshippers kept
coming until the church was filled. A lenten supper followed and later still,
colinde and kolyadki were sung and a group even went out to sing outside Vladika
Lazar's kellia. In a word, a good time was had by all
*** 5 JANUARY 2013
Vladika Lazar and I drove off to Vancouver together with Father Vasili to
attend our yearly deanery meeting at which Bishop Irinee and Protodeacon Nazary
were present. When the meeting concluded we descended to the lower hall to have
a lenten lunch, delicious as always, with borshch, potato vareniki and other
dishes. Just as we were preparing to serve Great Vespers we lost our power and
so the entire service has held by candlelight and a portable lantern. After
telephoning B C Hydro, we were informed that a large swan had flown into the
power line and instantly more than one hundred residences were without power.
We then ate supper in the dark, eating cold cereal with soy milk. Fortunately
the power returned before long and that cheered us up immensely *** 4 JANUARY 2013
We were delighted to see Father Vasili who arrived today from Florida to pay us
a brief visit. We always tease him about freezing here in winter but he found
it less cold than in his other winter visits. Having arrived in the dark, since
our days are still quite short, he will be able to see, tomorrow morning. the
belfry being constructed to house the bells that he donated to the monastery.
We were saddened to hear that another monastery has been destroyed in Kosovo
thus adding to the innumerable churches and monasteries already destroyed in
that troubled area. There is little that we can do about it except to pray that
this nightmare might end. *** 3 JANUARY 2013
The service books for Nativity Eve were brought out and a few corrections made,
then a brief rehearsal followed. The telephone kept ringing all day with many
people asking about the schedule of service even though it has been posted on
our website and has been available to be handed out. Many people would still
prefer to ask personally and that way it is possible to exchange New Year's
greetings and, in true Eastern European fashion, each person has to express more
profound wishes to others than they themselves had received. One can at least
say that these wishes and greetings are more interesting than our typical North
American "Season's Greetings" or that bland "Happy Holidays."
*** 2 JANUARY 2013
After a public holiday on both sides of the border, this morning could have been
very busy but there was almost no trafffic to encounter in both directions as
we went to Sumas to mail books. Since ordinary cheese is less expensive in
America, or at least in Washington state, I bought at least ten puonds of
various sorts to have on hand when we break the fast on Monday. The weather
was most clement today, sunny and pleasantly warm, at least for this tiime of
the year. In fact, I had to open my sliding door to let in some fresh air as it
was becoming too warm even with the heat turned off. But, the frosts will be
soon appearing *** 1 JANUARY 2013
We are off on a new trip through his year of 2013 and may it bring all of us
much peace, health, joy and, of greatest importance, spiritual tranquility and
inner peace for the salvation of our souls. Volunteers arrived this morning to
set up the New Year's tree and to decorate it. It is more modest than in
previous years but beautiful in its own right. Because this is a civil holiday,
everything was very quiet and I spent much time proof reading the manuscript of
Vladika Lazar's latest book on the Orthodox meaning of hell and hades.
Usually, doing such work can become rather tiring but in this case the content
of the manuscript was so interesting that even the countless footnotes did not
bother me. Last night we served a memorial service for a young woman who
reposed on this day a couple of years ago and then followed the moleben of
thanksgiving for the new year. People stayed on for the post midnight meal and
it was three o'clock by the time I got to bed ***
On this, the last day of 2012, I simply wanted to wish everyone a prosperous and
healthy new year. If you look at yesterday's entry, you will notice that the
type increased with each line but that was not my doing. We had a good year
here at the monastery with a lot of work being done, writing, printing, teaching
and much physical labour , especially outdoors. We have been blessed with so
many good and pious people coming to visit us, to help us and to pray with us.
May our Merciful Lord Jesus Christ bless you all! Please pray for us for it is
important that we all together work out our salvation. I trust that my daily
entries have not bored you too much---they are not theological but simply a
brief retelling of some of what has passed each day. We will be serving a
moleben of thanksgiving at midnight tonight and I shall not be with you again
until next year, that is to say until tomorrow *** What a glorious day for us, as the sun shone brightly all day, something that is rare at this time of the year. I began
hearing confessions during Matins and continued until "Our Father" with
a break for the Great Entrance, the Epistle and Gospel readings and the
sermon. Naturally the church was crowded and with many new faces. I was
glad that a few
people finalized plans for our annual Yolka for the children becasue
such planning is not my strong point. As it often happens, people kept
dropping in to visit and to light candles. A large group of young Romanians stopped for a blessing on their way to spend a couple of days at a skiing resort. *** 29 DECEMBER 2012
There are only a couple of days left in this year, and I shall miss it because
the year itself, 2012, rings so musically and now we shall have to become
accustomed to 2013 which somehow looks akimbo if that is possible. Part of the
day was spent in proof reading at least until it was time for Vespers at which
we had an interesting visitor from Moscow. Everything has been arranged for
tomorrow's Slavonic Liturgy and the 2013 calendars have been put out for sale.
*** 28 DECEMBER 2012
We had some sun today along with a mild breeze which made us feel somewhat smug
since much of the continent is suffering from the worst cold and snow in
decades. No doubt we will get our turn soon. Another book was taken to the
bindery and the printed calendars were spined and made ready for hanging on the
wall. More will be printed later. Someone dropped in and left a huge jar of
borshch so it was extended and now we have enough for a couple of days, if not
more.
**** 27 DECEMBER 2012
Several men arrived early in the morning with a large pick up truck, trailer
and other things necessary to bring a huge electric paper cutter that has been
donated to Synaxis Press here at the monastery. It comes from a print shop in
Mission that had acquired a computerized paper cutter so they simply gave us
their old one. We already have two of them, one an ancient hand operated one
that has been useful for larger and thicker items, the other an electric one for
smaller items. A place was found for it in the wrapping room after it was
rearranged. 26 DECEMBER 2012 It
was a relief not to get mixed up with the throngs of shoppers who
seemed to be rushing from shop to shop looking for Boxing Day
specials. This was a day that we had mainly to ourselves,
finishing various tasks and beginning new ones. A good broadcast
was made in the afternoon followed by a trip to the hospital to visit
George. In the meantime he had been released so our trip was in
vain, still it is good to know that he is in the safety and comfort of
his home.
25 DECEMBER 2012
We managed to live through last week's end of the world crisis as well as
today's Christmas which was really a nonday rather than a holiday because we use
the traditional Orthodox calendar. Basically we let the world celebrate its
feast on this day but when confronted by the question of why we have to be
different, we simply say that we use the same calendar that Jesus Christ did.
Perhaps that is an oversimplification but it is one that the ordinary person can
understand. Since this was also not a feast for the Georgians, they came to
continue working on the belfry. 24 DECEMBER 2012
I was to arrive at the Abbotsford Hospital at 8 am for an examination but, to
try to get ahead of the others, I arriuved at least forty five minutes early.
Well, it seems that many others had the same idea which meant a rather long wait
The examination was quite brief and satisfactory but I felt unsteady on my feet
after they had given me something that was to produce a tranquil effect. I had
to inform several people that I was not Santa Claus, rather I was Saint
Nicholas.They seemed to appreciate that correction. 23 DECEMBER 2012
A good fire in the stove in the hall brought a special warmth to everyone who
arrived for the Liturgy, It is amazing how different is the heat from a wood
burning stove. The wood, by the way, came from Dieter's property and he has
promised us more for next year when he will cut down several maple trees. A
request was made to bless a newly bought car so, after the Agape meal, we went
outdoors with the holy water, and we suddendly were surrounded by three other
cars, the owners of which wanted their cars blessed as well. The belfry is
looking better all the time and we can hardly wait until it is completed and the
bells hung 22 DECEMBER 2012
Another busy day. First, we baptized a baby girl, Liana [Leah in baptism] and
her little brother Julian. It was slightly chilly in the church because of the
strong and cold wind but the two behaved splendidly, aside form a couple of
squeaks and outbursts. Then, while sitrring pots and frying pans, I had to
receive some visistors who sat in the kitchen while I cooked. There was enough
time to go to the church for some prayers and then it was back to stirring, only
to find out that the company of Georgian lads would not be staying for supper
They worked in the snow and rain today to complete as much as possible of the
belfry. 21 DECEMBER 2012
So much for the end of the world and all the commotion that was caused by the
fear of it. Today's excitement for us was the appearance in the Vancouver Sun
of an article by Douglas Todd on the Orthodox Christian Nativity which he wrote
after having interviewed Vladika Lazar recently. You can read it by going to
Google and typing: Vancouver Sun 21 December 2012 Puhalo. In addition to this
article, you can read more and see several photographs as well. As it often
happens in reporting, several things were incorrect but the main thing was the
impact that this should have on the newspaper's readers. I made a round of
candles this afternoon [more than 600 tapers] and was glad to see that I had
not lost the touch although, with age, it becomes more difficult. Still, it was
a great joy to produce these candles of pure beeswax. 20 DECEMBER 2012
After not having made any candles for a couple of years, I returned to this
craft again today by stringing the wicking on the dipping rounds. Eventually
the fingers became more nimble and the preparatory process was soon over. The
actual dipping will take place tomorrow. This year's production of the 2013
calendar has provided more interest than in previous years and already orders
are being received.
Did it ever look bleak this morning as huge snow flakes descended upon us,
covering everything with a thick blanket of snow. On the one hand it was pretty
but here, in this one corner of Canada, we like to pretend that we live
somewhere adjoining not Hawaii, of course, but out there in the warm Pacific
region. Despite the snow a number of brave souls arrived for the Liturgy with
the relic of saint Nicholas being fervently venerated. Vladika Lazar is putting finishing touches to his latest book, this one is on hell and the last judgment according to the holy father. During Great Vespers on the eve of the feast of Saint Nicholas a relic of this wonderworking saint was brought out where it shall remain for some time. 17 DECEMBER 2012
Today's touch of snow soon changed to rain and the sun managed to appear
briefly, a typical December day. Our Georgian lads were here the entire day and
they have put up the roof on the belfry. One of them, Gigla, said that he would
even make a metal cupola for the very top, so it should be most interesting.
The sponge that Elena had prepared yesterday was left to rise overnight and then
it was put into the oven. The result is unusual in that the bread is firm, dark
and somewhat sour if it could be called that but a slice of it is very filling.
Also, they call it living bread rather than the dead bread that we buy in
bakeries. We also sampled the gluten free fruit cakes and breakfast bars that
the Georgian lads brought yesterday. They are completely lenten and tasty 15 DECEMBER 2012
The first snow of the winter arrived today although it probably will not last
long, Still it is a reminder that we shall be having some chilly days ahead.
Our work crew did not show up today so we have enough food for a small army.
Some young people showed up this evening and they shall spend the night so that
they can be present for the Divine Liturgy tomorrow. After the Agape meal we
shall be baptizing a baby, perhaps the last baptism this year. 14 DECEMBER 2012
My computer is back from a short stay in the hospital but I have yet to figure
out how to deal with the volume. Some time ago I began translating a booklet
that was published in Russian on how to behave in the church during services,
how to understand these services and so forth. By the time I reached page 16
of this booklet it became quite clear that to continue with the translation
would be futile because anyone who might have tried to follow all the
intructions would surely have had a nervous breakdown. It is not that I am
against proper behaviour in the church but expectations can be at times
unrealistic. 13 December, 2012
Do not forget that a week tomorrow the world will come to an end.
For months people have been worried about it and some have been living in fear,
yet the closer we come to it the less threatening it becomes for many. No doubt
the countless predictions made by the Jehovah's Witnesses and others that came
to nothing has made people in general extremely skeptical about such
foretellings of catastrophes. And, returning to planet earth, this morning
necessitated a trip to the U.S. to mail books. On the way back we crossed the
new Port Mann Bridge which, apparently is the widest bridge in North America.
Then a brief stop was made at the Pen Shop that claims to have the largest pen
selection in Western Canada. There I was able to pick up half a dozen ballpoint
pen refills for some of my favourite pens which cannot be found in our part of
the Fraser Valley. While Deacon Philip was finishing a printing job, I completed
the folding and stapling of Dr Alexandre Kalomiros' "The River of Fire." This
has been, supposedly, a day of great significances, that is, 12/12/12
or 12 December, 2012. We, on the other hand, noticed nothing of any
noteworthiness; perhaps the world is simply ignoring us. Recently I
mentioned the few flowers that were still alive and today, with its
warmth and sunshine, I made a closer examination. The one fuschia is
still carrying on in its sheltered spot. The snapdragons have become
leggy but their beauty has not diminished, and the alyssum refuses to
give up. Of course these are all flowers from this summer yet, upon
examining the hellebores, I noticed that next year's shoots have
appeared and, in a few weeks, they will open up, regardless of the cold
and even snow. My computer has been admitted to the electronics
hospital and Igor, the chief surgeon, promises that it will be in a
state of full recovery by late tomorrow. Gun shots can be heard nearby
but it is too late and too dark for anyone to attempt shooting ducks or
geese. Let us hope that there is no psychopathic maniac on the loose! 11 December, 2012
Since my
computer refused to respond properly, we have had to return to the old method
wherein I write the day's entry by hand (using, by the way, my new Sheaffer
fountain pen of which I am very proud), then I pass it on to Father Moses who,
in turn, types it and sends it to our email address so that it can be uploaded.
The broadcasting studio was rearranged today and Vladika Lazar gave a talk,
sitting next to a crackling fire in the fireplace. The way the studio is now set
up, filming can be done from several angles with different backgrounds, thus
making the broadcasts more interesting. The 2013 calendar is progressing well
and we can print it soon. Even though its preparation has become much easier
over the years, it still is quite time consuming. The two most problematic
months are January and February and, what makes it even worse, not all churches
calculate their daily readings the same way in those two months. Well, perhaps a
bit of confusion is not that bad.
10 DECEMBER 2012 Everyone who has known
our long term pilgrim Brother Ephraim was saddened by his return to the
United States yesterday. During the time he spent here at the monastery
he has done a lot of work in redoing the broadcasting room, doing fine
finishing woodwork, not to mention candle making, being a chauffeur and
countless other tasks that are necessary here, including singing with a
pleasing baritone voice on the cliros. But the time had arrived for his
return and all have wished him godspeed. As well he will not have to
endure food containing beets or coconut, or even kasha, although he did
begin to like cabbage. We will certainly miss him. The van was taken in
to the repair shop early in the morning to have the engine light
recoded so that it breezed through Aircare easily and was insured for
another year.... what a relief. We note that today is international
human rights day, the anniversary of the proclamation of the
Declaration of Universal Human Rights, a day well worth remembering.9 DECEMBER 2012
The weather was not entirely cooperative today which kept a few people away but,
in the end, it turned out to be an ordinary December day. I completely forgot
that it was George's nameday because he was named George at baptism in honour
of the dedication of the church of Saint George in Kiev in the eleventh century
which is celebrated on this day.. We made up for it at the Agape meal by
singing "Many Years" for him. The belfry has taken on a solid form and next
weekend the Georgian lads hope to carry on working on it 8 DECEMBER 2012
This day has been devoted to the sound of construction. The Georgian lads
arrived early and continued what had been begun yesterday. Saws were sawing and
hammers hammering as they kept scurrying up and down the ladder. It took little
time to put up the outer skeleton of the belfry but, alas, due to the short
days, it becomes dark early and work must cease. You can understand how
grateful we are to these lads who have joyously volunteered to labour for this
admirable cause. The regular church goers , who are not aware of what is taking
place, will undoubtedly be amazed when they arrive tomorrow morning 7 DECEMBER 2012
The day began with a hurried trip to buy a cap for the van's gas tank. Since
there is no nearby Kia dealership, a lengthy trip was necessary. Upon returning
to the monastery, we found some Bosnians waiting patiently.. Although they
live no more than 35 minutes from here, they had no idea that we existed and
found out about us only from Bosnians in Sarajevo who watch our broadcasts on
Youtube. Professor Dart came to make two broadcasts with Vladika Lazar and,
almost at the same time, our Georgian lads--- Gigla, Kakha and Mikhail came to
work on the belfry. I was anxious when I heard them ripping and sawing but I
know that they will do a great job. They hope to arrive early tomorrow morning.
Gerasimos brought potted plants for the church that were being distributed by
his son's army cadets 6 DECEMBER 2012
Father Michael dropped in with David to examine the library with the idea of
painting it, since its walls look rather bleak and it certainly would add to its
warmth to have a coat of fresh paint. Later the Georgian boys came to take
measurements for the belfry they plan on erecting. This would be a blessing for
us, since we have the bells that Father Vasili of Florida donated to us. All
the clothing left over from the exhange have been bagged and will be dropped off
at our neigbourhood thrift store. 5 DECEMBER 2012
The other day I noticed catkins on some of the trees which always reminds us of
approaching spring even though winter has not yet officially arrived. The main
monastery building smelled of freshly baked bread for the simple reason that
bread had been baked and an entire loaf eaten at supper together with borshch.
The automobile insurance company telephoned to remind us that the van was due to
be insured for another year, and the pickup is in need of repairs---and so goes
monastic life
4 DECEMBER 2012 For
the Liturgy on this feast of the Entry of the Theotokos into the
Temple, Vladika Lazar was well enough to serve, although with a raspy
voice. The day was quiet as feast days often are and we were able to
rest and relax somewhat. On Sunday Tatiana had given us a three litre
jar of borshch and, naturally, I thought that I could add to it which I
did. By the time it was finished, the largest soup pot we have was
filled to the brim and we now have enough borshch to eat for the entire
week.. Russians say the it tastes best on the second or even the third
day.3 DECEMBER 2012 This
was another one of those days when so much time was spent on the road.
First it was across the border to mail books, then to Coquitlam to
visit and extremely ill person, then on to Vancouver to retrieve
Vladika Lazar's small travelling CPAP machine that he had misplaced the
last time he had to stay over in the city. For anyone who does not know
what this is, it is used for sleeping when one suffers from sleep
apnea. By the time we returned to the monastery, Vespers had been long
served. We did bring back a pot full of Romanian cabbage rolls that we
can serve after tomorrow's Liturgy.1 DECEMBER 2012 30 NOVEMBER 2012
Here we are on the last day of November and, even if it is raining gently, the
petunias and some other flowers that have been ignored because of the approach
of winter are not just struggling but enjoying their prolonged stay. The van
was taken to Canadian Tire for a quick test because the engine light kept
coming on. Now that it is taken care of, the van will be in for an 'air
care' test next week. To have a vehicle insured, it must first pass a rather
stiff test that might be thought of as a nuisance but really is needed in this
age. 29 NOVEMBER 2012
Monica and Lenutsa arrived unexpectedly, making several trips to their van to
bring in a huge supply of unperishable goods for us to use in the Nativity
Fast. Just when I bought enough peanut butter to last until the end of winter,
they brought even more. They also brought a green tea with roasted rice and
other things in it and it actually is very tasty. Deacon Phillip did a lot of
printing since we ran out of copies of two titles that were badly needed. The
whole neighbourhood seems to have come down with colds and sniffles, so we
simply have to wait until this nuisance disappears. 28 NOVEMBER 2012
This is the first day of the Nativity Fast and our refrigerators and cupboards
are free from all dairy products. In our day, this fast [in fact all fasting
periods] are treated in various ways: there is the White Fast where people use
milk and all dairy products,basically just abstaining from meat; the Convenient
Fast to coincide with the secular Christmas; the modern New Calendar Fast
which is particulary popular with converts to Orthodoxy; and then the
Traditional Fast that has been in usage for centuries in the Orthodox Church. I
think that it is obvious which one we adhere to in this monastery. 27 NOVEMBER 2012
This being the last day before the beginning of tne Nativity Fast, we tried to
clean out our refrigerators by consuming all the dairy products and eggs,
knowing that we shall not be eating any of them until the beginning of next
year. Still, it is nice to know that we shall be eating much better and more
nutritious food during this period. Some transplanting has been done and there
is still the small oak to be moved to a permanent place. It grew from an acorn
from our Serbian oak tree. 26 NOVEMBER 2012
A beautiful and sunny morning allowed us to drive to the Chehalis Fish Hatchery
to watch the coho salmon run. It was amazing to see the countless salmon
struggling to swim upstream to spawn.. This was captured on film and can be
watched on the Canadian Orthodox Broadcasting Channel. Brother Ephraim is in
the process of preparing pizzas for supper as we try to use up all the cheese we
have before the beginning of the Nativity Fast on Wednesday. The first few days
of any fasting period come as almost a slight shock but one quickly adapts to it
and life proceeds normally 25 NOVEMBER 2012 24 NOVEMBER 2012
Usually the diary entry is made in the evening but today I shall have to drive
to Bellingham to pick up Vladika Lazar at the airport so I ad writing this in
mid afternon. It is a glorious day, sunny, bright and even the air, although
cool, has an invigorating effect. The visitors who arrived for a brief visit
brought food for tomorrow's Agape which is someting that is always welcome. We
watched eagles flying and circling overhead, tiny spots in the sky until they
swoop down and one realizes how large they actually are.
23 NOVEMBER 2012
What a lovely visit this morning with Father Oleg and his son Kyril. They
brought, among other things, some delicious Oredon honey. It was discouraging
not to be able to find the staples for the foot operated stapler, and some of
the covers had smudges so that I had to set this task aside. There were two
immense explosions that shook all our buildings. It came from across the valley
where they were dynamiting the quarry. We can be grateful that it seldom
happens.
22 NOVEMBER 2012
My visit to the dentist was a little unusual. I was prepared to have some work
done but, of course, just as I arrived, I no longer felt any discomfort. In
fact, all seemed to be normal. After a lengthy examination the dentist
concluded that I should have one tooth extracted but not necessarily now. And
so, I left, the dentist charging me nothing except for the $16.00 fee for the
xrays---if only other such visits to the dentist could be so inexpensive! Since
there was no rain today, it was possible to do some raking and sweeping
outdoors, Raking the leaves away from the base of the cliff will be challenging
as it always is.
21 NOVEMBER 2012 We served a moleben and akathist to the Holy Archangel Michael with Michael Apostolides present on this his nameday. Later I returned to a necessary but somewhat tedious task, that of preparing bottles for Holy Water. After soaking off the labels, sterilizing the botlles, etc fresh Holy Water is filled into these bottles. Each Sunday and, in fact, almost any time visitors appear, Holy Water is asked for. It is very gratifying to know that it means so much to them throughout the year rather than just at Theophany. 20 NOVEMBER 2012
More tables were taken into the icon gallery for Sunday's white
elephant/exchange and, at this rate, more will be needed. We actually had a
couple of hours of sun early this morning followed by an hour of rain, making it
a typical November day. Now that all the leaves have fallen we shall have to
begin raking them up, a somewhat thankless but necessary job. We are grateful
that Valentina is home from the hospitao and making a good recovery. 19 NOVEMBER 2012
Today is my nameday and I got off to a good start by rising in the middle of the
night to take Vladika Lazar to the Bellingham Air Port for his trip to Texas.
We used the commercial crossing and handed over our manifest which stated what
we were going to mail [books naturally] and the American official said, "How
are you going to mail them at this time of the night?" When I explained about
going to Bellingham first and mailing the books on the return trip, he waved us
through although, as I have said before, we pay $10.75 each time we make a
commercial crossing. Late last night someone telephoned, hoping to be taken in
but it was worrisome knowing that he had been in a maximum security prison!!
Then a woman telephoned hoping she could bring her trailer here to live!! What
might we expect next?? 18 NOVEMBER 2012
A lot of material was brought for next Sunday's white elephant/exchange event.
It will be interesting to see what more will be brought next Sunday. There will
be no price tags, but people will be asked to donate whatever they can afford,
and if they cannot afford anything, then they shall be able to take anything
with God's blessing. We said our goodbye to Victor who is leaving early
tomorrow morning for Louisiana and also Vladika Lazar who will be in Texas this
week. Bedtime will be early tonight because I shall have to drive VLadika
Lazar at 5 a,m, to Bellingham for his flight to texas 17 NOVEMBER 2012
What a surprise it was to see yesterday's entry in such a bold style. If the
contents of this diary ever become tedious, at least one will be able to look
forward to such surprises. We had a Romanian memorial service just before noon
followed by a meal in a typically Romanian style. The food was plentiful and
delicious and, since they are already observing the Nativity Fast, all the food
was lenten. Plates, cups and cutlery were passed out to everyone in remembrance
of the servant of God Nicolae. In addition they brought huge amounts of canned
and dry goods to last us a long time, as well as clothes to give out to the
needy. 16 NOVEMBER 2012
Did you notice yesterday's fancy script in the diary? I had nothing to do with
that but it was suggested that the readers might enjoy something different. As a
result, I do not know what it might be like in future. A brief trip across
the border to mail books was followed by a stop at the greengrocers to pick up
some fresh vegetables. We have gone sligtly oriental with the preparation of
miso soup which, if you have never tried it, is quite tasty. How can the
weekend already be upon us so quickly? 15 November 2012
We managed to see an entirely sunny day with a clear blue sky and fresh air
only slightly carrying a late autumnal fragrance. There was another trip to the
bindery to pick up material that had been collated and bound. The stairs leading
into the water are being repaired for the forthcoming feast of Theophany. On
the whole, this has been a quiet week which has enabled us to carry out and
complete many tedious and ordinary tasks that are so often neglected because of
visitors coming and going. 14 NOVEMBER 2012
Days have become so short, that is to say we have less daylight now as I noticed
today when, at a little past five o'clock, it was already dark. Another month
or so and the days will gradually become longer. Father Moses visited his eye
specialist in the morning who informed him that his eyes are in good condition
and his next visit will be a year hence. A new plan for our mobile phones began
today because the old one proved to be problematic. 13 NOVEMBER 2012
Heating our three buildings is a problem particularly during the cold winter
months. Using natural gas is impossible for us so that we have to rely on
electricity and, of course, wood on the weekends. We purchased another heater
for the icon gallery that is energy efficient and we are trying it out now.
