Lenten Disciplines
The Rite of Reconciliation (Confession) is a part of The Episcopal Church open to all, but not required of anyone. Lent is an appropriate time to explore this sacrament of the Church found on page 446 of the Book of Common Prayer. Feel free to contact Fr. Michael at the office if you wish to schedule a time or just to sit down and share your spiritual journey.
- The Great Litany (BCP 148) was the first part of the Prayerbook translated by the reformers from Latin into English. This rather long prayer was meant to be prayed by everyone for all the needs of the world. It is traditionally used on the first Sundays of Advent and Lent.
- The Trisagion (Thrice Holy Hymn) comes the Eastern Church and it used as a Gospel acclamation. The version we will be using from the hymnal (S-102) comes from the Slavic Church as a way to connect with the sufferings in Ukraine.
- The Apostles' Creed is a simpler creed used an instruction to prepare people for baptism. In Lent, we are all preparing to renewal our Baptismal Vows at Easter no matter when we were baptized.
- Eucharistic Prayer A (BCP 361) is the shortest prayer focusing on the death and resurrection of Jesus.
The Rev. Michael Ruk (he/him)
Interim Priest in Charge
6105211626 EXT:22
You can call me Michael or Father Michael.
Michael was born in Pittsburgh and raised in a Roman Catholic family. He is a graduate of Allegheny College, where he majored in political science and religious studies. He holds a Master’s degree in Theology from Duquesne University.
Michael taught high school in Natrona Heights, Pa., for a number of years before deciding to enter seminary. He graduated from the Nashotah House Theological Seminary in Nashotah, Wisc., and was ordained as an Episcopal priest in 2003. Before becoming rector at St. Philip’s in 2012, he served at Trinity Cathedral, Pittsburgh; St. Paul's, Levittown; All Saints, Fallsington; and St. Phillip's, New Hope. He is able to perform marriages in both Pennsylvania and New Jersey.
Michael’s interests include liturgy, monasticism, inter-religious dialogue, and issues of social justice. He loves traveling for the chance it gives him to experience different cultures — and cuisines — and he is not one to pass up a good Broadway show, ever.