Archdiocese of the Syriac Orthodox Church for the Eastern United States

06/13/2026

Under the auspices of His Eminence Mor Dionysius John Kawak, on Friday, June 12, 2026, the Archdiocesan Educational Committee organized the Annual Commemoration of Sayfo, the Syriac Genocide. The evening began with a special prayer service for the Sayfo Martyrs.

Following the Holy Gospel reading, His Eminence Mor Dionysius John Kawak delivered a sermon reflecting on the memory of Sayfo and the faithfulness of the martyrs who endured persecution for the name of Christ. His Eminence reminded the faithful that although our people suffered greatly, they never lost their faith, and emphasized that we remember Sayfo not with hatred or revenge, but with truth, prayer, and faith. He also encouraged the youth to honor the memory of the martyrs by remaining faithful to Christ, living their faith, and becoming witnesses of His light in the world. His Eminence concluded by praying that the memory of the Sayfo Martyrs may strengthen our Church and guide future generations to remain steadfast in Christ.

Following the sermon, attendees had the opportunity to listen to several family testimonies recounting the experiences of Sayfo in their villages. A poem prepared by Amy Hannoush was also presented in both Aramaic Syriac and English, featuring the words of Mor Jacob of Serugh. The commemoration continued with a procession to the Sayfo Monument, where the faithful participated in the Teshmeshto d’Suhde (Service of the Martyrs), offering special prayers in remembrance of the martyrs. The evening concluded with light refreshments in the social hall of the Mor Aphrem Center in Paramus, New Jersey.

06/12/2026

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06/12/2026

On Thursday, June 11, 2026, His Eminence Mor Dionysius John Kawak conducted the Thursday Night Bible Study at the Mor Aphrem Center on the topic, "The Power of Personal Testimony: A Journey Through the Final Five Chapters of Acts (Acts 24–28)."

His Eminence began by explaining how the final chapters of Acts follow St. Paul’s journey through trials, imprisonment, storms, and finally Rome, reminding those present that although St. Paul was in chains, the Word of God could never be chained.

He spoke about St. Paul’s witness before governors, kings, soldiers, sailors, and prisoners, showing how God used every circumstance as an opportunity to proclaim Christ. His Eminence reminded the faithful that God often uses our trials and difficulties as a platform to share our faith and testimony with others.

He went on to explain how St. Paul’s testimony before King Agrippa serves as a model for every Christian: who we were before Christ, how we encountered Him, and how our lives have changed through Him. He also emphasized that every believer is called to be a witness for Christ through both words and actions.

The Bible Study concluded with His Eminence encouraging everyone to never underestimate the power of a life transformed by Christ, reminding them that their testimony may encourage others, strengthen someone's faith, and bring people closer to our Lord Jesus Christ.

06/12/2026

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06/11/2026

Brikho and Congratulations to our beautiful little friends at God’s Children Academy for their Graduation Ceremony of 2026 🙏🏼🤍

06/11/2026

06/09/2026

On Tuesday, June 9, 2026, God’s Children Academy celebrated the graduating class of 2025–2026 with a beautiful Graduation and Performance Ceremony. The ceremony began with welcoming remarks by Mrs. Arij, Director of God’s Children Academy, followed by the Lord’s Prayer (Abun d’Bashmayo) led by His Eminence Mor Dionysius John Kawak.

Mrs. Farrah Ego then invited each graduate to come forward and recite a verse from the Holy Bible. The students also shared what they learned throughout the school year, including sight words, rhyming words, syllables, shapes, and general knowledge. They explained different shapes and described how many sides and corners each one has. During their science presentation, they spoke about the life cycle and the importance of trees in our world. The children also shared their knowledge of U.S. currency and identified which President appears on each bill.

One of the most meaningful parts of the program was the students presentation on the Holy Quorbono (Eucharistic Bread), where they explained the symbols found on the bread and their significance in our Syriac Orthodox faith. They also spoke about the censer, explaining what it represents and the meaning behind its different parts.

The children sang “In the Beginning,” the Syriac Alphabet (Olaf Beth) Song, and beautifully chanted Syriac Orthodox hymns and songs, proudly lifting up our ancient and holy language. Mrs. Farrah Ego, together with His Eminence Mor Dionysius John Kawak and Mrs. Narjis, then presented the Class Awards and Diplomas to the graduates.

The ceremony concluded with a heartfelt address by His Eminence, who congratulated the graduates and their families, offered his best wishes, and shared how much he will truly miss the children. Families then gathered for light refreshments and fellowship as they celebrated this special milestone together. We congratulate all of our graduates and pray that our Lord Jesus Christ blesses them as they begin the next chapter of their journey.

06/08/2026

What better reminder for our journey toward forgiveness than a hymn like T’are D’Aloho? Forgiveness opens the door to God’s mercy, healing, and peace.

We’re hoping to once again hear the beautiful, angelic voice of our dear Lilian at this year’s Suryoyo Family Gathering! 💜

Registration is filling quickly, and June 30 is approaching. Don’t wait!
Register today and join us for a blessed and unforgettable weekend.

06/08/2026

On Sunday, June 7, 2026, His Eminence Mor Dionysius John Kawak celebrated the Holy Liturgy at St. Ephrem Parish in Central Falls, Rhode Island, assisted by V. Rev. Fr. Marutha Hanna in the presence of V. Rev. Fr. Anton Sabha and Rev. Fr. Toni Kasih. During the Holy Liturgy, His Eminence ordained Sub-Deacon Malek Askar to the rank of Full Deacon.

Following his ordination, Full Deacon Malek Askar delivered a spiritual message. He spoke about the meaning of the word "Euangeloyo," explaining that it derives from "Euangelion," which means "Good News." He mentioned that in ancient times, this word was used when a messenger announced great news, such as a victory or the arrival of a new king. The person who carried that message was known as an evangelist, the bearer of the Good News.

He also spoke about the Bible, explaining that the word "Bible" comes from the Greek word meaning "books," reminding the faithful that while the Bible contains many books, it carries one message: the Good News of salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ.

Full Deacon Malek reminded the faithful that serving God is a special calling. He mentioned how God called Jonah, St. Peter, and St. Paul to serve Him, even though they struggled with doubts and weaknesses. He explained that God continued to guide them and use them for His purpose. He also reminded the faithful that true service requires humility, obedience, prayer, and trust in God. He encouraged everyone to answer God's call with faith and to remain committed to serving the Lord.

He concluded by reminding the faithful that God calls ordinary people to do His work and guides them through every step of their journey. He encouraged everyone to remain humble, faithful, and willing to serve wherever God may lead them.

Following the Holy Liturgy, the faithful gathered for a fellowship meal to celebrate this blessed occasion.