Some lumber was brought back from the building suppliers to repair the stairs
leading into the water where we have the annual blessing of water at Theophany.
The railing is necessary for the people who go down into the icy water after it
has been blessed, making it easier to pull themselves up. Each year we have
more people descending into the water although it must be said that not a single
North American has done it---yet 12 NOVEMBER 2012
In yesterday's diary I forgot to mention that Valentina had brought the
finished drapes for the big hall so that when we came down after the Liturgy,
we were struck with the beauty of the material which was in various shades of
gold. This caused the drapes to have their own muted sheen with a marvellous
interplay of the lightest gold right up to a copper-like gold. In any case, we
are indebted to Valentina for this grand gesture. It has been raw outdoors and
almost any excuse could be used to stay indoors. 11 NOVEMBER 2012
This is Remembrance Day and how appropriate it is that it has fallen on a Sunday
so that people could come to church to pray for peace and to remember the
countless people who lost their lives in various wars. Perhaps because it was a
special day, the singing was especially good. Later someone pointed out that it
almost sounded at times as if there was orchestral accompaniment, meaning that
there was such a fullness of harmony and sincerity. I, too, felt that the
voices were blending in a pious sincerity, no doubt due to the presence of the
holy relics that had been brought out for reverence. What a joy it was to see
our Georgian lads back with us after having worked for a few months in Calgary. 10 NOVEMBER 2012
The first visitors appeared before we were ready to receive anyone but it did
not really matter. They certainly did help in replenishing our pantry. Other
visitors trickled in throughout the day and by the time we began to serve
Vespers Jeffrey and Khalim had arrived. Some others could not remain long so
that we had a nice table full of food with company to enjoy it. All the caskets
with relics of saints have been set out for tomorrow's Divine Liturgy.
9 NOVEMBER 2012
After having slept well last night, this entire day felt bright and cheery. Of
course, the bright sun also helped. I inherited a ryasa from the late Father
Andrew Somow which, athough meaningful for me, is much too long. Although I am
not a tailor, I decided to shorten it myself [there is absolutely no chance for
me to grow taller!] Two mistakes later, not fatal thankfully, I figured out
how to do it and before long it should be accomplished. Some visitors brought
antidoron from the Diveyevo Monastery in Russia, a touching gesture
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 8 NOVEMBER 2012
Douglas Todd, the Vancouver Sun columnist on religion, came to interview Vladika
Lazar this morning and, as it so oftens happens in such cases, he stayed longer
than he had expected, for over three hours as a matter of fact. We shall see
what comes of this interview. Three more titles have been reprinted and are now
in the process of being collated +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++7 NOVEMBER 2012
Nothing can dull one's mind more than having to listen to someone's complaints
about their health, so I shall not bother you, other than to say that I am still
alive, walking carefully and anxiously waiting for this bout of shingles to
end. We have been receiving countless emails concerning yesterday's election in
the US, many with more than a touch of hyperbole such as: "Our country is again
safe from the extremist oligarchs and plutocrats" or " The Communists have
retained their power and all is lost." Much of American politics is very
foreign to Canadians but we do tolerate it, since there is no other choice.
While listening to the election results and peoples' comments, I chuckled when a
man shouted out, "At least now my wife and I won't have to move to Canada!" 6 NOVEMBER 2012
Once again I slept poorly last night and when I arose this morning I was
horrified to see a heavy rash which made me think that I was allergic to
something. When I saw my doctor, he quickly informed me that it was shingles,
much to my chagrin because people who had had it usuallly complained of terrible
pain and itching. Well, let us see where this case of shingles takes us! I
drove Father Moses to have his eyes reexamined and all went well but after we
left there was a frantic telephone call trying to locate him since only the
first half of the examination had taken place. Fortunately they were able to
squeeze him in and they were polite about this mishap 5 NOVEMBER 2012
More sun this morning and, in fact, throughout the day. Many simple tasks had to
be fulfilled but most of the time was spent in repotting the Golden Moustache
plant, often known as Russian ginseng. A friend spirited a couple of small
cuttings on her return from Kiev. She gave us one of them and we stuck it into a
glass of water and forgot about it. Eventually it was planted and, in time,
began to grow and the taller it became, the more "moustaches" it sent out. It
collapsed the other day because of its weight and now I have divided it into
half a dozen sections which should root fairly easily and over a dozen pieces
taken from the moustaches. If most of them root, we shall have an entire herbal
pharmacy which includes several aloe plants, and mint as well. The outdoor herbs
will die back in winter. ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 4 NOVEMBER 2012
What a surprise it was to find that no one came to church an hour early because
of the change in time. After the Agape meal, people had time to visit the
newly renovated book and gift shop, followed by a meleti in the ajoining
reception room. A family then arrived to arrange for a house blessing and a
memorial service after which the baptismal party arrived. It was my error about
the person to be baptized, as I thought it was a two year old child. Instead it
was a twelve year old girl. The baptismal font that had been prepared was
actually too small for her so it was a tight squeeze. Still, all went well with
the newly baptized Daria.
3 NOVEMBER 2012
Although still under the weather, I was pleased to hear that our Californians
are praying hard for my health!! The baptism of little Andrei was peaceful and
joyous. A full course banquet was served later and people stayed for most of
the afternoon. Since we change our clocks back to Standard Time tonight, no
doubt a few people will forget and then arrive here an hour earlier which is not
such a bad idea. More people should attend Matins anyhow 2 November, 2012
A few periods of sunshine certainly did brighten our spirits. More material was
taken to the bindery and from there, it was a short drive to the place where we
bought our original foot stapler some thirty years ago. A small part is broken
but this particular stapler is no longer being manufactured so we might have to
search for that part on the internet. Looks can be deceiving. I noticed a car
entering our driveway with two men in it. When they stepped out, they looked
like ruffians; however, they turned out to be pious (in a certain way) Orthodox
Christians who were driving on our road, looking for a good fishing site when
they stumbled upon us. Let us hope that someone remembers to turn on the hot
water tank for tomorrow morning's baptism 31 OCTOBER 2012
The coffee and tea urns had to be plugged in early this morning, since the
Abbotsford Ministerial Association was going to pay us a visit. It consists of
Protestant ministers of various shades who meet regularly and they had asked if
they could visst the monastery this time. Of course our faithful and hard
working ladies were up to the challenge and out performed themselves in food
preparation. What was agreeable was that some of these visitors got to see an
Orthodox church for the first time and Vladika Lazar explained much about the
Orthodox faith and what we find inside an Orthodox church. Later we had a
memorial service for Tamara, the mother of a Romanian man who oftens visits us 30 OCTOBER 2012
We had to wait in line no more than three minutes before crossing the border to
mail books. While in Sumas I bought a large supply of dairy products since they
are cheaper there. Joanna arrived with two boxes of apples, Gala and Fuji, that
had just been brought in from the Okanagan Valley plus a few Jonagolds. She was
anxious to know which was best, so I shall have to begin testing them tonight.
Since we shall be having visitors tomorrow for lunch, I prepared a rice dish
that should be enough for the thirty or so who plan to come. Joanna and Glyko
will bring several other dishes so we shall be able to offer the visitors enough
food. 29 OCTOBER 2012
Although people had sent us emails asking about our earthquake, we had no idea
of what they were speaking. Only this morning did we read about the earthquake
off the Queen Charlotte Islands [I can never remember its new name]. Actually
there are daily tremors off the Pacific Coast but we never feel them. The rain
was torrential this morning but at least it turned very mild later, another
example of the Pineapple Express which brings us some tropical air from
somewhere in the South Pacific. Taras Shevchenko, a proud father of a beautiful
baby girl born a few days ago, brought Matushka Anna Bingham for a visit, one so
pleasant because the Bingham family has been a part of our monastery family for
so long. Valentina returned to keep working on the drapes, cutting out a couple
of hundred holes to fit in rings for the dowels. 28 OCTOBER 2012
This being the last Sunday of the month, the Liturgy was served in Church
Slavonic. As usual confessions continued for about an hour and a half. The
congregational singing was strong and well done. At the end of the service, we
had the blessing of our new bells, so kindly donated to the monastery by Father
Vasili of Florida. Two strong men held them, supported on a stout pole, so that
each person who came up for the final blessing could also ring the bells. The
children especially found it enjoyable, After the Agape meal there were the
usual molebens and a blessing of both a car and a BMW motorcycle. This morning I
noticed that a bear had broken through the electric fence and finished off all
the apples. 27 OCTOBER 2012
This day was taken up entirely with baptisms, First, late in the morning we
baptized little Amelia who did splendidly with nary a sound. Her large blue
eyes looked about everywhere and at everyone, as if she were trying to retain a
memory fo everything that transpired. It was followed by a delicious and
elegantly served meal. Later we baptized little Paul who cried throughout most
of the service. Yet, by the time we sat down to eat [yes, another full meal] he
was quiet and enjoying being the centre of attention. Directlly after Great
Vespers I must go to rest and prepare for the Sunday Liturgy. 26 OCTOBER 2012
Much of the day was spent in organizing the book and gift shop which finally has
the appearance of a proper, although small, shop. We will declare it open this
coming Sunday. Deacon Philip hauled many wheelbarrows full of coarse gravel to
fill in the drainage ditch which will be of great help, particularly if we have
heavy rains this winter. Vladika Lazar was in Vancouver to attend a symposium
organized by Andrew Bingham . There he also saw Matushka Anna Bingham, now of
Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan. Since the event took place across the street from the
Pen Shop, Vladika popped in and bought me a Scheaffer fountain pen, knowing that
I have a great weakness for fountain pens. In the next few days I shall have to
send off a number of notes using this pen. 25 OCTOBER 2012
Today was as close as one could find for a perfect day with the sun warming us
after a cool spell. Valentina arrived with her own sewing machine and began
sewing drapes for the hall. The present ones are hand-me-downs and rather look
it as well. The material was brought from Kazakhstan and is very attractive. I
made a large batch of skin cream with a slight fragrance and some that are
unscented. In addition I prepared some lip balm which is always popular in
winter.
A rather large order for the skin cream we produce here at the monastery was
received today and I suddenly realized that there were only a few jars left. I
had to hurry out to buy olive oil [cold pressed etc. even though ordinary olive
oil would probably do] so that I could make a new batch, possibly tomorrow. We
have a number of people who use this skin cream regularly and who rate it
highly, Stavroula being one of the most enthusiastic. Deacon Philip has been
working on our drainage while Brother Ephraim has been hauling wood from
Dieter's acreage. Father Moses is busy collating a couple of books and Vladika
Lazar is printing more. And so, another day has ended well 23 October, 2012
I had forgotten to mention yesterday that some of the volunteers had come to
plant trees or saplings actually. This morning I noticed that there were,
without exaggeration, dozens of saplings and small trees along the water and
protected against beavers with wire fences. If the plans of the wildlife
volunteers succeed, the front area of the monastery property will truly be
beautiful. Our pickup was out of commission and refused to start. An
acquaintance of Brother Ephraim was fortunately on hand to repair it. Being a
former mechanic, he seemed to have no difficulty. The strong winds have died
down but it continues to be cool. Father Moses and I walked through the public
garden between the Abbotsford City Hall and the Public Library. It is most
attractive but we were amazed to see the somewhat hidden Japanese style
landscaping behind the library. Since our climate is relatively mild, there are
many gardens here that can be enjoyed in all four seasons
22 OCTOBER 2012
Although the entire day was quite chilly, we managed to accomplish a number of
things. First was the carpet layer who brought the linoleum we had ordered long
ago. It did not take him long to lay it in the broadcasting room where it looks
splendid, It also improves the accoustics which is so necessary for good
broadcasting. Then the gravel truck delivered a load of gravel which will be
used for the drainage canal behind the buildings and near the high cliff.
Because of late visitors, supper was delayed but immensely enjoyed with French
toast served with Greek yogurt which we have not had for months, if not longer.
21 OCTOBER 2012
A blustery morning did not bode well. Matins began with a few stalwarts but, as
it so often happens, as the Liturgy began, the troops began to pour in. Soon
the sun appeared making the day pleasant.The singing was very good, and we were
pleased to have Reader James Morgan with us on the kliros. It was kind of the
Strimbu family to drive Sister Nonna to the Vancouver International Airport. Her
visit was short but I think she enjoyed it even though we tired her out. This
whole weekend has been eventful and tomorrow promises more. 20 October, 2012
There was not a single quiet or free moment this day. The participants of the
inaugural meeting of the Fellowship of Saint Alban and Saint Serge began
arriving at 8:30 and by ten o'clock everyone had coffee or tea with muffins so
that the proceeding could begin. Sister Nonna was the first speaker and her
erudition was obvious from the very beginning. She was followed by Professor Ron
Dart who, as usual, gave an illuminating presentation. Lunch followed at which
there was more animated discussion. Professor David Goa spoke in the afternoon
in his usual captivating manner. The participants of this event felt pleased
that this ground-breaking work had succeeded, and now another venue will be
found for a future meeting. Meanwhile, a stream of visitors kept arriving for
prayers and blessings. Now that it is almost bedtime, I can truly say that it
has been a remarkable day. 19 OCTOBER 2012
The first visitor this morning was a Lutheran minister who came to arrange a
visit to the monastery by some Protestant ministers from Abbotsford. Then
Sister Nonna was picked up and brought to the monastery where, after lunch, she
and Professor Ron Dart together with Vladika Lazar held a symposium that was
filmed. At that same time James Morgan from Olympia, Washington arrived.
Immediately after supper we went to the church for Compline and then more
preparations were needed for tomorrow's programme I took apart some of the frames I bought yesterday and put in icons, the result of which is magnificent. Too bad there were not more frames to be had. Some food had to be prepared for Friday and Saturday for the meeting of the Fellowship of Saint Alban and Saint Serge.It is unfortunate that we have had to wait so long for the new floor covering in the broadcasting room, but it will look good once it has been installed
17 OCTOBER 2012 I spent
much of both morning and afternoon acting as chauffeur, not that I
minded. It gave me the chance to do some interesting shopping while
waiting, such as picking up a couple of large pots of chrysanthemums,
winter pansies and special soil for the blueberries that are to be
transplanted. In a type of a discount store I found attractive framed
pictures on at half price which would be excellent for some framed
icons. I bought the entire lot, that is, about a dozen and a half.16 OCTOBER 2010
After the hectic and rushed Sunday, I began feeling the approach of a cold,
something I wanted to avoid, so I hurried to apply some old fashioned remedies.
First, I soaked my feet in hot water, this time with epsom salt, drank several
cups of hot tea with honey and lemon, put on woollen socks [Valentina gave me a
pair that she had knitted] and I went to bed where I rested for 12 hours. This
morning there was no trace of any cold. This method works for me but only when I
take steps quickly instead of thinking that it might only be my allergies. I was
pleased that the large storage closet has been converted into a gift store with
icons, crosses, books, etc. because people so often ask for such items 15 OCTOBER 2012
There was no waiting at the border this morning as we were on our way to mail
books in Sumas, although on our return trip, cars stretched for half a mile on
the Canadian side. The main street of Sumas looks half deserted because many of
the stores have closed but many Canadians cross the border to buy cheaper dairy
products and gas. The post office consists mainly of postal boxes, most of which
seem to belong to Canadians. Ours is Box 1600 so you can imagine the total
number of boxes. This border town relies heavily on consumers from Canada.
Upon returning to the monastery, we saw Joana and Glyko driving up with a
carload of supplies---can upon can of coffee, plates, cutlery and much more. As
they said, we must prepare for the winter months. ********************************************************************************************* 14 OCTOBER 2012
Although the air felt quite warm, rain kept falling all day, in fact, it was
rather miserable, and so we thought that a number of people might not drive out
to the monastery today. Apparently some did not but we knew that all would be
well when people began to arrive early and asked to have confession which
lasted, with a pause for the reading of the Epistle and Gospel and the Great
Entrance, until well into the Liturgy. The analoy with the feast icon had to be
moved closer to the front to accomodate the crowd. After the Agape meal,some
people asked for a spiritual talk which lasted for almost two hours, Meanwhile,
the Cossack concert began with participation from the audience. It was
enjoyable and it was filmed so that you can watch it on Youtube. This day left
us feeling tired but full of joy since we could enter into the spirit of the
Cossacks. 13 OCTOBER 2012
Apparently last night's trip to Vancouver was very successsful, as the cinema
theatre was sold out. There was a question and answer period following the
showing of the film so that Vladika Lazar and Deacon Philip returned to the
monastery long past midnight. Tonight they have gone to the showing of the same
film in Langley and there will be another question and answer period after.
Meanwhile, Brother Ephraim finished putting up the huge icon of the Entry of
Christ into Jerusalem so that it looks as if it belongs were it is rather than
leaning against the wall. Our Helen spent much of the day cleaning in the
church and anywhere else work had to be done so that we are ready for Sunday's
Liturgy and all that will follow. ******************************************************************************************* 12 OCTOBER 2012
It has been either raining lightly or drizzling all day, something we have not
seen in a long time. Needless to say, the soil needs it badly, as do the
streams, ponds and lakes. The flat tire could not be repaired so we had to buy
another one, after which the van got a complete blessing, including the tires.
Vladika Lazar and Deacon Philip drove to Vancouver to be present at the showing
of HELLBOUND? after which there will be a question and answer period. We were
surprised to see a large photo, in colour, in the Vancouver Sun of Vladika and
Kevin Miller, the director of the film. I shall try to remember to report on
the showing in tomorrow's diary 11 OCTOBER 2012 The
weather is most certainly changing because we all are feeling aches in
our joints but at least we have had weeks and weeks of glorious
weather. Visitors from Romania came today and Vladika Lazar spent time
with them. Some material that we wanted to reprint could not be found
and this is a familiar occurrence here since we have stacks and piles
of published and unpublished material everywhere. Russians will often
pray to Saint Trifon in order to locate what has been misplaced, while
Greeks turn to Saint Phanourios.
It was extremely foggy this morning and the entire day saw no sun, moreover, it
was quite cool. Perhaps our Indian summer has ended. Still much was
accomplished today. Brother Ephraim is building a frame for the huge icon of
the Entry into Jerusalem of the Lord which is about five feet by six feet in
size, one of the many icons left to us by a well known iconographer. Our poor
van had another flat tire, the third one in about three months. ********************************************************************************************* 9 OCTOBER 2012
What a cool, foggy morning we had and it was only near noon that everything
cleared up and the sun once again brought its warmth to us. Deacon Philip was
out with a pitch fork, carrying loads of grass and brambles that he had cut down
in the parking area, revealing part of the stream's bank that we had never seen
before. More material is being prepared for printing and requests for learned
journals are being received quite regularly. All that if fine but it does not
leave much time to deal with ordinary and daily matters ************************************************************* 8 OCTOBER 2012
This is Thanksgiving Day in Canada, a holiday that is dearly beloved by all
people but which is celebrated very quietly. At the monastery we had no
visitors and all was peaceful.No, we did not have any roast turkey, instead we
had whole wheat spaghetti with homemade tomato sauce somewhat in the Greek
fashion. I will not elaborate because someone will surely let me know that it is
not Greek. It was delicious at any rate 7 OCTOBER 2012
As it often happens, at the beginning of the Lirurgy there were very few people
and this was not amazing, since it is the long Thanksgiving Day weekend, but in
short time the church was filled. It was good to see some people who had not
been here for some time as well as newcomers. In fact there were so many
children and babies it looked rather like a nursery, and more arrangements were
made for baptisms. Valentina brought a huge quantity of fabric so that she and
some other women can sew new drapes for the large hall, as the present ones look
well worn and dated. 6 OCTOBER 2012
Much of today's activities dealt with tomorrow's service, with Brother Ephraim
baking the prosphora, Helen cleaning the vestry and scrubbing the counters,
washing vases, etc. and me preparing food. Then, several people arrived to visit
at the cross of a man who died several years ago. After a brief litya and
memory eternal, we brought out chairs and a table to have a light memorial meal
right there at the cross. The sun warmed us while the breeze was pleasantly
fresh, and everything felt as it should be. After a couple of hours they
departed and I felt so content that these people were offered an opportunity to
have some peace in the countryside, far away from the bustle of the city. ***************************************************************************************** ****************************************************** 4 OCTOBER 2012
This was a grand day for us because we crossed the border to Sumas to pick up a
crate that had arrived for us. Of course we knew what the crate
contained---Russian bells arrived from Florida. Thank you, Father Vasili, for
this wonderful gift that we shall treasure. Even though the four bells are not
the size of some of the 39 ton bells in Russia, we are grateful to have bells
that ring so purely and clearly. Besides, the prayers of the faithful who
heard these bells ringing in far off Florida, are now blessing us here on the
West Coast of Canada. This means that we now have seven bells to announce the
Good Tidings and to accompany us on our Cross Processions. Later, you will be
able to see on Youtube the blessing of the bells on a Sunday when we expect to
have a good attendance. Once again, Father Vasili, may our Lord Jesus Christ
bless you for the kindness and love that you have shown us over all these many
years. Mnogaya leta! ***************************************************************************************** 3 OCTOBER 2012
Vladika Lazar visited the hospital for a regular check up and he got a good
result. After that, it was a trip to the bindery to pick up the remaining
books that were bound, and it was fortunate that they were ready because a huge
order was recently placed for them. The weather continues to be fine which
makes the outdoor staining that much easier ***************************************************************************************** 2 OCTOBER 2012
Vladika Lazar spent the afternoon at an event sponsored by the city of
Abbotsford, "Conversations with Islam" at which he was one of the speakers. It
is of interest to note that some of these Islamic people are more willing to
converse with Orthodox Christians than some of the Orthodox are to converse with other Orthodox Christians. Brother
Ephraim began the process of making candles since the last ones have been used
up. I spent the afternoon staining more of the verandah and steps and,
consequently, I am very stiff tonight. Still, this is excellent activity for
older people ***************************************************************************************** 1 OCTOBER 2012
I am amazed at how much trash that is built up by each Monday but at least we
have that day to dispose of it. In the afternoon a lengthy trip was made to the
far side of Vancouver to do a house blessing and a healing service. The whole
family was present and a gentle breeze came through the French doors as
everyone prayed earnestly. I was also able to appreciate the distance this
family travels each Sunday to the monastery. Alas, many people who have less
than half that distance to travel to the monstery complain about the great
distance to reach us, but great is the fervour of some. *************************************************************************************** 30 SEPTEMBER 2012
I knew that attendance at today's Liturgy would be good, judging by the early
confessions, but I was worried that we would be quite tired as a telephone call
at 3:30 am informed us that Mike Apostolides had been taken by ambulence to the city. By
the time we were up and dressed and ready to leave, another call told us not to
bother because he was being returned to the local hospital by ambulance and that
we could visit him later in the day. This meant that it was impossible to fall
asleep again. Still, the Liturgy strengthened us and we had a second
celebration of the Elevation of the Cross. After the Agape meal, some people
went off to rehearse for the Cossack celebration, while others asked for prayers
as is usual on Sundays. Later still we baptized little Daniel who did not cry
at all but kept looking all around to see what was taking place. Now it is time
to retire, feeling exhausted but content with this day. *************************************************************************************** 29 SEPTEMBER
2012
There are days when I seem to have little to say and this is such a
day. We bought three large cans of stain to restain the verandah and stairs
which might be done in the next few weeks. We sang exceptionally well at
Vespers tonight and perhaps this is a hint of what might be expected tomorrow
when the Liturgy will be served in Church Slavonic. After baking the prosphora
for romorrow's Liturgy, Brother Ephraim baked two pumpkin pies, one of which we
ate at supper. We all agreed that they were delicious and we would be glad to
have more. ***************************************************************************************** 28 September 2012
Over the years we have tried to be as self sufficient as possible and this has
been manifested in many ways, For several months I have been working, or at
least attempting to do so, on my klobuk and kamilavka because the veil had begun
to fall apart. After getting advice from an elderly gentleman, the owner of an
East Indian fabric store, on the correct material, I proceeded to reconstruct
the veil. Eventually I succeeded but I still needed the band that is sewn on
the inside. Finally after many delays, I was tipped off about a moccasin shop
that might help me and, indeed, they did. Now, having all the necessary
materials on hand, I could quickly complete this task that has been haunting me
for ages ******************************************************************* 27 September, 2012 We could not have asked for a more beautiful day for the feast of the
Elevation of the Cross and, in fact, the entire day has felt most blessed.
