Beloved Parishioners and Friends of Saint Maron,

Peace, grace and love to you in the Lord Jesus, our God and Savior with the hope you are in good health and spirit along with your loved ones.

As the eyes of the world turn toward wars and trouble in many countries, our hearts and souls turn toward God, the source of peace and tranquility, petitioning him for the needs of the human family, especially those yearning for peace and stability. May God through the intercessions of our Blessed Mother, Mary, and our patron saint Maron, look lovingly upon you and secure your path in the way of righteousness.

In the middle of this month, we as a church will relive the holiest of weeks by celebra􀆟ng the Mystery of our Salvation. Starting with the triumphant entrance of Jesus into Jerusalem on Hosanna Sunday and by entering the heart of our salvation, Holy Thursday, Great Friday, Saturday of the Light and Easter Sunday. This Holy Week calls us into a deeper conversion and an invitation to enter the depth of the heart of God and his love, to die with him for our sins and rise to a new life that He promised to us his children. Easter Sunday reminds us of Christ’s victory over death and sin and the promise of our salvation.

The Resurrection of Jesus is the central event in the heart of Christianity. However, this gift brings with it a deep responsibility for us Christians; through it we are called to live the life that Christ lived; to be light to the world and salt to the earth, to work for justice and peace among all nations. Like Christ, we are all called to love, to forgive and to plant the seed of love and peace throughout the earth. While Lent calls us to a "metanoia" or a change of heart and mind and a􀆫tude, Easter challenges us to continue this change throughout our life.

Our beloved ancestors of the Maronite Church call us in Aramaic "Bnay Wabnat Qyomo" or Sons and Daughters of the Resurrection. Yes, we are the children of God, children of Life, children of Light and the children of Love. Let us act this way and help bring about the kingdom of God on earth so that all people may live in peace and harmony and seek God’s love first.

I take this golden opportunity to extend to you, on behalf of the whole parish of St. Maron, my warmest and most sincere wishes and prayers asking the Risen Christ to bless you and your loved ones and to grant you peace, joy and happiness. May the light that shone out of the empty tomb and gave hope to the Apostles shine upon you on your journey as a Pilgrim of Hope.

With prayers and best wishes, I remain,

Devotedly yours,