Eastern Diocese Clergy seminar held at Shadeland

Clergy of the Eastern American Diocese gathered with His Grace Bishop Dr. Mitrophan at the St. Sava Camp Shadeland in Springboro, Pennsylvania on October 19-20, 2015 for the annual clergy seminar.

Following Vespers on Monday evening, attending clergy had the opportunity to discuss parish interests with His Grace Bishop Dr. Mitrophan.

The evening discussion is helpful to examine topics related to parish life.

On Tuesday morning, Matins, the First, Third and Sixth Hours preceded the Hierarchical Divine Liturgy. Diocesan clergy served with His Grace and heartily sang responses.

Very Reverend Dr. Milos Vesin, accomplished parish priest, seminary professor and widely recognized speaker gave an extensive presentation on the topic of suicide.

Father Vesin thoroughly researched the topic. His presentation included Biblical references to suicide, relevant writings from saints of the Church and contemporary statistics. Different dimensions and the impact of suicide were put in clear terms.

Thoughts about suicide, failed and successful attempts and the impact of suicide were described. The mental health condition of persons attempting and committing suicide were considered. The impact of medications were discussed.

Being sensitive and attentive to suicidal inclinations was recognized as being important. The widespread impact of suicide on family members and others was included in the presentation.

Father Milos Vesin’s presentation was very descriptive and illustrated with specific examples. His Grace and participating clergy enriched the discussion. Many people from the very young to the very old have taken their own lives.

This seminar is part of a continuum of clergy seminars held consistently each year since 1993. Twenty five Diocesan clergy gathered with His Grace Bishop Dr. Mitrophan to participate in this seminar.

Father Vesin was applauded for his excellent presentation. Millie Radovick, DeeDee Baskot, Olga Dimitrijevic, and Maria Kordesich from the KSS Eastern Federation were thanked for their constant support for the seminars.

Before concluding, His Grace Bishop Dr. Mitrophan announced plans to hold the Winter Camp at Shadeland for youths of the Diocese ages 7-17. The Winter Camp will be held December 27-December 30, 2015.

Father Rodney Torbic