NEWS
"The Lord has done great things for us, and we are filled with joy."
(Psalm 126:3)
Closing the New Church Land
January 25, 2009
The entire church family rejoices together at the closing of our new land and receiving the deed. Let us continue to pray that this land would not only be a lighthouse to the Town of Markham but also a blessing to the entire region and a source of salvation to many people. May we always keep focused on our Lord Jesus who has granted us this great gift and to cherish it knowing that He alone is the source of every blessing. May our Lord reward each one in the heavenly kingdom who has prayed and contributed in any way to make this dream a reality.
Brookside Retirement Home Orientation Session
Saturday, February 6, 2010
Church volunteers attended a second orientation at Brookside Senior residence to learn safety and procedures. A Short tour of the facilities was conducted and a schedule for volunteers to participate in activities with seniors was assigned. Activities include mediating card games, helping to facilitate sports and physical activities, inviting and encouraging participation of seniors and also sharing in fellowship and friendship with residents at the home. Volunteers have been prepared for immediate participation for February and will coordinate with the residence and the ministry to fulfill a commitment of 40 hours over the span of the next six to eight months. The ministry is still open to more volunteers so please consider participating for the next orientation.
Men's Breakfast Fellowship
Saturday, February 6, 2010
The church Men's Fellowship met with St. Luke's Men's Fellowship for breakfast on Saturday, February 6th at the Howard Johnson Hotel in Markham. This was the second time that both groups met together for breakfast to discuss questions pertaining to the Orthodox faith, dogmas, traditions, and practices. Pastor Derek, who celebrated with us the Nativity Feast on January 6, 2010, encouraged members of his congregation to attend some of the Orthodox Liturgies and meetings to receive a greater understanding of the Orthodox Church. Fr. Pishoy thanked Pastor Derek and the congregation of St. Luke's Lutheran Church for continuing to host us at their church ever since we began this ministry and encouraged every one to continue our fellowship of love with one another.
Visit of H.G. Bishop Paul
Tuesday, January 19, 2010
We were blessed by the visit of H.G. Bishop Paul, Bishop of Mission, on Tuesday, January 19th during our weekly CREW meeting. Sayedna delivered a spiritual message to the young adults which was inspired from Ephesians 5:15 - 18. We are thankful to his grace who is always generously giving us his time and lovingly reaching out to our congregation.
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Resolutions of Canadian Clergy Meeting
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
The Canadian Coptic Clergy met at St. Mark's Church in Toronto on Tuesday, January 12 to discuss the Church response to the latest events on the persecution to Copts which occurred in Nag Hammadi on January 6, 2010. The Clergy have agreed to the following resolutions:
+ The Clergy members will visit the Egyptian Ambassador in Ottawa on Thursday January 14 on behalf of the congregations in Canada to present an official letter to be handed to the Egyptian president as a formal protest against the persecution of Christians in Egypt and to seek some resolutions.
+ All the Coptic congregations in South Western Ontario will gather in a combined prayer meeting on Sunday, January 17 from 3:00 pm - 5:00 pm. Location will follow.
+ Donations will be accepted to be directed to the victims in Nag Hammadi. St. Abraam Charity in Mississauga will be transfer these relief funds.
+ The congregations will publish some ads in the media condemning the persecution of Christians in Egypt.
+ An ongoing committee will be formulated to take preventative actions and to continue observing any similar incidents in the future.
+ The Church will approach members of the parliament to bring awareness of the situation.
+ All Coptic congregations along with the youth have the freedom to voice their opinions as long as it is done in the most Christian and respectful manner.
To read the official press release from the Coptic Archdiocese in North America, press here
Departure of Fr. Mankarious Awadalla
December 24, 2009
With hearts full of hope, the congregations of South Western Ontario join the heavenly procession for the soul of the late Heg. Fr. Mankarious Awadalla who rested in the Lord on December 24, 2009. Fr. Mankarious was the eldest Coptic priest in North America and possibly in the entire Coptic Orthodox Church. He served faithfully at Ti Agia Maria and St. Demiana Church in Etobicoke for many years and had many disciples and children. His reverence was especially known for teaching church dogma and authoring several books on the subject. Services will be held at Ti Agia Maria and St. Demiana Church 87 Elmhurst Drive, Etobicoke, Ontario M9W-2J8 as follows:
Friday, December 25 from 7:30 pm - 9:30 pm: Exchange of Condolences
Saturday, December 26 from 11:00 am - 12:30 pm: Funeral Service
May the Lord rest his blessed soul in the paradise of joy.
Winter Olympics Torch Relay
December 17, 2009
The church participated in the Winter Olympics Torch Relay which took place at Markham Civic Centre on December 17, 2009. Through an invitation from Mr. Frank Scarpitti, Markham Mayor, representatives from our congregation attended the celebration and met with some of the torch bearers. It was a marvelous day indeed which gave us pride as Canadians participating in this monumental event. The celebration included speeches by several politicians, presentations by musicians, and appearances by many athletes. After the celebration was over, the torch entourage proceeded west on Hwy 7 passing in front of the new church land.
