Maronite Voice. A Publication of the Maronite Eparchies in the USA. Volume V Issue No. IX October 2009

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1 The Maronite Voice A Publication of the Maronite Eparchies in the USA Volume V Issue No. IX October 2009 Day In and Day Out, Holy Priests Draw Others to Jesus by Love and Service Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ, B ishop Shaheen and I have much for which to be thankful. It has to do with priests. This year, according to Pope Benedict, is the Year of the Priests, under the special patronage of St. John Vianney, Patron of parish priests, who died one hundred and fifty years ago. Likewise, this year leading up to 2010, according to our Maronite Patriarch and the Maronite Synod of th Bishops, is the 1600 anniversary of the death of another priest, St. Maron, Father of the Maronite Church. This year in Our Lady of Lebanon Maronite Seminary in Washington, D.C., we have eight seminarians. Fadi Bazouzi, Gaby Gubash, George El-Hajj, and Deacon Tony Massad are studying for the Eparchy of Our Lady of Lebanon, and Raymond Khallouf, Alex Joseph, Subdeacon Vince Farhat, and Subdeacon Dany Abi-Akar for the Eparchy of Saint Maron of Brooklyn. In June of 2010 the Maronite Church in the United States, God willing, will have three new priests; next year we hope to have three new seminarians. This is a reason to rejoice and be grateful! Back to our two priest saints; what a witness they are to the power of priesthood: two men, who by faithful love for Christ transformed the world around them. Saint John Vianney lived his life in complete devotion to the souls he served in his parish, and became, for all time, a model of priestly care and love. Saint Maron, though not seeking to serve any parish but to live a solitary life of prayer and penance, ended up inspiring an entire Church, reminding them for all time that God alone suffices. This is what holy priests do. Day in and day out, by quiet dedication and without fanfare or special notice, they cling to God for their own salvation and draw others to Him by love and service. St. Maron preaching the Gospel. This year we have the joy of celebrating the lives of two holy priests. We pray that the Maronite Church will always have much for which to be thankful. We pray that our seminarians will one day be holy priests. Prayer, along with love, makes all the difference in the world! Give us, O Lord, holy priests. Saint John Vianney, Saint Maron, Mary, Mother of Priests, pray for us. + Gregory J Mansour Bishop of the Eparchy of Saint Maron of Brooklyn

2 Schedule of Bishop Robert Shaheen October 3-4, 2009 Visit to Saint Theresa, Tulsa, Okla. October 11, 2009 Annual Liturgy and Banquet, Daughters of Saint Paul October 15, 2009 Ordination of Tony Karam to the Order of Deacon, St. Raymond Cathedral, St. Louis, Mo. October 16-18, 2009 Order of Saint Sharbel Annual Retreat, St. Louis, Mo. October 17, 2009 Wedding at St. Raymond Cathedral, St. Louis, Mo. October 20-30, 2009 Lebanon November 6-8, 2009 Dedication of Holy Family Maronite Church, St. Paul, Minn. November 14-15, 2009 th Kick-off of St. Elias Church 100 Anniversary, Birmingham, Ala. November 15-18, 2009 USCCB Annual Meeting, Baltimore, Md. Eparchial Condolences Ronald A. Faris, the brother of Chorbishop John D. Faris, Pastor of Saint Louis Gonzaga in Utica, New York, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, September 12, 2009 from an aneurism. Ronald was born on July 11, 1953 and is survived by his wife, Penny, one daughter and one son, as well as his parents, three brothers and two sisters. He had a private funeral at the request of the family. Condolences may be sent to: Chorbishop John D. Faris, Saint Louis Gonzaga Church, 520 Rutger Street, Utica, NY Bishops Gregory Mansour and Robert Shaheen, along with the clergy and faithful of the Eparchy of Saint Maron and the Eparchy of Our Lady of Lebanon extend their heartfelt sympathy and the promise of our prayers to Chorbishop John and his family. May Almighty God grant his servant Ronald eternal rest. Project Roots T he Eparchy of Saint Maron of Brooklyn and the Eparchy of Our Lady of Lebanon join together to help people reconnect with their Christian spiritual roots in Lebanon and the Middle East. An office in Los Angeles, Calif., under the responsibility of Fr. Abdallah Zaidan, M.L.M., will assist those interested to: Obtain their sacramental records from their country of origin Connect with family members living in their place of origins and throughout the world where they emigrated Obtain Lebanese citizenship, if desired Obtain immigration records, if desired Remain connected with the Maronite Church here and throughout the world. No eparchial funds will be used, but the office will accept financial help from those willing to help. For more information contact: Father Abdallah Zaidan, M.L.M. 333 South San Vicente Boulevard Los Angeles, CA The Maronite Voice 4611 Sadler Road Glen Allen, VA Phone: 804/ Fax: 804/ gmsebaali@aol.com The Maronite Voice, (ISSN ) the official newsletter of the Maronite Eparchies in the U.S.A. (Eparchy of Our Lady of Lebanon of Los Angeles and Eparchy of Saint Maron of Brooklyn), is published monthly. Send all changes of address, news, pictures and personal correspondence to The Maronite Voice at the above captioned address. Subscription rates are $20.00 per year. Advertising rates are available upon request. Publishers Most Reverend Bishop Robert Joseph Shaheen Most Reverend Bishop Gregory John Mansour Editor Msgr. George M. Sebaali Consultor Fr. Abdallah Zaidan, M.L.M. Editing and proofreading Mary Shaia Anne-Marie Condlin Printed in Richmond, Virginia. Maronite Convention 2010 St. Elias Maronite Church Birmingham, Alabama July 7-11, 2010 For more information contact the NAM office at (914) or visit The Maronite Voice Volume V Issue No. IX Page 2 October 2009

3 Chicago, Illinois Diaconate Ordination From left to right: Chorbishop Faowzi Elia, Bishop Robert Shaheen, Msgr. Alfred Badawi and Subdeacon John Sfire. O n August 30, 2009,His Excellency Bishop Robert Shaheen, Bishop of the Eparchy of Our Lady of Lebanon, ordained Subdeacon John Alan Sfire to the Order of Deacon for the altar of Our Lady of Lebanon Church in Chicago, Illinois. Chorbishop Faowzi Elia, Vicar General and Chancellor of the Eparchy of Our Lady of Lebanon, and Monsignor Alfred Badawi, Pastor, concelebrated the Divine Liturgy. Parishioners were delighted to witness Sfire s ordination, the first deacon in their parish. Family and friends were very supportive of Deacon Sfire throughout his formation. My whole family has been aware of my desire to take my spiritual journey to a higher level, said Deacon Sfire, and they have been all extremely supportive. Most of all, my wife Bobbi, who is also very spiritual, has helped me better understand many aspects of my journey. I am excited to see the fulfillment of my spiritual journey which I started forty-five years ago at St. Maron Church in Detroit, Michigan. said Deacon Sfire. Deacon Sfire was ultimately accepted into the diocesan diaconate program in July 2006, attending classes two nights per week at Mundelein Seminary. During this time, the newly ordained Deacon sharpened his skills of service in the community. As part of the Diaconate curriculum, the candidates were required to participate in the two-part ministry process. The first task was ministering to hospital patients and their families. The second part was creating a ministry needed at one s own parish. As everyone celebrated this joyful occasion, Deacon Sfire shared his vision for his parish: The future of our parish community lies in the younger generations. That makes it imperative that we, as a parish community, find ways to keep our young people interested in coming to church and returning after they go to college and get married. This is our future and we must accomplish this important task. After the ordination, over three hundred people attended a reception in the parish s Shaker Hall in honor of the newly ordained Deacon. Congratulations, Deacon Sfire, as you begin your new ministry in the Church. Retired, I Stayed Among You Farewell O n September 23, 2009, Archbishop Francis M. Zayek, Bishop Emeritus of the Eparchy of Saint Maron and founding bishop for Maronite Catholics in the United States, decided to return permanently to Lebanon. In a letter addressed to all the clergy of the Eparchy of Saint Maron, Bishop Gregory Mansour said Bishop Robert Shaheen and I have often tried to express our thanks to Archbishop Zayek, but in fact, there are no words to describe our gratitude. He was a pioneer in the faith and our true father in Christ. We thank him for the vision, care and pastoral zeal in which he served this Church. With hearts full of gratitude, and in this Year of the Priests, may we thank God for Sayedna Francis and for our common privilege to serve our Lord s Bride, the Church, and let us hope to do so as beautifully as he did. Archbishop Zayek sent, through The Maronite Voice, the following message to all Maronites. My brothers and sisters in Christ, Our Lady of Lebanon pray for us! In the month of May 1966, I came to you, to the States, to work with you and for you, to serve you. We have toiled to establish as possible the Kingdom of God and it is with Him that we have built - to Him be glory forever. Now it is time for me to leave, trusting in the Divine Providence. God continues to build through your Venerable Bishops, the clergy, diocesan and religious, religious men and women, with your deacons, subdeacons and all the faithful of our Maronite tradition. I pray the Lord to continue to bless you, guide you and grant you always peace and good. In a special way, I like to remember my dear friends who, by their love and dedication, have helped me and sustained me in my work. May the Lord reward them and bless all of you. Affectionately in the Lord, Archbishop Francis M. Zayek The Maronite Voice Volume V Issue No. IX Page 3 October 2009

