Montréal QC Saint George Antiochian Orthodox Church 1899, 1905, 1908, 1910

Montréal, Québec, Saint George Antiochian Orthodox Church, 1899, 1905, 1908, 1910

Prehistory of the parish

The 2 oldest Antiochian Orthodox Christian parishes in Montréal, Québec, Canada, have a single beginning.

Together, they are the first 2 Orthodox Christian parishes to have been established in Montréal.

The third earliest parish was Saints Peter and Paul Russian Orthodox Church (1907).

In the 1880s, Montréal, Québec, Canada, received the first Orthodox Christian immigrants from the Ottoman Empire territory now known as Syria and Lebanon, who established themselves in what is now called “Old Montréal”. They were part of a broader emigration from “Bilad al-Sham” (the “geographic” or “historical” Syria), arrived in Montréal. This region roughly corresponds to the present-day territories of Syria, Lebanon, Jordan, Israel, and the occupied territories of the West Bank and Gaza. (This region was roughly equivalent to the ancient East-Roman Empire’s Diocese of the East.)

At that time, Archimandrite Raphael (Hawaweeny) (now Saint Raphael of Brooklyn) was also leading the Syro-Arab Mission of the Orthodox Church of Russia to gather the ‘Antiochians’ in North America.

The archimandrite belonged to the North American Dioceses of the “Russian Orthodox Mission”. Since 1793, the bishops of this diocese had been providing missionary service on the continent ; and during the previous 50 years , they had been trying to provide spiritual care to the many Orthodox Christians who had begun to arrive in the 3 main countries of North America. At that time, the ruling bishop was Bishop Tikhon (Belavin) of New York and the Aleutian Islands.

Father Raphael was sent to the Arab Orthodox community in Montréal to shepherd them ; and in 1896, he blessed the founding of the “Syrian Benevolent Society”.

When the original wave of Syro-Arab immigration had begun in Québec, Canada (and particularly in Montréal during the 1890s), the newcomers associated as one community. Like immigrants everywhere, their first order of business was to establish an organisation that would maintain a sense of community and assist new immigrants in establishing themselves. To that end, a “Syrian Benevolent Society" was founded by Archimandrite Raphael (Hawaweeny) in 1896.

He helped to organise the Orthodox Christian Faithful in Montréal, and he encouraged them to meet together in their homes on Sundays, Feast-days, and other occasions, so as to worship the Lord together.

From 1899 until the early 1900s, the Orthodox community worshipped under the patronage and support of the Church of Saint Nicholas, in Brooklyn, New York, New York, USA.

Hieromonk Ephraim (Al-Debs)

The first priest to serve the community directly was Hieromonk Ephraim (Al-Debs). He served in the parish from 1898 until 1901.

 At the request of Archimandrite Raphael (Hawaweeny, head of the Syrian Orthodox Mission in North America, organised the assignment of  Hieromonk Ephrem (Al-Debs)
 to serve as a missionary of the Patriarchate of Antioch in North America. Under the blessing of the Patriarch of Antioch, and having first established a warm relationship with the people of Tripoli, 
 on 21 July, 1898, Archimandrite Ephrem sailed away for North America.  
 
 On 9 August, 1898, Hieromonk Ephrem (Al-Debs) arrived in New York City, New York, USA.  He took the blessing from 
 Bishop Tikhon (Belavin), and he accepted his assignment from Archimandrite Raphael (Hawaweeny).

Archimandrite (Saint) Raphael (Hawaweeny)

Hieromonk Ephraim (Al-Debs)

Immediately, Father Ephraim set about fulfilling his responsibility.

This assignment was to serve the rather large community in Montréal, Québec, Canada, which had been found to be in need of pastoral care by Archimandrite Raphael (Hawaweeny) during his own pastoral journeys to various places.

  Hieromonk Ephrem immediately made his way north by railway.  Montréal is situated on an island at the north shore 
 of the Saint Lawrence River, about 610 km (379 mi) north of New York City.

Founding of the parish

Five months later, although there was no permanent church building at that time, during Archimandrite Raphael’s following pastoral visit in 1899, he established “Saint Nicholas Church of Canada” in Montréal, Québec, as Saint Nicholas Antiochian Orthodox Church. It was dedicated to Saint Nicholas of Myra.

