So, were you able to attend any of the functions this past weekend at Sts. Peter and Paul Church in Southfield or at Sts. Peter and Paul Church – East Side (St. Rene) in Sterling Heights, and how did you like the new substitute teacher?
He came, got acquainted with the class, introduced himself as the sub that likes to work hard and dedicate similar efforts and methods as the last but still teacher. The visit was kind of short, it went by a bit too fast! We tried to make the best of it to know each other closely…
Jean Kawak the man; showed sincerity and closeness to people, he loves to give attention to kids and make them feel welcome and important. He gave a good message that he is warm at heart and a people’s man…
Jean Kawak the Bishop; brought with him the agonizing news from the Middle East that calls each one of us to react with the situation as if it is our own personal issue. He explained it frankly: what are our resources, what are our capabilities and how tremendous are the efforts that we have to put together to survive the chaos that was yoked onto our “Syriani Nation”… As he said in his homely that a routine attendance to Church on Sundays is not going to guarantee us a front seat in heaven, rather the good deeds that we do for each other, to reach out and help the needy, “all the needy and not only our own culture”… But still; we hope to see everyone making it a habit in attending Church Masses regularly where there is power in believer’s group prayers and supporting the community because there is strength in unity…
On the other hand the Bishop is up-to-date! He presided a mixed Mass, Aramaic, Arabic and English, for a moment I thought he’s going to start with Latin too! He drew the sign of the Cross over an IPad, swiped his finger over the screen and started reading the Gospel… followed by an English homely interacting with the kids first and finished it with Arabic… many loved the “Quantum Leap” and each in his own way looking forward for the positive changes that could be worked on for a brighter future…
Bottom line, there are so many things to be worked on and promises were made to stay in touch, as the Parish Council encourages everyone’s volunteer efforts to work together in building a stronger foundation for our future generations, and new programs will be announced soon.
In the mean time we wish our beloved visitors Bishop Jean Kawak and Deacon Imad Albanna a “bon voyage” and hope to see them back soon…
“A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; as I have loved you, that you also love one another. By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.” John 13:34-35
Deacon Michel Massoud
Sts. Peter and Paul Syriac Orthothox Church 