There has been almost no rain for two months and this has set a record for dry
spells, not that any of us are complaining. Apparently this dry weather is to
stay with us for some time yet. I noticed that on the sobor's website [click on
www.holyres---or maybe just google it] you will find a bit of filming that was
done on Sunday when I served there. 26 September, 2012 In beginning today’s daily diary, I wanted to acknowledge the work of Christos (Bryan) Osborne in creating and managing the Monastery’s Face Book page. He is doing an excellent job with it. While attempting to file a pile of material on my desk, I came across numerous letters, clippings and other material so interesting that I had to stop and read a few of them. I had already forgotten about some of them, such as what happened in the Russian Church in the 1950s and 1960s. I also found a photograph of a bevy of bishops and archbishops whom I had either met or else knew of, but not one of them is among the living today (makes one realise how old one has become). We are celebrating the feast of the Elevation of the Cross, so beloved by all. We completed the Great Vespers and Litiya. Tomorrow morning, we will celebrate Matins and the Divine Liturgy for the feast, but we will also serve the elevation portion of the service again on Sunday for the sake of those who could not be here on a weekday. ********************************************************* 25 September, 2012It was good to hear from Presvytera Irine Matta this morning because she always brings us such enthusiasm and joy which we daily need in our lives. She spoke of her grandson Philip who happens to be my Godson, so naturally I am interested in his well being.Earlier this year I managed to sew a little vestment for him so that he could wear it when helping his Grandfather, Father James Matta.It rather sounds as if he might be numbered among the future clergy of the Orthodox Church if his love of the Church and Jesus Christ continues to develop. 24 September, 2012 A panikhida, or memorial service, was held late this morning which was the fortieth day after the repose of the grandmother of a young woman who is close to the monastery. Some friends of hers were in attendance and all sang earnestly. She had brought food for the memorial meal and although there were not that many of us at the table, we sat for a couple of hours, enjoying the food and each other's company. Later we walked to the field to look at the stone memorial and the huge wooden cross, all the while talking about what could be done to enhance the beauty of this corner of the monastery grounds.
***************************************************** 23 September, 2012
As I began writing today's diary, a train could be heard passing by which set
off a pack of coyotes with their high pitched and shrill barking. We are quite
accustomed to that sound, visitors are often spooked by it. I served at the Holy
Resurrection Russian Orthodox Sobor in Vancouver where they were celebrating
their feast day, the consecration of the Holy Sepulchre Church. It was good to
see so many familiar faces and to serve with priests whom I have not seen for a
long time. Here at the monastery a number of Russian Old Believers were present
and alas, I was not here to meet them. Moreover, there was much food brought for
the Agape with lots left over, and in addition, the sisterhood at the Sobor sent
many food parcels back so that we should have enough food for the entire
week 22 Septemeber 2012 Today's highlight was the baptism of three month old Alexandra and her father James. The baby did splendidly with making only a couple of sounds and showing many smiles, while the father beamed at this baptism. When everyone left, we had bouquets of flowers for the church that were set out for tonight's Great Vespers and tomorrow's Divine Liturgy. We also were treated to a supper of Georgian food which is always delicious and well prepared. At times like this I feel that we are becoming spoiled, well perhaps not spoiled but we seem not to be lacking in good food. ********************************************************************** 21 September 2012 We celebrated the feast of the Nativity of the Theotokos
very modestly and I expected few people to attend the Divine Liturgy. Great was
my surprise when I saw how many people showed up. After the meal, everyone sat
for a long time and we actually had a spiritual talk by Vladika Lazar without
planning one. Later in the afternoon we crossed the border to mail a few books
and to pick up the monastery mail. As we waited in line to return to Canada, a
border guard walked up to our van and knocked on the window. Needless to say,
my heart sank, wondering what this meant. All he wanted to do was to tell us
that the next lane was opening up and we should move over into it. ************************************************************** 20 September 2012 A liesurely
trip was made to the bindery to leave a book that has just been
printed. The return ride was just as pleasant until we reached the
hospital at Maple Ridge where we saw a number of police cars with
lights flashing. Since the traffic almost came to a standstill, we
could see the police leading away a partially naked man who no doubt
had fled from the hospital. It is a wonder that no one was injured
while gawking. Each day I prepare the item for the diary by writing it
out by hand, using one of my favourite pens but today I decided to
simply send an email text directly to Vladika to upload. Sorry,
Father Moses, but I seem to have deprived you of this task. Never
fear, I will stiil have you type it up on occasion.************************************************************** 19 September, 2012 A
good part of this day was spent addressing envelopes containing notices
of some of our forthcoming events at the monastery. Even though email
is easy and fast, many people still prefer to be notified by mail and I
can understand that very well. Think of what it is like to receive an
envelope: you look at it, at the return address and then decide when
you would like to open it, possibly saving the stamp to pass on to a
collector; you then pick up the letter opener (or even a table knife),
open the letter and carefully unfold the paper inside; after reading it
you can reread it or set it aside to be read again at a later date; it
can be discarded or set aside, perhaps on the mantle, and left as a
keepsake. There is almost a ritual involved, rather than opening up an
email that is lacking any personality such as the handwriting or even a
faint scent emitted by the letter. The art of good letter writing is
fast disappearing in our "throw away" society.************************************************************** 18 September, 2012 This
was not a day that I was looking forward to because I had to pay a
visit to my dentist. A back tooth had to be removed and so I asked for
freezing which I usually avoid when teeth have to be filled. It came
out easily and I brought it home with me. Unfortunately there will be
more dental work done later but at least this step is over. A visitor
brought a box of field tomatoes that were rapidly consumed at supper.
As I had once mentioned, we look forward to September's field tomatoes,
so vastly remote from the ones we find in stores. A strangely behaving
coyote was observed this afternoon, so we have been cautious in case it
might decide to pounce upon us. We never had personal encounters with
wild animals but, as they say, it only takes once to look like
something's evening snack.***************************************************************
17 September, 2012 Today
is the nameday of Father Moses but he is not one to become too excited.
In our day many Orthodox people celebrate only their birthday (not
Father Moses) rather than their nameday. It is a struggle to educate
people in our Orthodox traditions and it is really the duty of all
clergy to be actively involved in this process. In many parishes people
are congratulated on their birthdays and wedding anniversaries but
never on their namedays. What a pity! I restained the great stairway
outdoors, using an entire gallon of stain but the wood really needed
it. There is more to be done while the nice weather lasts. Deacon
Philip was stung by wasps several times while cutting away the tall
grass and brambles. Their stings can be nasty and painful.
************************************************ 16 September, 2012
An early telephone call informed us that our reader was unable to come today,
and our bell-ringer was away as was our morning kitchen, hall and church
organizer. We ended up with just the reading of the Hours instead of the regular
Matins. At times our singing was somewhat rough, no doubt due to our attempts to
sing what is too complex for most of our people (we have congregational singing)
and so we shall have to use simple chants, commonly known as "Obikhod" (single
or common). Because we lost our electricity last night for a couple of hours, my
outdoor light has not yet come on and it is pitch dark out there. Minutes after
the power was lost, we could hear police and ambulance sirens which probably
meant that someone had crashed into a power pole. In the meantime, we had to use
lanterns, at least not the old fashioned ones with kerosene. ******************************************************** 15 September, 2012
We baptized a young Russo-Georgian boy today whose name is difficult for most of
us to pronounce. Michael Chkhartisvili does look difficult when one is met with
four consonants in a row, although in Russian there would be only two. The
grandmother explained to us that the meaning of the surname is "son of
Chkhartish." This family is from Sukhumi in Georgia, a city I visited some
forty-five years ago and still have fond memories of it. Father Moses informed
me that he saw a huge black bear on our lawn late last night which means that
they are getting bolder as they search for food and especially with the apples
and pears ripening. Deacon Philip cut a huge swath of tall grass and brush that
was encroaching onto the lower lawn. Without vigilance, the brambles and tall
grasses quickly take over ******************************************************************* 14 September, 2012
The wildlife people were here again today doing more work to enhance the salmon
run. The bears are becoming bolder and searching for ripe fruit. As I was
walking back to my place I could hear a bear scraping bark off a dead tree, then
pushing it over. Even though I am quite used to this, it can still make me feel
somewhat uneasy, knowing that a bear is only a few steps away, hidden amongst
the trees. Since the garden hoses are not long enough to reach the most distant
plants, I had to carry buckets of water which was good exercise. We
transplanted some beautiful mauve celosia flowers because they will bloom for a
couple of months. Before long we shall be transplanting autumn plants,
especially chrysanthemums which display their beauty so unashamedly ******************************** 13 September, 2012 I visited my chiropractor for a monthly adjustment and, as usual, felt much better after the treatment. Since my family doctor does not read this daily diary, he does not know that I regularly visit a chiropractor but, if he did,he would surely be displeased. When I mentioned these visits to my oncologist she was pleased because her husband is a chiropractor! The Wildlife people were here today, planting trees along the dredged water and protecting them from beavers with heavy fencing. It is exciting to watch them work, knowing that it should help the salmon run. Unfortunately they cannot go beyond our property to the sandy area where the salmon can spawn because our neighbour refuses to allow anyone to touch or trespass her land. What a pity. ******************************* 12 September, 2012 Today's
problem is one that arises each year at this time when we are often
inundated with fruit and especially vegetables from people's gardens.
Yesterday we received a box of yellow wax beans and several zucchinis
(courgettes), while today a woman, whom we refer to as Mrs Kale,
brought armloads of kale and Swiss chard. I can imagine what is in
store for us in the near future, the only problem being is that we can
consume only a certain amount. The large tent and awning used for the
outdoor Liturgy have been taken down and put away to be used once again
next year.
***************************************************** 11 September, 2012
How peaceful it was to sleep in my own bed again. I awoke not quite fully rested
but anxious to begin another day. A number of telephone calls had to be made and
arrangements for services such as Pannikhidas, Molebens and a baptism. Before I
retire tonight I must remember to water the recently planted rhododendrons
before the soil becomes too dry. Being away for a few days has thrown me off my
regular routines and I was about to plan for a special meal tonight when I
suddenly realized that it was a strict fast day, the Beheading of John the
Baptist. And so, the special meal can wait for another day. I picked two figs
from our fig tree, the only ones to ripen this year because of our wet and cool
spring and early summer. There are dozens of smaller figs, the second crop, but
they will not ripen before the cool weather comes. On the other hand, we shall
have an abundance of our own apples. ******************************************************************* 10 September, 2012 On
this last day of the trip to Cranbrook, heavy clouds appeared in the
morning then lightning and thunder, followed by a downpour. As we drove
off, someone came running alongside, knocking on the window, to let us
know that we had a flat tire. Fortunately a B.C.A.A. truck appeared,
put air in the tire so that we could reach a repair shop where a
roofing screw was pulled out of the tire. Once the hole was plugged we
took off with a brief stop at Grand Forks, once more to have a bowl of
delicious borsch. Every two hours or so the scenery changed, from the
arid south Okanagan Valley with its heavily irrigated lush orchards and
vineyards to the heavy forests as we approached the Fraser Valley. And,
of course, it was good to be back at the monastery once again where
tomorrow we shall have to deal with all the tasks and problems one
generally encounters.
******************************************************************* 9 September, 2012
Vladika Lazar served the Divine Liturgy this morning in Cranbrook, B.C. at the
Saint Aidan Orthodox Church. Although the parish is small in number, a
favourable situation has happened where a church and church house are rented at
an extremely low cost which has helped this group of believers to survive. There
are a number of good voices in this parish and the Liturgy was most satisfying.
Later an Agape meal was served where we were able to meet all the parishioners
who were present for the service. The difficulty they are experiencing is in
finding a suitable priest who would be willing to undertake this missionary
work. We dropped off John at Creston, John who spent some time at the monastery
recently and then drove on, finally stopping in Rossland, an old mining area and
now also famous for its skiing sites
*********************************************************** 8 September, 2012
A pleasant stop in Kimberly was rewarded with a stroll through the downtown
mall, all ablaze with autumn flowers set in deep beds lined with rough stones. A
decidedly Bavarian atmosphere is present, as the buildings on either side of the
mall have been given this South German appearance. As well, German music pours
out of various shops. Since it was lunchtime, we stopped at the most Bavarian
looking restaurant and had a German (what else?) creamed potato soup with garlic
bread, a whole meal in itself and delicious as well. Once we arrived in
Cranbrook we were met at the church and left to rest in the church house next
door. The church is quite attractive and the church house cozy. The parish is
too small to be able to support a full-time priest, but if one could be found
who would be willing to work or at least have a part-time job, this parish could
certainly grow steadily. ******************************** Addendum: The area we have been
travelling in, heading for Cranbrook to serve at the mission there, is
filled with history. From the old mining town of Kaslo to Silverton,
now a ghost town, just over the mountains from Kaslo, is a difficult
drive, but well worth it. From there, one can go up the Slocan trench
to New Denver, where there is more Doukhobor history. To the North of
this is Revelstoke and Golden, where Vladika Lazar has been caring for
small communities of Greeks for over two decades. These are both
historic cities. If one then continues down the Rocky Mountain Trench
that runs between the Rockies and the Selkirk range, not only does one
find great beauty, but the early history of British Columbia is to be
found at every turn.
*******************************************7 September 2012
Kaslo is an old mining town that has been well preserved, with many of the original buildings still standing and in use. In fact, Kaslo has the oldest wooden city hall in Western Canada, complete with its late Victorian architecture. Its main street is full of colourful people, many of them old hippies who settled here decades ago. A quick stop again in Nelson meant lunch, which was just a bowl of borshch with black bread (by the way, this is the correct spelling, but apparently the scch sound is difficult for English speakers, so it is reduced to a “t”). It was delicious, but not as good as the one in Grand Forks. The weather continues to be beautiful as is the scenery. The air is drier than what we are used to on the West Coast, and the higher altitude is quite noticeable. ************************************** 6 September 2012 Driving through an area that still has a Doukhobor presence, that is, Castlegar, Krestova, Brilliant and other areas leading to Nelson, we found the entire area beautiful. No doubt this is, in part, because of the beautiful September weather that has made the scenery spectacular, after the rain and wind of yesterday. Nelson is one of British Columbia’s most charming cities and definitely underrated. The downtown streets were crowded with pedestrians and diners in the outdoor patios. Street musicians liven the air and the downtown still consists of many original buildings from the end of the 1800s and early 20th century. This area had attracted many of the “back to earth” movement hippies in the 1960s, as well as many conscientious objectors to the Viet Nam war, and many young American men took refuge here during the late 1960s and early 1970s. If you ever have the opportunity to this city on the shores of Kootney Lake, you will not be disappointed. Nearby is the famous Ainsworth Hot Springs with its hot mineral pool overlooking the lake. ********************************************* 5 September 2012 A large part of this day was spent driving through the interior of B.C. It is remarkable how unpopulated the interior is, as is evident after hours of gazing at endless forests and magnificent mountains. Some areas look exactly as they did fifty years, or even a century ago, and small villages appear the same as they would have 30-40 years ago. The only difference now being in the signs at coffee houses and motels advertising free WiFi. At Grand Forks we had a bowl of Dukhobour style Borshch that was delicious, in fact one of the best I have ever experienced in a restaurant. Strong winds arose in the area and it began to rain heavily. We decided to stop over in Castlegar in order not to drive after dark. ********************************************************** 4 September 2012 Vladika Lazar had planned to set out today for the interior of B.C. to serve at one of the missions. At the last moment, I decided to join him. I was anxious to rest after the whirlwind of events of this past week. Stopping for a coffee break in Hope, I felt quite lost in that I so seldom go anywhere for even the most brief change in scenery or rest. It was, however, not at all unpleasant to be separated from the daily work and surroundings to which I am so accustomed. Today’s stop is in Merritt, a small city in the dry Nicola Valley, famous for its country music festivals. The air here is completely different from the coast. It is a hot, dry climate suitable for cattle ranches. The hillsides are the colour and texture of rawhide, with ponderosa and other pine trees dominating the forested areas. Trembling aspen give colour to the landscape. The aboriginal or “First Nations” population is prominent here, and in a sense the city reminds one of what life was like several decades ago — this is a compliment. ************************************************************* 3
September, 2012
Today is Labour Day and all is quiet, although visitors did drop in
late in the morning and in mid-afternoon. Since John is leaving us
tomorrow to return home to his parents, he and Vladika Lazar drove to
Vancouver to have a brief visit with John's sister, her husband, and
their little baby. For lunch they went to the East Indian part of the
city and ate at a vegetarian Indian buffet, one we have eaten at many
times in the past. The food is delicious, but heartburn sometimes
results. A friend sent us a box of ripe beefsteak tomatoes and what a
treat that was -- tomato, cheese and onion sandwiches. How far removed
they are from the commercial ones that usually are not even worth
buying. Each September we are treated to these Okanagan tomatoes, then
we dram about them for the rest of the year. We were given some of
Father Andrew Somow's apparel and the cassock fits Brother Ephraim
perfectly, with only the simple adjustment of a couple of buttons.
******************** 2
September, 2012
This was the Labour Day long weekend, a time when many people take
their last vacation or break before the school year begins, and
consequently, we expected few people in church. Much to our surprise
and pleasure, the Divine Liturgy was very well attended. The customary
monthly healing service was served and prayers for everyone involved in
studying, both students and teachers. The Agape meal enabled most
people to visit with one another or to rekindle acquaintances. We
especially enjoyed the company of a group of Iranis, Vida, Allen, Peter
and Amir, who remained for most of the afternoon, conversing with many
of us and especially with Vladika Lazar. Such conversations can bring
much joy and peaceful harmony amongst people in an age when meaningful
communication is becoming a rarity. It was a great pleasure to bless
three automobiles today along with our newly acquired 1979 Ford pickup.
Among other visitors who dropped in during the day, we were pleased to
give a blessing to Mihaila and Michel who have become engaged and hope
to get married soon in a small Romanian village church.
******************** 1
September, 2012
We baptized a two year old child, Alexander, who cried and fussed when
the family arrived. Even during the baptism he ran about and was
difficult to control. Then, as soon as he was immersed thrice, he
changed completely, not once uttering a cry or behaving intolerably. He
wore a serious look and behaved admirably, much to the astonishment of
the parents and grandparents. Since the mother is expecting, we shall
be having another baptism but I hope it will be while the baby is still
young rather than in that period commonly known as the "terrible twos."
Vladika Lazar filmed our apple tree that is so loaded with apples that
the branches are touching the ground. Ordinarily the bears would have
eaten them all but the electric fence keeps them out.
******************** 31
August, 2012
On this last day of August I look back and see how most of this month
was spent worrying about last week's Borodino celebration. In a sense
there need not have been any worries because the occasion was splendid,
thanks to the work and concern of many people. While speaking to Elena,
who organized the musical and literary programme, she informed me that
some artists were already preparing for the 14 October Cossack
celebration. The feast of the Protection of the Theotokos (Pokrov) is
celebrated that day and it happens to be a beloved feast of the
Cossacks, certainly the Kuban Cossacks. Our pickup is back today and
running smoothly but I forgot to ask what the problem had been. Another
broadcast was made in the broadcasting studio -- because the carpet was
removed, the acoustics were quite different and, together with new
lighting, we shall see if there is any noticeable difference.
******************** 30
August, 2012
The new pickup truck refuses to start so the British Columbia
Automobile Association sent out a tow truck to take it back to Mission
for an inspection. Everyone seemed to be working harder, no doubt due
to Vladika Lazar's pep talk yesterday. Father Moses and I drove to the
Langley Hospital to conduct a healing service for an elderly woman and
also to give her Holy Communion. Onour way back we stopped at Apple
Betty's Buffet where we ate quite heartily. Let us hope that all the
food we ate will not create restless sleep.
******************** 29
August, 2012
After constantly complaining about the rain sometime ago, we actually
need it now. There were two minute showers today but not enough to do
any good. So, the water hose and watering can have had more than their
share of use lately. We looked at some double doors for the back of
what will eventually be our new church. Some of them are very
attractive and not unreasonably priced. It is rather exciting to see
what is taking place. The book on the Guardian Angel is being reprinted
for the umpteenth time even though some people informed us that it
would be a poor seller. While at a large office supply store, I bought
some ball point pens, even though my favourites are the fountain pens,
some from China, the others from Japan and, in my opinion, the latter
are superior (no racism here!) Our Fraser Valley is famous for its corn
and we have had some called "peaches and cream," a variety quite
popular but too bland in our opinion. In a couple of weeks we shall be
able to buy "Jubilee" corn, a superb variety eaten fresh from the cob.
******************** 28
August, 2012
What a pleasant surprise it was to see so many people in church today
for the celebration of the Dormition of the Most Holy Theotokos.
Because this is a work day, one would expect only a few, yet it was
almost like a Sunday's attendance. Of course, the Dormition fast ended
and all types of rich food was brought and practically everything was
consumed. It has been some time since we have had rain and the flower
beds and shrubs need constant watering. Today I purchased a pot of
red-veined sorrel to plant next to the ordinary sorrel which we often
use in soups and salads. Granny Svetlana's oat "kvas" was bottled
yesterday. Although it has an extremely low alcohol content, it is
tasty and, they say, good for one's health. She also gave us a bag of
Ivan-chai (fireweed) which is brewed like tea and also cures whatever
ailment one possesses.
******************** 27
August, 2012
The thought of sleeping in this morning was in my mind last night yet,
when the alarm sounded at daybreak, I scrambled to begin today's chores
and activities. A hospital visit was followed by both cleaning up after
yesterday's celebration and preparing for Great Vespers and the
blessing of loaves on this eve of the Dormition of the Theotokos.
Construction work is progressing, clearing the brambles has taken on a
new urgency, otherwise we shall become completely entangled in them,
and the usual editing and writing are progressing well. Just moments
ago there was a telephone call from the travel agency that arranged for
a busload of people to come here yesterday. Apparently, the visitors
were pleased with their trip here and wondered when another such trip
could be arranged. And, once again, it is time to retire and rest for
tomorrow's Dormition Liturgy.
******************** 26
August, 2012
This
was our big day and all went well. The weather was perfect -- sunny and
warm which was ideal for the outdoor Liturgy. Confessions ended
somewhere after the Great Entrance when I went into our outdoor altar
and assisted Vladika Lazar. At the dismissal, the cross and metal icon
were taken by two tall men who were followed by the clergy, icon of the
Theotokos and the flags. Many people carried a red carnation, each
which they later placed upon and around the monument. The "cross
procession" wended its way along the monastery road with people singing
"Save, O Lord, Thy People..." in various languages. First the cross was
blessed with prayers and holy water, then the monument in the same
manner. Then followed a short memorial service at which Svetlana
Tuchkova, a direct descendant of General Nikolai Alexeivich Tuchkov,
who fought at the Battle of Borodino in 1812, was invited to the upper
level of the memorial and presented with a bouquet of flowers. After
the return cross procession an Agape meal was served for over 200
people with plenty of food to feed everyone. Immediately after eating,
chairs were carried to the icon gallery where a programme had been
arranged and professionally presented by Elena Koutorjevskii who had
worked so hard on this over the last two months. After an introduction
to the war of 1812, Lilia Timoshkina, dressed in a peasant costume of
the Borodino region, sang a touching and melodious Russian folk
song. Interspersed throughout Elena's lecture were presentations, the
first one by Lilia, followed by a recitation of a Russian poem by
Alexei Barfalomeyev; a reading by Dennis Markov of a passage from
Tolstoy's "War and Peace"; a romance sung by Xenia Koutorjevskii;
several songs sung by Igor Chen; another reading by Elena Chen; and
finally, two Russian folk songs by Andrey Andriychik, a European
operatic baritone, born in Siberia, singing mainly in European opera
houses, now making our neighbouring city of Mission his home. If anyone
is interested, this can be seen on Youtube. Today's celebrations
exceeded our expectations and, among many other things, it has brought
us to another baptism this forthcoming weekend. Now we can relax
somewhat until the next event, whatever it might be.
******************** 25
August, 2012
Everyone worked hard today, or at least tried to. Deacon Philip was up
at dawn with the weedeater and brushcutter, clearing the encroaching
grass and brambles in the parking lot. In the early afternoon we
baptized Sophia who is just over a year old. A chubby cherub-like child
with a set of thick, wavy hair, she whimpered only slightly during the
baptism at which a large crowd of Romanians gathered. Her father is
Romanian, her mother Irani and she understands only English.The
reception was held outdoors where half a dozen tables were placed
together to form an exceptionally long table in the shade. With
the green lawn around us it felt like a late nineteenth century lawn
party or, at least, what my imagination would have conceived. Before
the baptism began, six year old Eugene asked if he could help as an
"altar boy," now that he has begun serving in his parish church. The
difficulty was that we had no vestment to fit him well and thus he had
to walk carefully to keep from tripping. Now it is bedtime and tomorrow
should be a great day.
******************** 24
August, 2012
Because I had a lot of contact with an elderly gentleman who, as it was
discovered, has tuberculosis, I was asked by our local Department of
Public Health to undergo a series of tests. The first one was a skin
test and the result was negative, as was the chest x-ray, then today I
got the result of the last one also a skin test. It too was negative,
which makes me feel much better. Although this elderly man has
tuberculosis, it is not contagious. More last minute preparations were
undertaken and, as soon as they were completed, others seemed to pop up
from nowhere. I spoke to one of the faithful readers of this diary,
Vladimir (Lloyd) Knutsen, and it was a joy to hear his voice, rich as
it is with its Norwegian undertones. The smell of fresh sawdust drifted
across the yard as John began cutting planks for the porch. We forgot
to prepare for tomorrow's baptism but, since it will take place at two
o'clock, there will be plenty of time and also to move the table with
the relics which were brought out earlier for Sunday afternoon's guided
tour of the monastery. I am already looking forward anxiously to next
week's calm, although we shall be celebrating the Dormition of the
Theotokos on Tuesday.