4 Minneapolis, Minnesota Dedication of a New Maronite Senior Home by Melanie Moses Gates F or over a century, St. Maron parishioners in Minneapolis have worshiped in some sort of holy temple of God -- all on one square block. Now, they will be able to reside there as well. On July 12, 2009, St. Maron Maronite Church in Minneapolis, Minnesota, dedicated and opened the Peter Nasseff Maronite home, consisting of twenty-one, one-ortwo bedroom apartments. The housing complex sits adjacent to the parish on University Avenue in Northeast Minneapolis. The dedication was attended by many dignitaries, including Mr. Bachir Tawk, Lebanese Consul of Detroit, visiting priests, parishioners and community members. His Excellency Bishop Robert Shaheen blessed and dedicated the Peter Nasseff building. After the dedication and Divine Liturgy, the congregation celebrated with a reception in the church s Cedar s Hall. A Brief History In 1895, the parishioners of St. Maron Church first held the Divine Liturgy in a store on Main Street, owned by one of the parishioners. At that time, the parish was thirty families strong. Then, they expanded and bought a house on Main Street in As many new Lebanese immigrants came to Minneapolis after World War I, the congregation grew and the parish purchased an abandoned church on Main Street in Twenty years later, a public school located on University Avenue went on the auction block, and that was purchased. After some renovation work, it served as the new church, recreation center and rectory until Over time, the parishioners of St. Maron wanted a church that reflected their Maronite tradition. So, the old school building was razed, and a new church at 602 University Street was erected in In 1989, Fr. sharbel Maroun came to lead the parish. Under his leadership, the church bought ten houses in this square block, anticipating expansion. In 1999, with generous donations from John Nasseff and many other parishioners, 80 percent of the church was razed and replaced by a new building that includes a meeting hall, classrooms, office and a new rectory. From there, Msgr. sharbel and Nasseff began discussing the idea of a senior housing complex, near the church, on the same square block. Senior housing had always been part of Msgr. sharbel s plan of expansion. Now, Nasseff wanted it to happen and did not hesitate to donate the funds needed for the project to happen. The whole project went from talking about it for years to meeting with architects and the first hole being dug, said Msgr. sharbel. The whole time of planning and finishing the building was ten months. The new building is independent living for seniors over 55 years old. It is not an assisted living or nursing home. The complex consists of fifteen one-bedroom apartments and six two-bedroom units. The units have different floor plans and range from 800 to 1,200 square feet. This is what every community dreams of, Msgr. sharbel said. When this community came together over a century ago, everyone lived around the church and walked to church. Our present community is a very family oriented. Church, for them, it is more than a place for prayer, it is where they eat, play and socialize as well. "I try to never forget my heritage or the sacrifices my parents made to immigrate to the United States of America, said Nasseff. They did not know how to read or write in their own native tongue, but they made the best for us. I feel building this Senior home is a way to honor them. John s contributions are numerous, and his kind deeds and goods are too many to elaborate, said Msgr. sharbel. We at St. Maron are forever grateful to his vision and love of his heritage. He has helped create a home for parishioners, young and old, to work, pray and live together for years to come. The Peter Nasseff Maronite Home also has a community dining hall, heated underground parking, a library with a fireplace and a fitness room complete with treadmills and bikes. Parishioners are given priority on renting the units and are given a discount on rent. If there are units available, the public will be allowed to rent them. People spend three to five hours at church on Sunday and come and go frequently throughout the week, said Msgr. sharbel. My vision has always been that with a senior building, families would unite here, grandparents and parents and children. People who live here will have the opportunity to go to church daily as well as participate in church events. There is also an added bonus: now, those parishioners will never be late to church again. Food For Thought The mystery of the poor is this: that they are Jesus, and what you do for them you do for Him. (Dorothy Day) The Maronite Voice Volume V Issue No. IX Page 4 October 2009

5 Flint, Michigan Diaconate Ordination Sister Marla Marie with some of the young adults of Our Lady of Victory Church in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Bishop Robert Shaheen, assisted by Fr. Andre Mhanna, ordains Subdeacon Tony Massad to the Order of Deacon. E ach man journeys through life toward his true place in the human family where God s Spirit of Love moves him. That experience, where he belongs, could be the Priesthood. On Sunday, September 13, 2009, Subdeacon Tony Massad took a step toward that experience. He was ordained to the sacred Order of Deacon at Our Lady of Lebanon Church, Flint, Michigan. His Excellency Bishop Robert J. Shaheen, Bishop of the Eparchy of Our Lady of Lebanon was the ordaining prelate. Abbott Semaan Abou Abdo, Superior General of the Maronite Order of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Msgr. Anthony Spinosa, Rector of Our Lady of Lebanon Shrine in North Jackson, Ohio; and Father Hanna Tayar, Pastor, were in attendance along with visiting clergy, family and friends. As Tony s family watched, he courageously and with a generous heart accepted this call. Our prayers go with him and we all await, if it is God s will, the next call, the call to the holy Priesthood. A Nun or a Priest from Your Family by Sister Marla Marie Lucas I n speaking with parents about vocations, many are often reluctant to have one of their children devote their lives as a nun or priest. Yet at the same time, they are happy if someone else s son or daughter is called to serve. These same parents readily acknowledge the need for vocations - as long as it is not one of their own. After all, they have plans for their son or daughter which perhaps include future grandchildren, maybe a business or medical career. I try to gently remind them that God also has plans. God's plan for our life is what we call a vocation. It is a blessing and honor to have a son/daughter called by God to the vocation of a priest or a religious. Join me in prayer for parents and young people to have an open heart and mind to God's call, and to respond with trust and generosity. Pope John Paul II realized this struggle for some parents, and spoke to them in his Apostolic Constitution on Consecrated Life (1996). I address you, Christian families. Parents, give thanks to the Lord if he has called one of your children to the consecrated life. It is to be considered a great honor - as it always has been - that the Lord should look upon a family and choose to invite one of its members to set out on the path of the evangelical counsels! Cherish the desire to give the Lord one of your children so that God's love can spread in the world. What fruit of conjugal love could be more beautiful than this? We must remember that if parents do not live the values of the Gospel, the young man or woman will find it very difficult to discern the calling, to understand the need for the sacrifices which must be faced, and to appreciate the beauty of the goal to be achieved. For it is in the family that young people have their first experience of Gospel values and of the love which gives itself to God and to others. They also need to be trained in the responsible use of their own freedom, so that they will be prepared to live, as their vocation demands, in accordance with the loftiest spiritual realities. I pray that you, Christian families, united with the Lord through prayer and the sacramental life, will create homes where vocations are welcomed. The Maronite Voice Volume V Issue No. IX Page 5 October 2009

