Bishop Gregory Presides Over Funeral For Protopresbyter Michael Rosco

PERTH AMBOY, NJ -- His Grace Bishop Gregory of Nyssa presided over Funeral Services for the Very Rev. Protopresbyter Michael Rosco.  Scores of Diocesan Priests and Deacons, and hundreds of family members, parishioners and friends of Fr Michael Rosco filled the Church to capacity at the Priestly Funeral Service held on Sunday Evening, May 19th and the Divine Liturgy on Monday May 20, 2013.

Also in attendance were His Eminence, Metropolitan Antony and His Grace, Bishop Daniel of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church of the USA, long time friends of Fr. Michael Rosco.

His Grace, Bishop Gregory, in his eulogy delivered at the conclusion of the Divine Liturgy, reflected on the exemplary priesthood of Fr. Michael.  "He was not just a good priest but, rather, an excellent one.  He fullfilled all of his many duties with faithfulness and grace wearing many hats. Not only did he faithfully serve this parish for the past 20 years, but  on the Diocesan level he served as Vice-Chancellor,  member of the Diocesan Consistery, Dean of three deaneries, Editor of the Church Messenger  and Chairman of the Liturgical Music and Missions Commissions. Serving in these capacities, in addition to his work with the poor of the local community, Fr. Michael has positively impacted the lives  of  thousands of people throughout the course of his exemplary priesthood...."

Speaking from the heart,  His Grace offered his
sincere condolences to Fr. Michael's beloved wife of 41 years, Pani Susan, his Son Vladimir, and the parish family of St. John's Parish.  He assured them of his love and prayers in the difficult days that lay ahead.  He encouraged them to take hope from the knowledge that by Christ's Holy Resurrection, death has been conquered, and that Fr. Michael will be intereceding for them at  the Throne of God. He encouraged all to remember that life is short and precious and to continually express their love and gratitude to their spouses, children and loved ones.

Following  the Divine Liturgy and the concluding funeral prayers,  the interment of the earthly remains of  Fr Michael Rosco took place at St. Andrew's Ukrainian Orthodox Memorial Cemetery in South Bound Brook, NJ.  A memorial luncheon immediately followed.

May Almighty God rest the soul of His newly departed and ever-memorable servant, Protopresbyter Michael in the Mansions of the Just where there is neither sickness or sorrow, but life-everlasting.   May His Memory Be Eternal!  Christ is Risen!

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View Special Memorial Photo Gallery:  Remembering Fr. Michael Rosco