From Tuesday, March 19th, to Friday, March 22nd, 2024, the Archdiocesan Clergy Retreat took place at the Mor Aphrem Center in Paramus, NJ, focusing on preaching.
The Clergy Retreat commenced on Wednesday morning with His Eminence Mor Dionysius John Kawak offering a blessing, emphasizing the significance of preaching, and teaching as fundamental duties of a Priest. Following this, Fr. Anthony Messeh from our Sister Coptic Orthodox Church delivered a spiritual message on the importance of preparing and delivering messages to the faithful.
Thursday afternoon featured a session by Fr. Sergius Halvorsen, a Professor from St. Vladimir’s Seminary, who spoke about the sacred art of narrative and iconic biblical preaching. Throughout the retreat, clergy members delivered numerous sermons during morning and evening prayers and engaged in two spiritual meditations.
On Friday morning, His Eminence Mor Dionysius John Kawak concluded the Clergy Retreat by celebrating the Holy Liturgy, assisted by Rev. Fr. Aphram Alfaham and Rev. Fr. Daniel Alkass, in the presence of the Clergy of the Eastern Archdiocese.
They celebrated the Feast of the Patron Saint of our Center, Mor Aphrem. In his sermon, His Eminence congratulated our beloved Patriarch His Holiness Mor Ignatius II, extending wishes for a long, healthy life, and conveyed blessings to all who bear Mor Aphrem’s name. Additionally, he reflected on the humility and deeds of this important Saint in our Holy Syriac Orthodox Church.