6 Wilkes Barre, Pennsylvania Supporting the Maronite Servants San Antonio, Texas Kick-Off of Catechetical Year Sister Marla Marie with Knights of Lebanon in Wilkes Barre, Penn. by Sister Marla Marie Lucas T he Knights of Lebanon from Wilkes Barre, Penn., hosted a picnic fundraiser for the Maronite Servants of Christ the Light on Sunday, August 30, The event was held on their picnic grounds in Dallas, Penn., and opened with the Divine Liturgy celebrated by Fr. Hanna Karam, Administrator of St. Anthony & St. George, Wilkes Barre. Following the Liturgy was a feast of a meal featuring a pig roast among the variety of picnic foods and desserts. Tony Thomas, Jr., president of the group, was pleased to present Sister Marla Marie with a donation of $2000 from the proceeds of the event. Year of the Priest A Personal Testimony I n this Year of the Priest, first of all, I am thankful for those who have led or encouraged me to the altar of Jesus Christ. I may have had that little spark of God s call, but my greatest influences were my I.H.M. teachers, all of my parish priests, my family and the many teachers and spiritual advisors in the seminary. I cannot neglect the response and prayers of the parishioners that all of us serve. They are life-giving and sustain and renew my priesthood in good times and in bad. Secondly, in this special year of emphasis, I turn to support our seminarians and try to be the best example of priesthood that I can be to others, who may have that spark of God s calling to His altar. Pray that the Lord send laborers to the harvest. Chorbishop Richard D. Saad Vicar for priests Eparchy of Our Lady of Lebanon Catechists Lisette Harb and Rida Daau with a group of four, five, and six year-olds. by Judy A. Perillo S t. George Maronite in San Antonio, Texas, kicked off the catechetical year on September 13, 2009, with a special breakfast, time to renew relationships, and meeting the catechists who will lead faith sharing groups with youth from four years through high school. The kick-off was also a time to honor the service of catechists David and Gloria Saliba and Subdeacon Raymond Casillas, who have lived the passage of St. Paul: I planted the seed, and Apollos watered it, but God made it grow (1 Cor 3:6). In addition to the Faith of the Mountain series, we will emphasize Maronite spirituality and tradition in lives of faith, community service, and awareness of the riches of the Maronite Qurbono. The Maronite Pontifical by His Excellency Bishop Stephen Hector Doueihi, Bishop Emeritus of the Eparchy of Saint Maron of Brooklyn The Maronite Pontifical contains all rites delegated to the bishop in the liturgical celebrations. It describes the actions which the pontiff, as a celebrant, performs and the prayers he says during these celebrations. It includes mainly the rites of ordination to the priesthood and the solemn consecrations reserved to the bishop in the Christian worship. The Maronite Pontifical is available for $20 plus $5 shipping. To order your copy, please write to: Saint Maron Publications, 4611 Sadler Road, Glen Allen, VA The Maronite Voice Volume V Issue No. IX Page 6 October 2009

7 Minneapolis, Minnesota Special Awards EL Paso, Texas A Founder s Return Msgr. sharbel Maroun recipient of Humanitarian of the Year and Rita Bejjani, recipient of Woman of the Year awards. by Rima Antoon O n August 8, 2009, the Midwest Federation of American Syrian Lebanese Clubs, a non-profit, nonpolitical organization which unites people of Middle- Eastern descent, held a national convention in Minneapolis, Minnesota. In addition to preserving its rich ancestry and charitable giving, the Federation recognizes leaders of excellence who are committed to improving the lives of others. Monsignor sharbel Maroun, Pastor of St. Maron Church in Minneapolis, was honored as Humanitarian of the Year for his philanthropic efforts in his local community and internationally. In addition to serving in his Eparchy of Our Lady of Lebanon, he is active in his local Archdiocese of Minneapolis and St. Paul. As he humbly accepted his award, Msgr. Maroun, President of the Board of Telelumiere International U.S.A., spoke of its ecumenical mission in spreading Christianity throughout the world, while respecting all spiritual and worldly authorities. Some of the other boards he serves on include Board of Pastors, Personnel Board, Eparchial Presbyteral Council, Eparchial College of Consulters, and Protobresbyter for Mid-America. One of Monsignor Maroun s parishioners, Rita Bejjani, was also recognized that evening as Woman of the Year. As a dedicated member of St. Maron Church, Rita served on committees such as the Maronite Youth and Young Adult Organizations, Lebanese Cedar Group Dabke Instructor, Sunday Catechism Teacher, St. Rafka Secretary, and Lector Coordinator. She is committed to promoting the Lebanese American culture in her community and on a national level by participating in several other organizations in her city. M sgr. Donald J. Sawyer, Pastor of Our Lady s Maronite Catholic Parish in Austin, Texas, visited the mission he began in 1994 in El Paso, Texas. On August 30, 2009 the Service of the Divine Liturgy was concelebrated with Msgr. Sawyer, Msgr. Victor Kayrouz, Pastor of St. Anthony, along with Father Robert Kobe, Pastor of Christ the Savior Catholic Church in Northeast El Paso. They were served by Subdeacon George Karam and altar boys Armando Estrada, Miguel Estrada and Vincent Garcia. The music was played by Mrs. Katherine Sowder at Holy Family Catholic Church. Holy Family is another temporary home for the Maronites, who are still working to build our church and facilities on our own land. It encompasses fourteen plus acres on the mountain in west El Paso. Following the Liturgy the community gathered at the home of David and Elena Rajme, recipients of the 2007 NAM Silver Massabki Award, for a bring and share pot luck reception coordinated by members of the St. Anthony Pastoral Advisory Council, Mrs. Madeline Jabor and Mrs. Elizabeth Garcia. Msgr. Sawyer made his first visit to the Church land with Subdeacon George. They saw the cross still standing firmly secured by rocks and stones fashioned from two sticks tied with string found on the land, placed there by Father Andre Mhanna during his visit to El Paso back in Msgr. Sawyer and Subdeacon George added a few more rocks to its base, continuing to build upon the consecration and blessing of the Lord, which Bishop Robert Shaheen bestowed upon the land during his visit to El Paso in March Msgr. Sawyer s visit was a blessing to this community, and we dearly thank him for coming. St. Anthony of the Desert Community asks for the prayers of all Maronites everywhere that the dream of building our own home on the mountain will be pleasing to our Lord and that funds are made available sooner rather than later so the building can finally commence. The Maronite Voice Volume V Issue No. IX Page 7 October 2009

8 by Cheri Jowdy Danbury, Connecticut Ladies Guild Retreat T hursday, September 24, 2009, was a sunny day when over twenty women from St. Anthony Maronite Church in Danbury, Connecticut, spent the day at the Linwood Retreat House in New York. The grounds were surrounded by beautiful trees that were beginning to show their fall colors, floral gardens and the sparkling Hudson River. As we approached these beautiful grounds many women were reminiscing about their past retreats held at this location. Knowing that there would be many lessons learned from this retreat we knew this was going to be a very special day. The retreat was led by Father Jean Younes, Pastor. The day included a Divine Liturgy in which our intentions were for the sick of our parish, family members and friends. The Liturgy was followed by a luncheon and then some relaxation and reflection time outside. Fr. Jean gave a beautiful lecture on the Blessed Mother and her role in the Church and our lives. He encouraged us to call upon her when praying as her son, Jesus, never refuses His Mother. We all left feeling spiritually blessed to have been in the presence of our pastor in such a wonderful place filled with caring, compassionate and spiritual women. We can t wait for the next retreat. by Antoine Najjar Westchester, New York Parish Awards O n June 12, 2009, the Westchester Maronite Mission in Westchester, N.Y., held its second annual Father's Day Hafli. The Mission took that opportunity to honor for the first time a few of its members with the Silver Massabki and Faith of the Mountain awards. Fadia and Roger Nassar received the Massabki award for their outstanding commitment to the Mission: Roger as Roger and Fadia Nassar. the Secretary of the Stewardship Council and Fadia as Director of the Heritage Program. Dana Barakat, Tony Hokayem, Ronny Credi and Andre Daher received the Faith of the Mountain award for their efforts to start the Mission's MYA organization and for managing a successful first Father's Day Hafli in Deadline for next month s issue of The Maronite Voice is October 25, Send all changes of address, news, pictures and personal correspondence to: The Maronite Voice 4611 Sadler Road Glen Allen, Virginia Phone: (804) ; Fax: (804) Gmsebaali@aol.com Pictures must be original. Digital pictures must be in JPG format and high resolution. The Maronite Voice Volume V Issue No. IX Page 8 October 2009

