Holy Family Maronite Church

I've been thinking about it for a while. It's an issue that is very dear to my heart. No, it's not the extinction of wild salmon, or greenhouse emissions - however serious these issues are. It's Christian unity. I always wondered how is it that the "world" would believe us when we talk about love, forgiveness, peace and harmony, when we, Christians, cannot get along. We'd be hypocrites!
Such historic and deep schisms can heal only with time and prayer. One morning in December, I woke up thinking about holding an Ecumenical Prayer Service at Holy Family. I had to act fast before we published the January bulletin, because the week of prayer for unity is Jan 18-25.
I first thought of inviting Amazing Grace Lutheran Church with whom we have a special connection since they sold us our Mendota Heights campus. St George's Orthodox Church also has special ties to us, since we share the same Eastern Antiochian heritage. Calls were made, and all was set.
I was very excited about the service, but I didn't expect it to go that well. The attendance was relatively modest - about 75 people. Five clergy persons attended: Fr. Kevin Kenny from Our Lady of Guadalupe; Pastors Chris Becker and Sarah Lutter from Amazing Grace Lutheran; and Fr. Tom from St George's Orthodox.
The theme of the prayer service for this year was "Pray without ceasing." It started with an invocation of the Holy Spirit, and intercessions; then scriptural readings. One interesting ritual was the lighting of candles and proclamation of an ecumenical commitment.
A reception in the social hall followed the service. We had a chance to discuss and socialize some more. A few pictures are available in our picture gallery.
Worshiping with other Christians feels just right. United, together, just like God intended it. The service was, according to all who attended, heavenly, and I intend to make it a yearly tradition that I hope all parishioners will experience.
Meanwhile, let us keep praying!
Abouna.