Then, on 6 June, 1899, a building was found to accommodate the parish.

Hieromonk Ephrem (Al-Debs) continued his pastoral service in Montréal and the nearby region until 1900. However, it became evident that his health would not permit him to remain longer in Montréal.

He would not be the only cleric from the Mediterranean region or Europe to fall ill due to the climate in Canada or Alaska.

Despite his illness, the missionary work of Hieromonk Ephrem was both greatly significant, and greatly appreciated by all concerned. Moreover, his biographer, Dr. Joseph Zaitoun considered it to be a great example of Antiochian and Russian co-operation and collaboration.

Within 2 years of his return, Hieromonk Ephrem was elevated to the dignity of archimandrite, and his name was changed to Basilios. Soon, he was ordained to the Holy Episcopate, and he was assigned by Patriarch Meletios II (Doumani) to the Diocese of Akkar and Dependencies. Hieromonk Ephraim was transferred away in 1900.

Priest Meletios Karroum

In 1901, Priest Meletios Karroum was assigned to care for the mission.

In 1903, Father Meletios was transferred away.

Priest George Mahfouz

Later in 1903, Priest George Mahfouz was assigned by Bishop Tikhon (Belavin) of New York (at the request of Archimandrite Raphael (Hawaweeny)), to care for the mission. Father George and Khouria Susan (born Homsey) arrived in Montréal with a letter of blessing from Patriarch Meletius II (Doumani). Previously, he had served at Saint Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church in Rashaya, west of Damascus (on the western slopes of Mount Hermon), for more than 20 years (his brother also served as a priest in Damascus). Many of the Orthodox Christians there were from the village of Rashaya.

In 1904, he returned to Syria with some of his family, and he remained there for one year. Two of his older sons, George and Basilios remained in Montréal where they operated a fruit market. In 1905, Father George and his family returned to Montréal.

The community was in need of a permanent church building. Father George led the community in acquiring an abandoned industrial building on Vitré Street East in Old Montréal as a suitable place of worship.

The property was renovated into a proper Orthodox Temple ; and in 1905, it was dedicated as Saint Nicholas Syrian Orthodox Church.

In 1908, Father George was transferred away to Syria. Later, he returned to North America, to the USA, where he served for a time until his repose.

As the population grew, various differences developed. These sometimes sharp differences included the question of whether the community should remain as before under the “Russian Mission”, or to move directly under the authority of the Patriarch of Antioch.

Bishop Raphael (Hawaweeny)

By 1904, Archimandrite Raphael (Hawaweeny) had been ordained to the Holy Episcopate, been assigned as Bishop of Brooklyn, New York, and to care for the Antiochian communities which were developing quickly in North America.

He was the first Orthodox Christian bishop of any nationality to be ordained on North American soil. After having sanctified his first mission of Saint Nicholas Antiochian Orthodox Cathedral in Brooklyn, he next sanctified his second mission, that of Saint Nicholas in Montréal

Hieromonk Aftimios (Ofiesh)

Within a few weeks after the successful completion of a fundraising mission, Bishop Raphael sent Hieromonk Aftimios (Ofiesh) to Montréal, Québec, Canada. He was asked to try to bring unity to the controversy-ridden community.

As he went about making his pastoral rounds in 1905, Bishop Raphael (Hawaweeny) blessed the re-founding of Saint Nicholas’ Church of Canada (Montréal, Québec) (first established in 1898), and of the second Saint Nicholas’ Church (Montréal, Québec) in 1908 (the latter parish was re-named as Saint George).

A serious division had arisen in the context of the efforts of one faction to remove the pastor, Priest George Mahfouz, so that Father Basil Kerbawy could take his place.

Father Aftimios met with the leaders of both sides in an effort to persuade them that the Syrian Orthodox community in Montréal was too small to support 2 parishes. When it was learned that Father Mahfouz had decided to return to Syria, the restoration of peace became possible. Father Aftimios returned to his duties in Brooklyn. However, he had been so successful in winning the favour of both sides that they requested his appointment to the parish after Father Mahfouz left Montréal in July, l906.

Father George Mahfouz

Father Basil Kerbawy

Two parishes from one root

Nevertheless, as the population grew, various differences continued to manifest themselves.