9 Uniontown, Pennsylvania Annual Rosary Walk Fr. Tony Akoury, Pastor, Fr. Tom Wesdock, Msgr. Michael Malusak and Patricia Rogers, Coordinator of the Rosary Walk. by Joanne John U nder a sunny sky, on September 20, 2009, Fr. Tony Akoury, Pastor of St. George Church in Uniontown, Pennsylvania, welcomed pilgrims gathered to begin th the 20 annual pilgrimage in honor of our Blessed Mother. He was joined by Fr. Tom Wesdock of St. John the Baptist Byzantine Catholic Church and Msgr. Michael Malusak of St. Therese de Lisieux Catholic Church, both of Uniontown, as they recited the first decade of the rosary at the grotto of the Blessed Mother in the parish Garden of Prayer. Fr. Tony also reminded the participants that this is the Year of the Priests as he also led them through a special prayer for all priests. The event, sponsored yearly since 1989 by St. George Altar & Rosary Society and coordinated by Patricia Rogers and Dorothy Sanner, has never experienced rain throughout the twenty years. Participants feel that they have been blessed by this beautiful display of reverence and devotion which still draws hundreds of pilgrims from the surrounding area who process from Our Lady s Shrine in the Garden of Prayer at St. George Maronite Church to the five other Catholic churches in the city. Those who can t walk, ride in cars to each location. At each church one decade of the rosary is said and a hymn sung in honor of our Blessed Mother. St. George MYO led the procession carrying banners dedicated to Mary. At St. Joseph Roman Catholic Church, the last church on the tour, the Litany to Mary was recited at the outdoor grotto of Mary, followed by Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament and recitation of the Mysteries of the Divine Mercy, with Fr. Joseph Syrdinski officiating. Schedule of Bishop Gregory Mansour October 4, 2009 (11:00 am) Liturgy, Saint Sharbel, New Brunswick, N.J. (2:00 pm) Pro Life Service and Talk, Princeton University, Princeton, N.J. October 7, 2009 Presbyteral Council Meeting, Chancery Office, Brooklyn, N.Y. October 9-11, 2009 Our Lady of Lebanon Seminary - Deacon-Subdeacon Retreat and Ordination of John Jarvis to Diaconate October 16-18, 2009 Order of Saint Sharbel Retreat, St. Louis, Missouri October 24-25, 2009 Silver Anniversary of Ordination of Fr. Sam Najjar, Fayetteville, N.C. November 13-14, 2009 USCCB Committee on Catechesis, Baltimore, Md. November 14, :00 A.M., Liturgy at Our Lady of Lebanon Church, Washington, D.C.; 2:00-5:00 P.M., USCCB Pro-Life Committee, Baltimore, Md. November 16-18, 2009 USCCB Annual Meeting, Baltimore, Md. November 18, 2009 Our Lady of Lebanon Seminary, ordination of Subdeacons Vincent Farhat and Dany Abi-Akar to Diaconate November 19, 2009 Clergy Day at Our Lady of Lebanon Seminary, Washington, D.C. Glen Allen, Va. th St. Anthony s 19 Annual Golf Tournament O n September 27, 2009 St. Anthony Maronite Catholic th Church in Glen Allen, Virginia, held its 19 Annual Open Golf Tournament to benefit some of the war orphaned children in Lebanon. The competition was held at the Hunting Hawk Golf Course in Glen Allen. Proceeds from the annual event were sent to His Excellency Bishop Gregory Mansour for this purpose. First, second and third places were awarded, and door prizes were given. Lunch and drinks were served before the tournament. Following the tournament, a Lebanese and Barbeque Dinner was served. The Golf Tournament was the first phase of the annual charitable drive at St. Anthony to benefit war orphaned children in Lebanon. The second phase is the annual benefit dinner planned for December 6, The Maronite Voice Volume V Issue No. IX Page 9 October 2009

10 The Council of Maronite Bishops Holds Its Monthly Meeting in Lebanon and Issues its Tenth Appeal Their Excellencies, the Maronite Bishops held on Wednesday, September 2, 2009, at the Patriarchate Summer residence in Diman, Lebanon, their monthly meeting which was presided over by His Beatitude Patriarch Nasrallah Peter Cardinal Sfeir. At the end of the meeting, they launched their tenth appeal: We have gotten used to, for years now, launching an appeal, this time every year, in which we review the past and new events of the year and through which we address the public opinion, sharing our apprehensions and aspirations. We see that our duty compels us to review the events of the past year and take the precautions for the new one so that we are not surprised by something undesirable. The past year witnessed many events; some were positive and some negative, on both an internal level in Lebanon, or on regional and international levels. On internal level, after solving the crisis of the constitutional vacancy by electing His Excellency President Michel Sleiman as a consensus president of the Republic, His Excellency exerted exhausting efforts to reach union, reestablish the State s institutions on the right track and align Lebanon back on its natural position among States. This was done through the successful official visits he made to several countries and reviewing Lebanon s relations with all countries and international organizations. While we do appreciate highly what His Excellency undertakes with perseverance and wisdom, we urge all the authorities, parties and political forces to surround His Excellency to work together loyally at rebuilding the State on solid foundations and averting the dangers threatening this homeland. Among the positive events of this year, there was the parliamentary elections which were held in one day with the least defects possible. Though this democratic practice had shown a great division in the public opinion and separated the political forces into two fronts, this does not necessarily mean that enmity should reign between them. On the contrary, all should overcome grudges and personal and partisan greed, uniting at the service of society to assure public interest. It is known that the aim of those raised to power must be the work at ensuring the community s good and not at realizing personal aims and greed. It is necessary to mention, among positive points, the resistance of the Lebanese economy before the world crisis. It was not affected as much as other countries were. This was thanks to the wise choices taken by those in charge of the monetary policy of the country. It is worth noticing, here in, the vitality experienced by the tourist activity throughout this year. This was thanks to the coming of a great number of Lebanese living abroad to visit their mother homeland and live in it for some time, besides the Arab and foreign tourists. Lebanon experienced, this year, great intellectual, scientific and artistic activity. It was shown through the conferences that were held about various subjects, the festivities organized in different regions and the studies undertaken by numerous groups of thinkers and researchers about solutions for political, economic and social matters especially that Beirut was this year elected the world capital of the book. The Church had its valuable participation in this activity through publishing The Charter of Political Action in the Light of the Church Teachings and Lebanon s specificity. We wish it to become a reference for all those working in politics and public matter, so that they be enlightened by its noble declared principles and work sincerely at rebuilding Lebanon, the homeland of the Message. On an international and regional level, the world saw an auspicious People s Prayer for Priests Dear Lord, We pray that the Blessed Mother wrap her mantle around your priests and through her intercession strengthen them for their ministry. We pray that Mary will guide your priests to follow her own words, Do whatever He tells you (Jn 2:5). May your priests have the heart of St. Joseph, Mary s most chaste spouse. May the Blessed Mother s own pierced heart inspire them to embrace all who suffer at the foot of the cross. May your priests be holy, filled with the fire of your love seeking nothing but your greater glory and the salvation of souls. Amen. Saint John Vianney, pray for us United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, Washington, D.C. Permission is granted to reproduce this text in whole or in part without adaptation for non-commercial use. Secretariat of Clergy, Consecrated Life and Vocations. The Maronite Voice Volume V Issue No. IX Page 10 October 2009

11 event in the election of Mr. Barak Obama as new President of the USA. All have hanged large hopes upon his adopting a new policy which would help to solve the long lived problems which blaze up our regions struggles, specially the Palestinian question, the diversified struggles in Iraq, the relations with Iran and other questions which extremism and terrorism are causing in different countries. But the advent of an extremist right wing government in Israel has increased obstacles before any just solution to those problems, especially the Palestinian question, which affects Lebanon totally. Endeavors made by some countries are insisting on giving citizenship to the Palestinians in the countries where they live as refugees. This will deprive the Palestinians from their right to return home and causes the greatest danger to Lebanon as State, society and entity. How will the Lebanese face this danger? How will they face the dangers threatening Lebanon on all sides? How will they deal with the economic, social and living crises people are suffering from? How will they limit emigration, which is emptying the country from its active elements, as long as they are under the influences of regional and international axes and narrow confessionalism. This causes every community to be closed upon itself imagining to be able to create a homeland for itself away from the others, and as long as most of those in power here are towed behind their private interests and their struggle for power. If this killing struggle continues among those craving for the Eden of power, the Lebanese will, one day, be surprised to see themselves all discarded from it if the demons of greed tempt the greedy ones to take it over. In vain will they regret once the Great Powers renounce to look at it searching for their private interests. That s why the love of the homeland requires that understanding reigns among the ranks of the Lebanese. They must unite to work together, in order to ward off the dangers threatening their country, in spite of the difference in creed and thought. They must take matters in hand, come out of this circle, form a government concerned about all, with the Lebanese People s matters. This is its first duty. Two months have now gone by searching for the formation of a government, this search has not reached the required result. Whenever we look at the diminishing number of the Lebanese, who are absorbed away by emigration, year after year, especially the young and qualified ones, we are entitled to ask ourselves what would our destiny be in the far future. God has granted the Lebanese strong determination, clever way of acting and legitimate ambition which enabled some of them to occupy the highest posts in countries of emigration. What must we do, in the situation we have described, but unite ranks and hold hands together to raise our country out of its fall, resume its construction, imitating those who preceded us on this land, our fathers and forefathers and strengthen the links of friendship with our neighbors, specially the nearest ones to us. Thus we will come out from what we are suffering from and so build together that has been destroyed and collapsed of the edifice of concord and love. While we salute all those working sincerely for raising the rank of their small homeland, among homelands, we ask God to guide us through the right way and include us all in His contentment and blessings. Diman on September 2, THE ORDER OF SAINT SHARBEL Perpetual Members Amine Harb St. Jude Maronite Church Orlando, Florida The Order of Saint Sharbel is an organization of lay people and clergy who have pledged their spiritual strength and financial support for Our Lady of Lebanon Seminary and the retired Maronite clergy of the Maronite Eparchies in the USA. For more information about the Order, ask your pastor or write to Eparchy of Saint Maron Order of Saint Sharbel 109 Remsen Street Brooklyn, NY Or Eparchy of Our Lady of Lebanon Order of Saint Sharbel th 1021 South 10 Street St. Louis, MO The Maronite Voice Volume V Issue No. IX Page 11 October 2009