******************** 23
August, 2012
Since there was no lineup at the border, we arrived in Sumas about one
hour before the post office opened, which meant having a long coffee
break. We bade farewell to our old pickup as it was carried away by a
large truck that specializes in hauling away junk (such as vehicles no
longer in use). Our "new" pickup is a 1979 Ford Rambler which,
according to the men who came for our old truck, is a collector's item.
Then, lumber was delivered for building the porch where we will have
our "new" church. The dedication and commemoration of the new memorial
cross and monument were ready for us and they are very attractive. With
only two days left, things are falling into place. Fotiniya, bless her
soul, spent the entire day cleaning, sweeping, etc.etc including
preparing an entire supper for our hungry men.
******************** 22
August, 2012
A last minute brochure about this Sunday's celebration was prepared and
it looks splendid. We left it at the printer's because the colour
quality will be much clearer than if we used our own colour printer.
The covers have been put over the outdoor altar as well as a
large tent to protect the people from the early morning sun. Rather
than having to carry three thick service books on the procession, I
copied all three services -- dedication of the cross, then the monument
and finally the memorial service -- and arranged them into an easily
handled booklet. Vladika Lazar has been packaging book orders because
we hope to cross the border early tomorrow to mail the books.
******************** 21
August, 2012
Ioanna arrived early, bringing a carload of supplies for this Sunday's
celebration and also Fotiniya (Svetlana) with her grandson Maxim who
stayed much of the day cleaning everywhere. Fotiniya looks the typical
Russian grandmother who loves to toil in the church. She was on her
hands and knees, scrubbing our wooden staircases which are usually just
lightly swept by most people. Five year old Maxim brought his child's
watering can to water the flowers. Later, Father Michael brought
Vladika Seraphim for a visit which was pleasant and relaxing. After an
abundant and lenten meal we examined the display Elena had prepared for
this weekend. A group of Georgians stopped by for a blessing on their
way to Calgary. Also, Kakha and Gigle, our stalwart Georgian young men
who built the monastery sign, were in this group, for they decided to
move to Calgary, at least temporarily. Later still, we came into
possession of an old pickup truck, as our previous one surrendered its
spirit to continue existing. Let us hope that this one will be of use
to us for hauling garbage, transporting building material and generally
being useful for all things.
******************** 20
August, 2012
The two excavators have been taken away and the field looks odd with
bare patches, trampled grass and an almost sad and untidy appearance.
The water is murky and uninviting but we know very well that everything
will soon begin to look as it should. I must repeat, once again, how
grateful we are to the Department of Fisheries and Wildlife for
undertaking this necessary task. We were saddened to learn that we are
losing our Georgian lads who are moving to Calgary. Both of them, Kakha
and Gigli will be missed by everyone but, after experiencing Alberta's
long and cold winters, they might be prepared to return to our not
quite semi-tropical area of British Columbia. It has become somewhat
cooler and that enables us to work outdoors more easily.
******************** 19
August, 2012
We celebrated the feast of the Transfiguration of Jesus Christ today
with the blessing of fruit at the end of the Liturgy. There were many
people present and the singing was good until the blessing of the fruit
which was filmed. We sang the feast's troparion thrice, each time with
greater dissonance -- perhaps that was good for our humility. Nick and
Pelagia came unexpectedly from the Okanagan and it was great to see
them again. Four or five families were here for the first time and it
is always pleasant to become acquainted with new people. This does not
mean that all these people will be coming to the monastery regularly
because they have their own parishes, yet they are drawn here for
various reasons. Now we have a new week ahead of us and the 1812-2012
celebration next Sunday.
******************** 18
August, 2012
The various people who visited today had to sit with me on the shaded
verandah because it was too hot elsewhere. There, at least, one could
feel a slight breeze. We were given a large assortment of lentils,
beans, etc, pulse actually, to last us a long time, and about twenty
pounds of frozen fish which we quickly put into a small freezer that
was recently donated. It must be admitted that I was not too keen about
the freezer until the fish arrived. We found a good spot for the
freezer, plugged it in and placed the frozen fish into it. In this heat
we were invaded by minute fruit flies that we are now attempting to get
rid of. The internet had some good and simple suggestions. Most of the
leaflets we distribute have been taken so more had to be printed in
various languages. The most popular one is "How Often Must One Receive
Holy Communion?" although they all are picked up by those who visit us.
This is the first weekend in a long time that we have had no baptisms
or crownings and it feels as if something is missing.
******************** 17
August, 2012
The one tonne granite monument was delivered early this morning and,
naturally it was not as simple as expected. A pattern was given us
earlier showing precisely where to drill two holes in the concrete base
into which steel pins were to be inserted. We did exactly as instructed
but when the truck arrived it lowered the monument with its extended
arm and, lo and behold, the two holes they had drilled at the base of
the rock were slightly off. As a result, the monument was left sitting
about two inches above the concrete. Some slabs were placed below and
we will provide a concrete base and collar to support it. It makes one
wonder though, we are capable of sending equipment to the moon and even
Mars, but something as simple as setting a monument on its base seems
to baffle people's minds. Still, it does look impressive and I can
scarcely wait for its dedication next week. The two immense excavators
are setting in the middle of the field, waiting to be collected and
driven back to wherever they came from. A marvelous job was done and
now we have to wait until water is allowed to drain from Hatzic Lake so
that the water in the Chilqua Slough will flow once again. The
Theophany Brook which is directly in front of the monastery was blocked
a few years ago by beavers who build not a dam but a suspended or
floating island, creating an isthmas. The excavator cleared all that
this morning. All the work done was authorized by the Department of
Fisheries and Wildlife. It would have been illegal for us to have done
that on our own.
******************** 16
August, 2012
It is uncanny how certain matters that were almost impossible to
resolve have, in one short day, become settled. The more irritating
they became, the more remote seemed the resolution, yet in a matter of
hours, half a dozen such irritants vaporized into thin air (whatever
thin means in this expression). One endless task is watering the flower
beds and shrubs to keep them from wilting. John worked hard all day
after material from the builders' supply store was delivered. He dug
four large holes, mixed concrete, poured it and, after it sets, he will
begin building the walkway at the back of the icon gallery which will
become our major church. There is still much work to be done but one
can already feel a church developing from a large hall. Elena came and
set up a display for our 1812 celebration so that we are almost ready
for this important event.
******************** 15
August, 2012
It has been another hot day but we are becoming accustomed to the heat.
It feels especially pleasant early in the morning or at dusk when the
air becomes noticeably cooler. A couple of hefty middle aged men
dropped in to see if we wanted our monastery road paved. The idea is
good but we cannot afford it. Besides, there have been so many sad
stories about people having had quick paving and re-roofing jobs with
tar only to find the work unacceptable and the work crews long gone.
The fisheries people continue with their work and we with ours. Three
long tables were set up in the icon gallery, covered with long cloths
and display books placed on top.
******************** 14
August, 2012
On this first day of the Dormition Fast, our visitors were treated to
whole wheat bread and honey, along with slightly salted cucumbers,
Russian style, that they brought along. A gigantic excavator worked all
day along the Chilqua Slough, digging out the mass of grass that had
overgrown the waterway. It was beginning to look as it did when we
first moved here. The choking grass is caused by the nutrients of the
upstream fields that are periodically covered with manure from the
dairy farms. It would be nice if the Department of Fisheries could
influence the local farmers in disposing of wastes. The nearby
elementary school was once closed down for a couple of days because
some of the children began fainting from the gas released by the manure
as it was spread on the adjacent field. The two owners of a Vancouver
Travel agency came for a visit with their slightly salted cucumbers, as
they are planning on bring a busload of mostly elderly people and
others with no means of transportation for the celebration on the last
Sunday of August and they wanted to familiarize themselves with the
monastery and what would be taking place.
******************** 13
August, 2012
Vladika Lazar arrived back from Toronto at noon, so I drove to the
Vancouver International Airport to collect him. His flight arrived
somewhat early so that we left immediately for the monastery. Later we
had to take George's truck back to his place, as it was used to bring
tables for the displays to be prepared for our 1812-2012 celebration.
Brother Ephraim asked mt to mention the numerous shooting stars that
appear nightly. I must admit that I have not seen them but he was
enthralled with them. The workmen from Fisheries arrived early to begin
work on clearing the slough in order to reestablish the salmon run. At
first they thought that they might need as many as twenty five
truckloads of branches and limbs to use as pads for their excavators
but the marshy area proved to have solid ground below so that only the
half dozen loads were used. It will probably take them a few days to
complete this task but it pleases us immensely, knowing that they hope
to have the chum and coho salmon runs reappear.
******************** 12
August, 2012
The four or five fans in church kept us from disappearing into vaporous
clouds. People wore their light weight summer clothing except for the
clergy with their six layers of vestments. Still, the Divine Liturgy
was joyous, especially with all the little children about and the
expectant mothers who will assure us of bountiful Orthodox offspring.
Several new families were present in addition to those who are visiting
from other provinces. Later in the afternoon we moved from one shaded
area to another to find some comfort which we finally found under some
gigantic cedar trees. Most important of all, not a single mosquito was
to be seen -- their days should be over for this year. Now that
twilight is approaching, one can notice the beginning of evening's
coolness and the comfort it offers those of us who find the summer heat
oppressive.
******************** 11
August, 2012
There scarcely was time to step outdoors because we had an early
baptism which was soon followed by a wedding. By the time the meal was
over it was time to begin Great Vespers. In spite of the heat (and
several fans) we managed to keep from melting. And now, before I melt
into a little puddle of water, I must retire or I shall not be in any
position to serve tomorrow. Goodnight everyone!
******************** 10
August, 2012
Now we have at least six loads of limbs, branches and even small trees
piled up in the field, looking like a clean up after a hurricane or a
tornado. It is all for the best, if our slough (slow-moving water) can
be cleaned and the salmon return. When I went to the local general
store, where our post office is located, a palpable sense of uneasiness
could be felt and an understandable one as well when I was informed
that a dangerous criminal from Louisiana was observed in our area. This
leaves us to feel vulnerable as well as uneasy. If anyone is interested
in acquiring a hand painted icon of excellent style and modestly
priced, please let us know, as we have an experienced iconographer who
is taking on commissions to paint icons.
******************** 9
August, 2012
On this first day of Vladika Lazar's absence, something had to happen,
as it often does just after he leaves. I noticed a huge pile of tree
branches and limbs in the middle of our field, a pile about eight feet
wide, at least as high and about twelve feet long. It seeemed
reasonable to think that someone simply dumped it. Then, another truck
pulled up with more of the same. I rushed to intercept the driver but
by the time I reached him he was already stuck in a low lying and
grassy area. In the end it was the Fisheries people who had all this
material delivered to make a "pad" in the marshy area for their
machinery. What a relief that was and, knowing that, it is now easy to
endure the sight of these gigantic piles. Vladika Lazar telephoned from
Toronto to say that he had arrived safely, was met at the airport, then
taken out for a meal of lobster and three kinds of shrimp. (What envy
on my part!) We had pancakes for supper.
********************8
August, 2012
A last minute trip across the border had to be made because a seminary
asked for a number of our books to be shipped out as soon as possible
for use as textbooks in the next academic year. Upon returning there
was a flurry of activity in preparing for Vladika Lazar's flight to
Toronto for a few days where he will be the guest speaker at the
Orthodox Peace Fellowship and he will also serve at Christ the Saviour
Sobor. The tarp has been removed from the footing of the cross in the
field and, I must say it does look impressive.With the supports adding
to its height, the cross must be about twelve feet high. We had another
water fright today, as the water ceased running. The cause of this
problem was the number of fans we had turned on in the basement. By
unplugging a couple of them the pump was able, once again, to do its
job.
********************
7 August, 2012
How does one describe an extraordinary day? From the beginning, no
doubt. In this one day the monastery has had more telephone calls than
it receives in a week -- it never stopped ringing. A young woman from
Wildlife and Fisheries Department was here to inform us of their plans.
They want to make a showpiece of our section of the Chilqua Slough and
bring back the previous salmon runs. They intend to do cleaning,
dredging, planting trees, sitting up beaver fences, and even providing
special nests for the ducks. Naturally we are pleased because the
slough is being choked with grass and the salmon have vanished. Then,
several men came to erect the three metre cross in the field which will
face the monument. I was under the impression that they wanted to
complete it today, so they may have to work late into the night. This
cross, by the way, will commemorate the 1812 Napoleonic invasion of
Russia and, at the monument itself, facing this tall cross there will
be delivered a one ton granite memorial, also commemorating the war of
1812 between Canada and the U.S. (we won!) While the workmen were busy
I decided to wash a vestment by hand. When no more water could be drawn
from the faucet, I immediately sensed danger which, in fact, was not
lurking but had already burst upon us. As I descended the basement
stairs, I could see water everywhere! John quickly unplugged the pump
and the water ceased gushing out. The brass valve had cracked in half
and water kept pouring out. While the plumber was called, John and
Father Moses grabbed buckets and began the thankless job of cleaning
up. Fortunately we have a heavy duty vacuum that can sop up water so
that the carpets were dealt with immediately. Now there are fans
everywhere and I am confident that all will be well and dry in three or
four days, thanks also to the summer heat. By comparison everything
else that occurred was of little importance. In all this commotion I
managed to burn my hand quite badly with sizzling oil.
******************** 6
August, 2012
We arrived in New Westminster with a few extra minutes to spare before
beginning the Proskomedia and then the Divine Liturgy at the Romanian
Orthodox Church. The searing sun's rays were surely going to be a trial
for the servers but fortunately it began to cloud over and it became
bearable. From there it was on to the Russian Orthodox Sobor to serve a
baptism for tiny Olga who was content just to be held. She piped up
briefly after the third immersion but quickly returned to her former
peacefulness. For this baptism we all were able to attend, even Father
Moses who usually dislikes being away from the monastery. Visitors and
pilgrims have been coming and going, at times making it difficult to
know what is actually happening. One thing is certain though, I shall
be resting my weary feet tonight and recharging my batteries for
whatever awaits us tomorrow.
******************** 5 August, 2012
It is scorching today, and any heat-filled adjective that can be
conjured up. I did enjoy serving the Divine Liturgy at the Holy
Resurrection Russian Orthodox Sobor even though it was hot and my
vestments, the lightest ones I had, were damp with perspiration. On the
other hand, Vladika Lazar served at the Holy Trinity Romanian Orthodox
Church where apparently people almost melted away before one's eyes.
After the service I rested in the church's breezeway where a light wind
refreshed me. Then it was on to bless a house, a large meal, and the
long journey home. Visitors were still here when I returned and they
gladly polished off the mimosa salad, blini and piroshki I brought
back. Father Moses served at the monastery to the delight of many
people because he has a simple, sincere, and direct manner. Deacon
Philip sent two crates of freshly picked blueberries with me to
Vancouver where the parishioners enjoyed them during the coffee hour.
********************4 August, 2012
Today, on the other hand, has been so hot that we feel like toasted
crumpets. Could it be that the dog days are now upon us? As it happens
each year, sweltering in the evening heat during Great Vespers, I dream
of winter evenings when a heavier sweater is needed to keep warm. But,
summer is here so there should be no complaints. A middle aged couple
was baptized today in a quiet, peaceful and, I might say, tender
baptism. Their children had been baptized in infancy but this couple
was not because of the repression that existed earlier in the Soviet
Union. All went splendidly although I initially forgot to give the
godparents their candles to hold. I keep thinking of going to bed
earlier tonight because the trip to serve in Vancouver tomorrow will be
an early one, yet I expect it will be thwarted because it is at such
times that late telephone calls have to be answered and falling asleep
made more difficult.
******************** 3
August, 2012
A
bright sun, but not blinding; hot, but not scorching; and not a
mosquito in sight. What more could one wish? The foundation for the
1812 monument is almost ready and someone will come soon to erect the
huge cross in the field facing the monument. After having spent hours
worrying and fretting, everything is now coming together. It was
great speaking to you, Father John. Possibly the green and yellow bird
you described is the typical Saskatchewan Hopping Prairie Chicken and,
it it isn't, it ought to be. The four early blooming rhododendrons we
planted looked wilted this morning, one in particular. Upon giving them
a generous watering they quickly perked up. When I went to purchase
fertilizer for the outdoor shrubs, I noticed that the directions on the
box were given in English, which is natural, and Spanish, which is not,
at least here, but there was nothing in French. Quel Dommage!!! One
thing is certain though, we are not prepared to offer a daily diary in
French or in any other language: English suffices.
******************** 2 August,
2012
Anyone who has had the responsibility of insuring the health and well
being of relatives or friends, particularly the aged who can be
both inflexible and recalcitrant, knows how exhausting, more mentally
than physically, a day can be when one is constantly on the telephone,
contacting various agencies that must necessarily move slowly, and
often in a bureaucratic manner. Such was my day but I am truly grateful
that I can still manage to cope with other people's problems aside from
my own. I had a terrible shock when the plumber dropped by to leave an
invoice for work done last week. The bill was grossly enormous until it
was pointed out to me that I was reading it incorrectly and, on the
contrary, the total was less than half what I had first imagined. What
a relief! Our neighbour brought us huge mounds of yellow-red plums,
delicious and very ripe. I gave the plumber a large bag full of these
plums and, being Italian, he thought of how good they would be for
making plum liqueur.
******************** 1 August,
2012
It was good to see our dear friends from Edmonton, to have tea and a
lovely conversation at the refectory table. David Goa and Vladika Lazar
were filmed while carrying on an important dialogue on aspects of
Orthodox clergy. You can watch this on
canadianorthodoxbroadcasting.ca/. It was also sad to be in a situation
where help had to be offered to the elderly and sick but who refused to
be recipients of such assistance. Alas, it often happens that in old
age, people begin to become lost in their thoughts, upset and confused,
and thus they lash out in anger, usually against the people who are
closest to them. It requires patience and care to cope with such
behaviour and, no matter how offensive their actions and words might
be, we must constantly remember that they are a part of God's people
and deserve our love and attention.
******************** 31 July, 2012
The highlight of the day was blessing a house in a nearby city. This
service is always enjoyable but, for some reason, today's was special.
While blessing all the rooms I chanced upon the resident cat, both
tabby and tubby which drew back immediately when some of the holy water
was sprinkled in its direction. A leisurely meal followed during which
we had a most interesting conversation that brightened my spirits. By
the time I returned home I was ready to cope with anything, spiritual
or temporal. And thus passed the last day of July with the realization
that half of summer has vanished.
******************** 30
July, 2012
After some great events one can have an anticlimactic feeling and this
is how I felt today, grateful for such a glorious feast day, yet with a
tinge of melancholy wishing that yesterday's uplifting joy would
continue for a long time. The only thing that was accomplished this day
was a trip to the Vancouver General Hospital to visit our elderly
friend George who has been in and out of hospitals for a number of
weeks. He might be released soon but is still quite weak. After this
trip to the city I myself felt weak and tired. I keep forgetting that
old age takes its toll and I no longer have the energy I once
possessed, speaking of which, I was asked to travel to another city
tomorrow for a house blessing, something that I enjoy serving. Besides,
by that time I will have recovered from my weariness.
******************** 29
July, 2012
There always is a feeling of apprehension before any major event, and
so it was with today's feast of the Theotokos, "Joy of Canada". Will
the weather cooperate? Will enough people be present? Will the
mosquitoes eat us? Will there be enough food? etc, etc. I am pleased to
say that all went will with no impediments. The Divine Liturgy began
with just a small gathering present but soon, people kept arriving and
the large icon gallery was filled. We decided not to serve outdoors
because of the troublesome mosquitoes. With two fans turned on "high"
the temperature was quite bearable and no one suffered from the heat.
Larisa from Vancouver Island arrived unexpectedly and she brought the
words to "Heavenly Queen" which is a popular hymn sung in many Orthodox
churches in Russia. A very brief rehearsal with her, Lilia and Galina
was enough so that, instead of Psalm 33 before Holy Communion, they
joined by others, sang this hymn with beauty and grace that touched
everyone. At the end of the service we all processed outdoors with
about thirty-five icons and relic boxes being carried behind the Joy of
Canada icon carried by four strong men. Igor, our bell ringer gave us a
joyous and triumphant peal as the "Cross Procession" moved along the
monastery road to the monument, all the while the singers chanting the
troparion to the Joy of Canada. A Moleben to the Theotokos was served
with Vladika Lazar giving a brief sermon. The procession began to
retrace its steps, finally reaching the gatehouse where the icon was
placed in full view so that each person could venerate it, kiss the
cross, receive antidoron and be blessed with holy water. I was amazed
at how quickly food was placed on the serving tables, after which it
was blessed and we all began to eat with healthy appetites. Because of
the large crowd, some ate in the kitchen, on the stairs and even
outside because by this time the sun had appeared and the mosquitoes
disappeared. While many people left soon after the Agape meal, others
stayed on to clear the tables and wash dishes while Photina (Svetlana)
remained until almost six o'clock to wash the floor, tables, windows
and anything else that had need of cleaning. Earlier, some people went
to the church where we served a Moleben for health and a memorial for
the departed. This truly has been a glorious day, rich in blessings and
full of joy. Now I can rest my tired feet and relive the day's
highlights.
******************** 28 July, 2012
This is perfect weather for old people like me because it is warm but
overcast with a slightly cool breeze. Much of the day has been spent in
preparing for tomorrow's feastday. I brought out all the flags and hung
them on the south side of the verandah as we have usually done over the
years. In the early afternoon we baptized an adult male who was to have
been baptized together with his teenaged son but the latter could not
take time off work so we shall probably baptize him next month. We have
had so many baby baptisms that I almost forgot what it is like to
baptize an adult (much easier than a squirming and crying baby).
Somehow a tradition has arisen that after each baptism there is a big
meal offered and today was no exception. By the time we began to serve
Great Vespers I am already worried about possible heartburn. An icon
was recently given to the monastery, the subject of which was correct
though the style was not canonical. After wondering what to do with it,
we replaced it with a copy of the Joy of Canada. It now looks majestic
and regal with its inside frame of gold metalwork.
******************** 27
July, 2012
It has been cloudy all day which means that it was most pleasant
outdoors. A neighbourhood woman who came yesterday to weed the flower
garden returned today, and she managed to dig up yards of wild morning
glory roots (I believe they were ones called "the devils guts" in
England because they are so long and almost impossible to destroy) and
also brambles, roots and all. I enjoy gardening but this is a little
too much for me. Brother Ephraim made another round of candles
amounting to several hundred, as we have almost run out. Someone
mentioned the following mutilated message which, true or otherwise, is
quaint. Apparently it appeared in a Roman Catholic Convent's weekly
newsletter: "Please remember to pray for Sister Marie-Claire and Sister
Rose who have lately been sick of this convent." Speaking of confused
syntax, this is an excellent example but one so many of us are capable
of making.
******************** 26 July, 2012
It appears that this Sunday's Divine Liturgy will be held in the Icon
Gallery rather than outdoors, mainly because of the mosquitoes. We can
easily endure them but city folk cannot and women's cosmetics seem to
attract these bothersome insects more than anything else. So, we have
begun preparing the gallery by taking everything there that is
essential for serving a Liturgy. A couple of women came to do weeding
today and fortunately we were around because they began at the wrong
place. Added to that was the person who came to pour the concrete base
for the 1812 monument. It ended up in the wrong place but somehow we
shall be able to remedy the error. Greetings to our Orthodox friends in
Salt Lake City. It was good to hear from you, surrounded as you are by
the pervasive Mormons.
******************** 25 July, 2012
We crossed the border to mail books and, for some unknown reason, there
was no billing today. Each time we go to Sumas, Washington to mail
books, we pay a border crossing fee of $10.75 U.S. but once in a while
the computers are down and we pay nothing. The plumber did arrive this
morning, rather, the plumbers apprentice and at first I was not
terribly pleased but he seems to have done a good job. Now we shall
await the bill that will be mailed to us, remembering what plumbers
fees are like. My telephone call to Kazakhstan was to an elderly ill
woman who is mainly on her own with little help. Please pray for Maria
Arkhipovna who is in constant pain. There is nothing worse than being
old, ill and practically abandoned.
******************** 24 July, 2012
O plumber, O plumber, where art thou, and when comest thou hence? He
was to have been here early to do a couple of jobs but was unable to do
so. Apparently he will come early tomorrow instead. I think that the
evil-one tempts us with small annoyances rather than the usual great
problems because they are time consuming and terribly bothersome. Our
ivy-covered arbour was becoming so dense that it was almost impossible
to pass through. With a good set of secateurs, I managed to create a
decent passageway so that now, our bell-ringer can quickly reach the
belfry to ring out the good tidings. Another annoyance was the clothes
dryer's vent hose that had come loose and filled the basement with
dampness. Once the clamped had been screwed on tightly, the two loads
of laundry could then be dried. At the same time we are working on
reprinting three titles and packaging book orders. I tried to telephone
Kazakhstan on my computer but, since I did not have an account, my call
did not go through which means that I shall have to use Vladika Lazar's
computer.