This led to the separation into 2 distinct parishes : "Saint Nicholas Orthodox Church of Montréal" (founded in 1905 and incorporated in 1910, and later re-named Saint George) and "Saint Nicholas Orthodox Church of Canada" (which later became Saint Nicholas).

On the face of the situation, it may appear painful or disappointing that such a division arose. It is true that divisions are sown by the powers below. It is not unusual that human beings have different and differing opinions. Regardless of the division, the Grace of the Holy Spirit was active. As a consequence of the distinction between them, the 2 communities were better able to care for the many Faithful in Montréal. Indeed, after the division, the 2 communities worked co-operatively to some extent ; and ultimately, they gave an important testimony to the importance of forgiveness and reconciliation in the Christian life.

Re-founding the original parish

As he went about making his pastoral rounds in 1905, Bishop Raphael (Hawaweeny) blessed the re-founding of Saint Nicholas’ Church of Canada (Montréal, Québec) (first established in 1898), and of the second Saint Nicholas’ Church (Montréal, Québec) in 1908 (the latter parish was re-named as Saint George).

For the next 11 years, Father Aftimios (Ofiesh) served as pastor of the Saint George parish in Montréal. He raised $14,000.00 to build a new Temple.

Since its founding in 1905, Saint George Antiochian Orthodox Christian Church of Montréal has been a community that has looked after the well-being of its members at all stages of their lives. This parish became a "home" where Orthodox Christians may come to receive spiritual and ethical guidance based on the teachings of the Orthodox Christian Faith, to receive the Sacraments, and to heed the call of Christ :

 Come unto Me, all you that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest (Matthew 11:28).
 
 That you love one another as I have loved you (John 13:34).

The parish considers itself blessed to have several ministry and volunteer programs, giving all members the opportunity to live fully in the life of the Church through worship, witness, service, and fellowship, and be shining examples of the New Commandment given to us by our Saviour, Jesus Christ.

Founding of the parish, sanctification of the Temple of Saint George

On 26 October, 1909, Sayidna Raphael went with Hierodeacon Emmanuel (Abou-Hatab) to Montréal, Québec, Canada, where he sanctified the Temple of Saint George.

The parish continued its life of worship, prayer, and service, and it continued to grow. Particularly after World War I immigration increased in the wake of the fall of the Ottoman Empire, the devasting economic conditions in Europe, and attendant political instability.

Repose of Bishop Raphael

In 1915, Sayidna Raphael fell ill again, and he spent 2 months at home, where he bore his illness with patience until he was blessed to rest from his labours. He had never neglected the flock, but had travelled throughout the USA, Canada, and Mexico in search of the rational sheep so that he might care for them and provide for them. He kept them from straying into strange pastures, and he protected them from spiritual harm.

At 12:45 a.m., on 14/27 February, 1915, Bishop Raphael (Hawaweeny) fell asleep in the Lord in New York, New York.

On Sunday, 22 February/7 March, 1915, after the Hierarchical Divine Liturgy, the Funeral Services for the Burial of a Hierarch were served by Archbishop Alexander (Nemolovsky) (who was the administrator of the diocese in the absence of Archbishop Evdokim (Meschersky)) at the Cathedral of Saint Nicholas in Brooklyn, New York.

The Funeral

The cathedral was over-crowded with clergy, people and official representatives of sister churches and government and religious bodies.

After the completion of the funeral obsequies, the body of Bishop Raphael (Hawaweeny) was first interred in a crypt beneath the Holy Table at the Saint Nicholas Cathedral in Brooklyn, on 22 February/7 March, 1915.

Then, on 2 April, 1922, his relics were transferred to the Syrian Section of Brooklyn's Mount Olivet Cemetery.

Finally, on 15 August, 1988, his relics were taken to the Holy Resurrection Cemetery at the Antiochian Village near Ligonier, Pennsylvania.

After the repose of Bishop Raphael of Brooklyn in 1915, his missionary work quickly became divided. Some communities desired to remain under the jurisdiction of the successor to the “Russian Mission”, the “Russian Orthodox Greek Catholic Church of North America”, while others (including this parish) opted to be received into the jurisdiction of the Patriarchate of Antioch (headquartered at Damascus, Syria). This meant that the 2 parishes in Montréal lived with these different perspectives for the following 60 years. This division persisted until the complete jurisdictional and administrative unity was restored to the Church of Antioch in North America, in 1975.

