On Sunday, October 12, 2025, His Eminence Mor Dionysius John Kawak celebrated the Holy Liturgy at St. George Syriac Orthodox Church in Brooklyn, New York, in the presence of V. Rev. Fr. Gabriel Adde and V. Rev. Fr. Aziz Hadodo. In his sermon, His Eminence spoke about the true meaning of mercy revealed by our Lord Jesus Christ through both His words and His actions. He reminded the faithful that in Matthew 12, when the Pharisees accused the disciples of breaking the Sabbath, Jesus responded by teaching that God values mercy above ritual sacrifice. He told them that the healing of the man with the withered hand was not only a miracle, but a declaration that the heart of the Sabbath is compassion, and that doing good, restoring life, and lifting burdens are always lawful in the eyes of God.
He also reminded the faithful of the Parable of the Good Samaritan, where the priest and the Levite passed by the wounded man, but the Samaritan stopped, cared for, and showed mercy. He concluded his sermon by telling the faithful that mercy is the heartbeat of God’s kingdom. Faith without compassion is lifeless, and worship without love is empty. He urged everyone to hear Christ’s voice saying, “Stretch out your hand” toward the poor, the lonely, and even those who have hurt us, for that is the sacrifice that pleases God.
Following Holy Liturgy, His Eminence presented V. Rev. Fr. Gabriel Adde with a cross as a token of appreciation for his devoted service and priestly ministry. The day was filled with emotions as the parish of St. George held a farewell banquet in honor of V. Rev. Fr. Gabriel Adde, as it was his last Holy Liturgy at the church in Brooklyn. During the banquet, many parishioners and guests spoke, expressing their love for his years of faithful service and spiritual leadership at St. George Syriac Orthodox Church. The celebration also featured a beautiful slideshow presentation on his dedication and the countless memories shared with the parish community.
