From Saturday, February 25th until Monday, February 27th, His Eminence Mor Dionysius paid a pastoral visit to St. Ephraim parish in Central Falls, Rhode Island. On Saturday He attended the event that was hosted by the parish on the occasion of St. Aphrem’s feast. During the event V. Rev. Fr. Maroutha Hanna spoke first, and it was about the Holy Lent in the life of the faithful, the second speaker was followed by Rev. Fr. Anton Sabha about forgiveness. In closing of the lectures, His Eminence spoke about Baptism in the writing of St. Aphrem.
The event and celebration were concluded by a short play that was performed by the Sunday School children about the life of St. Aphrem. Syriac Hymns were chanted by the Parish Choir led by Deacon Gabriel Aydin. After the gathering, the faithful gathered for an agape meal.
On Sunday, February 26, 2023, His Eminence Mor Dionysius John Kawak celebrated the Holy Liturgy assisted by V. Rev. Fr. Maroutha Hanna. The Patriarchal Encyclical on the Holy Lent was read during the Holy Liturgy, and the Rights of Reconciliation was celebrated.
His Eminence spoke as well thanking the parish council and organization of St. Aphrem for the enthusiasm they have for serving God in addition to the activities they prepared. In conclusion to his sermon His Eminence spoke briefly about the wedding of cana.