******************** 23
July, 2012
It felt like early November -- cool, dark and stead rain which
eventually stopped. For some reason the telephone kept ringing until I
was prepared not to answer it any more, but I was nevertheless kept
answering. Today it was from people asking for prayers for various
reasons. At least four were unwelcome calls with recorded messages. The
last couple concerned people in Vancouver who would like to come to the
monastery at the end of August for the 1812-2012 celebration, but who
have no transportation. It appears that a travel agency hopes to gather
enough people to hire a bus to bring them here, which is not a bad
idea. Let us hope that this enthusiasm does not wane. As you already
know, Monday is garbage day but it can also be full of surprises. Often
on Sundays people will leave unusual things in our refrigerator or tea
cabinet. Today I discovered six receptacles, each containing a
different mixture of herbs and spices which will be useful in the
future. A bread knife that had been taken away by mistake a couple of
years ago was returned, and new tea towels keep popping out of drawers
(not a complaint).
******************** 22
July, 2012
What an outstanding time we observed this day. I thought that people
must have confused today with next Sunday's celebration of Joy of
Canada.People kept coming and coming and, fortunately, I was not
serving because I had confessions that lasted long into the Divine
Liturgy. As usual, the singing is slightly rough at the beginning but
its quality kept rising and by the time we reached the Symbol of Faith,
it was so powerful that I almost stopped singing so that I could listen
to the glorious strains. The Lord's Prayer and Psalm 33 were equally
inspiring. The crowning of the marriage of Marina and Sergei was
beautiful and it touched the hearts of all of us. Because of the crowd,
the braver people went outdoors to eat, in spite of the presence of
mosquitoes. A group of Lipovani (Russian Old Believers) were
present and enjoyed speaking to our own local Lipovani. Some where in
all this excitement we found time to have a singing rehearsal that let
us know how we have progressed in our singing. Exhausted at the end of
the day and emboldened by Vladika Lazar's sermon, we can only give
thanks for such a wondrous day .Let us pray that it might be as
wonderful next week.
******************** 21 July, 2012
Five month old Maxim was baptized early this afternoon and, unlike his
older brother Vladimir, he scarcely uttered a sound. His mother said
that if she said, one, two, three, dive" he would gladly go underwater
which is exactly what happened. But, no doubt this is due to mother and
child water and swimming training. His brother Vladimir whom we
baptized two years ago, began crying the minute he saw all of us in
black with beards and he did not stop until they were on the road home.
Today he was totally different and anxious to talk to everyone.
Although there were only about twenty people present, enough food was
brought to feed a whole battalion. Everyone sat in the hall for a
couple of hours before leaving for home. All that food freed me from
having to prepare supper. Before leaving yesterday, David realized that
his camera was missing so we made several thorough searches but to no
avail. Since it was a professional and very expensive camera, we were
most concerned. Fortunately, he telephoned to say that it was found
somewhere in his luggage! And so, it is time to retire and think about
tomorrow's Divine Liturgy and whatever might befall upon us.
******************** 20
July, 2012
Rain has returned which means that it is cooler, we do not have to
water the flower beds, and the mosquitoes are not visible. Our guest,
David Goa, has left on his trip back to Edmonton. He has been a friend
of the monastery for almost thirty years and, in fact, we almost
consider him to be one of the monks (naturally, his wife would not
think so). I had to repair the chain on Vladika Lazar's panagia and,
modesty aside, a good job was done. Does that mean that I possibly
missed my calling as a jeweller? I am rushing to prepare today's diary
to pass on to Father Moses because Vladika and I will b e going to the
Holy Trinity Romanian Orthodox Church to attend an Akathist and, more
importantly, to hear a lecture given by a theologian from Romania whom
Vladika knows quite well. If there will be anything outstanding I shall
mention it in tomorrow's diary.
******************** 19 July, 2012
This was a most interesting day because a good deal of it was spent in
broadcasting. Vladika Lazar and David Goa made three broadcasts on the
Divine Liturgy, explaining the meaning of many difficut words and
phrases. There was nothing catechetical, rather, profound explanations
of many troublesome things. Youcan watch them by gong onto:
canadianorthodoxbroadcasting.ca/ I was the cameraman not
that it involves much but at one point I had to flee because I felt a
coughing spell approaching. The lawns look good and the perennial
fuschia is becoming covered with hundreds of small blooms. Before I
went to town to buy provisions, I was asked to bring back some ice
cream. But how could I do it in this heat? Then I remembered that we
had an insulated picnic bag, as a result, the ice cream was brought
back without it melting or even getting soft. By the way, it was meant
to be eaten with a fruit salad.
******************** 18 July, 2012
A few hours can make such a drastic difference in our temperature. When
I stepped outside, it felt quite chilly but out of the strong breeze
the coolness was very welcome. Vladika Lazar had to have his pinched
nerve tended to again and, after the treatment, he seems to feel
better. Also, his visit to the Cancer Clinic brought good news which
certainly is encouraging. At our age, any positive news about our
health is welcome. Brother Ephraim spent most of the day on our tractor
lawn mower cutting grass on all the lawn and along the driveway. Our
friend, David Goa, who has been visiting us is on a strict gluten-free
diet which, at first, appears to be difficult to adhere to and to
prepare acceptable food. It has been a challenge to prepare such
gluten-free food, yet not difficult. It is interesting to note that a
number of restaurants prepare gluten-free food and one can find them on
the internet. This also gives us the chance to eat more fresh fruit and
vegetables.
******************** 17 July, 2012
More heat and humidity but the gardens are looking superb. Valentina
showed up early, asking for a blessing to clean up here at the
monastery. She cleaned the gatehouse chapel which has not seen a broom
or any cleaning material for a long time. In addition, she scrubbed the
paths, the corridors, washed windows and kept busy most of the day. The
work she did is immediately noticeable. Deacon Philip brought a box of
freshly picked blueberries, the first of this season. They are large,
juicy, sweet and a real treat. Vladika Lazar and David Goa made two
broadcasts today, the first one on mercy but I do not yet know the
subject of the second one. Our little old George has been transported
to the Vancouver General Hospital so that it will be more difficult for
us to visit him.
******************** 16
July, 2012
Today's humidity has been difficult to endure, particularly with the
mosquitoes attacking us from all directions. Vladika Lazar and our
guest David Goa drove to Vancouver to speak to Mikhail Lennikov who has
spent the last three years in a Lutheran Church, seeking sanctuary to
keep from being deported from Canada. His plight is fairly well known
and, undoubtedly, few of us could endure such a situation. Deacon
Philip brought two small blueberry bushes and planted them near the
apple and fig trees that are protected by an electric fence. The apple
tree is groaning (if that is possible) with apples, more than we ever
have had, so I hope that the electric fence will keep the bears away.
The fig tree has its usual amount of figs, just a few dozen but that in
itself is enough to make us realize that we live in a mild region.
******************** 15
July, 2012
I thought that the chanting in the Liturgy was mainly robust yet quite
harmonious. The new Cherubikon was most successful in spite of our
original apprehensions and it will become even better in the future.
Our new triple "Lord have mercy" is slightly rough but we managed it
sufficiently well enough to encourage us to keep it. It was especially
nice to see Alexandra and her little daughter Isabella from New York
City, visiting Yaya and Papou. The singers were enthused enough to want
a singing rehearsal after the Agape meal but I was not able to attend
it, as I usually do, because we had two weddings to serve. It is
amazing how many people we have had here at the monastery recently who
have come from Vladivostok as I probably mentioned before and there
were more today. A sudden downpour caused our lights to flicker but we
did not lose our power.
******************** 14
July, 2012
Felicitations aujourd 'hui a nos amis en France. Our travellers have
rested up after their lengthy journey and today they could once again
enjoy being outdoors here at the monastery. Alas, the mosquitoes have
come out in earnest but at least the local authorities have done
something to quell the Culex or Anapheles (I am not sure which)
invasion. They do say that consuming great quantities of garlic helps
to keep them at a distance (and perhaps most people as well). I was
upset when I saw that our huge store removed all the plants they had
for sale because that means that the transplanting season has come to
an end. Well, it actually has but it then feels as if much of summer
has passed when we, in reality are only now beginning to experience it.
"Tempus fugit"!
******************** 13
July, 2012
This is Friday the thirteenth and nothing bad has happened. Perhaps
some of our foreign friends are not aware that superstitious people
here have always feared this day. So much for superstitions. Our dear
friend David Goa arrived from Edmonton and, we hope, he shall be our
guest for a few days. After having driven most of the day with little
rest, he set out with me to met Vladika Lazar and Brother Ephraim at
the Vancouver Airport. The flight was on schedule but our travellers
were tired after the lengthy journey. Still, they enjoyed their trip
immensely and spoke of the warm reception they received. Brother
Ephraim was in Britain for the first time and was awed by the history
and architecture to be found everywhere. So, you readers in Britain,
please know that our travellers had so much good to say about you and
your country. In fact, Brother Ephraim is already speaking with a
marked English accent and has become a true Anglophile. And thank you
for the greetings you sent to me, as I often think of you.
******************** 12
July, 2012
A nice and lovely Liturgy was served on this feast of Saints Peter and
Paul. We then proceeded to break the fast with a delicious meal with
visiting and conversing. Joanna brought armfuls of flowers for the
feast and, indeed, the church had a most festive appearance. Energy
seems to be ebbing because of the heat but it is a welcome summer heat,
one that has evaded us for so long. We had an early evening baptism
which is quite unusual for us but that was the only time that the
godfather was free. The family of the baptized child and their friends
are all from Siberia and, I might add, we have been having so many
people from Siberia and Vladivostok (which is not considered to be
Siberia but the Far East) coming for baptisms in particular. We were
treated to Siberian okroshka, a cold soup of vegetables with the liquid
being kvas, a beverage made from black bread -- you either like it
immensely or ---------.
******************** 11
July, 2012
Father Moses and I visited George to tend to his needs after which we
visited the same East Indian fabric store I had been at recently. We
bought enough material for a light weight summer cassock for Father
Moses who was amazed at the array of beautiful materials. Later I spoke
to Vladika Lazar in Oxford on Skype and he informed me that someone
wanted to speak to me. It was Nina whose voice is so familiar and who,
together with Christian, had shown us much of the best sights of Oxford
earlier this year. Great Vespers proved to be difficult for us because
of the heat. With two large fans humming so loudly, we could scarcely
hear ourselves at times but at least they allowed us to survive. It was
too hot to prepare anything for supper so we had a large platter of
assorted cold vegetables. The refrigerator, meanwhile, has milk, butter
and cheese, waiting for tomorrow's end of the Apostles' Fast.
******************** 10
July, 2012
When it comes to helping the needy I often feel that I am the one in
need, but not today when I rushed about fulfilling errands and the
requests of others. It is precisely at such times when I am so grateful
for the health and energy I possess (failing that that might be). A
brief visit to an East Indian fabric shop was rewarding as I bought
some necessary material. They used to supply us with gallooning when we
needed it for our vestments but now that we have a good collection of
vestments in various colours, such gallooning is not necessary. Some of
the material used to cover the holy table and analoys in our church
came from them since they were able to provide us with the most
beautiful cloth whereas what we can now purchase from Eastern Europe
and the Balkans tends to be somewhat ostentatious, overpowering and not
so mystically poetic as that of the Indian origin. It is interesting to
note that vestments made twenty or thirty years ago and earlier, were
more subtle than the contemporary ones. In matters of taste and style,
simplicity always prevails over the flashy.
******************** 9
July, 2012
As I entered our little post office, located in an old general store in
the hamlet of Dewdney, the post mistress asked if I had seen the
lightning display in the middle of the night. Of course I did not
because I had been sleeping so soundly. I did hear the rain at about
five a.m. but it did not last long. On hot days, such as today, there
can be thunder storms and the noise can be deafening as it echoes
throughout the valley. Father Moses and I hauled away five gigantic
garbage bags and seven recycling bags that had been sitting in the
lower corridor. It was such a relief to get rid of them. On most
Mondays we eat leftovers from the Sunday Agape meal and today was no
different, although we did have some local strawberries that had no
resemblance whatsoever to those strawberries one sees in stores and at
green grocers. These were delicate, juicy and delicious and already
some were spoiling after only three days.
******************** 8
July, 2012
Even though all fans had been turned on, it was hot in church. I wore
the lightest set of vestments that I had but it still was uncomfortably
hot. The Agape meal was full of many dishes and it was cooler there.
Later we had a singing practice in the lower reception room and there
it was absolutely cool. Needless to say, we stayed there as long as we
could. It has cooled somewhat in the early evening but I am certain
that I shall be running my fan all night. Our lower corridor is filled
with two week's worth of garbage stashed in larger garbage bags to be
taken away tomorrow. The first person arrived before 8 a.m. and the
last ones left at 6 p.m. which gives you an idea of how long we spent
with various people. Tiring as it can be, it nevertheless can also be
pleasant and satisfying to be surrounded by people who care about our
faith and are interested in learning more about it.
******************** 7
July, 2012
There was a lengthy and anguish-filled cry from the robins this morning
that could not be ignored. Upon investigation, the same hawk could be
observed, perched on a high branch of a tall birch tree, obviously up
to no good. As I approached it fell away but this does not bode well
for the smaller birds. From late morning until early evening people
came and went which is most agreeable except for the fact that I tire
more easily in the heat. Our naughty black and white cat once again
crawled into an open space above the verandah and caused some of the
metal to become loose and sag. A ladder was brought out to rescue her
and then Deacon Philip covered the entry so that we should not have to
put up with her antics again. Father Moses had an opportunity to
practise his Spanish with people from Mexico and Slovak with those from
Slovakia. Moreover, we were treated to many delicious dishes so that we
are set for a well fed weekend.
******************** 6
July, 2012
The heat has definitely arrived, for which we are thankful but, knowing
us here in this part of British Columbia, we will soon be longing for
some cool weather and rain. The water level is receding in the Fraser
River and no one is thinking about floods. I was reading about some
non-native invasive plants and Japanese knotweed is apparently the very
worst one. It has been found in and around Vancouver and it is the only
weed that authorities encourage to be eradicated with chemicals. I
shall have to brush up on identifying this dangerous interloper. I
baked two prosphoras, a large one for this Sunday's Divine Liturgy, and
a smaller one for the Liturgy next Thursday on the Feast of St Peter
and Paul. The latter prosphora I wrapped well in several layers of
cling wrap and popped it into the freezer. A small incident occurred
when I opened the refrigerator door to pull out a small basket of
blueberries. It somehow snapped open and the berries scattered over the
entire kitchen floor. Fortunately, none were squished but they did have
to be discarded. Oh well, the blueberry picking season is just around
the corner.
******************** 5
July, 2012
I awoke suddenly early this morning when I heard the frantic distress
cries of a couple of robins (actually red-breasted or song thrushes).
Thinking that I could fall asleep once more by ignoring them, I turned
over and over, yet the distress cries did not cease. It was light
enough outdoors to see that there was no bear or other animal about
when suddenly a shaft of sunlight broke through the overhanging bows of
the stately maples, rather like a stage spotlight and, what should be
illumined by this light but a hawk. I am not enough of an ornithologist
to have been able to identify this bird, a magnificent specimen of
slate grey with prominent black stops and a flash of white when its
wings were spread out. The robins kept attacking it by swooping down
and attempting to nip its head, obviously more to annoy it than to
cause it any bodily harm. The cries of alarm did not cease and I would
have taken my little video recorder to film this but for the screen on
the window (I tried to film a bear under my bedroom window last year
but it was not successful because of the screen). At last I clapped my
hands loudly and the hawk made a grand leap into the air and flew away,
not without the two robins making repeated attacks. The quiet that
ensued was almost as disturbing as the earlier cries of alarm which
reminded me of how, when I was once sitting in Vladika Lazar's office
facing its two large glass doors, I heard a shrill scream as a
different variety of hawk swept down in an instant, grabbed an
unfortunate starling (properly called Sturnus Vulgaris) and began
killing it. As much as I dislike starlings, I felt pained as I watched
this bird being mutilated by the raptor. And such is avian life!
Yesterday I heard the blueberry guns being fired for the first time
this summer and this morning's first shot reminded me of how we must
endure the occasional shot that is meant to frighten the birds away
from the blueberry fields. Instead they become accustomed to it and, if
they do fly away, they quickly return. It is more expensive for the
berry growers to use netting but they benefit ultimately by having a
smaller loss of berries and by not having to put up with the outbursts.
And such is agrarian life!
******************** 4
July, 2012
What a difference some sunshine can make. In fact, we have been
promised some very hot weather in the next few days, unaccustomed as we
are to it, but are we ready for it? We will probably wilt quite easily.
I have a battery operated weed eater that was useful as I tackled a
stand of grass and weeds. While it was still cool enough, I took my
favourite (but failing) secateurs (shears) and got rid of new bramble
growth, then deadheaded some flowering shrubs. I had to cut off the
seed pods from the poppies (possibly windflowers?), otherwise they
reseed and become invasive. I have often read that periwinkle can also
become terribly invasive but, in our case, let it be since it is an
excellent ground cover, has delicate flowers and is evergreen. I
inspected our fig tree that annually produces a few dozen figs, and the
main apple tree that is loaded with fruit. Soon the electric fence will
be turned on to keep the bears at bay. Here endeth today's
horticultural lesson.
******************** 3
July, 2012
I was able to speak to Vladika Lazar on Skype and I was happy to hear
that all is well in Britain. They missed out on tea with the Queen but
they did see the changing of the guard which is a popular tourist
attraction. I had to send a few slugs to their slimy graves today
because I read recently that every slug left alive will provide us with
at least forty little sluglets. I do not intend this daily because too
common and so, I shall refrain from frivolity, although I must add what
I read today. Why is it that a room filled with married people looks so
empty? It is simply because there is not a single person in it. (Was
that painful?) It was good to hear from you, the Conrads, in Virginia.
You have always brightened our spirits and brought much joy to our
monastery. Khronia polla! Tonight's supper consisted of Korean kim chi
soup and Mexican hominy with okra - delicious but not to everyone's
liking.
******************** 2
July, 2012
Although
yesterday was Canada Day and today is an ordinary day, most stores and
shops were closed to give everyone a long weekend. It was apparent from
the traffic returning to the city that those who stayed at home
probably had a less stressed weekend. Quite unexpectedly Father Moses
and I dropped in to Liquidation World, a store where one never knows
what will be on sale. I would say that we did very well and we returned
with several bags of articles we purchased. People are informing us
that they are suffering from the heat and, in some areas, storms while
we are feeling slightly chilly with little sun and an abundance of
rain. As soon as I recover from my cold and allergies, I shall attempt
to once more read the lives of saints. There are about five more
volumes to read to complete the whole set.
******************** 1
July, 2012
It is Canada's birthday and celebrations are being held across the
country. Here, we had our regular Sunday Divine Liturgy with a number
of people absent who are away camping on this long weekend. Their
places were taken by others who came for the first time. A number of us
later went to the reception room and gathered around the piano where we
sang some unfamiliar things such as the Cherubikon and the Thrice Holy.
We all were pleased with the results and, with more practice, we will
probably use them to replace the ones we have been using for a long
time. Vladika Lazar telephoned from the airport to say that there had
been a mix up with reservations and so he and Brother Ephraim were
going to be placed in the Business Class section at no extra cost. That
certainly should make the flight to London more comfortable and
enjoyable. I hope to speak to Vladika on Skype and I shall pass on
anything of interest that he might say.
******************** 30 June, 2012
I had forgotten to mention on 28 June that it was Vladika Lazar's
namesday. He is often sent congratulatory messages on 8/21 March
which is the feast of Saints Lazar and Athanasy of Murom, whereas his
patron saint is Lazar of Kosovo. We had a touching memorial
service for a man who spent twenty years as a medical nurse but who
succumbed to cancer. Just as the family was leaving, our black
and white cat caught their attention, as she had crawled up into an
open space above the verandah and was unable to come down. The
man's widow tried to get it down but could not and finally her young
son succeeded. It was just an ordinary incident but they enjoyed
it thoroughly and left with broad smiles on their faces. I was
pleased that the cat was able to lift their spirits. Needless to
say, animals are quite capable of bringing joy to people.
******************** 29
June, 2012
June is fast ending and it is finally feeling like summer. Many
of the annuals have opened up and the wild rose at the head of our
monastery road looks magnificent. We have an abundance of snails this
year. Previously they were seldom seen but now they are quite
common. It is such a pity to destroy them as their shells are
attractive. Still, they can do much damage to the tender
plants. A beautiful humming bird flew up to my window just this
moment and it stared at me as it hovered. Nearby there was a pale grey
cloth embroidered with bright red designs, hanging on a temporary
clothesline. The bird examined a number of the red areas then
flew off no doubt to find some nectar. It just flew back this
moment and again displayed its opalescence or perhaps its iridescence
-- all this without a hummingbird feeder.
******************** 28 June, 2012
The telephone rang very early this morning with the news that Seraphim
and Elizabeth had a baby girl whose chosen name is Olga --
congratulations! I also spoke with Alyona who is in a Seattle
hospital after a serious operation. She is doing so well that she
will be released earlier than had been expected. What a way to
start off a new day with good news! While doing some shopping I
found boxes of garbage bags at a good price so I bought enough to last
us a few months. In the afternoon Vladika Lazar went to a private
screening of the video "Hellbound" in which he appears. It will
be made available to the public in September and, I expect, it will
cause quite a stir.
******************** 27 June, 2012
This was a day when everything seemed to be done for someone else, not
that this is a complaint. On the contrary, helping others is an
integral part of our Orthodox Christian life but at times one cannot
fully understand the intensity of these deeds. What I wish to say is
that I was running around, asking, enquiring, prodding to get things
done for other people and in the end (I refuse to the the term "at the
end of the day"), everything has worked out satisfactorily.
People's needs vary -- physical, spiritual, psychological, psychiatric
and others, so there is a limit to what an old man like me can
accomplish. Still we do what we can, with God's help, and wait
for the following day to arrive with its own challenges.
******************** 26
June, 2012
This is rather a milestone for us because we now have 800 videos that
can be watched. The broadcasting studio is basically finished but
work has to be done on the lighting. The constant rains have
prevented us from working on the grounds as much as we would have
liked, although everything is looking better, the grass cut, the flower
beds weeded, invasive weeds and brambles attacked. While at the
greengrocery, a somewhat familiar but aging person spoke to me. I
suddenly recognized Bert the Mole Man, who used to trap moles on our
property. Thankfully we have fewer moles now and our cats have
caught some in addition to mice and shrews. (Juicy Fruit chewing
gum or castor oil are of no avail in trapping moles, although many
still try using these methods). I bought several boxes of soy
chunks, made in India from defatted soy flour. They are
excellent, tasty and nutritious. The directions were
hilarious. The one that stands out at the moment was: ...and soak
them for a whistle.
******************** 25
June, 2012
Finally, at last, the waiting ended. After more than 30 hours
without electricity, the lights came on (I did not realize that I had
turned on the switch) and, although I had not yet fallen asleep, I
almost craved a good cup of tea. For anyone who is a tea lover, I
strongly recommend Yorkshire Gold, a blend of Assam and East African
black tea made by Taylors of Harrogate (by appointment to HRH The
Prince of Wales). It can be purchased at London Drugs or any shop
specializing in British beverages and food. We are being warned
about possible flooding nearby, as the heavy rains have made the
situation worse and more rain has been promised. In connection
with our power failure, we were unable to use our computers for almost
48 hours so it was a relief to be able to go online again. Now
you can see why the last two entries were not uploaded.
******************** 24
June, 2012
It is more than 26 hours since we lost our power, the longest period
ever, but we did not suffer. Our small generator was brought out
and it ran the water pump so that all the toilets could be used as well
as water for tea and coffee. The Liturgy was served by
candlelight and, with the help of two propane gas containers, the camp
stove and the barbecue were enough to heat many of the dishes and
provide enough tea and coffee for everyone. I must admit that
this was the first time that I did not panic during a Sunday service
with no power available -- and it has happened a number of times.
I did try to sing but my voice at times sounded like that of a double
basso profundo, followed by a coughing fit, so I ceased
singing. At the Agape meal several remedies were offered, such as
chewing on minced onion with honey, Cuban rum or, if you are into
exotic remedies, badger fat!
******************** 23
June, 2012
It is almost time for Vespers and I am quickly writing today's
entry. Our power went off minutes ago as a tropical-type storm
hit us. Have you ever seen streams of torrential rain in
movies? This is what is taking place right now with a high wind
and plenty of thunder and lightning, almost the setting for a horror
movie. Sirens can be heard in the distance, so accidents must
have occurred. And, this certainly does not improve the flooding
situation. Ouch -- the last clap of thunder was much too loud and
lightning struck close by. How will I walk to church without
getting my feet wet. My rubber boots (wellies) are in a different
building. If it were warmer, I could have run across in my bare
feet! I hope that one of us can remember where our Coleman picnic
stove is so that we can heat our food on it. A thought just came
to me -- in olden days when confronted with a similar situation, we
inserted our feet, shoes and all, into plastic garbage bags and
trundled off, confident that our feet would be dry if we did not dally
along the way. Must leave now. This is one service that
will be held entirely by candlelight.
