On Sunday 4th of June 2023, in a profound service held on the joyous feast of Pentecost, the faithful gathered at St. George Cathedral to witness the ordination of Father Theophan. Father Theophan’s ordination, coinciding with this sacred occasion, was a testament to the enduring power of the Holy Spirit in the life of the Church.
Pentecost commemorates the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the apostles and disciples, following Jesus’ Resurrection and Ascension. On this day, the Holy Spirit’s arrival transformed ordinary individuals into zealous messengers, equipping them with gifts and courage to proclaim the Good News to all nations.
In his fatherly sermon was addressed to the newly ordained priest, H.E Met. Basilios reminded Abouna of the three important points:
Don’t trust yourself or on your own power but seek God’s help. He said to His disciples that “without me, you can do nothing”.
Let God works through you. At the beginning of the divine liturgy, we pray: “It is a time for God to act” let Him act in and through you.
Everything you do, do it for God’s glory. In the psalm, we pray: “Not unto us o Lord, not unto us but for your Name’s glory”.
Following his ordination, Father Theophan stood before the congregation, radiant with joy and humility. In his heartfelt address, he expressed gratitude to God, as the support from His Eminence, Metropolitan Basilios, the love of his family, and the Antiochian community for their unwavering support throughout his journey. He pledged to faithfully serve the Church and lead the faithful on the path of spiritual enlightenment, echoing the apostles’ mission at Pentecost.
The ordination of Father Theophan on the feast of Pentecost was a moment of profound significance, symbolising the continuous outpouring of the Holy Spirit upon the Church.
Moustahek, Axios, He is worthy!