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Christmas & Second Anniversary Celebration Dinner
Sunday December 13, 2009
It was a historical night indeed where we all experienced God's presence among us and a spirit of fellowship and community. The night started with prayer and praise, then a skit by our angel's class, Year in Review by Robert Martignani, a spiritual meditation by H.G. Bishop David, an Ice Breaker by Marian Shehata, a slide show by Dr. Yasser Botros, the Project Update by Dr. Amir Hanna, a Christmas play by our Primary and Junior High children, and a musical presentation by Chris Assaad and Karim Riskallah. The night was concluded through a beautiful speech by our beloved guest H.W. Mayor Frank Scarpitti who has promised us his support for the church project. We also welcomed so many guests coming from several communities and cultures who were visiting the Coptic Church for the first time. We are thankful to all the volunteers who have helped to set up the hall, cook, serve, decorate, and clean up at the end. This team effort by the entire community of faith was a true testimony to God's amazing work among our congregation. We look forward to many similar events in the future where we can all grow together in the love of the Lord through serving Him.
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West Hill Community Services
Dec 5, 2009 and Dec 12, 2009
Volunteers from the SMSV family, youth and friends participated in sorting and compiling Christmas Hampers for WestHill Community Services during two weekends in December. Aproximately 90 bags were made each of the two Saturdays in an effort to serve underpreviliged families at WestHill.
Congratulations to Marvin Takle and Ann Kidane for the baptism of their daughter Makeda Faith Samuel on Saturday, December 12, 2009 at St. Mary & St. Joseph Coptic Church in Richmond Hill. May the Lord bless and protect the entire family.
Celebrating Fr. Pishoy's 10th Ordination Anniversary
Sunday, November 15, 2009
The church community celebrated the 10th anniversary of Fr. Pishoy's ordination on November 15th, 2009 immediately following the Divine Liturgy. Several church members representing the children, youth, board, women, and congregation shared with brief words in the occasion. Fr. Pishoy thanked everyone for their dedication, love, and for reflecting a truly exemplary Orthodox Christian fellowship. The congregation shared at the end in a beautifully decorated cake marking the occasion.
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Spiritual Day at the Valley in Orangeville
Sunday, November 29, 2009
The church organized a spiritual day at the Valley of the Mother of God in Orangeville on Sunday, November 29 following the Divine Liturgy. The theme of the day was "Knowing Myself" which was discussed over two sessions. The group enjoyed together a time of prayer, meditation, sharing, and agape. Everyone left with a renewed and a fresh spirit. We look forward to future retreat opportunities where we can grow spiritually and build fellowship among the church members.
Toronto Raptors Game Youth Outing
Friday, November 20, 2009
The church youth participated in an outing on Friday, November 20th to cheer for the Toronto Raptors playing against the Miami Heat at the Air Canada Centre. The youth enjoyed an evening together in fellowship which was crowned with the Raptors' victory and a free slice of pizza because they scored over 100 points. On the way to the game, the youth shared a meditation from 2 Timothy 2:5 "And also if anyone competes in athletics, he is not crowned unless he competes according to the rules". May the Lord bless our youth to the glory of His holy name.
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"And no man takes this honor to himself, but he who is called by God, just as Aaron was" (Hebrews 5:4)
Congratulations to our beloved Fr. Abraam Kamal and the congregation of St. Mary & St. Joseph Coptic Orthodox Church in Richmond Hill for the blessed ordination of Fr. Youssef Iskander on November 14, 2009. May the Lord bless his ministry that it may bring joy to his congregation and to the entire region.
H1N1 Flu Information Session
Sunday, November 8, 2009
The church organized an H1N1 Flu information session on Sunday, November 8th to discuss with our blessed congregation the following:
+ Why is this flu season different?
+ What are the symptoms of seasonal and H1N1 viruses?
+ Who's most at risk?
+ How do these viruses spread?
+ Availability of vaccines.
+ When to seek medical care?
+ How to prevent infection and ways to stay healthy?
The panel discussion which was led by Dr. Linda Hanna, Dr. Manal Salib, Dr. Hedy Boutros, Dr. Lucy Awad, and Dr. Nagi Eskander prepared a PowerPoint presentation outlining the current statistics and spread of the flu and its potential breakout this season. They also mentioned the groups that are most at risk. The presentation was concluded by Q & A. We thank our beloved physicians for their effort to educate us and pray for the health and well being of our beloved families and congregation.
Listen to the Presentation
JOY Outreach Ministry
Sundays, 12:30 pm - 2:00 pm
The church is currently holding a weekly meeting on Sundays from 12:30 pm - 2:00 pm at Brebeuf School. The name of this fellowship is JOY which is a fruit of the Holy Spirit that each believer should acquire but is also an acronym which stands for Jesus, Others, You. JOY Outreach Ministry is a seeker friendly meeting which introduces the basics of Orthodox Christianity in an atmosphere of praise, fellowship, and simple discussions. The meeting begins and ends with worship, followed by a brief meditation, a discussion of the topic, and a time for fellowship. We are currently discussing "The Life of Christ" as the first step in beginning a relationship with the Lord. Every one is welcomed to participate in this meeting and to invite a friend.