******************** 22 June, 2012 Another day with more rain. It is frustrating to know that one day real summer weather will begin and we have not had a chance to get used to hot weather. Then our complaints will be about the heat. We were told of some local flooding so we hurried out with our cameras but there was nothing too serious, so we shall not be uploading any pictures of flooding. A young man dropped by to test for mosquito larvae but it seems to be too early to tell. If the larvae do appear the local authorities are prepared to destroy them. Because of the high water level, more mosquitoes than usual can be expected. It is amusing to watch city folk not being able to cope with mosquitoes, because there is so much spraying there, while here, we simply tolerate them. Our neighbour gave us several bat houses he built since bats can consume thousands of mosquitoes each night ( they also frighten the women who think that bats will become entangled in their hair). ******************** 21
June, 2012
Today is the first full day of summer and, although it truly feels
warm, I am having to lie low with a nasty cold. Since I so seldom
have a cold, I quite forget how unpleasant they are and so, I simply
have to wait for it to go away. People have been warning us about
flooding but there is none of it in our area. In fact, the Fraser River
is supposed to crest tonight, rising yet another metre. Some
people arrived for a memorial service for a man who once stayed with us
for a few weeks. It really was difficult to serve and sing, since
my voice was approaching that of a basso. Please remember the
newly reposed servant of God, Sergei. And now I must stop and
return to my resting.
******************** 20 June, 2012
My morning was spent at the bank where I dealt with George's bills,
etc. and at the city hall taking care of his property tax. After
that, a quick visit to our favourite nursery resulted in the purchase
of a couple of early blooming rhododendrons, a particular lilac and two
one gallon containers of bright pink petunias which I later
transplanted into large urns that sit on two thick tree stumps in our
outdoor chapel area. Since all the Foliage around these stumps is
green in various shades, the pink petunias stand out quite
boldly. Since today's weather was perfect, all of us laboured
outdoors, cutting grass and getting rid of invasive shrubs and,
especially, wild blackberries that can send out branches that are six
feet long, and even more, in a month or so. These brambles can become
so thick that neither man nor beast can pass through them. Goats,
however will eat them, first the leaves, then the shoots, thorns and
all. As a matter of fact, we were once given two goats. They ate
all the brambles but got into everything else as well. In the end
we decided to return the goats to the former owners and deal with the
brambles manually.
******************** 19
June, 2012
Vladika Lazar had to be at the Abbotsford Hospital at eight in the
morning when the day surgery department opened. He was due for
this cancer check up and it was fortunate that he was examined. A
small growth was found and removed, as it could have eventually become
malignant. I had to drive him back as he was slightly groggy from
the sedative. The sun appeared and suddenly it was very warm so I
took a rake and began to rake the cut grass as well as some unkempt
areas. It was rather fortunate that I made a large cauldron of
sea food chowder yesterday because it will last at least another
day. It was eaten with garlic bread so that we are walking about,
smelling like nineteenth century East or South European peasants.
A large raccoon keeps showing up to eat the cats' food and today was no
exception. When it saw me hurtling towards it, (shuffling might be more
accurate), the poor creature vanished so quickly that I scarcely could
see where it went. As they say, it vanished in a trice.
******************** 18
June, 2012
After yesterday's adventure with the tire blowout, I was not anxious to
deal with it this morning but it had to be done. What a relief it
was to discover that it was still under guarantee so that it cost us
nothing, although we did pay some to have the wheels aligned and a
couple of other minor things. I telephoned our old friend George,
who is in isolation in a somewhat distant hospital, and he answered on
his cell phone. I was quite proud of him in that he could cope
with using his new cell phone. It is not always easy for older
people to adapt to new things, in this case a cell phone. Next
week we shall have the summer solstice and yet the sweet basil cannot
be transplanted outdoors. Although the weather forecast informs
us of some warmer and drier weather in the days ahead, just do not be
surprised if I happen to complain about the weather again -- in that
respect we are very like the British. It is not that we
necessarily like to complain about it, rather, it is a fascinating (and
perfectly safe) subject to discuss.
******************** 17
June, 2012
Early in the morning Brother Ephraim drove me to Vancouver because I
served once more at the Holy Resurrection Russian Orthodox Sobor.
As always, it was good to see so many familiar faces. What makes
it pleasant to serve there is the warm relationship that exists with
the worshippers. After a lunch we set out on a hospital visit
after which we headed back to the monastery. Along the way there
suddenly seemed to be something wrong and, indeed there was -- a flat
tire. A quick call to the British Columbia Automobile Association
brought out a tow truck which was not needed for towing but the driver
changed the tire quickly. He warned us that the police were on
the lookout for speeders and they were indeed. We arrived, tired
but feeling grateful for such a good and rewarding day.
******************** 16 June, 2012
Rain again -- what else could there be? While Vladika Lazar is
away in Vancouver attending a conference, I dealt with various people
who came for advice, guidance and spiritual help. The Patriarch
of Moscow has a recent talk on Youtube about critics of the Church and
he explains how the Church exists to heal the infirm, both in body and
soul, and many do not even realize it, thinking of it instead more as a
political institution. There is, however, a limit to what can be
accomplished. Recently we heard from a young man, a drug addict and
schizophrenic, who wanted to join our monastery. In this case we
are in no position to help such an unfortunate person other than to
inform him of where he should attempt to receive professional
help. When I have to fold vestments whenever serving elsewhere,
as I shall be doing tomorrow in Vancouver, there is a tendency to leave
it to the last moment. Such was the case tonight and I could not
find the complete set of red vestments so a substitute had to be
made. Perhaps next time I should avoid such a rush and plan
things more efficiently.,
******************** 15
June, 2012
Thank you for your kind words, Father Stephen of Oxford. You and
many other Oxonians have left pleasant memories of my recent visit
there. I really am not certain if the term "Oxonian" is still in
use, or even how it is applied. Canadians need not be amazed,
after all, the citizens of Halifax are Haligonians (those of
Charlettown are definitely not known as Charlatans!). We had a
most unusual funeral today. The bereaved children became so
confused that, at one point, we did not even know where the funeral was
to be held. After countless telephone calls the address was found
but it turned out to be the office of the funeral company. It was
resolved by transferring it to the monastery where it could have been
from the beginning. On the other hand, those who stayed behind
prepared a quick and lenten supper at which the people engaged in a
lengthy conversation about faith and science. It is now dusk and
Father Moses should arrive shortly to pick up this hand written diary
entry and, in the meantime, I sit and listen to the songbirds -- mainly
robins who sing with great energy and joy.
******************** 14 June,2012 We were informed today that this month of June might very well be the coldest since records were begun in Vancouver. On the other hand, no one has suffered from sunstroke. A number of chores had to be done. Although tedious, one gets a feeling of satisfaction, knowing that something positive has been accomplished. Our local strawberries are on sale although they apparently are not sweet enough because of a lack of sun. The once many strawberry fields are now but a few because blueberries have replaced them. The latter are easier to grow and are more productive. And now I am off to complete other chores before it becomes too dark. ******************** 13 June, 2012 Seeing the water rise in the Fraser River made me wonder if there will be any flooding. The water has already spilled over the banks in several places. A visit to George at the hospital necessitated the usual precautionary measures of donning a gown, mask and gloves which, although uncomfortable, are of great importance to the patients. At the risk of boring the readers, I shall once more quote part of an epistle from Jesus Christ to the nations of the world, as proclaimed by the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints: "Now, for government to prove to themselves I speak truth, go to the city of the capital of the land of the way of Arian nation Pakistan where freight is of usual way of United States receiving, to look there for such as shall soon be of freight order to a connection in my Zion land on part of the state of the most active foreign receiving in United States." These are the words of Jesus Christ?? No, it is simpluy the babbling and rambling of a possessed mind. And, the saddest part of it all is that there obviously are people who believe this nonsense! ******************** 12 June, 2012 Well, it happened again and it is now becoming a regular occurrence. When I tried to dial on the telephone early this morning, the line was dead. That meant, naturally, that thieves had cut off a section of the telephone line for the copper content. And again, it was in an area where there are no buildings and so the thieves feel more confident. It was only about five o'clock in the afternoon that service was restored. Deacon Philip and Brother Ephraim cut the tall grass along our Monastery road. I had to prepare more bottles of holy water because after the many requests for it this past weekend, very few bottles are left. Since, over an entire year, we hand out literally hundreds and hundreds of bottles of holy water, we cannot store that huge an amount of water blessed on the feast of Theophany. What we do for the rest of the year is to fill bottles with ordinary water to which some of the blessed holy water is added. Many people take a small sip of it most mornings after arising. ******************** 11 June, 2012 Seraphim had to be driven to Mission early in the morning so that he could return to the city on the Westcoast Express. It was almost startling to see the bright sun and by mid afternoon it felt like the Sahara Desert. Actually, it was not that hot but the sudden change came upon us too quickly. All the garbage was collected from yesterday's noon and evening meals, mainly plates and plastic cutlery and various containers that were used to bring food to the Monastery. This was a good opportunity to reorganize our pantry and food storage cupboards. Some packaged food, including rice and flour, was given to needy people, while tomorrow we shall take several large boxes of goods to Mission where the hungry and homeless are fed. Deacon Philip carried all the icons, relics, etc. from the Icon Gallery to the church last night, so that was one task out of the way. Father Moses is back at George's house where he will stay for a while yet. While driving him there, we took all the bags to the recycling and garbage depot where the "free store" is located. It has objects that are in good shape and not worth simply throwing out. Father Moses now has another chair in front of his computer, an office chair that will be of good use. ******************** 10
June, 2012
The long awaited day finally arrived for our annual healing
service. I served here at the monastery where there was just an
average attendance of worshippers. When I made a comment about that at
the Agape meal, I was reminded that the soccer finals in Europe were
taking place. Vladika Lazar served at the Holy Trinity Romanian
Orthodox Church in New Westminster and he returned to tend to the final
details of preparation for the healing service. This year we were
only about fifteen minutes late in beginning it, but gradually people
kept arriving so that a very large crowd gathered. We had a cross
procession with people carrying icons and relics, with our bells
ringing aloud. A meal followed and people began leaving.
Twelve hours passed from the time I entered the church in the morning
until the last person left in the evening and I felt so exhausted that
I am amazed that I could even write today's diary. Still, it was
both touching and spiritually energizing to have so much contact with
so many people in one day. From the conversations I had with
various people today, three sets of parents talked about baptizing
their babies, two couples asked for a marriage crowning and several
made appointments for thorough confessions. As I conclude today's
entry all I can think of is going to bed for a good night's rest.
******************** 9
June, 2012
Before noon we baptized little Rosen Jekov, a seven month old baby
whose parents are Bulgarian. His baptismal name is Dimitry and he
is the perfect image of a healthy and happy baby. He did not even
whimper once but smiled throughout the entire baptism which is quite a
rare occurance when baptizing babies. There is a Bulgarian custom
of weaving a crown of crane's bill geranium leaves and placing it on
the babies head after the baptism. It is supposed to endow the
child with good health and, indeed, the name of the plant in Bulgarian
is "zdravets" which comes from the word "zdrava" meaning
"health." They also make a posey of the same plant and give it to
the priest who then blesses everyone with holy water, using this posey
instead of the blessing brush. I showed them our Bulgarian corner
in the reception room where we keep some native Bulgarian wood carvings
and rose oil in a cabinet. As well we have a Bulgarian rug
hanging on one wall behind the long wooden bench. As for sweets,
there were many kinds of Balkan pastries, each sweeter and tastier than
the previous one, with an abundance of a particular sweet that is
commonly called "Turkish Delight". When the baptismal party left,
little Rosen was fast asleep with a slight smile still on his happy
face. His mother told us that he enjoys being in the company of
adults and especially likes bathing, which is more than can be said for
many babies and children whom we baptize.
******************** 8
May, 2012
A quick visit was made to Father Moses who is still house
sitting. He should be back tonight so that he can be of some
assistance at tomorrow's baptism. At the same time he was brought
two salads -- one potato, the other macaroni. Aside from numerous
daily chores, little can be said about today. For some time I had
noticed that the lamp near my house seemed to be on all night and I
kept forgetting to reset it. When I at last did so at twilight, I
might have made an error and I shall have to sit up and wait to see if
it does automatically turn off at midnight. If it does not, I shall
have to attempt to reset it. The battery recharger for my weed
mower arrived today and the battery is presently being recharged.
Without it, the grass around the fruit trees could not be cut and it is
so easy for it to get out of hand. I operated the camera tonight
while Vladika Lazar made a couple of broadcasts, then I went to the
church to set everything up for tomorrow's baptism.
******************** 7 June, 2012 I will readily admit that it was somewhat difficult to wake up this morning after last night's driving, even though I did rather injoy it. In fact, I had called it relaxing and it was, but I did not get sufficient sleep. At any rate, it was off to mail books across the border, after which we visited George in the hospital. He is in isolation at the moment, so I had to put on a white mask, blue latex gloves, and a yellow gown, with my black cassock trailing underneath it. I received an odd look from the nurse when I asked her if my attire was colour coordinated, at least I found the remark to be amusing. On the return trip we stopped to have lunch where I suddenly heard a woman's voice calling out my name. It was a woman whom I had known for many years, having lunch with some friends. Such unexpected encounters can be very enjoyable. Among the many provisions sent home with me last night was a large slab of Italian cheese. Since this week is fast free, I shall try to incorporate it into a tasty dish for supper tonight. ******************** 6 June, 2012 A quick trip to my chiropractor for a readjustment was a pleasure since I have had no back pain since being in Oxford. I am quite amazed at how he managed to relieve my back pain. In the evening I drove to Burnaby for a house blessing for Vlad and his family. They live on Burnaby Mountain in the Simon Fraser University's "Univer City," surrounded by a small but dense forest. From there Vlad took me to the home of Lucian and his family where another house blessing took place. The architecture was unusual, with three balconies looking out onto Burnaby Mountain, the North Shore Mountains and all the way to the Golden Ears at Maple Ridge. The drive back was relaxed because there was almost no traffic. What a difference there is in driving when no stress or tension exists. And, I was touched that Vlad called, almost at eleven in the evening to find out if I had arrived home safely. With such kind thoughts of other people, I peacefully fell asleep. ******************** 5 May, 2012 Valetina and Virgil came to finish the entrance to the icon gallery. When the huge icon of the Entry of our Lord into Jerusalem was sent to us from the National Art Gallery in Ottawa a few years ago, we could not carry it into the icon gallery because of its size. Consequently, part of the ceiling at the entrance had to be removed and later it was only temporarily repaired. Before Pascha the two of them did more than just repair it, they made the entrance higher. Part of the doorway had not been completed so today they were able to finish it. Yesterday I made a seafood chowder for supper and a fair amount was left so, today we ate the rest of it and it was even tastier, no doubt because I added more baby clams, white fish and shrimp. It was excellent, even if I say so myself (ignoring all modesty). It felt so cold and damp all day that I had to plug in some heaters. By the time summer weather finally arrives, we might well be into autumn. ******************** 4 May, 2012 After the events of the weekend there was much cleaning up to do, after which it was possible to relax somewhat. In our mail we received another epistle from the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints who keep assailling us with their literature. Here is an example of the Revelation of the Lord Jesus Christ Given to President Warren S. Jeffs (who is now in prison). "Be ye ready. A holy preparing for my coming, both on this world, and they who are of spirit world of passing on to next spirit world, is to have own life in love-peace order of blessing all people in kind order, giving to poor, blessing they of youth, the aged attend to; all in need not of thy neglect; for what you individually give, shall I, your Lord, cause you to receive unto an eternity of like unto like, blessing those who are pure love-power-giving in all honorable order of caring; also full suffering for sin of murder, also suffer for knowing sin is sin, and living evil way by choosing evil." There follow the signatures of two Elders of that denomination testifying to the authenticity of the above being "verily the word of Jesus Christ." Most of their literature is of this quality and one begins to wonder if Jesus Christ could be this illiterate, and how anyone could take such material seriously. Obviously there are people who do. Metropolitan Antony Khrapovitsky said that even in his day ( a hundred years ago) if some man dared to call himself God, he would undoubtedly find people who would follow him. So, let us beware of false teachers and heed the teachings of our Lord Jesus Christ, His Apostles and the Fathers of the Church. ******************** 3
May, 2012
I wonder how I managed to get through this entire day, the great feast
of Pentecost. I arose very early to drive to Vancouver where I
once again served at the Holy Resurrection Sobor. Being
accustomed to using one large prosphora, I had to adapt to the Russian
usage of small prosphoras, of which there seemed to be hundreds, each
with a long list of names for both health and repose. Since
thousands of names might be on these lists, the subdeacons read all
the names while I removed a particle from each prosphora. The
subdeacons and servers were very helpful and the altar boys, one of
whom is only six years old, have been trained well and are scarcely
visible except when needed and they stand like sentries with no
talking. The church was crammed with worshippers, no doubt at
least 250 people. Communion took a long time because of the
number of communicants and when everyone came up for a blessing I
thought that the queue would never end, particularly since many people
asked for special prayers and blessings. By the time I returned
to the monastery, the worshippers had already left but the baptismal
group was waiting. Tiny Militsa made scarcely a sound during her
baptism. Her baptismal clothes were of white satin, absolutely
beautiful, and with tiny booties that the mother had made. Apparently
the service at the monastery was very good and the visitors from abroad
left pleased and content with the weekend's events. All in all,
the descent of the Holy Spirit was felt strongly by people today in
various ways and we must thank Jesus Christ for His patience with us
and for all that He has given us.
******************** 2
June, 2012
This morning I spoke with our Father Vasili who is in Florida and he
said that the weather there was rainy. We have been experiencing
the same this week although more sun is promised for tomorrow.
Visitors from Seattle dropped in for a visit while our other visitors
from near and abroad have been at the university the entire day at the
conference so that I can say little about them. Anastasia came
for tonight's service with her parents and, along the way, they picked
wild flowers that were growing alongside the highway and
railroad. Two huge vases were filled with lupines, evening
scented stock, white daisies and even yellow buttercups, then they were
taken into the church, along with branches from birch saplings, all in
preparation for "Green Sunday" as it is called, that is,
Pentecost. Did I mention that we had experienced a rail strike
and for several days there were no trains with their wearisome
horns? No doubt they are now trying to make up for all their lost
movement of goods.
******************** 1 June, 2012 Considerable time was spent simply sitting at the table with our visitors and conversing with them. When David Goa arrived our conversation became more lively as he is a geat raconteur. I spent time looking over the Pentecost service in Church Slavonic and reading the prostration prayers, also in Church Slavonic so that I will be able to read them easily. I find myself in a state of bewilderment when, in a sense, there really is nothing to be perplexed about. It is traditioinal to wear green vestments on Pentecost but, since I have none, Do I wear the blue vestments, the red or gold or white? No doubt, this will resolve itself by tomorrow. We have a potted oak that sprouted from an acorn from our Serbian oak. It is now about two and a half feet high and today I had to tie it to an upright support. The tree that produced the acorn is out in the field near the monument where it has grown to stately proportions. Our Celtic Cross has made its reappearance in the flower garden next to the belfry after having sat idly for over a year when it was accidentally knocked over from its pedestal. A few years ago a photograph of it appeared in British Columbia's Celtic paper. ******************** 31 May, 2012 What a difference new shock absorbers can make and now our van no longer rides like a rough ox cart. Both Father Moses and I had our last visit to the dentist for a while. He really is quite good but was some what surprized when I asked for no freezing for the two cavities he filled. For many years I have had dental work with no freezing and seldom has there been any pain during the procedure. Christos Osborne came for a pleasant visit today. In the past he had done a lot of landscaping which is evident to this very day. In addition he had helped with setting up various programmes on the computer. Darren and Deacon Patric arrived for this weekend's conference and others should be here tomorrow. I shall be serving at the Holy Resurrection Sobor in Vancouver, again this Sunday because Father Michael's mother reposed and he will fly to Europe for the funeral. This means that I must read through the prostration prayers in Church Slavonic several times, as I have always read them in English only. ******************** 30
May, 2012
It is on such days as today that I realize how large the monastery's
main building is. Yesterday I cleaned the bunkroom and more,
while today I spent almost the entire day preparing the reception
room. No doubt a couple of years at least have gone by since its
last overhaul. In addition to a couple of chesterfields, as they
used to be called in Canada ("sofas" elsewhere), and a number of
accompanying chairs, there is a piano, an electric organ, a long Alpine
wooden seat, a dining table with its own chairs, and more. The
large display case filled with decorative Orthodox objects was a joy to
revisit and I had forgotten about one little Bulgarian corner which
consists of a small case with a glass door, and the shelves hold
Bulgarian wooden crafts with two Bulgarian women on either side.
Father Moses and Brother Ephraim drove to Surrey to visit George in the
hospital. Deacon Philip has been hurrying with the edited Liturgy
manual which might be printed this week. We seem to have a touch
of spring planting fever with various annuals being planted in the
flower beds and in large flower pots. Two varieties of petunias
-- Bubblegum and White Russian -- were highly recommended so we are
looking forward to a good display. I also bought an unusual
geranium, white with pink throats that looks elegant instead of the
usual red or rose coloured ones. I might have written more but
Father Moses is standing nearby, patiently waiting for me to finish so
that he can type today's diary.
******************** 29 May, 2012 We will have visitors over the weekend so I began to clean the bunk-room which has four single beds. After all the sheets, blankets, pillow cases and towels had been put out and properly placed, the room was dusted and swept. It probably should have been the other way but the corridor, laundry room and bathroom were then tackled. The broadcasting room looks good but the reception room needs a good cleaning. All these rooms are on the ground floor but because the ground floor is slanted, the back rooms are really part of the basement. The guest room, on the other hand, had been cleaned earlier. Everyone was busy out doors with mowing and weeding, except Father Moses who is still house sitting. There was little time for preparing supper, so we had cream of mushroom soup with feta and mozzarella cheese and thick, celicious Slavic egg dumplings, a hearty meal in itself. In fact we ate outdoors, the first time since last year. I also purchased two false wasps' nests which are now hanging on the balcony where some wasps had begun to nest. We have been informed that they do keep the wasps away-- time will tell. ******************** 28 May, 2012 Part of today was set aside for visitors and, in particular, for Larisa and Vladimir whose marriage was crowned here about three months ago. While standing on the balcony, Vladimir was able to identify the singing of some of the birds and this helped me to recall what I had liked in my youth - the song of a red-wing blackbird. We enjoyed an afternoon luncheon, as it used to be called, with coffee rather than tea, and Russian bliny with sour cream and buckwheat honey. Andrew and Simon poured concrete under the corner of my house where the sagging had taken place. Perhaps this will keep that corner from almost completely disappearing under ground. Andrew also brought us half a dozen birdhouses, mainly to attract sparrows that, he claims, eat countless mosquitoes each day. In about three weeks the mosquito season will undoubtedly begin and anything that lessens their number will be a great comfort to us. ******************** 27 May, 2012 I left at seven to arrive in Vancouver in time to serve the Proskomedia and hear confessions. As usual there was not enough time to hear all the confessions. More and more people arrived as the Liturgy progressed and the choir also began singing more strongly. Later I had a class discussion with some teenagers (and a few adults) which proved to be interesting. It was good to see so many familiar faces and I appreciated the warmth with which I was received. From church I went to Tatiana's home for a meal, if it could be called that. Three of the women who prepared most of the food were trained as chefs, so you can imagine the quality of the dishes and how beautifully they were presented. On the way home I stopped at the Surrey Hospital to visit George who is still being examined and treatments for him have begun. Exactly twelve hours later I arrived back at the monastery, tired but energized by the day's events. ******************** 26
May, 2012
Since I almost never sleep in other people's homes, I forget how hot it
is at night in their homes. Last night I took a turn at house
sitting and I had to turn on the air conditioner because of the
heat. In the lives of saints we often read how certain saints
lived through the sweltering heat of summer. It is quite obvious
to me that I could never be one of them, as I quickly succumb to the
oppressive heat. I prepared all that I need -- vestments, etc. --
for serving at the Holy Resurrection Sobor in Vancouver tomorrow.
Alexander and his family were present for Great Vespers and it gave him
a chance to make a final inspection of the leaflet "Invitation to the
Monastery", in Russian. Once it was approved, the leaflet was
printed. As he left he took some other material that he will
gradually translate into Russian. Brother Ephraim has spent most
of the day making candles because we are almost completely out of them.
******************** 25
May, 2012
Although crossing the border was uneventful, the air was filled with
drifting "cotton" from the surrounding cottonwood trees. The
trees are stately but their "cotton" is a nuisance and many are
allergic to it. Our Californian visitors bade farewell and drove
to the Vancouver Airport, so that by late evening they should be back
home once again. I can hear Brother Ephraim on the lawn
mower. We bought a grass catcher and I think that he is trying it
out. Near the barn there is an attractive area with a gigantic
tree in the middle, a fire-pit off to one side and picnic tables.
Once in a while visitors use this area for picnics and that is where he
is cutting the grass. The water in the Fraser River keeps rising
gradually and usually in the middle of June it reaches its peak.
Oddly enough the water in our two monastery streams is going down and
in one stream the water is becoming somewhat stagnant in
appearance. What would we do without leftovers? That is what is
for supper today.
******************** 24
May, 2012
We visited George at the Surrey Hospital. He had been transferred
there for more extensive tests. Reaching the hospital was simple
enough but navigating within it was almost impossible. Since
Surrey is possibly the fastest growing area in British Columbia, the
hospital is always too small. A gigantic new wing is under
construction but in the meantime all available space is being utilized,
even the corridors where patients lie, waiting for a free bed.
