Chaldean Diocese of St. Thomas the Apostle U.S.A. - Logo
DONATE
Flyout Menu
More
Flyout Menu
Menu

Chrism Mass

Ansam `Sitto on March 27, 2024

daa3b1a6-13d4-43b0-b5a6-29d639cc282b

Every year during holy week, Mother of God Church holds the Chrism Mass, which is celebrated by Bishop Francis Kalabat. This year was no different! The Mass was celebrated on March 26, whereby His Excellency blessed the holy oils used for various sacraments in all parishes within the diocese. The Mass was also for all our diocesan clergy to renew their priestly vows. 

Each oil that was blessed by the Bishop holds a distinct purpose within the sacramental life of the Church. The Oil of the Sick is used in the Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick, providing comfort and strength to those who are ill or suffering. The Oil of Catechumens is used in the Sacrament of Baptism, symbolizing purification and preparation for the journey of faith. Finally, the Holy Chrism, a mixture of olive oil and balsam, is used in the Sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation, and Holy Orders, signifying the seal of the Holy Spirit and the consecration of individuals to their respective ministries.

Moreover, the Chrism Mass serves as a moment for priests to reaffirm their commitment to their calling. It allows them to renew their vows that were made during their ordination. 

Let us pray that the Lord continues to watch over our diocese and bless all our clergy as they administer the different sacraments for the healing and spiritual growth of all. 

View Photos

Click here

Mother of God Celebrates its 75th Anniversary

Ansam `Sitto on March 8, 2024

8Z2A7926

 

Mother of God Celebrates 75 Years! 

Mother of God, the cathedral of our diocese, marked its 75th anniversary on Thursday, February 29th, with Mass celebrated by His Excellency, Bishop Francis. 

Mother of God was the first Chaldean Catholic Church to be established in Michigan. The church was purchased on January 9, 1948 and was consecrated on August 15, 1948, as Fr. Toma Bidawid as its pastor. The church was initially located on Euclid and Hamilton Street in Detroit and then was relocated to Hamilton Road in Detroit. The consecration of the new location took place in 1956 after many changes to the church – the building still exists to this day. 

The property in Southfield, where Mother of God is located now, was purchased in 1964. The church hall and rectory were built in 1972 and the church itself was built in 1979 and completed in 1980. Two years later, the first Chaldean Bishop was appointed in the United States, a new diocese was established, and Mother of God became the diocese’s cathedral. 

Throughout its history, Mother of God has been the center of worship, community, and cultural preservation. The beloved church not only serves as a place of worship, but also hosts various community events, cultural celebrations, and educational programs for everyone in the community. 

May the Blessed Virgin Mary continue to bless and watch over all the clergy and all who serve and volunteer at Mother of God Church. We pray that it continues to prosper and grow for many years to come! 

March: Month of Saint Joseph

Ansam `Sitto on March 1, 2024

March: Month of Saint Joseph

St. Joseph website article picture

March is the month of St. Joseph! St. Joseph holds a revered and pivotal role, recognized as one of the most important saints in the Catholic Church. As the earthly father of Jesus Christ and the husband of the Blessed Virgin Mary, St. Joseph played a crucial part in the Holy Family. His significance lies not only in his familial role but also in his unwavering faith, righteousness, and humble obedience to God’s divine plan for him. 

The Feast of St. Joseph is on March 19th. He is the powerful intercessor for various aspects of life and is the patron saint of fathers, workers, immigrants, and a model for those seeking guidance in their daily struggles. Many turn to St. Joseph in times of need, seeking his intercession for employment, family matters, and spiritual guidance. 

St. Joseph is admired for his obedience to God, his unwavering faith, and his role in protecting and providing for Mother Mary and Jesus. St. Joseph’s prominence in the Catholic Church emphasizes the value of a righteous and humble life and a complete and total surrender to the Lord. 

St. Joseph, Protector of the Church, pray for us! 

Families in Harmony Parent Night Recap

Ansam `Sitto on February 16, 2024

On Tuesday, February 13, St. George hosted a Families in Harmony night with our Shepherd, Bishop Francis, and Sue Kattula.

Bishop Francis shared his vision on the Church’s role and mission in the political sphere; while Sue Kattula shared her 18 year experience as an elected member of the Warren Consolidated School Board.

We pray this video encourages you to get involved in your local communities, particularly in your public schools. To watch the video from the night, please visit chaldeanchurch.org/fih or click below.