12 Saint Maron, Our Father in Faith by Brother John M. Samaha, S.M. A poet has said that every great institution is the lengthened shadow of one outstanding person. For the Maronite Church, that person is St. Maron. And what a legacy he has left the Universal Church and his Maronite progeny! Today the Aramaic Maronite tradition flourishes in every corner of the world. Maronite faithful and hierarchy populate each continent. Whatever is known about the spiritual father of the Maronite Church we have received from Theodoret, Bishop of Cyr. Cyr was somewhere between Antioch and Aleppo. In the fifth century, about 444, Theodoret began to compile a church history from the resources available to him in Syria. Much of his book, Historia Religiosa, describes the hermits living in the region of Cyr, and in chapter 16 writes about Maron, who had a deep and lasting influence on his disciples. Theodoret never knew Maron personally, but learned about him through Maron s disciples. Theodoret described Maron as the one who has planted for God the garden which flourishes now in the region of Cyr. Little is known of the birth or youth of Maron because Theodoret was not concerned about such aspects of his life. He felt that Maron was not born for this world, but for heaven. When Maron chose to become a hermit and lead an ascetic life in isolation, he settled on a rugged mountain between Cyr and Aleppo. On that mountain was a large temple dedicated to the pagan god, Nabo, whose name was given to the mountain and to the neighboring village of Kfarnabo. Maron consecrated that temple for Christian worship, and so influenced his followers that they were described by Theodoret as plants of wisdom in the region of Cyr. According to history, Maron was not satisfied with the ordinary practices of asceticism, but was always seeking for new ways to accumulate the treasures of Christian wisdom. He was the spiritual father of both the hermits living near him and of all the faithful in the area. With wisdom and holiness Maron addressed their pastoral care and apostolic endeavors as counselor and healer. Bishop Theodoret described Maron s disciples with this tribute: These anchorites were virtuous and heroic, totally dedicated to a life of contemplative prayer. They were strangers to any other consideration of the world. They were obedient to Church authority and tried to imitate their predecessor in their exercises of austerity. At times, their acts of penance and mortification were excessive, but they were always obedient to ecclesiastical authority. Approximately twenty saints are numbered among Maron s disciples, three of whom are women. Knowledge of St. Maron s holiness spread throughout the Empire. Some scholars think that St. Maron and St. John Chyrsostom studied together at Antioch before 398. Around 405 John Chrysostom sent Maron a letter expressing his great love and respect, and asked Maron to pray for him. Maron s death occurred between 407 and 423; some place the date around 410. Because of his vast popularity among the faithful, several riots broke out at the time of his death in villages that vied to receive his remains. Most likely he was first buried in the large church in the town of Barad near Kfarnabo. Following the Council of Chalcedon (451), Bishop Theodoret promoted the construction of the famed Monastery of St. Maron, Beit Maroun, in 452 between Hama and Aleppo in Syria. This monastery became a bastion for defending the teachings of the Church, and a center for the cultural and theological heritage of Antioch. Formerly the Maronite Church celebrated the feast of its patron saint on January 5, the day on which the church of Kfarhai was dedicated in his honor. In the seventeenth century the feast of St. Maron was transferred to February 9. Lebanon declared Maron as its patron saint. Pope Benedict XIV granted a plenary indulgence to each person who visited a Maronite church on February 9. Eparchy of Saint Maron Order of St. Gregory the Great T he Holy Father Pope Benedict XVI has granted the request of His Excellency Bishop Gregory Mansour, Bishop of the Eparchy of Saint Maron of Brooklyn, to honor as Knights and Ladies of the Order of St. Gregory the Great to the following people:!deacon Simon Abi-Nader, Lawrence, Massachusetts!Mrs. Barbara Atkins, Waterville, Maine!Mr. Antoine Azzam, New York, Consul General for Lebanon!Mr. Anthony Budway, Providence, Rhode Island!Mr. Camille Gilbert, Miami, Florida!Mrs. Marlene Saad, Greenville, South Carolina!Mrs. Rosanne Solomon, Boston, Massachusetts!Dr. and Mrs. Edward Soma, Washington, D.C. The Eparchy of Saint Maron will honor them on Saturday, November 7, 2009 during an evening Divine Liturgy at Our Lady of Lebanon Cathedral in Brooklyn, New York. The Maronite Voice Volume V Issue No. IX Page 12 October 2009

13 Cincinnati, Ohio Visit from Latin Bishop After an invitation from Fr. David Fisher, Pastor, St. Anthony of Padua Church in Cincinnati, Ohio, was honored to have the new Archbishop of Cincinnati, the Most Reverend Dennis Schnurr, visit and participate in the Divine Liturgy on Sunday, September 20, Following Liturgy a brunch was held in the Maronite Center. Los Angeles, California A Young Maronite Prodigy by Antoinette Naddour Balta S urrounded by loved ones, on Thursday, June 11, 2009, Joseph Noor celebrated his high school graduation adrift the Royal Princess yacht in Newport Beach. What separates this occasion from those across the nation is that Joseph, an aspiring nanotechnologist, is only 15 years old. Young and humble, Joseph completed the intense four year International Baccalaureate Diploma program in full, was an AP Full Scholar, member of the National Honor Society, recognized as a National Merit Commended Scholar, Seal Bearer of the California Scholarship Federation and a Troy Tech Magnet Diploma Graduate. He also received special awards in AP Honors English and Statistics. In the past Joseph completed an internship at Cal Tech in Astro Science. He was specifically assigned to an underground project in the Space Radiation Lab where his completed work product was revered by professors and is currently being used by the university. Joseph has accepted admission into the prestigious UCLA Henri Samueli School of Engineering & Applied Science with close to two years worth of completed college credits. This summer, after such a strict and tedious school curriculum, Joseph took a break to vacation in Lebanon. Proud parents and international entrepreneurs George and Mary Jo Noor have always supported their son s passion for education. The child prodigy started reading at the tender age of two and early in his years demanded of his parents that they provide him with a thinking room, evidencing his superior intellect and early desire to think and learn. Most impressive is this young man s humility and maturity which shines evident in his close relationship with his entire extended family and friends. Joseph s eight year old brother Michael is enrolled in the Gifted Program, and th will be entering the 5 grade in the fall. Michael, already resembling his brother in his confident intellectual stature, addressed the entire yacht party of over seventy people on the microphone, calling to attention the importance of his older brother s achievements. In solidarity with the rest of the Noor family, Joseph's maternal grandfather and namesake Mr. Joseph El Kareh, two aunts, and several cousins, all clad in the same black t-shirt embroidered with only a few of several of the young Noor s accomplishments, traveled all the way from the East Coast to celebrate what seemed to be an occasion touching to so many. Joseph s grandmother Mary, recently passed, had anxiously awaited this day, and was greatly missed and remembered multiple times throughout the evening in speeches and in thought. Joseph comes from a long line of successful and notable Lebanese migrants, including his late grandmother, Mary El Kareh, the first female business owner in Massachusetts, who together with her husband, Joseph El Kareh, founded many different ventures while always remaining mindful to those from the Lebanese community in need of aid. Many immigrants, both friend and stranger, traveling from Lebanon to the United States found a warm bed upon arrival at the El Kareh residence and were welcome until they could afford a place of their own. Joseph s mother, Mary Jo Noor, was awarded a juris doctor in law from Harvard, a Masters in Business, and multiple undergraduate degrees in Politics, Psychology and Sociology. Joseph s father, George Noor, was born and raised in Lebanon and holds a Masters degree in Engineering from USC. He is now CEO of Artteck Software Company, which, among other things, provides software to art galleries around the world in a variety of languages. Together, the power duo owns several molding manufacturing companies, wood milling companies, and operates a diverse array of real estate and financial investments. It is expected by many that Joseph s ambitions and motivation will imminently lead him to make a significant impact on a branch of technology known as nanotechnology, devoted to producing devices on an atomic scale. As already evidenced at his internship at Cal Tech, Joseph s highly exceptional achievements, which represent a small initiation into a life destined to leave a distinguished mark on society, are a positive reflection on the Lebanese community. The Maronite Voice Volume V Issue No. IX Page 13 October 2009