Construction of the second Temple

In 1939, the growing community undertook the construction of a new, and larger Temple.

The development of this Temple was a major work of the architect Joseph-Raoul Gariépy (who died before its completion), and interior designer Emmanuel Briffa.

According to the official description of the “Canadian Register of Historic Places”,

 Saint George Antiochian Orthodox Church National Historic Site of Canada, 
 located in the Villeray neighbourhood of Montréal, is a handsome brick church 
 designed in a predominantly Byzantine style.  Capped with a pediment and flanked 
 by twin three-storey bell towers, the façade is distinguished by a grouping of three 
 round-arch windows above an arched entranceway. The interior is a marriage of 
 Byzantine and western influences, in its broadly arched central nave, decorated 
 with a splendid program of murals and stained glass windows. The official 
 recognition refers to the church and its attached parish house in their existing 
 spatial relationships.

Furthermore, the explanation of the heritage value is given as :

 Saint George Antiochian Orthodox Church was designated a national historic site 
 of Canada in 1999 because :
 - the church is an important symbol of the historic and continuing cultural 
 traditions of the Syrian Orthodox community in Canada.
 Serving the original and largest Syrian Orthodox community in Canada, St. George 
 Antiochian Orthodox Church is this cultural community’s earliest-known, purpose-
 built church that continues to fulfil its original role. Designed by architect Raoul 
 Gariepy, the church combines Western and Byzantine styles. Through its 
 remarkable architecture, interior design by Emmanuel Briffa, and its role as the 
 home of many community organizations involved in humanitarian activities, this 
 church importantly illustrates the continuity of a cultural tradition within a 
 Canadian context.  St. George Antiochian Orthodox Church, created by the Syrian 
 Orthodox community as the physical embodiment of that group’s ability to 
 contribute to Canadian life through respect for and adaptation of their cultural 
 values and traditions, is a place of special significance on the Canadian landscape.
    Source : Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada, Minutes, 1999.
 
 Key elements contributing to the heritage value of this site include :
 - the location in the Villeray neighbourhood of Montréal ;
 - the church’s exterior elevation, with its synthesis of Byzantine and Romanesque 
 Revival styles, as shown in the symmetrical façade, central dome, paired towers 
 with cupolas, round-headed windows, gable roof, and contrasting surfacing 
 materials ;
 - the church’s close relationship with its accompanying parish house ;
 - the setback from the street, approached by a grand staircase ;
 - the design of the church interior, reflecting the Orthodox Antiochian liturgy, with 
 its disposition of spaces as narthex, nave and sanctuary divided by an iconostasis, 
 materials and finishes, and the iconographic program of the surface decorations, 
 notably the mural paintings and stained glass by Emmanuel Briffa, and its 
 furnishings and accoutrements ;
 - the continued use of the church and parish house by members of the community.

Iconostas

Archimandrite Michael (Shaheen)

In 1956, Archimandrite Michael (Shaheen) was assigned to serve the Parish of Saint George in Montréal, Québec.

There, he was also assigned to serve as Dean of Canada by Metropolitan Antony (Bashir). During the time he was serving there, the building adjacent to the Temple served as his home. Later, it became the parish office.

Saint George Antiochian Orthodox Church, Montréal (exterior, interior)

On 31 January, 1960, the brother of Archimandrite Michael (Shaheen), Deacon George F Shaheen, was ordained to the Holy Priesthood at Saint George's Orthodox Church in Montréal, Québec.

In 1960, Archimandrite Michael (Shaheen) organised with the CBC (Canadian Broadcasting Corporation) the first telecast of an Orthodox Divine Liturgy from Saint George's Church.

In early 1962, Archimandrite Michael (Shaheen) was visiting in Syria and Lebanon when decisions of the Holy Synod of Bishops of the Church of Antioch made changes in the direction of his life.

In February, 1962, Archimandrite Michael (Shaheen) was ordained to the Holy Episcopate, and he was assigned to serve in Toledo, Ohio.

