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Showing posts from May, 2023

The Feast of Pentecost.

The Feast of Pentecost. The Feast of "Pentecost" (Grk word pentekoste, means "Fiftieth day") holds great significance in the Syrian Orthodox Church as it commemorates the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the Apostles. This joyous celebration occurs on the fiftieth day after Easter, on a Sunday. The liturgical observance includes a unique service called "Syom Burke," which means "kneeling" in Syriac.  The Syom Burke service has three that begin after the Quqliyon  (service) of the Blessed Virgin Mary. At the beginning of each part, a water bowl is placed on the Dargo along with a bunch of leaves (Step before the altar). The first part of the service is directed towards the Father, followed by the second part dedicated to the Son, and finally, the third part focuses on the Holy Spirit. Each part consists of opening prayers, hymns, prayers, and readings from the Scriptures. After a Litany, a deacon calls out in a loud voice,  "Let us Kneel and b

The Feast of the Ascension of our Lord (Suloqo)

  The Feast of the Ascension of our Lord (Suloqo) The Feast of the Ascension of our Lord, also known as Suloqo (Syriac), holds great significance in the Syrian/Syriac Orthodox Church. It commemorates the fulfilment of Jesus' promises and His Ascension to heaven on the fortieth day after His resurrection, as mentioned in Mark 16:19. The feast serves as a pivotal moment when Jesus completed His earthly ministry and returned to His glory, seated at the right side of God the Father. According to the Syrian Orthodox church, the Ascension of Jesus marks the beginning of a new time, the time of the Holy Spirit. Through His Ascension, divine secrets are revealed to believers, providing insight into God's plan for salvation. It signifies the triumphant conclusion of Jesus' mission, revealing His divine nature and paving the way for the outpouring of the Holy Spirit. The Ascension has several significant implications for believers. Primarily, it signifies the Lord's return to His