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The first periodic meeting of the priests of the Archdiocese of the Western USA local churches

Date: January 11, 2024,
Location: St. Ephraim Cathedral, Burbank

With a reminder from the priest of the cathedral, the meeting was held for the priests of the local churches of the Archdiocese of the Western United States under the auspices of His Eminence Mor Clemis Eugene Kaplan, the Patriarchal Vicar of the Archdiocese. On Thursday, January 11, 2024, in the meeting room of St. Ephraim, the Syrian Cathedral in Burbank, California.

His Eminence opened the session with a special prayer; then he began by welcoming everyone, especially congratulating Rev. Fr. Bassam Darrouj for the first time attending the clergy meeting after his ordination to serve St. Helena church in Lancaster, CA.

The clergy meeting provided a valuable platform for spiritually enriching the church rites, dialogue, and exchanging ideas. His Eminence delivered an inspiring keynote address on the agenda. And under his leadership, the gathering emphasized the importance of fostering unity among the clergy and strengthening their collective mission to serve the faithful.

Since the day of the meeting coincides with the feast of the Epiphany, and after reading from the gospel according to St. John the Apostle, Very Rev. Raban Saliba Kassis explained some essential points of the feast according to St. Ephrem. His speech pleased the clergy.

The meeting's agenda included discussions on a wide range of topics relevant to the Epiphany, the clergy's pastoral responsibilities, and the broader challenges faced by the community. The meeting was a forum for productive conversations to deepen the clergy's connection with their Syriac rites.

As the meeting concluded, the clergy members had a renewed sense of purpose and dedication. His Eminence expressed his gratitude for the commitment and hard work of the clergy and reminded them of the pivotal role they play in shaping the spiritual landscape of the Archdiocese.

The clergy meeting of the Archdiocese of Western USA served as a powerful reminder of the strength and resilience of the clergy community and its unwavering commitment to nurturing its congregants' spiritual growth and well-being. With a strengthened sense of unity and purpose, the clergy members are poised to continue their impactful work serving their communities.

The meeting ended with a closing prayer from His Eminence. Everyone enjoyed the gathering and the lunch offered on this occasion.