Even though two people had instructed us how to reach George's area, we
still needed extra help since the corridors cross and weave in and
out. Eventually we located his room but he had been taken out for
tests, so we wended our way back to the cafeteria and, after an hour's
wait, we returned to find him resting in his bed. We gave him
Holy Communion, prayed with him and chatted for a while. On our
way back to the monastery we stopped to pick up three hundred pounds of
pure beeswax that we had ordered for our candle-making. Upon our
return we found our Moldovian young men waiting for us. Rather
than driving back to the city, they asked for a blessing to spend the
night at the monastery . They had brought out our new barbecue
grill and prepared a delicious Atlantic Salmon for us. Our guests
from California were treated to the salmon which they thoroughly
enjoyed. And so, the long day came an enjoyable end.
******************** 23 May, 2012
I found an attractive frame for a lithograph of the Saint Nicholas
Russian Orthodox Church in Juneau, Alaska. We now have a number
of framed watercolours and lithographs of Orthodox churches in Alaska,
thanks to Fern Wallace who had lived for many years in Auke Bay,
Alaska. When she moved to the state of Washington she donated
those pictures to our monastery, in addition to hundreds of photographs
of Alaskan Orthodox churches and Orthodox natives. We hope that
one day we will be able to mount an exhibition on Orthodox Alaska using
the archival material we possess. Andrew and his friend spent
some time working on the foundation of my house. One corner had
begun to sink, mainly because of a leaking waterline and now it appears
as if they will be able to correct this problem.
******************** 22 May, 2012 Vladika Lazar needed some periodontal work this morning and as a consequence, his jaw has been not just tender, but quite sore. each one of us has endured dental work (except Deacon Philip) this year and we hope that it will suffice for the next few years. Our visitors from southern California have arrived, brining some sun along, or at least we like to think that they had a hand in allowing us to enjoy the sun's warmth for part of the day. The prosphora has been baked for Thursday's feast of the Ascension of our Lord Jesus Christ, so that we are prepared for this celebration which is soon followed by the Descent of the Holy Spirit. ******************** 21 May, 2012 The rain did not stop for a single moment which meant that we worked indoors all day. This being the Victoria Day weekend, assures us that it would rain, as it seems to every year. Pity the poor campers who had to endure this rain, although some of them are so keen on camping that rain never deters them. Father Moses has returned for more house sitting. Deacon Philip and I cleaned the guest room which had come to look more like a storage room. There had been a constant demand for holy water and by yesterday there was only one small bottle left. We are now in the process of carrying over several dozen bottles that had been set aside earlier. Vladika Lazar is working on several things at once - articles, papers and a book or two. I examined the translation Alexander had made of our leaflet "Invitation to the Monastery" and I was amazed at the successful translation that was masterly accomplished. Our previous translation read, in some places, too much like a translation whereas Alexander has made it sound free-flowing and in admirable taste. ******************** 20
May, 2012
The promised rain did arrive, fortunately in mid afternoon.
Because this is not a parish where basically the same people come each
Sunday, we have a constant stream of people who appear for the first
time and perhaps might return only once or twice in a year, since they
have their own parish to attend. Today's people of interest
included a group of ladies who drove here from the state of Washington,
a visitor from Portugal, and some who came later in the day just to
stroll about the monastery yard. Since this is the Victoria Day
weekend when campers first venture out, I expected few people to come
to the Divine Liturgy but I was amazed at how many did show up.
Our large coffee urn is still not operating but Gerasimos was
nevertheless able to produce some strong coffee, much to everyone's
satisfaction. Igor has been an able bell-ringer now that we have
our bells hanging in the belfry chapel. It would be nice if one
day we might have some larger bells with velvet sound as the Russians
say.
******************** 19
May, 2012
Everyone had a good workout today with results to prove it.
Deacon Philip hauled more than twenty wheelbarrow loads of brambles,
brush and weeds that he had cut down behind the main building in the
area of the Holy Well. The brambles kept creeping in each year
but now they are being driven back. When that whole area will be
completed it will look beautiful. Alexander and Stefan brought
the teak cross and they will return on Monday to erect it. I am
pleased that everyone involved was satisfied with the location chosen
and the design of the cross. My main task was to repot the peace
lily, two aloes, and two Russian plants, the correct name of which I
have forgotten. In Russian the plant is known as "Golden whisker"
or, more probable, "Golden Tendril," just do not ask me why.
Visitors brought us a large mushroom pie which was big enough to feed
all of us at supper. We might have some rain at night or during
the day. I am curious to see if the powder that was sprinkled on
my roof top by Brother Ephraim will get rid of the moss. Father
Moses is back from his house sitting, although he may have to do more
of it later.
******************** 18 May, 2012 I had never visited a quarry or stone work yard but this morning a small group of us went to see about acquiring a monument for the War of 1812 which will commemorate both the Battle of Borodino in Russia and the war between Canada and the United States. Although it meant trudging through a thick layer of dust and mud in other areas, we got to see how huge stones are cut and polished. There will be more planning cone later but for now we have chosen a huge piece of basalt for the monument and we have been promised a ten foot teak cross, so that the area in our field will look majestic and commemorative. The cross will be at the end of the alley which is framed by trees, and it will face the existing memorial, and the monument that will be erected. If this sounds confusing, then you will have to come to see it or, easier yet, we will have pictures of it on out website. Remember though, that this event will take place on the last Sunday of August. ******************** 17 May, 2012 Does anyone really enjoy doing laundry with all that sorting, washing, drying, folding that it entails? Nevertheless it must be done, even in monasteries. There was a large coyote on the lower lawn early this morning but by the time I found my video camera and rushed out, it had already disappeared. They usually flee at the sight of a human being. Now that I have a bag of good potting soil, a couple of large indoor plants can be repotted. In addition, some of this soil must be added to the large outdoor flower pots, a couple of which will soon have some colourful annuals. ******************** 16May, 2012 A brief stop was made at beautiful Harrison Hot Springs for a cup of coffee while on the way to the Chilliwak Hospital. This resort is located in the south shore of Harrison Lake, a thirty minute drive from the monastery and is filled with tourists from all over the world. As one descends into the valley below it looks much like a scene from the Alps. When visitors from abroad visit us we try to drive them to this beautiful area. I fear that I did not accomplish much this day but that does happen occasionally. Father Moses is house sitting for a while for someone who is in the hospital. With about four thousand books in this private library, mainly on history, religion, and art, he is definitely in his element. ******************** 15 May, 2012
It had been a long time since my last visit to a dentist and early
today I met my new dentist, in fact the one who is in charge of
our monastic teeth, that is Vladika Lazar, Father Moses, and Brother
Ephraim had already seen him. All of us have liked him, a young
man of Indian (probably Punjabi) descent and what especially appealed
to me was his approach. Instead of saying that I needed an
expensive crown, he offered something else that should work well and be
much cheaper. I had become tired of some of the high-pressure
salesmanship offered by my previous dentists. As well, my
"pearlies" are nice and clean without any of that nonsensical Hollywood
"bleached teeth" look. Brother Ephraim and I spent a good deal of
the day taking a close friend to visit his doctor, then being with him
during his admission to the hospital. Not having eaten before my
dental appointment I was later in a rush so that by three o'clock I was
getting quite hungry. We went to eat in the hospital cafeteria
and everyone knows how miserable they can be. Not this one, as I
ordered an egg salad sandwich and when asked, "What would you like in
it?" I blurted out, "The works," which they quickly did just
that. You cannot imagine how thick it was. In fact I could
not even open my mouth wide enough to bite into it. Instead I had
to content myself by attacking it with bites from different
angles. It does feel so good to be back at the monastery -- a
familiar refrain in my daily diaries.
******************** 14
May, 2012
Most Mondays are quite predictable but not this one. In the first
place it was hot, almost like those intolerable days in August. A
number of tasks had to be fulfilled -- visiting the ill, picking up
books at the bindery, and there had to be other things that I seem not
to have recalled. Our new broadcasting studio was used for the
first time even though not everything was yet in place. The
acoustical properties of the room (smaller than what one might imagine)
were very good, so we shall be doing more broadcasting in that
studio. News came from Russia that more of Vladika Lazar's papers
are being translated into Russian, in the field of science and
religion. It has been both amusing and unsettling to have people
ask, "But is that possible?" meaning that they considered one had to
choose either science or religion. One more cup of tea and a
bisccotti, and it will be bedtime. Tomorrow morning I shall have
to visit the dentist, not always a time to look forward to, even though
such visits are necessary.
******************** 13
May, 2012
At last it felt like summer from early dawn to dusk. Everything
had been put away last night so that there was no trace of the
baptismal celebration except for the many helium-filled balloons that
had floated up to the ceiling in the hall. For the Agape meal
there was much left over from yesterday's celebration so that, along
with what was brought today, we ate splendidly. Although it was
Mother's Day, we really commemorated the Samaritan woman and also the
Myrrhbearing women. Most people left fairly early today although
Jacob had a long sleep on the lawn, lying there on his blanket with a
small pillow, something that one would hesitate to have their children
do in the city. The sun has not yet set but the tall trees
prevent any sunlight to enter into the central part of the
monastery. Another day has been spent gloriously, thanks be unto
God!
******************** 12
May, 2012
This was the day of baptisms. The first one was at 11 o'clock for
Veniamin who was eight months old. He was quite good and cried
for just a while. Soon after, everyone left and we waited for the
second baptism, that of Xenia, just two months old. Her mother,
Galina, sewed a skirting for the baptismal font and the stand, and also
matching outfits for Xenia and her older sister Anastasia. Galina
and Igor are from Moldova and so they have some of their own
customs. The two sisters looked splendid in their Moldovian
costumes and, after the baptism when Xenia was clothed, she wore a
Moldovian kerchief and laced leather sandals. In fact she looked
like a miniature woman dressed in her native costume. After the
baptism we had a feast with so many dishes that there was scarcely
enough room for all the food. After spending a couple of hours at
our tables we went to church for Vespers, after which we continued to
munch. I became so exhausted that I had to excuse myself to go
for a rest. The young people promised to put everything away and
to clean up. Actually some will spend the night here in order to
clean up and not have to drive to the city only to return early
tomorrow morning. It was kind of Galina and Igor wanting to
celebrate the baptism of Xenia here at the monastery where there was
room for the 70 or 80 people at the reception, instead of cramming
everyone into a city apartment or a restaurant. They wanted Xenia
to become accustomed to being at the monastery from her earliest days.
******************** 11
May, 2012
Vladika Lazar had two doctor's appointments early this morning, the
second one with his oncologist who said that all looked well. The
belt for the tractor lawnmower finally arrived, so Brother Ephraim is
busy cutting the grass on all our lawns. I pruned the forsythia
which really should have been done a month ago. Deacon Philip
dealt with our bothersome starlings and perhaps they will now nest
somewhere else. It really was nice not to have had any visitors
today so that we could carry on with our work without any
interruptions. On the other hand, the telephone kept ringing all
day with calls from Google about advertising; about financing; about
selling things; about telephoning abroad cheaply; even our local
library and a couple of wrong numbers. We hesitate to buy any
tinned goods from the Orient, particularly China (no, no, dear readers
in China -- if even there are any -- we are not being racist) because
of the uncertain quality. I did locate some tins of squid pieces
and calamari slices from Spain and presto, our main supper dish was
rice with a squid/calamari/baby clam sauce. Not wishing to boast,
I nevertheless will indulge in it a little. It passed muster at
the table, so I imagine that we shall have more of it in the
future. There have been bits of silver and cutlery lying about
that people had given us. I have been using a large soup spoon
with the following hallmark: in Russian letters...TROV; A.K., 1855, 84,
St George on horseback. We once had a book on Russian hallmarks
but I cannot locate it. The teaspoon has: (Russian letters S,
SHCH,) 1885, a dragon???, an Egyptian eye??? If anyone has any
idea about these two spoons, please let me know at:
bishopvarlaam@yahoo.ca/ Also, if anyone would like to have a
card of Vladika Lazar and me together with the tigers that were filmed
for "India--Kingdom of the Tigers," just send me your name and address
and I shall be pleased to send you a card.
******************** 10
May, 2012
There were two long lines of trucks at the border and we were dwarfed
amidst them. The U.S. Customs officer happened to be one who is
cheerier than most. He is an Evangelical Christian born in
Romania and his surname is Puha which is almost like Vladika
Lazar's. He processed us quickly and sent us on to the "Blue
Building" where all the x-rays are taken. I am probably wrong in
calling them x-rays but there is some way they can see the contents of
any vehicle without even looking inside. The man on duty waived us
through and we drove to the post office located nearby. While
Vladika went in to the front counter to mail books, I checked our
monastery box (P.O.Box 1600; Sumas, WA 98295, USA, in case you are
interested). I found two science magazines, an Edward R.Hamilton
catalogue of bargain books, an Acorn catalog of DVDs, mainly British,
and a Monastery Icon catalogue from a well-known Gnostic
monastery. Originally they had only Orthodox icons, then they
began to add some Roman Catholic saints (painted in a pseudo-Orthodox
style) and now they have Byzantine style icons of such people as
Ignatius of Loyala, Pope Pius X, Maximilian Kolbe, Thomas Aquinas to
name a few. We moved more things from the icon gallery to the
church in preparation for the two baptisms on Saturday. Four
young otter pups were seen frollicking in the water. There have
been many times when I carried a camera hoping to photograph or film
some wildlife but, according to some unnamed law, as soon as I appear
with cameras, all wildlife disappears -- except for the starlings, and
they are not among my favourites. For supper we had braised
cabbage with onion, carrot, celery and dill; leftover candied yams;
scrambled eggs with tofu wieners; and for dessert I had found a frozen
cake with marzipan icing, tucked away at the back of the freezer.
Although it was delicious, it really was almost sickeningly sweet,
meaning that a quick dental flossing and brushing of the teeth was
necessary!
******************** 9
May, 2012
Some countries in Eastern Europe celebrate victory over the enemy on
this day, often calling it "victory over the Fascists," a name that has
lost much of its connotation and, indeed, it seems to be gaining
favour, at least in times of crisis. Each one of us was busy on
this sunny but cool day. I began by cleaning one small area in
the church and, before long, I was succeeding in bringing order, even
to the vestry where everything was left in various piles.
Counters were scrubbed, icons cleaned, and analoys moved. Then I
tackled the reader's area where the cabinet's drawers were crammed with
books, leaflets and sheets of paper with tropars and kondaks for
feastdays dating back to Nativity. I must admit that it felt good
to have done all that, especially after Father Moses vacuumed all the
rugs in the church, icon gallery and hall. Brother Ephraim had a
fright last evening when he saw a raccoon trying to get into the second
floor of the monk's residence. They (the raccoons that is) can be
wily, clever, inventive and persistent but also dangerous since they
often carry rabies. The weather forecast informs us that we might
have a touch of frost tonight -- at this time of the year?!
******************** 8
May, 2012
My mind cannot seem to recollect anything of importance because I
simply puttered about. Perhaps there is nothing wrong with
that. I wrote a few notes, answered a letter, read my email,
attacked more wild geraniums, and continued to putter about. Not
very inspiring, but on the other hand I was given a "quality
toothbrush," which reminds me that, a week today, I will get my teeth
cleaned. Our tractor lawn mower needs a new belt, one which is
not too readily available and the grass is growing taller each
day. This is where a few sheep would have been useful except that
the coyotes would probably finish them off quite quickly. The
notes I mentioned earlier show us with the tigers. IMAX produced
a film titled, India--Kingdom of the Tigers. It was filmed in
India but the last section was done here in British Columbia, on our
monastery grounds. You can find this movie on YouTube.
******************** 7
May, 2012
It was warm yesterday but it feels hot today. The temperature
must about 25 degrees and I had to turn on the air conditioner in the
van. Yesterday Dieter was disappointed that the card he had sent
from Berlin three weeks ago had not yet arrived. Well, it did
today, along with postcards I had posted in Oxford a little more than a
week ago. I visited two thrift stores and bought about ten shirts
for the brotherhood, as we are not into purchasing designer
shirts. The rental agency came and took back the compactor that
had been so useful for the repairing of our road. The grass on
the main lawn had been cut before the rains began and since it has
become dry, today was the ideal day to rake it. I needed the
exercise and now I am almost ready for bed even though it is not
late. Each day everything around us becomes more lush and
greener. Some shrubs must be pruned soon, especially the
forsythia. Our pruning sheers (secateurs in Britain) are a little
dull so that more force is necessary in pruning. I also
began pulling out the wild geraniums but at least their roots are
shallow and all that is needed is a good tug. The blackberry
brambles are another story.
******************** 6
May, 2012
Today we commemorate the Holy Great Martyr George. Perhaps I have
already written about our icon of Saint George and, if so, please bear
with me. When Father Moses came to the monastery from California
many years ago, among the many things he brought was an icon of Saint
George, about 9 by 12 inches. It was in a sorry state, as it had
been neglected and even abused and the result was his rescueing
it. It was partially discoloured and had clear circles left
behind from wet beer cans that had been placed on it. Every once
in a while we would look at it and feel regret that it had been treated
in this manner. Some time ago we noticed that its colour looked true
once more and that the circles had vanished with the exception of one
that is still partially visible, but scarcely. After putting it
with a beautiful frame we placed it on its own analoy where
worshippers can venerate it. Before its desecration, people with
family problems prayed before it to ask for Saint George's
intercession, and many felt that their prayers were heard. During
the Divine Liturgy my mind returned a few times to Saint Nicholas
Church in Oxford. I especially liked their singing of the triple
"Lord have mercy" and I even had the idea of introducing it here at the
monastery but my memory has failed me. It is a year since the
repose of our dear Zoe Velonis and we remembered her today. Her
whole family was here with so much food to feed the worshippers.
We all truly miss her but at least she has left us so many memories of
her kind and loving self. It is 5 o'clock and almost all the
people have left. Dieter returned from his trip to Berlin and showed us
pictures of the Russian Church he visited. It is such a surprise
to see Andriy Pryadko who had come from Moose Jaw (yes, that is its
real name) Saskatchewan to do some work in British Columbia. By
the way, people were pleased with the work done on our monastery road.
******************** 5
May, 2012
Seldom a day passes when there is nothing to write about and today is
no exception. Since I am of the "old school" I often wash some of
my clothing by hand. This morning I washed some shirts and they
are presently hanging outdoors on a clothes line. I set out to
bake a prosphora for tomorrow's Liturgy when, just as I began kneading
the dough, two carloads of visitors arrived. I could not stop so
others received them and left them to pray in the church. When I
saw what they brought I was amazed -- a huge bag of rice, the size of
which I had never seen before, bags of flour and sugar, half a dozen
large bags of various dried fruit, tea, coffee, etc. They were
generous but I was unable to spend time with them. The compactor
was delivered and Andrew began packing down the gravel on our
road. It keeps looking better all the time and I rather expect
that people who will arrive tomorrow morning will be in for a great
surprise. After preparing food for tonight and tomorrow, I asked
Father Moses to clean the pots and pans in the kitchen. I doubt
that it is his favourite obedience but he always attacks it
stoically. In the meantime, Vladika Lazar is in the process of
writing a book review as well as an article for one of the Athonite
monasteries. He has also asked Father Moses to have a critical
look at a book of commentaries on the New Testament written by a group
of rabbis. Scarcely half of the day has passed and I am just
wondering what awaits us in the second half. If there is anything
I shall record it at days end. I had scarcely put my pen down
when Father Moses informed me that our dear acquaintances, the piroshki
manufacturers, had arrived. They must surely make the most
delicious piroshki in the world and this is not an exaggeration.
Tea was quickly made and we ate some of these piroshki. Igor came
with them and showed us his sketches for a Borodino 1812 War memorial
that we are allowing to be erected at our existing monument in the
field. Someone had objected to the idea and said that it should
be Canadian instead since we are celebrating the War of 1812 when the
United States attempted to invade and conquer Canada but failed.
The point is, however, that no one has volunteered to do anything about
it, while others have for the Russian Borodino memorial.
******************** 4
May, 2012
I finally completed the diaries, rewriting them from notes I had made
on the trip. Since I was wide awake shortly after four o'clock in
the morning, I arose and began a normal day. Now that it is
mid-afternoon I can scarcely keep my eyes open. Allow me to take
a long nap and I shall return to today's diary. It is now evening
and no, I did not take a nap yet. I am rushing to finish this
entry because Father Moses will arrive shortly to pick it up so that he
can type it, then have it uploaded. What I noticed last night and again
tonight is the croaking of the frogs. It is so strong that at
times it almost sounds melodic. Our valley has been invaded by
the American bull frog which actually kills the smaller native frogs,
but I hope that the latter do not become an endangered species. I
had to send notes of thanks to people who had sent donations to the
monastery and, while searching for envelopes I emptied out a couple of
drawers in my desk. Almost one-half the contents had to be thrown
out which made me wonder why I had left them there in the first place.
******************** 3
May, 2012
How good it felt to be asleep in my own bed again. Father Moses
had kindly vacuumed , cleaned and scrubbed in my absence so that my
little house smelled fresh and clean. I had completely forgotten
that I had an early appointment with my chiropractor but he was able to
see me in the afternoon. He informed me that I looked better than
I had been on my last visit to him, so perhaps the trip and all the
walking has done me good. A couple of days ago Joanna brought a
kettle full of lentil soup and a huge garbage bag more than half full
of wild greens: stinging nettles, fiddlehead ferns and
chard. Some of it was steamed and eaten at supper. Brother
Ephraim and Andrew, our neighbour, spent much time on repairing our
monastery road so that it no longer looks, and feels, like a third
world road. Brother Ephraim is also finishing our broadcasting
studio which we shall be able to use soon. Deacon Philip has been
busy rescuing our metal shed that had become overgrown with ivy and
honeysuckle, as well as cleaning out some ditches and other heavy
work. Glyko provided us with delicious Tiropita and someone
brought a large baking dish of baked apples. Zinaida had been
here in our absence having first fertilized the flower beds with mature
manure that her son brought, then planting a variety of annuals.
There are other things I have forgotten to mention but, as you can
tell, there had been plenty of activity. A quick telephone call
was needed to arrange for a July baptism for a Bulgarian baby
boy. The mother expects to see twenty to thirty Bulgarians for
the baptism and that would most definitely be the largest number of
Bulgarians ever present at the monastery.
******************** 2
May, 2012
There was no disturbing sound at night and after a decent sleep it was
off to the breakfast buffet. There is no need in enumerating all
the dishes although one particular one did interest me. It was a
vegetarian sausage, not at all like the tofu sausages we find at
home. It was thicker, less firm but quite yummy. I also
enjoy the berry mixture with its abundance of red currants.
Having arrived at Heathrow Airport we waited at Terminal 5 until four
o'clock when we could see what gate we had to go to. It became
crowded and stuffy so, for almost three hours we sat and watched
passengers who obviously were from different parts of the world.
Finally we were informed that we would be at gate 58 and we began or
overland trek. Even with the moving sidewalks it felt like a
day's journey to reach this destination. Fortunately we did not
have to wait long before boarding the plane. The flight was
uneventful, just as it should be. I even managed to watch two
movies, something that I never do at home. The first one was a
comedy-mystery with Rowan Atkinson. Even with my headset on I
caught myself laughing out loud. The second movie was "Tintin"
and by then I had enough of movies to last for a long time.
Flying over Greenland I could see some mountains and inlets with large
areas of sea ice. Finally we arrived in Vancouver where we were
met by Deacon Philip and we set out for the monastery where we finally
arrived quite late. And so, I soon went to sleep.
******************** 1
May, 2012
The rain was not heavy this morning but a light drizzle and at seven
o'clock we took a taxi together with Kristian and soon we were in
downtown Oxford where the Morris dancers were energetically
dancing. The men wore white shirts and trousers, their hats
sporting sprigs of greenery (I believe that they can also have small
antlers), their lower legs bound by ribbons with numerous attached
bells. No doubt this dance heralds back to pagan and Druid times
and it is characterized by uncomplicated leg and foot movements with
partial leaps and someone, perhaps even one of the dancers, as I could
not tell who it was) shouting out commandments, not unlike our square
dances. After filming some of this dancing we walked on toward
Trinity College - Suddenly we heard someone calling out to us. It
was our Nina, leaning out a window and waving to us. The students
everywhere had enjoyed their traditional May Day breakfast of champagne
and strawberries, very much unlike May Day celebrations in some other
countries where it is observed more as a serious and, at times, a stern
labour day. But, back to our adventure. Nina hurried out
and we entered the Trinity College courtyard where voices could be
heard but no singers to be seen. There they were, however, atop
the college tower, singing madrigals. This was also filmed and
can be seen on our Youtube. From there we went to the refectory
where we had breakfast where I chose beans on toast (how English can
one be?), mushrooms, egg, yogurt, orange juice and coffee. Soon
after, the chaplain of Trinity College came up to introduce
herself. She was really quite pleasant and had just received her
published Ph.D. thesis that day. This refectory is quite baroque
in style and it was the scent of some episodes in the Harry Potter
movie about Hogwart College. Then we walked to the College Chapel
where an exhibit of icons had been set up. They were painted by a
local iconographer, as I recall, and were quite presentable.
