Assyrian Church News Official News Site of the Holy Apostolic Catholic Assyrian Church of the East

The Assyrian Church of the East Children’s Association (ACECA) hosted its eighth annual summer program, from Monday 15th January to Friday 19th January 2024 at St Hurmizd’s Assyrian Primary School, Greenfield Park. The week long program, themed “Stellar” took more than two hundred and fifty children on an intergalactic adventure into space where they proclaimed the glory of God – along with the heavens, the stars, the moon and the rest of creation (Psalm 19:1). With the numerous rotational stations children explored how Jesus’ shined with hope, love, forgiveness, and joy to the world – and how we can do the same with His power! A massive appreciation to more than sixty Sydney youth of the Assyrian Church of the East who volunteered to run this intensive full-time program, taking time off work and holidays to ensure a great event for the children of our parishes.

The Board of Directors of the Assyrian Christian Schools in Sydney has announced the establishment of a state-of-the-art sports and performing arts centre at St Narsai Assyrian Christian College. The latest phase brings to completion the vision of His Eminence Mar Meelis Zaia AM from over two decades ago to have a full educational system operated by the church. That pioneering vision is continually taking its form in reality. To foster creativity, encourage physical sports and manifest talents among school students, the ‎Assyrian Christian Schools Board chaired by His Grace Mar Benyamin Elya announced the commencement of construction of the third ‎phase in the St Narsai Assyrian Christian College complex in the Horsley Park area, through ‎the construction of a modern sports and arts centre. This wonderful project is scheduled to be completed in March ‎of 2025.‎ The centre contains the following features:‎ ‎- Two full-sized courts for playing futsal, basketball, volleyball, and netball -Suitable for a whole-school mass and whole-school assemblies.‎ – A fitness hall fitted with the latest sports equipment – Classes for the purpose of explaining the theoretical or technical aspect of applied sports or ‎technical lessons – Administrative offices for the college In addition to the …

As we look back on 2023, we reflect on the events and initiatives hosted by the Assyrian Church of the East in Sydney throughout the year. Our youth community experienced a year of immense growth—both in numbers and in faith. From spiritual retreats to cultural celebrations, each event became a stepping stone for our members to draw closer to one another and deepen their connection with God. We kicked of the year by attending the 5th Archdiocesan Youth Conference hosted by ACEYA Melbourne. The conference provided us with a unique opportunity to unite with fellow Youth from Melbourne and New Zealand, sharing our faith together as one Church. The Conference theme, “Let Your Minds Be Above,’ served as a guiding light, encouraging us to elevate our thoughts to the Lord and His Kingdom. The memories created and the friendships formed during the Conference will undoubtedly remain etched in our hearts as we continue our journey of faith together. The Annual Youth Meet gathers our Youth across all parishes to kickstart our ministries for the year. His Eminence Mar Meelis Zaia participates among our Youth to deliver a sermon tailored for our Youth. In 2023, we also announced the parish Youth …

Zeist, Netherlands – January 4, 2024 In a momentous occasion for the Assyrian Church of the East Diocese of Western Europe, His Grace Mar Awraham Youkhanis, Diocesan Bishop, announced the successful acquisition of the first-ever church in Zeist, Netherlands. The newly acquired property, named Mar Benyamin Shimun’s Church, stands as a testament to the resilience and dedication of the Assyrian community in the country. The Diocesan Bishop expressed his gratitude to Rev Fr Shamoun Shamoun, the board of trustees, the church committee, and the generous community members in the Netherlands who played a pivotal role in making this significant purchase possible. Their unwavering support, donations, and contributions underscored the unity and commitment of the Assyrian Church of the East in Western Europe. The Assyrian community’s migration to the Netherlands has a rich and diverse history, dating back to the late 19th century. The first wave of Assyrian immigrants arrived in the Netherlands seeking refuge from the tumultuous events in their homeland. The Assyrian diaspora in the Netherlands grew significantly during the latter half of the 20th century due to geopolitical challenges and conflicts in the Middle East. Over the decades, the Assyrian community in the Netherlands has thrived and contributed …

On Thursday 14 December, the Assyrian Church of the East hosted its 10th annual Carols by the Cathedral. More than three thousand of parishioners gathered for the event to celebrate the upcoming Holy Feast of the Holy Nativity. The Carols programme featured the gifted Bella Taylor Smith from The Voice Australia, along with Sydney Parish Choirs and Sunday School. The day comprised of a variety of rides and amusements, delicious food and a concluding fireworks finale! The church thanks all the sponsors, service providers and parishioners for making it a wonderful day for the entire family.

Paris, 2 January 2024 In a significant move, the Assyrian Church of the East has been officially registered in France. This significant milestone opens new doors for the Assyrian community in France, allowing the church to better serve and work for its members. The Assyrian Church of the East has a strong presence in France, with a primary parish in Marseille, the Mar Yosip Khnanisho’s Parish, home to over 150 Assyrian families. Additionally, there are more than 50 families in Paris, reflecting the vibrant and diverse Assyrian diaspora in the country. Other communities, scattered in various parts like Toulouse and Lyon, contribute to the Assyrian community’s presence in France. In December of 2023, the first Holy Raza was celebrated in Paris, marking the initiation of a new mission established by His Grace Mar AwrahamYoukhanis, Bishop of London and Western Europe. The communities in France are nurtured by the efforts of Rev Chorbishop Stapanoos Yalda, who plays an essentialrole in fostering spiritual growth and community engagement. His Grace Mar Awraham Youkhanis expresses his gratitude and offers prayers for the Assyrian communities in France. Thanks be to God for this crucial step in legal recognition, providing the church with enhanced capabilities to …

Voice of the East – Vol. 70 – July & August 2023