On the evening of Friday, February 28th, 2025, at St. Mark’s Cathedral in Paramus, New Jersey, Their Eminences Mor Dionysius John Kawak and Mor Andrawos Bahhi, along with V. Rev. Fr. Joseph Chamoun, Rev. Fr. Imad Al-Banna, and all the clergy of the Archdiocese for the Eastern United States, celebrated the Holy Liturgy at the conclusion of the Annual Clergy Retreat.
During the Holy Qurobo, His Eminence Mor Dionysius John Kawak ordained Shamosho Joseph Shammas to the rank of priest to serve as the Youth Minister of the Archdiocese for the Eastern United States.
After his ordination, the newly ordained Abuna Joseph Shammas shared a heartfelt message, thanking our Patriarch His Holiness Mor Ignatius Aphrem II for his encouragement and support, and then went on by thanking His Eminence Mor Dionysius John Kawak for his love, guidance, and patience. He also thanked V. Rev. Fr. Joseph Chamoun, Rev. Fr. Imad Al-Banna, his family, and all the youth for their prayers and support. In a touching moment, he also thanked his wife.
After the Holy Liturgy, everyone gathered in the Suryoyo Community Hall to celebrate and enjoy refreshments, sharing the joy of this blessed occasion!