Congratulations to Ihab and Marlene Khalil for the baptism of their twins David Michael and Rebecca Mariam on Saturday November 7th at St. Mark's Church. We are also thankful for the presence of our beloved Fr. Misael Attalla. May the Lord bless the lives of the newly baptized children.
All Saints Celebration
October 31, 2009
There was a lot of excitment at the All Saints Day Party Saturday evening! Whipped-creamed noses and cheeks were the result of the "pie" eating contest! The candy bracelets were a yummy accessory! Speaking of accessories, many thanks for the donated winter accessories which the children graciously packaged with small goodies and lots of love! These "warm bundles" will be handed out on the Friday night sandwich runs downtown to the homeless. Great strategizing and teamwork went into playing the Saint NameScramble and "prize sharing" meant that everyone went home with a prize! Thanks to all participants and the donations of yummy treats!
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Meeting with Markham Mayor Mr. Frank Scarpitti
October 28, 2009
We are thankful to the Lord for a very successful meeting with His Worship Mr. Frank Scarpitti, Mayor of Markham, on October 28, 2009. Also, in attendance was Mr. Dan Horchik, Counselor for Ward 6 where the church land is located. Representing the church at the meeting were: Mr. Medhat Abdou, Mr. Brian Andrew, and Mr. Leonard Abelman from WZMH Architects as well as Mr. Tony Masongsong, engineer, Mr. Ben Quan, planner, Mr. Abdallah Guirguis, church engineering committee, and Fr. Pishoy. The WZMH team presented components of the project to the mayor and counselor who were extremely impressed with its quality, beauty, and sustainability. We are thankful to the Lord that both Mr. Scarpitti and Mr. Horchik are supporting our project and have asked us to submit the rezoning application immediately which we did. The mayor asked if we would be ready to begin construction as soon as next year and the committee affirmed that, with God's help, we would be as soon as we receive all the permits required to begin construction. Mr. Horchik also mentioned that the location and facilities of the church are ideal to be utilized for many activities and meetings of the city staff and the community at large. The church committee affirmed that the vision of our parish is to be a part of the community and to spare no effort at facilitating any of its activities. We pray to the Lord that He would continue to bless this project for the glory of His holy name and to lead the rest of the process until its full realization
Youth Meeting with Fr. Anthony Messeh
October 12, 2009
The High School youth met with Fr. Anthony Messeh during his Toronto visit on October 12, 2009. The meeting consisted primarily of Q & A whereas the youth inquired on ways to grow spiritually, develop a personal relationship with the Lord, and overcome daily challenges that might face them at this stage in their lives. We are thankful to the Lord for blessing our youth and we pray that He would guide and protect everyone to the glory of His holy name
Thanksgiving Retreat and Outreach Nights
October 11 - 13, 2009
The entire congregation is extremely thankful to the Lord during this Thanksgiving Weekend for His abounding love and joy which He has overwhelmed us with during these blessed days. Members of the congregation participated in an overnight retreat at the beautiful White Oaks Resort in Niagara-on-the-Lake where we enjoyed fellowship, praise, worship, fun times, and sharing the Word of God. The theme of the retreat was "Walking with God" as we participated in three lectures delivered by Fr. Anthony Messeh, our guest speaker, and a lecture by Fr. Pishoy. The congregation also joined in a Thanksgiving dinner on Sunday evening and enjoyed the night activities.
On Monday and Tuesday evenings, we gathered at the Armenian Youth Centre in North York where many church 
members and guests participated in the Outreach Nights. The theme of both nights was "Straight Talk" where our beloved guest speaker Fr. Anthony answered several intriguing questions concerning our relationship with God. We are thankful for all our guests that joined with us for the first time and we pray that the Lord would continue to bless their lives. During these nights, we enjoyed musical presentations from Verena Rizg, Chris Assaad, Karim, Kenyssa as well as testimonials from Francella Brown and Leonard Chen. Also, Fr. Pishoy spoke briefly about the multicultural vision, the mission, and the welcoming spirit of SMSV church to all our guests coming from all corners of the earth. Overall, we all felt the presence of the Holy Spirit guiding each step of the way and giving every one a sense of joy, spiritual growth, and unity. We are very thankful for our guest Fr. Anthony whose spirit and charisma made these events not only popular but also life altering to many of the participants. We look forward for similar events, God willing, in 2010 during the Thanksgiving Weekend.
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Audio
Congratulations to Dr. Yasser and Mariam Botros for the blessed baptism of their daughter Grace Irene Botros on Saturday October 10, 2009 at the Church of St. Luke.
