On Friday, August 15th, His Eminence Mor Dionysius John Kawak, celebrated the Holy Liturgy, assisted by Abuna Gabriel Alkass, in the presence of V. Rev. Fr. Joseph Chamoun at the Mor Aphrem Center Chapel in Paramus, New Jersey on the occasion of the Feast of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary.
In his sermon, His Eminence reminded the faithful of this feast’s beauty and deep meaning, known in our Syriac tradition as Shunoyo, the “transition” of the Blessed Virgin Mary into heavenly glory, body and soul, to be with her Son, our Lord Jesus Christ. He spoke about the connection in our Syriac Church between this feast and the blessing of the vineyards, teaching that just as grapes are turned into wine for the joy of the Holy Eucharist, Mary gave the world the true Vine, our Lord Jesus Christ, bringing forth the sweetest fruit of salvation.
He mentioned that Mary’s life is an example of faith, humility, and obedience, and he told them to imitate her virtues, living for God, keeping our hearts pure, and carrying Christ within us.
He also explained that this feast is a time to renew our commitment to Christ, bring His light into the world, and prepare ourselves for the “heavenly harvest” when He comes again.
He concluded by saying that our Mother Mary is now in heaven interceding for us. He wished everyone a blessed Feast of the Assumption, praying that through her prayers we may live in holiness and one day rejoice with her in the Kingdom of God.