Priest George F Shaheen and his wife Khouria Marguerite (born Haddad) served in the Parish of Saint George for many years, as did his son, Priest Michael Shaheen and his wife Khouria Adma after him (1969-2000).

Father Antony Gabriel

For several months in 1966, Priest Antony Gabriel was sent to care for the Faithful at Saint George’s Antiochian Orthodox Church on a temporary basis.

Re-union and reconciliation of the North American Antiochians

In 1975, the 2 camps of opinion previously mentioned reunited under the leadership of the visionary Metropolitan Philip (Saliba) (who reposed in 2014, and was buried next to Saint Raphael at the Antiochian Village).

At the reconciliation, 1975 : Metropolitan Philip (Saliba), Archbishop Michael (Shaheen)

Metropolitan Joseph (Al-Zehlaoui) succeeded Metropolitan Philip.

In 2023, he, in turn, was succeeded by Metropolitan Saba (Esber).

As a consequence, the 2 parishes in Montreal were able to co-operate more actively and openly.

Father Antony Gabriel returned to service in Montréal

In 1977, Priest Antony Gabriel was transferred, and he was assigned to serve at Saint George Antiochian Orthodox Church in Montréal, Québec, Canada. Thus began the hitherto longest period of service of any priest in this parish.

In Montréal, Father Antony facilitated the welcome and relocation of many Lebanese refugees from their homeland's “uncivil war” (as Father Antony called it), in the 1980s.

He did the same for Syrian refugees fleeing the war in their homeland in the 2010s. Saint George’s Church doubled in size to 1,000 families during his tenure as pastor.

Moreover, Father Antony was one of those who helped in the establishment of Saint Mary’s Antiochian Orthodox Church in Montréal.

He established, and for years lectured on, the first course on Orthodox Mysticism, “Eastern Orthodox Mysticism and Contemporary Literature”, at McGill University.

It was such service in Montréal and the other parishes he served that earned him elevation to Archpriest and the title “Economos” (Treasurer, a term from the Patriarchate of Constantinople) by Metropolitan Philip (Saliba), and to “Great Economos” by Metropolitan Joseph (Al-Zehlaoui).

Father Antony often accompanied Metropolitan Philip (Saliba) to the Middle East for meetings and for other reasons.

Founding of the Parish of Saint Mary, 1992

Because of the steady increase of people emigrating from Syria, Lebanon, Palestine, and Jordan, the consequent increase of parishioners (including those converting to the Orthodox Christian Faith) made it obvious that the choice was to increase the size of the existing structure (not feasible), or to provide a new place of worship in a place with convenient access for the parishioners. The latter was chosen, and the Parish of Saint George fostered the birth of a new parish, which it also nurtured as it grew.

This parish was Al-Sayde Saint Mary's Antiochian Orthodox Church.

Father Ghattas Hajal was assigned to serve as the first rector of the new community.

Glorification of Saint Raphael (Hawaweeny)

The sanctity of Bishop Raphael (Hawaweeny) of Brooklyn had been understood by the Faithful both during and following his life. However, the confusion and disturbances of Orthodox Christian life in North America during much of the rest of the century delayed the possibility of any official recognition. Nevertheless, near the end of the century, a conversation and consultation between the heads of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America and The Orthodox Church in America opened the way for action.

Because Bishop Raphael had been officially a bishop of the Diocese of New York and the Aleutian Islands (now The Orthodox Church in America) during his lifetime, the canonical recognition of his sanctity was the responsibility of the Church in which he served.

Therefore, in harmony with the will of the Antiochian Orthodox Archdiocese of North America, Bishop Raphael (Hawaweeny) was glorified as a saint by the Holy Synod of Bishops of The Orthodox Church in America (OCA) in its March, 2000, session.

