On Sunday, January 12, 2025, His Eminence Mor Dionysius John Kawak celebrated the Holy Liturgy assisted by V. Rev. Fr. Joseph Chamoun at St. Mark’s Cathedral in Paramus, New Jersey. During his sermon, His Eminence reflected on Matthew 4:18–22, where Jesus called His first disciples, saying, “Follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men.”
His Eminence shared a profound reflection on the personal and transformative nature of Jesus’ call. He reminded the congregation that this moment was not only a historical event but a living and ongoing invitation for all believers. Just as Peter, Andrew, James, and John left their nets behind to follow Christ, we too are called to leave behind sin, selfishness, and worldly attachments in order to embrace a life of faithful obedience to the Lord.
Quoting the Apostle Paul from Ephesians 4:1, “Walk worthy of the calling with which you were called,” His Eminence encouraged the faithful to examine their lives and consider how they can respond to Jesus’ call each day. He emphasized that answering this call means becoming the light and salt in the world living as reflections of Christ’s love, mercy, and truth in our daily interactions and choices.