14 Uniontown, Pennsylvania MYO Kick-Off by Joanne John, MYO Advisor F r. Tony Akoury, Pastor of St. George Maronite Church in Uniontown, Pennsylvania, hosted the annual kick-off for the parish s MYO season. Fr. Tony showed the youth his cooking skills by preparing a dinner for them which was followed by a get acquainted session and group singing. Plans were also discussed for the following year. Shown in picture are: (Front row) Emillee Madison, Fr. Tony Akoury, Pastor, Matthew Macar and Abby Rozgony. (in back) Michelle Sante, Advisor; Joanne John, Advisor; Deanna Naicker, Jessy Madison, Mallory Sanner, Anna Howard, Nathan Romesburg, Patrick Nahhas, Elias Nahhas and Danielle Risha. Clergy Day T he Maronite clergy of both eparchies are invited to celebrate ordinations to the diaconate and minor orders at Our Lady of Lebanon Seminary in Washington, D.C., and to participate in the annual "clergy day" on November 18-19, This occasion gives the clergy an opportunity to gather together for worship, for encouragement and support of our seminarians and of each other, and to enjoy each other's company. This year the meeting takes on the added dimension of the Church's celebrating the "Year of the Priests." The guest speaker this year is Rev. Melvin Blanchette, S.S., Rector of Theological College. He is a nationally known author and lecturer and has collaborated on books regarding priestly spirituality and pastoral counseling. His talk is entitled: "Ten Principles on Being a Priest: Balancing Pastoral Ministry and Self-Care." The Maronite Voice Volume V Issue No. IX Page 14 October 2009

15 Vatican Message to Muslims for Ramadan Poverty Has the Power to Humiliate Below is a text published on September 11, 2009, by the Vatican of a message sent to Muslims by the president of the Pontifical Council for Interreligious Dialogue. The message was sent on the occasion of the end of Ramadan: Christians and Muslims: Together in Overcoming Poverty Dear Muslim Friends, 1. On the occasion of your feast which concludes the month of Ramadan, I would like to extend my best wishes for peace and joy to you and, through this Message, propose this theme for our reflection: Christians and Muslims: Together in overcoming poverty. 2. This Message of the Pontifical Council for Interreligious Dialogue has become a tradition cherished by us all, which is looked forward to each year and this is certainly a cause for joy. It has become, over the years, an occasion of cordial encounter in many countries between many Christians and Muslims. It often addresses a matter of shared concern, making it therefore conducive to a confident and open exchange. Are not all these elements immediately perceived as signs of friendship among us for which we should thank God? 3. Coming to the theme of this year, the human person in a situation of impoverishment is undoubtedly a subject at the heart of the precepts that, under different beliefs, we all hold dear. The attention, the compassion and the help that we, brothers and sisters in humanity, can offer to those who are poor, helping them to establish their place in the fabric of society, is a living proof of the Love of the Almighty, because it is man as such whom He calls us to love and help, without distinction of affiliation. We all know that poverty has the power to humiliate and to engender intolerable sufferings; it is often a source of isolation, anger, even hatred and the desire for revenge. It can provoke hostile actions using any available means, even seeking to justify them on religious grounds, or seizing another man s wealth, together with his peace and security, in the name of an alleged "divine justice." This is why confronting the phenomena of extremism and violence necessarily implies tackling poverty through the promotion of integral human development that Pope Paul VI defined as the "new name for peace" (Encyclical Letter Populorum Progressio, 1975, n. 76). In his recent Encyclical Letter Caritas in Veritate on integral human development in charity and truth, Pope Benedict XVI, taking into consideration the current context of efforts to promote development, underlines the need for a "new humanistic synthesis" (n. 21), which, safeguarding the openness of man to God, gives him his place as the earth s "centre and summit" (n. 57). A true development, then, must be ordered "to the whole man and to every man" (Populorum Progressio, n. 42). 4. In his talk on the occasion of the World Day for Peace, 1st January 2009, His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI distinguished two types of poverty: a poverty to be combated and a poverty to be embraced. The poverty to be combated is before the eyes of everyone: hunger, lack of clean water, limited medical care and inadequate shelter, insufficient educational and cultural systems, illiteracy, not to mention also the existence of new forms of poverty " in advanced wealthy societies, there is evidence of marginalization, as well as affective, moral and spiritual poverty " (Message for the World Day of Peace, 2009, n. 2). The poverty to be embraced is that of a style of life which is simple and essential, avoiding waste and respecting the environment and the goodness of creation. This poverty can also be, at least at certain times during the year, that of frugality and fasting. It is the poverty which we choose which predisposes us to go beyond ourselves, expanding the heart. 5. As believers, the desire to work together for a just and durable solution to the scourge of poverty certainly also implies reflecting on the grave problems of our time and, when possible, sharing a common commitment to eradicate them. In this regard, the reference to the aspects of poverty linked to the phenomena of globalization of our societies has a spiritual and moral meaning, because all share the vocation to build one human family in which all - individuals, peoples and nations - conduct themselves according to the principles of fraternity and responsibility. 6. A careful study of the complex phenomenon of poverty directs us precisely towards its origin in the lack of respect for the innate dignity of the human person and calls us to a global solidarity, for example through the adoption of a "common ethical code" (John Paul II, Address to The Pontifical Academy of Social Sciences, 27 April 2001, n. 4) whose norms would not only have a conventional character, but also would necessarily be rooted in the natural law written by the Creator in the conscience of every human being (cf. Rom 2, 14-15). 7. It seems that in diverse places of the world we have passed from tolerance to a meeting together, beginning with common lived experience and real shared concerns. This is an important step forward. In giving everyone the riches of a life of prayer, fasting and charity of one towards the other, is it not possible for dialogue to draw on the living forces of those who are on the journey towards God? The poor question us, they challenge us, but above all they invite us to cooperate in a noble cause: overcoming poverty! Happy Id al-fitr! Jean-Louis Cardinal Tauran President Archbishop Pier Luigi Celata Secretary Zenit. Org, September 11, 2009 The Maronite Voice Volume V Issue No. IX Page 15 October 2009

