Under the Auspices of His Eminence Mor Dionysius John Kawak, the Suryoyo Family Gathering 2025 was held this year from Thursday, July 24th to Sunday, July 27th at the Mor Aphrem Center in Paramus, New Jersey, under the beautiful theme “Do Not Fear”(Deuteronomy 3:22). Each day began with morning prayers. Our keynote speakers were Their Eminences Mor Dionysius John Kawak, and Mor Joseph Bali, and Rev. Fr. Cyril Antonious. They rotated daily, sharing inspiring lectures with adults and the youth. At the same time, we also had a special VBS program for our young children, filled with Bible-based crafts, music, games, and activities. The VBS theme followed “Do Not Be Afraid,” using the story of Daniel in the Lion’s Den to teach the children about trusting in God. We were blessed with a beautiful recital led by V. Rev. Fr. Joseph Chamoun on our opening day. On the second day, Sayidna Joseph Bali gave his first lecture to the adults, while Fr. Cyril from our Sister Coptic Orthodox Church spoke with the youth, and Fr. Joseph Shammas shared a wonderful message with the Jr. Youth. The children enjoyed exciting water games that day as well! In the middle of the gathering, we experienced a truly moving spiritual night led by Fr. Alan Shaltan, with heart-touching hymns sung by Fr. Alan and his sister Lilian Shaltan, as well as beautiful meditations by Fr. Alan and Mena Bassous. It was a night that left everyone comforted and filled with the Holy Spirit.
Our Jr. Youth group also worked on a very special service project, creating “Do Not Be Afraid” kits for children in need. These kits were blessed by His Eminence Mor Dionysius John Kawak together with the Jr. Youth. Even the adults had the chance to enjoy a “Water Day” together, a joyful time with clergy and all the attendees. Every evening, we closed with evening prayers and spent time together playing games, dancing, and singing our beloved Suryoyo music, making memories as one family.
The Suryoyo Family Gathering 2025 concluded on Sunday, July 27th, with the celebration of the Holy Liturgy at St. Mark’s Cathedral, a blessed ending to a weekend full of faith, fellowship, and love. We truly appreciate all the hard work, time, dedication, and love that was put into serving during the Suryoyo Family Gathering, as well as all the preparation that was done ahead of time. His Eminence Mor Dionysius John Kawak would like to thank, one by one, each and every person who helped prepare and make this Suryoyo Family Gathering a success. From the bottom of his heart, he is grateful to all who gave their time and effort for this beautiful event.