His sanctity was officially proclaimed at the official glorification celebrated on 29 May, 2000, at Saint Tikhon's Monastery at South Canaan, Pennsylvania. Participating in this service which was led by Metropolitan Theodosius (Lazor) was Bishop Antoun (Khouri), who represented Metropolitan Philip (Saliba) of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese and the Church of Antioch. Besides the bishops of the OCA Holy Synod, also serving were : Bishop Basil (Essey) and Bishop Demetri Khoury (also of the Antiochian Archdiocese), and Metropolitan Sergei (Fomin) of Solnechnogorsk (Russian Orthodox Church), and Bishop Mercurius (Ivanov) of Zaraisk, Administrator of the Patriarchal Parishes in the USA (Russian Orthodox Church), Archbishop Adam (Dubec) of Przemysl and Nowy Sacz (Polish Orthodox Church), Bishop Dimitrios (Couchell) of Xanthos (Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of North America), and Bishop Seraphim (Sigrist), retired Bishop of Sendai, Japan (Autonomous Orthodox Church of Japan).

At the glorification, Saint Raphael was given the designation “Bishop of Brooklyn, Shepherd of the Lost Sheep of North America”.

Feast-days

Saint Raphael (Hawaweeny) is commemorated by the OCA on 27 February, the anniversary of his repose.

He is commemorated by the Antiochian Orthodox Church on the first Saturday of November.

He is commemorated also on the date of the glorification, 29 May.

50 years (marriage and priesthood) of Father Antony

In late 2012, Sayidna Philip (Saliba) led the celebrations of Father Antony’s 50th Anniversary of ordination to the Holy Priesthood.

While he served at Saint George’s Church in Montréal, Father Antony’s service was for some years contemporary with the service of the Archpriest Joseph Shaheen at Saint Nicholas Antiochian Orthodox Church in Montréal.

Father Antony organised Clergy Associations, including “Action for Peace”, with participants from Jewish, Christian, and Muslim faiths. During the “‘Uncivil’ War” in Lebanon, he guided Christian-Muslim religious leaders responsible for the “fast-track” into Canada for refugees fleeing the war ; and he was active in receiving 10,000 immigrants (regardless of religion).

In every city, he gained attention for such concerns by serving as moderator at many media events, by hosting his own radio programmes, and by appearing on many national television broadcasts of Holy Services in English, French, and Arabic.

In Montréal, under his pastorship, the parish of Saint George expanded from a 500-family parish into one of more than 1,000 families, with multiple pastoral services to give solace to those in special need. Saint Mary’s Church in Montréal developed out of Saint George’s, the oldest Antiochian parish in Montréal, which serves persons from Lebanon, Syria, Egypt, Antioch, and Palestine, as well as native-born Antiochian Orthodox, and converts. Therefore, services became tri-lingual, with emphasis on English (this in a zealously Francophone province, but possible in Montréal).

A global Legacy Fund was established in order to continue his humanitarian organisations caring for the elderly, poor, and afflicted. He instigated community action, whereby food, money, jobs, and homes were supplied by parish members. His Syrian Refugee Programme serves as a model in North America.

A first in the Antiochian Archdiocese was his Family Services project, which included a full-time psychologist to serve pressing needs of parishioners.

He travelled many times on missions to the Middle-East, for Synodal meetings (at Damascus, Beirut, or elsewhere) along with Metropolitan Philip (Saliba), the accounts of which were published in “THE WORD” over the years.

Writing and publishing were a major element in his life. His book, “Gabriels Dragons”, was published in which he described his journey to recovery against all odds from metastatic colon cancer. Later, he wrote “Silence, a Diary of Suffering and Redemption”, which chronicled his 6 weeks in a coma, kidney failure, and a host of health obstacles. The “Handbook for the Order of Saint Ignatius” was published under his auspices as the first National Chaplain. After 10 years of research, he authored a definitive history of the Antiochian Archdiocese, “Ancient Church on New Shores : Antioch in North America”.

For many years, Father Antony lectured at the Antiochian House of Studies, in which he traced the historical development of the Church, as well as pastoral matters, and ancient Syriac spirituality.

As chairman of the Antiochian Heritage Foundation, he raised public awareness of the heritage of the Eastern Church, as well as raising funds for projects designated by the Metropolitan. As the recipient of numerous awards for humanitarian work, he was listed in “The Who’s Who In World Religions”. He received the “Gold Antonian Medal” from Metropolitan Philip, and “The Knights of the Cedars Of Lebanon”.

In recognition of his humanitarian work, the Government of Canada awarded him the Silver and Gold Jubilee Medals from Queen Elizabeth II. He received the “Cross of the Cedar” from Metropolitan Elia (Karam), and he was recognised by the Province of Québec, and the City of Montréal through the National Assembly.

