Welcome to this week’s exciting news from the Eastern Churches! Collaborating with L’Œuvre d’Orient, we bring you updates on the Julian calendar’s Palm Sunday celebration, Cardinal Louis Sako’s priestly jubilee, and the upcoming 150th anniversary of St. Joseph University in Beirut.
Let’s dive into the highlights of this week!
A Colorful Palm Sunday Celebration
On Sunday, April 29, Eastern Christians rejoiced in Palm Sunday celebrations as they followed the Julian calendar. Across Palestine, Egypt, Lebanon, Jordan, and Syria, vibrant processions honored Jesus’s triumphant entry into Jerusalem with waving palm branches.
This joyous occasion, marked by colorful attire and festive spirits, is a prelude to the solemn Passion events in the liturgical calendar.
Cardinal Louis Sako’s Priestly Jubilee
Monday, May 1 was a special day as Cardinal Louis Sako, the esteemed Patriarch of the Chaldean Catholic Church of Iraq, celebrated his priestly jubilee. The anniversary Mass was held in the seminary chapel in Erbil, a place close to his heart.
Having been ordained in Mosul back in 1974, Cardinal Sako’s journey has been one of deep faith and service. Elected as the Patriarch of Babylon of the Chaldeans in 2013, his dedication to his calling is truly inspiring.
St. Joseph University’s Milestone Anniversary
As we near the 150th anniversary of St. Joseph University in Beirut, celebrations have already begun. The institution, initially founded in Ghazir by the Jesuit fathers for Maronite clergy training, was relocated to Beirut in 1875.
Over the years, St. Joseph University has played a pivotal role in shaping the country’s future leaders. The jubilee year marks a significant milestone, prompting reflections on the university’s founding principles of excellence, dialogue, national unity, and the harmonious blend of faith and reason.
Isn’t it fascinating to witness these enriching cultural and spiritual celebrations unfold in the Eastern Churches? Stay tuned for more updates and inspiring stories from this vibrant community! 
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