On Saturday, May 17th, upon His Eminence’s arrival at the parish of Mor Philoxenus of Mabug in Roanoke, VA, he was warmly welcomed at the church. He spent time speaking with the parishioners and sharing a lovely evening. On Sunday May 18, 2025, On the occasion of the Feast of the Virgin Mary for the Blessing of the Crops, His Eminence Mor Dionysius John Kawak, in the presence of Rev. Fr. Ibrahim Barakat, celebrated the Holy Liturgy at Mor Philoxenus and delivered a homily based on Luke 6:1–5, reflecting on the Lord’s compassion above the letter of the law. In his message, His Eminence highlighted how Jesus, the “Lord of the Sabbath,” defended His disciples’ simple human needs, reminding us that true holiness is found in mercy, not mere ritual. He beautifully connected this Gospel passage to the Virgin Mary, the fertile earth who bore the Heavenly Wheat Christ, our Lord, offering the Bread of Life to the world.
