On Sunday, December 8, 2024, His Eminence Mor Dionysius John Kawak celebrated the Holy Liturgy assisted by V. Rev. Fr. Karim Asmar, in the presence of Rev. Fr. Gabriel Alkass, and V. Rev. Fr. Joseph Shabo. During the Liturgy, His Eminence honored and gifted V. Rev. Fr. Karim Asmar with the Holy Cross, recognizing his many years of faithful service to our Holy Church. In his sermon, His Eminence spoke about The Birth of St. John the Baptist, a miraculous event filled with God’s faithfulness. He reminded the parish of the powerful story of St. John, who was chosen by God to prepare the way for Jesus Christ. His life shows us that no matter how impossible things may seem, God always fulfills His promises.
His Eminence highlighted two key lessons:
God’s Faithfulness: The birth of St. John reminds us that God’s promises never fail. As Hebrews 10:23 says, “He who promised is faithful.” Living Like John the Baptist: St. John’s life teaches us to be humble, courageous, and dedicated to pointing others to Christ. He concluded by telling the faithful that as we celebrate this feast, let us trust in God’s promises and try to live as John did faithful and bold in our witness to God’s love. May St. John the Baptist inspire us to grow closer to our Lord and live lives that shine with His light.
