Ordination of Sub-Dn. Shojil Abraham

 

"I thank Him who has given me strength, Christ Jesus our Lord, because He judged me faithful, appointing me to His service." 

- 1 Timothy 1:12 -

By the grace of God, third year seminarian, Shojil Abraham was ordained to the Holy Order of the Sub-Diaconate on Saturday, March 20th by the hands of HG Zachariah Mar Nicholovos (Metropolitan of the Northeast American Diocese) at St. Thomas Orthodox Church (Levittown, NY).

Guests included clergy from across the diocese, Very Rev. Fr. John Parker (Dean of St. Tikhon's Orthodox Theological Seminary), and seminarians from both St. Vladimir and St. Tikhon seminaries. 

The absence of Very Rev. Dr. Mathai Yohannan Sankarathil Chor Episcopos, Vicar of St. Thomas Orthodox, was truly felt but the newly ordained Sub-Deacon was able to visit with our beloved Valiya Achen prior to the ordination service and receive his blessing.  Achen was very much an integral part in Semassen's upbringing and formation. While he wasn't able to join in person due to his health, we firmly believe his prayers were with the newly ordained Semassen throughout the service and will be a fortress for him throughout his ministry. 

Following the Ordination service, was a public meeting under the leadership of HG Mar Nicholovos and Rev. Fr. Abey George (Assistant Vicar - St. Thomas Orthodox Church, Levittown) to congratulate and recognize the newly ordained Sub-Dn. Abraham. In their words of felicitation, both HG Mar Nicholovos and Fr. John reminded the newly ordained Sub-Deacon and all the faithful in attendance, on the importance of being a humble servant leader. 

May God grant you many years! - AXIOS!