Chrism Mass

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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. 

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Easter Message 2024

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Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

As our Lenten journey comes to an end and we enter the Easter season, we are renewed and transformed by the hope and triumph of the empty tomb and the Resurrection of Our Lord, Jesus Christ.

Easter is the radiant thread that weaves us through the darkest moments, illuminating the path to redemption and eternal life. The Resurrection of Jesus Christ is a testament to the unwavering power of love, faith, and divine grace. Two thousand years ago, on that glorious morning, the stone was rolled away, and the tomb became an empty testament to the boundless possibilities of salvation. Jesus Christ, having conquered death, bestowed upon us the promise of a life beyond the temporary, a life marked by forgiveness and everlasting joy. 

Upon reflecting on our sins during this Lenten season, let us also reflect on the mercy that the Lord has for each one of us. In the depths of our vulnerabilities, His mercy is unwavering, a mercy that heals wounds and lifts the weight from our burdened hearts. It is a love that surpasses our shortcomings and knows no bounds. 

The Chaldean Catholic Diocese of St. Thomas the Apostle is dedicated to showing you and your families the love and mercy of Jesus. As Easter approaches, let us reflect on what is in our hearts, and give thanks to the Lord for the blessings that He continues to bestow upon us and this Diocese: working towards establishing a new Chaldean Catholic Church and parish site at Bay Pointe in Commerce Township; beginning renovations at the Mar Eliya Retreat Center in Oxford; continuing renovations at Our Lady of the Fields Camp in Brighton; and searching for a parish site in Macomb Township. 

By the grace of God, the Diocese is on fire with the Holy Spirit and has no indication of slowing down anytime soon. We continue to build up the Church because it is your home; it is where you and your family can find and worship the Resurrected Jesus, and – God-willing – it is where generations of Chaldean Catholics will continue to find and worship the Lord. 


Your Faithful Servant and Shepherd,

† Mar Francis Y. Kalabat                                                                                                                                Bishop of the Chaldean Diocese                                                                                                                            of St. Thomas the Apostle

Mother of God Celebrates its 75th Anniversary

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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

March: Month of Saint Joseph

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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

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.

Mass for Deceased Faithful

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

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: