On Sunday, May 12, 2024, His Eminence Mor Dionysius John Kawak celebrated the Holy Liturgy at the Virgin Mary Parish in Paramus, New Jersey, on the occasion of the Children’s Holy Ceremonial Communion assisted by Rev. Fr. Gabriel Alkass and in the presence of V. Rev. Fr. John Alkhoury.
In his sermon, His Eminence posed three questions to the children, guiding them on their spiritual journey:
1.) Why are you here today? Is this your first communion, and when was your first communion?”
2.) How should we prepare ourselves to receive the Body and Blood of our Lord Jesus Christ?”
3.) After receiving this Communion, how can we better our behavior?”
He emphasized that the Holy Liturgy in our Syriac Orthodox Church is not just a ritual; it’s a profound spiritual experience. It’s a sacred moment where we directly participate in the mystery of Redemption, uniting heaven and earth in Christ.
He concluded by reminding the faithful that the Holy Liturgy is not only a remembrance or a symbolic act, but is viewed as an actual participation in the events of salvation and is a preview of the heavenly worship described in the Book of Revelation.
He finally congratulated the children and their families, along with thanking all those who worked tirelessly to prepare the children for this very important ceremony.
