48th Annual National Maronite Convention

The 2011 Maronite Convention was hosted by Saint Sharbel Church in Philadelphia, PA. It attracted a large number of Maronites from all over the country and is believed to be one of the most attended conventions. Our two sisters Marie Madeleine and Cosette along with Sister Dominique Halabi, who is visiting from Lebanon, were able to join this Maronite gathering. They were glad to see many of the clergy, reunite with old friends, meet new ones, tour briefly in the city and participate in the prayerful and social gatherings planned for the event.

Maronite Youth Workshop in PA

The 2011 National Maronite Youth Workshop took place the last week of June at Saint Vincent's College in Latrobe, PA. Sister Celine Nohra, a member of the organizing team, joined over 200 youths and 50 young adults for that special event. The workshop's discussions, reflections and activities centered around the "I am the Way, the Truth and the Life" theme. The week was a combination of spiritual and fun activities which promoted a strong sense of frienship and respect among the youths and adults who were gathered. The presence of the Most Reverend Gregory J. Mansour, Bishop of the Eparchy of Saint Maron of Brooklyn, had a strong impact on the youths who expressed their love for their bishops and for their church. Sister Celine considered it a blessing to be part of this event and to see the youths dedicate time to building a stronger relationship with God. "There are wonderful signs of health and life in our Maronite church" she says, "and I thank God for all the priests and adults involved in this workshop. Just watching them work and pray with and for our youths is a powerful indication that God is at work!".