2024 Lent Schedules
View the 2023 Lent schedules for Chaldean Diocese of St. Thomas the Apostle parishes.
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.Â
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.
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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:
The Feast of the Epiphany (Denha)
Feast Day of the Epiphany of The Lord (Denha)
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!
2023/2024 Christmas & New Year’s Mass Schedule
View the 2023 Christmas Mass times for Chaldean Diocese of St. Thomas the Apostle parishes.
Feast Day of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary
Feast Day of the Immaculate Conception of the
Blessed Virgin Mary
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!
International Chaldean Convention (ICC)
Get ready and save the date! The first ever International Chaldean Convention will take place next year in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Visit www.chaldeanconvention.com to learn more! Registration coming this winter.