16 "The Whole Church Is in Need of the Experience of Coexistence" Papal Address to Eastern Patriarchs and Major Archbishops Here is a translation [by Joseph G. Trabbic, Innovative Media, Inc.,] of the address that Pope Benedict XVI gave on Saturday, September 19, 2009, upon receiving in audience the Eastern Patriarchs and Major Archbishops. Cardinals, Beatitudes, Venerable Patriarchs and Major Archbishops! I cordially greet you and thank you for having accepted the invitation to participate in this meeting: to each I give my fraternal embrace of peace. I greet Cardinal Tarcisio Bertone, my secretary of state, and Cardinal Leonardo Sandri, prefect of the Congregation for Oriental Churches, together with the secretary and other officials of the dicastery. We thank God for this informal gathering that will allow us to listen to the voices of the Churches that you serve with admirable self-sacrifice, and to reinforce the bonds of communion that link them with the Apostolic See. Today's meeting brings to my mind the one on April 24, 2005 at the tomb of St. Peter. Then, at the beginning of my pontificate I wanted to undertake an ideal pilgrimage in the heart of the Christian East: a pilgrimage that today knows another significant stage and which it is my intention to pursue. In different circumstances you solicited a more frequent contact with the Bishop of Rome to make the communion of your Churches with the Successor of Peter more and more firm and to examine together, on occasion, possible issues of special importance. This proposal was again renewed during the last plenary session of the dicastery for Oriental Churches and the general assemblies of the Synod of Bishops. For my part, I feel that I have an important duty in promoting that synodality so dear to Eastern ecclesiology and noted with appreciation by the Second Vatican Council. I fully share the esteem that the conciliar assembly reserved for your Churches in the decree "Orientalium Ecclesiarum," and that my venerable predecessor John Paul II reemphasized above all in this apostolic exhortation "Orientale Lumen" and wish to see the Eastern Catholic Churches "flourish" to accomplish "with new apostolic vigor the task entrusted to them of promoting the unity of all Christians, especially Eastern Christians, in accordance with the principles of the decree, on ecumenism" ("Orientalium Ecclesiarum," Nos. 1, 24). The ecumenical horizon is often connected with the interreligious one. In these two spheres the whole Church is in need of the experience of coexistence that has ripened in your Churches from the first Christian millennium. Venerable brothers, in this fraternal meeting, those issues that trouble you that could receive adequate orientations from those with the proper competence are certainly brought to light in your interventions. I would like to assure you that you are constantly in my thoughts and prayers. In particular I do not forget the call for peace that you placed in my hands at the end of the assembly of the Synod of Bishops last October. And, in speaking of peace, our thought turns, in the first place, to the regions of the Middle East. For this reason I will take this occasion to announce the Special Assembly of the Synod of Bishops for the Middle East convoked by me and which will be held October 10-24, 2010, on the theme "The Catholic Church in the Middle East: Communion and Witness: The Multitude of Those Who Became Believers Were of One Heart and One Soul (Acts 4:32)." While I wish that today s gathering will bear the hoped for fruits, invoking the maternal intercession of Mary Most Holy, from my heart I bless you and all the Eastern Catholic Churches. Zenit.org, September 20, 2009 "Prayer Is the Soul of Pastoral Activity" Papal Address to New Bishops Here is a translation of the address Pope Benedict XVI gave Monday, September 21, 2009 upon receiving in audience bishops who were ordained in the last year. Dear Brothers in the episcopate! M y heartfelt thanks for your visit, on the occasion of the congress promoted for the bishops who have recently taken up their pastoral ministry. These days of reflection, prayer and updating are really propitious to help you, dear brothers, to familiarize yourselves better with the tasks that you are called to assume as pastors of diocesan communities; they are also days of friendly coexistence that constitute a singular experience of that "collegialitas affective" that unites all bishops in one apostolic body, together with the Successor of Peter, "perpetual and visible foundation of unity" (Lumen Gentium, 23). I thank Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, Prefect of the Congregation for Bishops, for the courteous words he addressed to me in your name; I greet Cardinal Leonardo Sandri, Prefect of the Congregation for the Eastern Churches, and express my acknowledgment to all those who in different ways collaborate in the organization of this annual meeting. This year, your congress is inserted in the context of the Year th for Priests, proclaimed on the 150 anniversary of the death of St. John Mary Vianney. As I wrote in the letter sent for the occasion to all priests, this special year is "meant to deepen the commitment of all priests to interior renewal for the sake of a stronger and more incisive witness to the Gospel in today's world." The imitation of Jesus the Good Shepherd is, for every priest, the obligatory path for their own sanctification and the The Maronite Voice Volume V Issue No. IX Page 16 October 2009

17 essential condition for exercising the pastoral ministry responsibly. If this is true for priests, it is even more so for us, dear brother bishops. What is more, it is important not to forget that one of the essential tasks of the bishop is precisely to help priests, by example and with fraternal support, to follow their vocation faithfully, and to work with enthusiasm and love in the Lord's vineyard. In this connection, in the post-synodal exhortation "Pastores Gregis," my venerated predecessor John Paul II observed that the priest's gesture, when he puts his own hands in the hands of the bishop on the day of his priestly ordination, commits both of them: the priest and the bishop. The new priest chooses to entrust himself to the bishop and, for his part, the bishop commits himself to guard these hands (No. 47). Well seen, this is a solemn task that is configured for the bishop as paternal responsibility in the custody and promotion of the priestly identity of the presbyters entrusted to his pastoral care, an identity that unfortunately we see today subjected to a harsh test by growing secularization. Therefore the bishop -- continues "Pastores Gregis" -- "will always strive to relate to his priests as a father and brother who loves them, listens to them, welcomes them, corrects them, supports them, seeks their cooperation and, as much as possible, is concerned for their human, spiritual, ministerial and financial well-being" (ibid., No. 47). In a special way, the bishop is called to nourish the spiritual life in priests, to foster in them harmony between prayer and the apostolate, looking at the example of Jesus and of the Apostles, whom he called first of all "to be with him" (Mark 3:14). An indispensable condition to produce good fruits is, in fact, that the priest remain united to the Lord; herein lies the secret of the fecundity of his ministry: Only if he is incorporated with Christ, true Vine, will he bear fruit. A presbyter's mission and, with greater reason, that of a bishop, entails today a lot of work that tends to absorb him continually and totally. The difficulties increase and the incumbencies multiply, also because we are faced with new realities and growing pastoral demands. Nevertheless, attention to the problems of every day and the initiatives directed to leading men on the way of God, must never distract us from our profound and personal union with Christ. To be available to people should not diminish or obfuscate our availability to the Lord. The time that the priest and bishop dedicate to God in prayer is always the best employed, because prayer is the soul of pastoral activity, the "lymph" that gives it strength, it is a support in moments of uncertainty and the inexhaustible source of missionary fervor and fraternal love toward all. The Eucharist is at the center of priestly life. In the apostolic exhortation "Sacramentum Caritatis" I stressed how "Mass is formative in the deepest sense of the word, since it fosters the priest's configuration to Christ and strengthens him in his vocation" (No. 80). Therefore, may the Eucharistic celebration illumine your day and that of your priests, imprinting its grace and spiritual influence in sad and joyful, agitated and peaceful moments of action and contemplation. A privileged way of prolonging in the day the mysterious sanctifying action of the Eucharist is to recite devoutly the Liturgy of the Hours, and also Eucharistic adoration, lectio divina and the contemplative prayer of the rosary. The holy Cure d'ars teaches us how precious are the priest's empathy with the Eucharistic sacrifice and the education of the faithful in the Eucharistic presence and in communion. With the Word and the Sacraments -- I recalled in the Letter to Priests -- St. John Mary Vianney edified his people. At the time of appointing him parish priest of Ars, the vicar-general of the Diocese of Belley said: "There is not much love of God in that parish, but you will put it there!" And that parish was transformed. Dear new bishops, thank you for the service you render the Church with dedication and love. I greet you with affection and assure you of my constant support joined to prayer so that "you will go and bear fruit, and that your fruit should abide" (John 15:16). For this I invoke the intercession of Mary Regina Apostolorum, and I impart from my heart to you, your priests and your diocesan communities a special apostolic blessing. Zenit.org, September 22, 2009 Priests are Witnesses of the Power of God O n September 29, 2009, the Vatican made public the contents of a video message from the Pope to participants in an international spiritual retreat for th priests at the French Shrine of Ars for the 150 anniversary of the death of St. John Mary Vianney. The preacher of the retreat, which is taking place from September 27 to October 3, is Cardinal Christoph Schonborn O.P., Archbishop of Vienna, Austria, and the theme of the spiritual exercises is: "The joy of being a priest, consecrated for the salvation of the world." "The priest", says the Holy Father in his Message, "is called to serve human beings and to give them life in God.... He is a man of the divine Word and of all things holy and, today more than ever, he must be a man of joy and hope. To those who cannot conceive that God is pure Love, he will affirm that life is worthy to be lived and that Christ gives it its full meaning because He loves all humankind." Pope Benedict XVI then turns to address priests who have to serve a number of parishes and who "commit themselves unreservedly to preserving sacramental life in their various communities. The Church's recognition for you all is immense," he says. "Do not lose heart but continue to pray and to make others pray that many young people may accept the call of Christ, Who always wishes to see the number of His apostles increase". The Holy Father also invites priests to consider "the extreme diversity of the ministries" they perform "in the service of the Church," and "the large number of Masses you celebrate or will celebrate, each time making Christ truly present at the altar. Think of the numerous absolutions you have given and will give, freeing sinners from their burdens. Thus you may The Maronite Voice Volume V Issue No. IX Page 17 October 2009

