On Thursday, August 15, 2024, His Holiness Mor Ignatius Aphrem II celebrated the Holy Liturgy on the occasion of the Feast of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary (Yoldath Aloho) assisted by Their Eminence’s Mor Dionysius John Kawak, and Mor Augeen Alkhouri Nimat in the presence of Rev. Fr. Gabriel Alkass, V. Rev. Fr. John Alkhoury, V. Rev. Fr. Joseph Chamoun, and V. Rev. Fr. Aziz Hadodo, at the Parish of the Church of the Virgin Mary in Paramus, New Jersey.
In his sermon, His Holiness spoke about the profound virtue of humility exemplified by the Virgin Mary. He talked about the Virgin Mary’s acceptance of God’s will, which made her an encouragement of humility.
His Holiness pointed out that humility is the root of all virtues, comparing it with pride, which he described as the root of all sins. He also mentioned that our Church forefathers, such as Mor Aphrem and Mor Jacob of Serugh, celebrated the Virgin Mary through hymns and poetry, drawing inspiration from her humility and grace.
His Holiness emphasized that Mary’s humility not only set her apart but also made her the chosen vessel to bear the Son of God. Through her example, she teaches us that true Christian living is grounded in humility. He concluded by extending his heartfelt blessings to the faithful, wishing them a joyous and blessed Feast of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary.
