In the spirit of brotherhood, spiritual growth, and renewal in the journey of catechesis, the Third Diocesan Catechetical Course for the centers of the Diocese of Homs, Hama, Al-Nabk, and their surrounding areas for the Syriac Catholics was launched at the Salesian Fathers Monastery in Al-Kafroun on Thursday, August 29, 2024.

The course began with a collective prayer, asking for the blessing and presence of the Holy Spirit throughout the journey. Father Iskandar, the diocesan catechetical coordinator, welcomed all participants, emphasizing the importance of these courses in advancing the catechetical mission toward better outcomes.

The deacons then energized the educators with an interactive game to help them get acquainted with each other and learn about their respective centers.

This was followed by an insightful lecture by Father Farid Boutros, the educational advisor for the Catechetical Association in Aleppo, titled: “An Introduction to Spiritual Life.” He spoke about the spiritual person, the stages of spiritual life, the means and methods for growth, types of prayer, and the foundations and stages of meditation.

Afterward, the participants were divided into discussion groups to reflect on the ideas presented, and they later reconvened to share their experiences in a final session with the lecturer. Valuable contributions were made by Father George Masouh and Father Hamid Masouh during the discussion on the spiritual life of the educator and how to live it.

After thanking Father Farid, everyone gathered around the table of love, and the first day concluded with a pleasant evening and a prayer of thanksgiving to God for His guidance and presence among us. Until we meet again.

The Second Day of the Diocesan Catechetical Course

The second day of the Third Diocesan Catechetical Course began on Friday morning, August 30, 2024, with a Mass at the Salesian Monastery in Al-Kafroun. Following the Mass, we welcomed His Excellency Bishop Mar Yulian Yaqub Murad, our esteemed shepherd, who came to share in the benefits and experiences of the course, demonstrating his fatherly love and closeness by participating with us. His presence enriched the gathering as he actively engaged in a fruitful session with Father Gandhi Mahna from the Maronite Diocese of Latakia. The session focused on the concept of the present day, the themes of the years in the Church, and the spiritual and intellectual renewal accompanying them. Afterward, participants engaged in discussion groups, followed by a presentation of the results and conclusions on the topic.

After lunch and an afternoon break, there was an energizing activity on the monastery’s playground, followed by a second session with Father Gandhi. This session focused on the value of the family and its role in the catechetical journey. The second lecture was followed by a penitential service centered on the family, relationships, and both large and small gatherings. The participants responded enthusiastically, especially during the confessions heard by His Excellency and the diocesan priests.

Following the blessing at the end of the day, everyone gathered in the monastery hall for an enjoyable evening filled with exceptional contributions from various centers. The evening concluded with a beautiful gathering and a closing prayer..

The Third Day of the Diocesan Catechetical Course

In the name of the Lord and by His grace, we began our third day of the Third Diocesan Catechetical Course on Saturday, August 31, 2024, with a Divine Mass. After nourishing our bodies with a hearty breakfast, we accompanied Reverend Father Charbel Al-Khoury, a Lazarist monk specializing in the New Evangelization. The day was filled with an enjoyable and engaging journey that combined spiritual discussions, educational interaction, a film, a presentation, discussion groups, and a creative showcase of work. The program was delivered in a lively and interactive manner that sparked creativity among the participating educators, touched their emotions, and respectfully stimulated their minds—all under the theme derived from the course’s title: “A Renewed Educator for a Changing World.”

After the session, the organizing committee and participants thanked Father Charbel for his enthusiasm and efforts in advancing the mission of catechetical educators. In appreciation, a commemorative gift was presented to him on behalf of His Excellency Bishop Mar Yulian Yaqub Murad, the highly respected shepherd of the diocese. A group photo was taken to mark the occasion.

After a long day of effort, we enjoyed a refreshing outing to Al-Mishtaya, followed by a social evening where the remaining groups that did not participate in the previous night’s gathering performed their skits and pantomimes. The evening was filled with wonderful moments, as the brothers in the Salesian Monastery provided an atmosphere of joy and fellowship.

Conclusion of the Third Diocesan Catechetical Course

With the blessing of the Lord’s Day, Sunday, September 1, 2024, the participants of the Third Diocesan Catechetical Course began the day with morning prayers, followed by a session led by Sister Safa Beitar of the Sisters of the Good Shepherd. The topic focused on “Catechism and Society: Influence and Impact” within the framework of the Church’s social teachings. Sister Safa, with a captivating and methodical approach that touched both mind and heart, discussed how Christian values and concepts can be embodied in society, and how we can be more present and effective in serving the glory of God and the good of humanity.

Afterward, the participants divided into workshops to brainstorm and propose developmental projects that could benefit all segments of society, offering them real services that convey lived messages from God. Following the presentation of the results and the exchange of ideas, a moment of gratitude was dedicated to Sister Safa for her dedication and service to the community.

Following a midday rest, the Salesian Apostolic team led an invigorating session, bringing joy, learning, and growth to everyone involved. Their beautiful mission was deeply appreciated.

The day culminated in a final Mass of thanksgiving, where participants expressed their gratitude to God for His grace and care throughout the course. The diocesan shepherd and supporter of catechesis addressed the attendees, referring to them as the “Hope of the Church” and “Pilgrims of Hope for a Better World.”

The day concluded with a reflective and structured evaluation session, filled with gratitude towards God and all those who contributed to the organization, management, and success of the course. Thanks were extended to the individuals and organizations that provided support, including the Mar Elian Relief and Development Office, represented by Deacon Butros, as well as the beloved families, esteemed parish priests, the teaching staff, and the Diocesan Committee for Catechetical Education, led by Reverend Father Iskander. Special thanks were also given to the volunteer team responsible for food and logistics, as well as to the educators who imparted their knowledge throughout the course.