On Sunday May 8, 2016, His Eminence Mor Dionysius Jean Kawak celebrated Holy Qurobo at Sts. Peter & Paul Syriac Orthodox Church in Southfield, MI.
Before the sermon a letter from His Holiness Moran Mor Ignatius Aphrem II was read by Very Rev. Fr. Edward Hanna, pastor of Sts. Peter & Paul, regarding the appointment of His Eminence Archbishop Mor Dionysius Jean Kawak as Patriarchal Vicar of the Eastern United States of America. On behalf of the parish of Sts. Peter & Paul, Very Rev. Fr. Edward congratulated His Eminence on his appointment as Patriarchal Vicar of our beloved Archdiocese, wishing him many years of success and health.
During his spiritual message, His Eminence spoke about the meaning of ‘New Sunday’ specifically touching upon Jesus’ appearances to the disciples in the Upper Room and St. Paul’s letter to the Ephesians which tells us to “be renewed in the spirit of your mind, and that you put on the new man which was created according to God, in true righteousness and holiness” (Eph 4:23-24 NKJV).
His Eminence closed the sermon wishing all the mothers a very blessed Mother’s Day.
After Holy Qurbono the deacons and choir led His Eminence to the social hall, singing the traditional hymn ‘Tob bashlom’. His Eminence blessed the congregation and celebrated Mother’s Day with them.
During his pastoral visit, His Eminence met with Very Rev. Fr. Edward Hanna, the parish council and organizations as well as visited families of the parish.