Since the rain had let up we walked back to Canterbury Road for a brief
rest before leaving for London. Our stay in Oxford was more
enjoyable than I could ever have imagined. We had no need to
travel about the countryside because Oxford offered almost everything
that I had wanted to see. We were given copies of a book on
holy places in Britain -- "Britain's Holiest Places by Nick Mayhew
Smith whose wife is a parishioner of Oxford's Saint Nicholas Russian
Orthodox Church. If you have a chance to purchase it, please do because
it is a real treasure trove of information on the holy places and what
is especially interesting is that there is Orthodox information as
well. I had forgotten to mention that in one Youtube of the madrigal
singers, a little spaniel appears at the beginning. Its name is
Dido. When we arrived by bus at Heathrow Airport we were advised
to take a bus rather than a taxi, which we did, but because of the
noise we could not hear the bus driver call out the name of our street
so we naturally assumed that we had already passed it. Actually
we did not but after asking for some information at a nearby hotel we
were told that a five minute walk would take us to our
destination. It was more like ten minutes or even fifteen, but
the walk was enjoyable and not having much baggage made all the
difference. We reached our hotel, checked in and immediately went
to have a cup of coffee. Thus fortified we went in search of our
rooms. The corridor stretched on and on and I feared that I would have
to be resuscitated once I collapsed from exhaustion. It really
was not that bad. Besides, I think that all the walking I did in
Oxford as well as this corridor ordeal helped my back and hip pains
because I no longer had to take any Motrin for pain. This hotel
advertises: "We guarantee a good nights sleep or your money
back." In truth, there was no noise despite the location of the
hotel so close to the airport. To paraphrase Samuel Pepys: "And
so to supper and then to sleep." The last night in Britain!
******************** 30
April, 2012
What a joy to stroll in the fresh morning air with no danger of a
sudden shower. The air was fragrant with the scent of white and
purple lilacs. The periwinkles are much taller than our
ground-hugging ones and climbing hydrangeas might be more common than
our mop-head variety. Oxford's streets and sidewalks are
remarkably clean and almost spotless after all the rain. There is
also a feeling of neighbourhood intimacy in the number of small shops,
some of which are the size of our larger broom closets. Every
square foot of land has been designated for some use and there are no
empty lots or unused areas as we are accustomed to seeing in North
America. In the evening there was a Bible Study at Canterbury
Road given by Father Stephen with Father Ian participating. It
was on Genesis and a number of important points and views were brought
up and discussed. After all the farewells were made, indeed, the
English being able to carry out farewells almost as long as those of
the Russians, we all left the study hall. (In Russian there is a
saying: Do not fear the seated guests, only the one's taking leave --
meaning that those who are taking leave will linger endlessly with
their farewells). On the spur of the moment, we decided to go out
to eat (yes, this is about food again). Kristian joined us and we set
out to look for an appropriate place. The pub was no longer
serving food since it was after nine o'clock so we stepped into a small
Italian restaurant. The middle-aged man who received us was both
host and waiter, very gracious in the Italian manner. I admit
that I searched for signs of any mafia influences or association, but
concluded that he probably was simply the owner who could manage on his
own at this later hour. I cannot remember what Kristian ordered
but both Vladika and I had bream which was delicious. The entire
fish was served on a platter and I avoided any contact with the fish's
eyes. I think that I could not have been able to eat it if there
had been any trace of sadness in its eyes. Now that I think back,
its head was slightly crumbed so that no eye contact could have been
possible. After the meal we had strong espresso coffee served in
cups only slightly larger than a good-sized thimble. There was no
concept here of the endless cups, or even mugs, of coffee served in our
restaurants. For those of you who are unfamiliar with many of our
North American restaurants, coffee will often be served even before
looking at the menu. By the time you leave, up to half a dozen
refills (at no extra charge) can be drunk. Since tomorrow will be
May Day, we had hoped to be up in time for the six o'clock celebrations
but, because of the inclement weather, we decided to see the activities
later. One of the highlights used to be students leaping off the
Magdalen Tower into the River Cherwell, but because of the number of
serious accidents, it has been abolished.
******************** 29
April, 2012
Sunday morning, and a wet, cold one at that. Sergei drove us to
the Saint Nicholas Church located on Ferry Road. The Hours were
being read as we arrived and soon the Divine Liturgy began. Each
of us was given a set of epitrachil and cuffs and we stood to the
left of the Holy Table where bishops' rugs had been placed for us. The
service was in both Church Slavonic and English, flowing effortlessly
with the choir singing harmoniously and naturally. The church was
soon filled with worshippers and both Father Stephen and Hieromonk
Tikhon (studying at Oxford and a monk from a monastery in Ukraine)
communed the faithful from two chalices. Since we had brought a number
of icon prints of our monastery icon, the Theotokos, "Joy of Canada",
we distributed them as people approached for the final blessing. Tea
was served later and we were able to meet many of the parishioners and
to wish them great success in their struggle for authentic
Orthodoxy. We were invited to lunch by Simon and Martha who took
us to another charming place (yes, these establishments really are
charming, in the sense that the visitors are charmed and captivated by
the entire atmosphere). When I saw that the menu listed kedgiree
as an entree, I had to order it and I was not disappointed. This
very English dish comes from India and anyone who has not tried it must
do so. You must surely find the recipe (or "receipt" in archaic
English) on the internet. This was an enjoyable meal in the
presence of our hospitable hosts. Back at Canterbury Road I felt need
of a rest after which I was anxious to go out for a stroll. The
idea of a cup of coffee sounded good but, instead, we stopped at an
ancient pub (this is beginning to sound terribly repetitious) and had a
platter of nut roast and veggies with ale. Scarcely had we
returned when Nina wondered if we were hungry. No, not at all,
but a cup of tea sounded good. Soon, a whole meal was prepared
for a number of Russian students in a typically unplanned Russian
manner when various dishes kept popping out of the kitchen.
Naturally we could not eat, having just finished that nut roast, but
the food was blessed and we enjoyed the tea, the wine and the
irresistible sweets. Father Tikhon joined us, as did Dmitri,
Sergei and Kristian, who was preparing for an important appointment at
his college where he was to present himself dressed formally, including
his gown (the Harry Potter style as he calls it). It is difficult
to describe the energy and exuberance that these young people passed on
to us. Perhaps that is what makes Oxford so special. It is
close to midnight as I finish today's entry. I often wonder if
anyone bothers to read this diary, yet I was encouraged to hear from
Father Stephen that it reminds him of the well-known "Diary of a
Country Parson." And so, allow me, like the country parson, get a
good night's sleep (I cannot remember -- did he ever suffer from
insomnia?).
******************** 28
April, 2012
Very early in the morning I was awakened by the gentle cooing of a
dove, or perhaps pigeons, and I did not wish to fall asleep again
which, nevertheless, I did. We walked down a narrow lane, filled
with small shops and cafes, where I noticed a newsstand. Since
there was a variety of newspapers, I chose The Times because the name
was most familiar. It included the Weekend, so that going through
the entire newspaper and its supplement was rather like leafing through
a thick catalogue. I found that it had less international news
than, for example, our Globe and Mail. We are now waiting to be
picked up for a drive to Blenheim Palace, located not far from Oxford,
near the town of Woodstock and, from there, to church for the All Night
Vigil..... Well, it is bedtime but I shall relate what occurred
during the day. Sergei picked us up, together with Nina, another
guardian angel, and we set out, driving through the picturesque
countryside. The ride was short and suddenly we came upon
Woodstock. As we stepped out of the car we heard a joyous peal of
church bells. A wedding had just taken place and the bridal party
was streaming out into the cold wind. As we walked toward the palace,
its park seemed to stretch for miles in all directions (that is, not in
our direction at least). We walked about and saw the mausoleum of the
first Duke of Marlborough and the palace is where Sir Winston Churchill
was born. We did not go inside as Vladika Lazar felt chilled and
might have been coming down with a head cold. We then went to
Sergei's house in Woodstock. It is a perfect example of what we
Canadians would think of as a typical English cottage. It simply
oozed charm. After warming up with tea and treats we walked
through the town, admiring the buildings and amazed that there was such
uniformity in architecture. Apparently these buildings are not to be
externally modernized but must retain their 1740 appearance. Later we
rode back to Oxford to the Saint Nicholas Russian Orthodox Church where
we were welcomed by Father Stephen Platt. It was recently
acquired and transformed from a derelict structure (internally, that
is) into an Orthodox gem. I would most strongly recommend that
all visitors to the Oxford area should visit this church. A large
icon of Saint Frideswide, the patron saint of Oxford and recognized by
the Orthodox Church, stands out on the left side of the church.
What especially impressed me was the correct style of the icons in the
church with nothing of the mish-mash of styles that one often
encounters in parish churches. As for Father Stephen, he was the
embodiment of kindness, a truly loving priest. He drove us back to
Canterbury Road and insisted on having something to eat along the way
which we did at the Trout Inn. As the name suggests, we had fish
(and chips) and, if I am not mistaken the fish was haddock and
absolutely delicious. The establishment looked very old in a way
that cannot easily be duplicated. It is now time for bed.
In the morning we shall be driven to Father Stephen's church for the
Divine Liturgy.
******************** 27
April, 2012
We had a light breakfast at the same cafe in the building that dated
back to 1645. As we were leaving the woman behind the counter
asked if we were Russian or Greek. By the time I finished my
lengthy explanation, Vladika Lazar had already gone outside. When
this woman heard that he was of Serbian descent she rushed out to speak
to him since she herself was Serbian. After this pleasant chat we
returned to our hotel and, just before checking out time at noon,
Kristian came for us and we took a taxi to a somewhat residential area
of Oxford, to the Saint Gregory and Saint Marina house. Our
luxurious, or perhaps more correctly, our very comfortable rooms were
exchanged for more modest ones such as befits monastics. They
were, none-the-less, comfortable. The library and hall had many
icons which immediately made the dwelling look like an Orthodox
refuge. Since it was time for lunch, a group of us went to a
nearby pub. Each small room had its own distinct charm where
everything had grown organically over the decades rather than like our
pubs that are designed and built strictly according to plan. We
ordered baked potatoes stuffed with tuna with the ever-present H.P.
Sauce on each table. Here it seems to be referred to as brown
sauce and it is more popular than it is in Canada. Our new
address is: 1 Canterbury Road. I doubt that it could sound more
English. There are many Russian speaking students in this
residence and I spoke to them mostly in Russian.
******************** 26
April, 2012
I could scarcely believe that I awoke at ten thirty since this has
never happened to me before. Maybe it was a continuation of the
jet lag. We went for a walk along Merton Road until we reached
Merton College but it was closed to the public so we walked on until we
came to Christ Church which is the largest of Oxford's colleges
together with the smallest cathedral in England. We were asked at
the entrance to the cathedral grounds, by a gentleman in a black
overcoat and black bowler, if we were gentlemen of the cloth.
What else could we have been with all that cloth (cassocks and ryassas)
fluttering about in the strong wind. The cathedral was attractive
and we were welcomed by some cathedral volunteers, one of them a woman
who had once lived near Toronto. (Whenever we mentioned
Vancouver, since no one would ever have heard of Dewdney, or
Abbotsford, or Mission, our nearby urban areas, people would dreamily
nod their heads and praise its beauty, even if they had never been
there). The tomb and shrine of Saint Frideswide, the patron saint
of Oxford, is located in this cathedral and in a few days we will see
an icon of her in the Saint Nicholas Russian Orthodox Church in
Oxford. The better part of the afternoon was a period of rest,
then we walked to Trinity College where Vladika Lazar was to
speak. Along the way we stopped at a Moroccan open bazaar that
had been temporarily set up. I used whatever French I could
recall, while Vladika Lazar tried beating on some small drums.
The outcome was that the Moroccans wanted to be photographed with
us. One feature of Oxford life surprised me, coming from a
country (and, indeed) a continent where some form of alcoholic
prohibition has always existed. You can imagine how amazed I was
to see numerous bottles of wine, both red and white, labelled "Trinity
College Wine," on a table with proper wine glasses for everyone -
speaker, audience, or perhaps even for those who dropped in by
mistake. I prepared my video camera only to discover, halfway
through the lecture, that the battery died. As luck would have
it, a professional camera was nearby and he promised to send us a video
copy of the lecture. The lecture itself was interesting and even
inspiring, presented to an academic, erudite and intellectual
audience. If only all lectures could be presented in such an open
and unprejudiced atmosphere, rather than what so often happens when
members of an audience arrive with their own ideas and agendas, and do
not wish to experience an Oxfordian breath of freshness. After
the lecture a group of us found our way to a Chinese noodle shop where
there was a continuation of the previous discussions while eating
Chinese food. Coming from the Vancouver area which has some of
the best Chinese food outside China, I found my chow mein and seafood
somewhat bland. "Never mind," I said to myself, "it is the
company of young people that counts." On the way back to the
hotel we found the High Street full of noisy students, not surprising,
since they make up at least one quarter of the city's population.
******************** 25
April, 2012
Much of the day was spent in sight-seeing, all on foot, then
resting. I am grateful that Motrin has helped me immensely with
my aches and pains, partially due to the walking. Almost
everything in the city centre looks comfortably aged and it is only in
the interior of some buildings that one can notice some modern
architecture or, as some have called it, the 1970's look. I found
it difficult to find my room at first and once I was asked by someone
from the kitchen staff if I was looking for the loo (lavatory).
To reach my room I must first walk through the small lobby or reception
area, then through the lounge and behind a moveable screen and into a
side hall, up a flight of stairs, and into another side hall. But, it
is charming. Each morning the birds begin to sing early and
mellifluously (how is that for a word that simply means "sweet as
honey"?). Kristian, one of our several guardian angels, picked us
up and gave us a partial tour of Oxford. We then went to Pembroke
College, to which he belongs, where we were met by his wife Irini, from
Cyprus. They have been married scarcely four months and that
special glow is still clearly visible in them. We ate in the
College's refectory, then stopped at a pub for coffee. In truth,
I had a half-pint of dark ale (Black Golden Dragon, if I remember
correctly) and I felt quite satisfied that I was able to have English
ale. Now, I must have fish and chips to get a real feel for
English cuisine.
In many respects English food is quite similar to ours, but not so
sweet and more bland. What I was able to watch of British
television gave me the impression that there is less violence and
vulgarity here (is that possible? Maybe I had the wrong
channels!). One aspect was outstanding. Many actors and
broadcasters looked quite ordinary, whereas in North America, the women
at least, they must look attractive, if not glamorous. And,
moreover, they had ordinary teeth!!! Some had teeth that were uneven
and slightly discoloured, whereas in North America, everyone on
television has perfectly formed super white teeth -- in fact, they look
more unnatural than the best of false teeth (also known as "dentures",
that is, a euphemism for what were once known as chompers or
clackers). I was grateful for the late hour so that I could crawl
into the comfortable bed.
******************** 24 April,
2012
(Those of you who read this diary or even glance at it occasionally,
will have noticed that no entries were made for a number of days.
Actually, they simply were not uploaded on the trip, even though I
faithfully recorded the events of each day. Now that it is again life
at the monastery, I am rewriting each day's entry as best as I can
decipher my miniscule scrawl, having used a notepad of 10 cm or, as in
our good old way -- and the old ways are often much easier for us, the
"golden agers" -- 4" x 4". Now I shall pass on these pages to Father
Moses who will type them into the computer.)
Even before having left Vancouver I was amazed at how polite people
were at the airport. An attendant offered to drive us to our departure
gate on a "get about," seeing that we walked with canes.
She was from Karadi, Pakistan, had lived for some time in London and
now resides in Vancouver. You can imagine my surprise when she
greeted us with "Khristos Anesti." She is a convert to Orthodoxy
and attends a Greek Orthodox Church in Vancouver and works with a
Romanian woman who has visited our monastery. But, before she gave us
this welcome lift, we had to go through inspection. Since we
happened to be in two different queues, Vladika Lazar literally sailed
through, no doubt because the inspector turned out to be a Serbian
Orthodox woman. On the other hand, I was much more closely
scrutinized which included removing my shoes which is not difficult,
rather it is putting them on again and especially relacing them that is
an effort, at least for me, having nowhere to prop up each foot and
almost stumbling by stepping on the hem of my cassock. Once
through, we waited for three hours at the departure gate, giving me
ample time to read two English newspapers purchased at the airport news
stand. The long trip was pleasant enough, particularly since we
had seats in a special area, the name of which I have already
forgotten. It is somewhat like a business class section and we
were able to reserve them at a cheaper rate because British Airways had
earlier made this promotional offer. When we arrived in London at
Heathrow Airport, we had to stand in line for one and a half hours to
go through airport control. A few days later there were angry
voices raised in the House of Commons because soon, hundreds of
thousands of people will be arriving for the Olympic Games and there is
not enough staff to deal with this problem. Indeed, some people
stood for up to two and a half hours but, I suppose, in true British
fashion, they will (officials and public) be able to muddle through it
somehow. Eventually we found our express bus to Oxford, having
forgotten to tell the driver that we had concessions (at least I think
that is what it is called, in our case, being senior citizens).
The countryside was beautiful, as one would expect in Britain, and in
less than an hour and a half we arrived in Oxford. The city
looked neat and attractive, and only after we crossed the River
Cherwell did Oxford's beauty become everywhere evident. The bus
stopped to let us off on High Street and we walked a short block to the
Eastgate Hotel, situated on the corner of High Street and Merton
Road. The view from Vladika's room was that of the Examination
Schools, while out of my window I could see the tower of Magdalen
College. We went out to have, as tourists really, a typical
English supper (or at least what one imagines it to be) in a building
dating back to 1645. You can imagine how that felt, realizing
that Canada had been originally settled shortly before that date.
Everything round about us was just as one sees it in the Inspector
Morse and Lewis movies. Soon, a young man approached us and asked
for a blessing. It was Kristian Akselberg, an Orthodox student
here in Oxford at Pembroke College who, when he asked for us at the
hotel, was told that we had just recently stepped out. And so ended the
first day of the trip with the sound of the unfamiliar, such as the
bells, the voices of students in the streets, and even the birds song
differently, no doubt because we do not have those particular species
here in British Columbia.
******************** 23 April, 2012 The morning has been rushed while tending to last minute tasks and wondering, again, if everything that is necessary has been packed. As I sit at my desk, looking out the large window before me, I am almost overwhelmed by the beauty of the camelias. The one closest has pale pink flowers and some are beginning to fade. The other two camelias are farther away yet their dark pink flowers are so massed that the dark green leaves are almost invisible. Their best showing has been this spring. Alas, the dandelions are doing better than ever before. Visitors advise us to eat the leaves, to dry the roots for use as a coffee substitute or to gather the flowers to make dandelion wine, but little has come of this. We are leaving for the Vancouver Internatioinal Airport in a few minutes and I would ask everyone to pray for our safe journey. ******************** 22 April,
2012
Another perfect day with warm, fragrant air and a kindly sun shining
down upon us. We served the Divine Liturgy once again in the icon
gallery and attendance was higher than expected, with one family
driving all the way from Alberta to attend the Liturgy (a twelve hour
drive each way). After the Agape meal, a Pannikhida was served or, as
it is known in Ukrainian on this day, "provady," when the departed are
remembered. It was served in English because we had people who spoke
English, Russian, Ukrainian, Belorussian, Greek, Romanian and Georgian.
Then, Vladika Lazar offered a Meleti which was filmed and should
already be on "orthodoxcanada channel" for anyone interested. The
evening has been spent in redoing the packing and preparing for
tomorrow's trip. I do not know if it will be possible to post the daily
diaries on the trip but I shall certainly try. If not, we shall be back
in ten days.
******************** 21 April,
2012
Another beautiful, sunny and warm day (we seem to have so few of them).
We had a most interesting baptism today of little Elizabeth who is just
three months old. She was so quiet except when immersed into the
baptismal water. It came as a surprise and she cried very briefly but
then continued to be quiet and peaceful. The Symbol of Faith was read
in Ukrainian and, after the baptism, I tried to use my rather
inadequate Ukrainian. It seemed to please them hearing me saying entire
phrases and sentences in their native language. Some of the women wore
beautiful hand embroidered blouses from Eastern Ukraine and quite
different from what we are accustomed to see here in Canada since the
majority of Ukrainians in Canada had originally come from Western
Ukraine.
******************** 20 April,
2012
The van went in for a check up this morning and it is now doing much
better. Some of the noises that were annoying have been replaced by a
quiet hum. Brother Ephraim has been away since last night, taking
George for his eye operation and helping him to recover. After reading
and hearing so much about the new thick Greek style yogurt that has
become so popular lately, we bought some, much to our satisfaction. No
doubt we shall be using this type exclusively, especially in place of
sour cream. We even tried a new Halal yogurt which was not exceptional.
There has been no fasting all week and next week we shall be returning
to our usual fasting routine.
******************** 19 April,
2012
We have been most fortunate because, regularly, our guardian angel
stopped by, bringing a carload of paper products, plates, and food --
two bags of fresh kale, a huge bag of broccoli, sweets, and so forth,
including a large sized baklava in all its sweetness. Now the decision
is whether we should eat these nourishing greens for supper or the
planned rich pancakes. Since this is Bright Week, we might have both!
Gardening for us has become more difficult, I used to spend time
weeding and raking, but now it exhausts me in a short period of time
and no one has volunteered to help. This is the time of the year when
weeding is so important, while the soil is still soft and moist, and
the weeds have not grown to an unmanageable height. In my experience,
younger people seem to have lost their interest in gardening and
tending shrubs and perennials. Perhaps this is a result of our
fast-paced throw-away society.
******************** 18 April,
2012
I attempted to go shopping to buy a few things for the trip and so I
went to a large mall, one that I have visited no more than five times
in the last decade. Then, I went to a large store that is intended for
people of all ages but, after walking about for a few minutes, I left,
realizing that I am completely out of touch with today's fashions.
Everything in the men's department was intended for people in their
twenties or thirties. Perhaps this told me that there was nothing
special that I needed. I tried to staple some booklets that were
recently printed but had to give up. The stapler is old, and heavy and
foot operated. It has served us at least thirty years and will exist
forever because they are no longer made to last. It does need, however,
some adjustment to ensure correct stapling and I was unable to fix it.
We might have to give it all to the bindery, as they can do it quickly
and efficiently.
******************** 17 April,
2012
This was the first relaxed morning since before the feast of the
Annunciation ten days ago. I did not consider yesterday morning to be
relaxing because of having to cross the border. Now that everything is
allowed in Bright Week, the rich food I was looking forward to eating
is no longer a temptation, in fact, what interests me most now is soup,
which I had made today with our own sorrel. Baptism season seems to be
approaching with three or four in the next few weeks. I bought a
"carry-on" suitcase for the flight to London. The last time I bought
one must have been decades ago, otherwise I used someone else's. Over
the years I have learned to travel with less and less baggage because
not that much is needed.
******************** 16 April,
2012
Before anything else could be done, several book orders had to be taken
across the border to mail. The entire morning was cold with a constant
rain. How fortunate we were that on Saturday and Sunday we had perfect
weather. By afternoon, though, the sun made several appearances. There
has been so much cleaning up to do and, since it is garbage day, about
ten huge garbage bags were taken away in addition to about half a dozen
bags filled with recycling material. I had no idea that we could
generate so much material over one weekend. Our camelias are out in
full force, and some of them were used to decorate the icons for
Pascha. Then, George brought more camelias, dozens of them, so that
they were placed everywhere in the church. Thankfully we had no lilies
because of Vladika Lazar's allergies and instead there were many
bouquets of red and white carnations and other flowers, the names of
which are not familiar to me. The garlands made by the women on Holy
Friday consisted of six garlands, each one at least one metre long and
two others, about two metres long each. So many candles were used
(about 500 according to Brother Ephraim) that we now have only 50 or 60
left and, as a result, he will have to make many more this week. Even
though we all rested well last night, we nevertheless feel a little
frazzled today, which is not surprising but certainly worth it all for
the glorious Paschal celebration.
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15 April, 2012
CHRIST IS RISEN! TRULY HE IS
RISEN!
Greetings
to everyone on this joyous day of the Resurrection of our
Lord Jesus Christ! May the rest of this year be full of spiritual joy
and gladness for all of you! Our midnight service began almost modestly
but when we went outdoors on the procession, we realized how many
people there were. On the way back into the building to enter the
church, we met those who were just coming out. Paschal Matins was a
period of spiritual joy and the Divine Liturgy that followed had so
many communicants that two chalices had to be used. The tables were
groaning with the weight of all the baskets and, in fact, the large oak
table lost a leg and the table tumbled over, fortunately after the
baskets had been removed. The breaking of the fast followed and the
last people left a little before five thirty o'clock in the
morning.There seemed to be somewhat fewer people present this year
although someone pointed out that the space provided for the
worshippers was larger this year and this made it seem as if fewer
people were present. I got to bed shortly after six and was up again
before nine, knowing that people would be coming around. By the time I
got to the main building fifteen minutes later, Deacon Philip informed
me that some people had already arrived and, finding out that we had no
morning service, they had left. In minutes, other people began arriving
many of them knowing that there was no service, but anxious to break
the fast at the monastery. In all, we no doubt had about one hundred
people coming and going which left us full of joy but tired. The
Paschal Vespers service was attended by only two or three dozen people
who stayed on until after seven in the evening. As a result we all are
exhausted, not so much from the services as by being with people all
those hours. The entire Holy Week and Paschal Services could not have
been better, for which we thank the Lord for His great mercy. Christ is
Risen.
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