18 perceive the infinite fruitfulness of the Sacrament of Holy Orders. Your hands and lips become, for a single instant, the hands and lips of God." "This thought," the Pope added, "should bring you to ensure harmonious relations among the clergy so as to form the priestly community as St. Peter wanted, and so build the body of Christ and consolidate you in love." "The priest is the man of the future... What he does in this world is part of the order of things directed towards the final Goal. Mass is the only point of union between the means and the Goal because it enables us to contemplate, under the humble appearance of the bread and the wine, the Body and Blood of Him Whom we adore in eternity." "Nothing will ever replace the ministry of priests in the heart of the Church," the Pope concluded. "You are the living witnesses of God's power at work in the weakness of human beings, consecrated for the salvation of the world, chosen by Christ Himself to be, thanks to Him, salt of the earth and light of the world." each person, and he urged them to holiness in their vocations. "Many of you he calls to marriage, and the preparation for this sacrament constitutes a real vocational journey," he said. "Consider seriously the divine call to raise a Christian family, and let your youth be the time in which to build your future with a sense of responsibility. Society needs Christian families, saintly families! "And if the Lord is calling you to follow him in the ministerial priesthood or in the consecrated life," the Pontiff continued, "do not hesitate to respond to his invitation. In particular, in this Year of Priests, I appeal to you, young men: Be attentive and open to Jesus's call to offer your lives in the service of God and his people." "The Church in every country," he reflected, "including this one, needs many holy priests and also persons fully consecrated to the service of Christ, Hope of the world." (Zenit.org, September 28, 2009) Vatican Information Service (VIS) September 29, 2009 California Bishop Considered for Sainthood F our years after the opening of the beatification process of Auxiliary Bishop Alphonse Gallegos, the Diocese of Sacramento has submitted 1,700 pages worth of testimony to the Congregation for the Causes of the Saints. Born in 1931, Bishop Gallegos was ordained a priest of the Order of Augustinian Recollects in 1958 and served as Auxiliary Bishop of Sacramento from 1981 until his 1991 death in an automobile collision. CWN September 28, 2009 Pope to Youth Christ Wants to Make You Happy P ope Benedict XVI is telling youth that Christ wants to make them happy, and that His voice is not difficult to hear for those who have their hearts open. The Pope reflected on Christ's call today when he spoke with young people gathered on the third and last day of his visit to the Czech Republic. "As he did with Augustine, so the Lord comes to meet each one of you," he said. "He knocks at the door of your freedom and asks to be welcomed as a friend. He wants to make you happy, to fill you with humanity and dignity. "The Christian faith is this: encounter with Christ, the living Person who gives life a new horizon and thereby a definitive direction. And when the heart of a young person opens up to his divine plans, it is not difficult to recognize and follow his voice." The Holy Father reflected on the Lord's specific call for The Maronite Voice Volume V Issue No. IX Page 18 October 2009

19 St. Elias, Birmingham, Alabama, Prepares for 2010 Maronite Convention by Wanda Elkourie, Public Relations Chairman C hairpersons Mark and Kimberly Albert Boackle and their committees are working hard to show that the combination of Lebanese and Southern hospitality can th not be beat as the St. Elias parish prepares for the 47 Annual Maronite Convention to be held in Birmingham, Alabama, July 7-11, Visit our website at or for convention information. Be sure to mark these dates on your calendar and plan your vacation in the sunny South. Remember, NAM members receive registration discounts. For more information about NAM, NAM membership and NAM travel, visit The theme of our convention is Stewardship of Our Maronite Church. The definition of stewardship is the the careful and responsible management of something entrusted to one's care. The moment we are baptized and Confirmed into the Maronite Church, we become responsible for its teachings. We become responsible for living our lives as Maronites. The Maronite Christian dates from the fifth century after Christ. The Maronite soul has always been the holy garden praised by the Song of Songs and must spread throughout the world the holy fragrance of Christian virtues and life. The words of the Song of Songs are directed to all Maronites throughout the world. We challenge everyone to walk away from Birmingham, Alabama, in 2010 as true stewards of the Maronite Church. Auction at the 1993 convention and is working to make this one the best yet. Next year, we are going to highlight the top vacation donations in a Live Destination Auction during dinner on Friday night. In addition, we will have the highly anticipated Silent Auction. We are also asking each parish to donate something, either a destination vacation or a unique item from your area of the country. This way everyone will have something to bid on from all over the country. Examples of some of the items we are requesting are as follows: Weekends or a week at your second homes or time shares: on the ski slopes, at the beach, in the mountains, on championship golf courses, the Bay of Jounieh, etc. Weekend or a week at a spa or hotel Works of art by our artist members An invitation to join you for a round of golf at your club Home or garden items Children s items (clothing, toys, electronics) Jewelry and Boutique items Sports (signed balls, jerseys, tickets to sporting events) Vintage wines and champagnes Gift certificates to your favorite restaurant Donate money and our experienced insider shoppers will buy items If you have an item or money to donate please Paul or Theresa Bolus at bolusp@bellsouth.net or call at This will be an event you will not want to miss! Again, please visit the convention website at Ahlan Wa Sahalan Y All!! Theresa Bolus Paul Bolus Bernadette Shalhoub Clara Boohaker Silent Auction co-chairs Paul and Theresa Bolus (local procurement) and Bernadette Shalhoub and Clara Boohaker (national procurement) are calling upon you for assistance. You can make an individual donation or coordinate with members in your Maronite parish to make a donation to our Silent or Live Auction. Our St. Elias Parish started the Silent Maronite Book of Hymns according to the Antiochian Syriac Church, published in 2008 by the Patriarchal Liturgical Commission, contains Maronite Syriac tunes for the Maronite Qurbono; psalms as well as various Maronite and Marian hymns. This 569-page hardcover book is available from Saint Maron Publications for $25 plus $5 shipping. Maronite Syriac Hymns CD of the Maronite Qurbono, prepared by the Patriarchal Liturgical Commission in 2008 with Fathers Nassim Hagge and Youhana Geha, soloists, on a double CD is available from Saint Maron Publications for $25 plus $5 shipping. The Maronite Icons according to the Maronite Liturgical Year and the Feasts of the Saints was prepared by the Icons Workshop at the Maronite Eparchy of Cyprus. It consists of 60 icons (41 for Sundays and Holy Days and 19 for Maronite Saints). This collection of icons (14" x 20") along with a booklet explaining each icon is available from Saint Maron Publications for $100 plus $10 shipping. To order your copy (ies) please write to: Saint Maron Publications, 4611 Sadler Road, Glen Allen, VA For a complete listing of publications carried by Saint Maron Publications, please visit The Maronite Voice Volume V Issue No. IX Page 19 October 2009

20 The Maronite Voice St. Anthony s Maronite Catholic Church 4611 Sadler Road Glen Allen, Virginia NON-PROFIT ORG. U.S. POSTAGE PAID PERMIT NO GLEN ALLEN, VIRGINIA Miami, Florida An Evening of Maronite Hymns Fadi Hardan, Choir Director,with choir members of Our Lady of Lebanon Church in Miami, Florida. by Sary Mabjish A religious recital, highlighting the Maronite heritage, was held on April 4, 2009, at Our Lady of Lebanon Church in Miami, Florida, delivered by the church choir. The recital, which was held inside the church and free of charge, was followed by live entertainment in the church hall with more than $10,000 in proceeds and contributions to help underprivileged needy families in southern Lebanon through Centre Jean Paul II in Lebanon. This event was the initiative of Ms. Marleine Ghaby, the lead soloist, and under the leadership of Mr. Fadi Hardan, the choir director. Other choir chanting members included: Ms. Zeina Haddad, Ms. Henriette Harb, Ms. Jessy Mrad, Ms. Susie Abboud, Ms. Rita Abboud, Ms. Norma Amine, Mr. Nazih Hardan, Mr. Jean Sassine, Mr. Toni Abi Nader, Mr. Saba Maroun, Mr. Joseph Aoun and Mr. Sary Mabjish. Instrumentals were as follows: Mr. Fadi Hardan (Organ/ Keyboard), Mr. Elias Kilzi (Canoon) and Mr. Alexander Hardan (Violin). The performance included a selection of hymns used during Christmas, Lent and Easter periods as well as other hymns dedicated to the Virgin Mary and Maronite Saints using folkloric Maronite eastern tunes and melodies. Brief readings and quizzes were introduced during the recital to present factual information about the history and roots of Maronites. At the end of the recital, Fr. Elie Mikhael thanked the choir for a performance well done and suggested that the idea become an annual event. Survey Shows Sharp Growth in Americans with no Religious Affiliation T he fastest-growing religious bloc in America today is the segment of the population that has no faith, according to a new survey by researchers at Trinity College in Hartford, Connecticut. Adults with no religious affiliation account for 15% of the population-- nearly twice the figure from studies in the 1990s. Ex-Catholics account for the largest single group of respondents who claim no religious affiliation, with male Irish Catholics disproportionately represented. Catholic World News (CWN) September 24, 2009 The Maronite Voice Volume V Issue No. IX Page 20 October 2009