About Us

“You are gentle and humble of heart; make our hearts like unto Your Most Sacred Heart.”

 

Sacred Heart of Jesus Brotherhood

The Brotherhood of the Sacred Heart of Jesus was established after the construction of the church in 2016, during the tenure of Fr. Maher Gorial as parish priest. Its activities were initially limited to prayer, attending Mass, and participating in parish events such as the St. George Festival.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the members of the brotherhood prayed the Rosary of the Sacred Heart of Jesus online every Monday evening. Special credit is due to Fr. Jalil Mansour, who played an active role in maintaining communication within the brotherhood through prayer and spiritual gatherings, even remotely via the internet.

 

After the pandemic and with the arrival of Fr. Hani Ablahad, the brotherhood resumed its activities through a structured program specifically designed for the brotherhood:

 

• Participation in the Hour of Adoration and Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament on the first Thursday of every month, followed by a lecture on topics related to our spiritual and daily lives.
• A Mass is celebrated every Friday evening, offered for the intentions of the brotherhood members.
• Hosting a recreational evening for the elderly on the second Wednesday of every month, including bingo games, recreational competitions, songs, and traditional dances from our beautiful heritage, along with sharing a fraternal dinner prepared by the brotherhood members. This evening was warmly welcomed and well-received by all.
• Participation in the Rosary prayers was held in the homes of parish families.
• Participation in spiritual retreats dedicated to the brotherhood, including prayers, readings, and reflections.
• Participation in parish activities with other church groups, such as joint spiritual retreats and recreational trips.
• Active collaboration with the women of the parish in events and activities that support the church, especially the preparation of cookies (kleicha) and sweets during the feasts of Christmas and Easter, with proceeds dedicated to the church.

 

Spiritual Guidance and Membership

The current spiritual director of the brotherhood is Fr. Paul Mingana, the parish priest, who supports and blesses the brotherhood and its members, commending their great efforts in serving the Church. The brotherhood currently consists of approximately forty members. Each year, the brotherhood is blessed with the addition of new members, whose consecration for this year was celebrated on the Feast of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus by His Excellency Mar Amil Nona, Archbishop of the Eparchy of St. Thomas the Apostle for Australia and New Zealand.