His Holiness Moran Mor Ignatius Aphrem II Visits God’s Little Children Pre-School

Syriac Orthodox Church of Antioch and All East – April 2014

God’s Little Children Pre-School was buzzing with excitement while staff and 19 students waited for the arrival of His Holiness Moran Mor Ignatius Aphrem II to arrive. This is the first Archdiocese sponsored pre-school in the entire Eastern Archdiocese. His Holiness gave his blessing over 3 years ago to launch this project. Our first academic year, God willing the first of many to follow, has truly been a learning experience. The students have blossomed and learned so many things while preparing to enter Kindergarten. Each day has been filled with joy, laughter and some tears here and there. His Holiness reminded us that any project worth pursuing has its rewards and hardships.

His Holiness visited with the students during their Easter celebration. He arrived just as they were beginning their daily welcoming circle time. He asked them questions about how they pray, how much God loves us, what can we do to show God how much we love him, and what kinds of hymns have they learned this year. Then the children presented him with flowers and a gift and were able to take pictures with him. He also brought beautiful religious bracelets for each student. It was a very touching experience for all that were in attendance. Before he left they sang (Cadeeshat Aloho-check spelling) together, this is one of the hymns they have been practicing throughout the year.

Later on, we heard one of the children say, “I can’t believe he was really here, and I’m going to wear my bracelet everyday and show everybody!”

We feel blessed to have His Holiness watching over us and we keep him in our prayers.

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