Click here

Mass for Deceased Faithful

Ansam `Sitto on February 9, 2024

The Deceased Faithful’s Day is a somber occasion that resonates with the memories of our loved ones who have departed from this world. It is a day marked by reflection and remembrance of those who are no longer with us.

On Friday, February 9, 2024, Bishop Francis Kalabat offered Mass for the intentions of our deceased faithful at the Holy Sepulchre Mausoleum Chapel in Southfield, as he does each year on this day. 

The Mass was offered for those who have died during this past year, as well as all those who are no longer living. Let us continue to pray for our loved ones who have passes and pray that they find eternal life in Heaven with our Lord.

 

March for Life 2024

Ansam `Sitto on January 21, 2024

This year, just like every other year, our diocese attended March for Life in Washington D.C., advocating for the sanctity of life and the unborn! The trip was led by Bishop Francis Kalabat, Fr. Rodney Abasso, Fr. John Jaddou, and Fr. Marcus Shammami, along with a large group of people from all parishes within our diocese and from parishes in California and Arizona as well. Along with thousands of others, our group peacefully prayed and protested for the lives of all the unborn.

On Thursday, January 18, Bishop Francis celebrated Mass at Immaculate Conception Church, where confessions were heard after Mass and Eucharistic adoration took place afterwards. On Friday, January 19, Mass was celebrated at St. Dominic Catholic Church and our group prayed the rosary on our way to the march. On Saturday, January 20, His Excellency, along with Fr. Rodney Abasso, celebrated one final Mass in the Immaculate Heart of Mary chapel at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception.

We continue to pray fervently to Mother Mary to intercede on behalf of all the unborn children; let us continue to pray for an end to abortion everywhere! 

To view photos from the March:

March for Life 2024 Photos

The Feast of the Epiphany (Denha)

Ansam `Sitto on January 2, 2024

Feast Day of the Epiphany of The Lord (Denha)

Epiphany Pic

Each year on January 6, we celebrate the Feast Day of the Epiphany of our Lord Jesus, also known as Denha.

 This feast day commemorates Jesus’ baptism and the manifestation of His divinity. The term “Epiphany” is derived from the Greek word meaning “manifestation” or “appearance.” It symbolizes the revelation of Jesus as the Son of God and the Savior of humanity. 

The Epiphany also holds deep significance in the context of Jesus’ baptism by John the Baptist in the River Jordan. Despite John being reluctant to be the one to baptize Jesus, Jesus insisted that he do it. This signifies his identification with humanity and the beginning of his public ministry. As Jesus emerged from the water, the heavens opened, and the Spirit of God descended upon him like a dove, accompanied by a voice from heaven declaring, “This is my beloved son, with whom I am well pleased.” (Matthew 3:17) 

The baptism of Jesus serves as a pivotal moment in His life, showing His obedience to God’s plan and the affirmation of His divine nature. Further, it symbolizes purification, initiation, and a commissioning for His mission to redeem humanity. 

As we start this new year, let us celebrate this feast day with an open heart and an open mind. This feast day should serve as a reminder to all of us of the light and hope that Jesus brings to humanity. Lord, hear our prayers! 

Feast Day of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary

Ansam `Sitto on December 5, 2023

Feast Day of the Immaculate Conception of the
Blessed Virgin Mary

Rizi-inmaculada

Every year on December 8, we celebrate the Feast Day of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary. 

The Immaculate Conception is a Catholic Dogma that states that Mary, whose conception was brought about the normal way, was conceived without the stain of original sin; which is what the word “Immaculate” means – without stain. Quite often, the meaning of the Immaculate Conception gets misunderstood. Some people think the term refers to Christ’s conception, while others believe it means that Mary was conceived “by the power of the Holy Spirit”, but both of those are incorrect. 

Luke 1:28: “And coming to her, he said, “Hail, favored one! The Lord is with you.” In this verse, the angel Gabriel greets Mary by saying, “Greetings, you are highly favored! The Lord is with you.” This indicates that Mary is someone who has received God’s grace and favor in a profound way. She is being chosen for a special and significant role, which is to be the mother of Jesus. The verse is often seen as a recognition of Mary’s purity, faithfulness, and favor with the Lord, making her a fitting vessel for the divine conception and birth of Jesus.

It is important to note that the Immaculate Conception doesn’t mean that Mary didn’t need salvation – rather, she was saved in a more perfect manner by being prevented from original sin rather than needing to be cleansed from it. 

On this beautiful feast day, let us celebrate and meditate upon the purity and holiness of our Mother. Mother Mary, pray for us and watch over us!