Retirement of Father Antony

In 2015, Archpriest Great Economos Antony Gabriel was given the blessing to retire from active service. He was the longest-serving pastor in Montréal.

While he had been serving in Montréal, he was bereft of both his parents, through their falling asleep in the Lord in 1995, and 2003.

In retirement, he and Khouria Lynn moved to Tucson, Arizona, where he took part in the liturgical and social life at Holy Resurrection Antiochian Church.

Repose of Father Antony

On 2 November, 2022, Archpriest Great Economos Antony Gabriel fell asleep in the Lord at Tucson, Arizona.

On Sunday, 6 November, 2022, a Memorial (Trisagion) Service was offered at Saint George’s Orthodox Church of Montréal, following the 10:30 a.m. Divine Liturgy.

Memorial prayers were offered at Tucson, and then his body was transported to Syracuse, New York.

On Friday, 18 November, 2022, visitation time was available from 4-6:30 p.m., at Saint Elias Antiochian Orthodox Church, 4988 Onondaga Road, Syracuse, New York.

On Friday, 18 November, 2022, at 6:30 p.m., the Memorial Trisagion Prayers were offered at 6:30 p.m.

On Saturday, 19 November, 2022, at 10:30 a.m., the Funeral Service for the Burial of a Priest was offered at Saint Elias Church.

Following the funeral obsequies, the body of Father Antony Gabriel was transported to the Oakwood Cemetery for interment, which came another offering of the Trisagion Prayers.

Parish information, and activities

Since its founding in 1905, Saint George Antiochian Orthodox Christian Church of Montréal has been a community that has cared for the well-being of its members at all stages of their lives. It has served as a home where Orthodox Christians may come to receive spiritual and ethical guidance based on the teachings of the Orthodox Christian Faith, to receive the Sacraments, and to heed the call of Christ :

 “Come unto Me, all that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28).
 
 “That you love one another as I have loved you” (John 13:34).

The parish is blessed to have several ministry and volunteer programmes, which give all members the opportunity to live fully in the life of the Church through worship, witness, service, and fellowship, and to be shining examples of the New Commandment given to us by our Saviour, Jesus Christ.

Constitution and Purpose

The purpose of Saint George Church is to maintain, and to preserve the spiritual well-being of its community members, keeping them united, and coordinating religious work or activity with the intent of propagating, practicing, and forever perpetuating Orthodox Christian religious worship services.

There are many parish organisations.

Parish choirs

The Saint George's English Choir sings mainly four-part, Western music for liturgical services, seasonal concerts, and other events throughout the year. The choir rehearses weekly.

Saint George's English Children's Choir (Ages 5-12) ; the English Teen Choir (ages 13-17) ; the Saint George Byzantine Ecclesiastical Choir (which functions at various levels) is for teens and young adults who are interested in learning Byzantine music and chanting in Arabic and in English ; under the leadership of the First Chanter, other chanters sing for the Sunday Orthros (Matins) and other services throughout the week and year (such chanters have first to be formed through participation in he youth of the Byzantine choir).

Antiochian women

Antiochian Women’s Organisation is open to all Adult Women of the parish. They sponsor many dinners, and the parish Bazaar, and they host spiritual talks and presentations for the entire parish.

Mothers group

The Mothers Group meets monthly. Mothers of all ages and experiences gather together to explore their Orthodox Faith, and to share in raising and forming their children in Christ.

Men's brotherhood

The Men’s Brotherhood of Saint George is dedicated to helping men improve themselves and grow closer to God. The Brotherhood provides a supportive and respectful environment for men over age 25. Members participate in monthly discussions and various events, ranging from theological topics to practical life concerns.

Saint George Social Club (SGSC)

The Saint Georg's Social Club aims to create a communal space for Saint George parishioners, their families, and friends. In this relaxed and friendly environment, attendees can interact, connect, and enjoy social games, food, and fellowship.

Teen SOYO

The Teen SOYO organises enjoyable activities focused on worship, witness, service, and fellowship. These events are open to all teenagers aged 13-19.

Cercle Saint-Georges Circle

The Cercle Saint-Georges Circle sponsors the Epiphany Celebration and the last "Madayeh" meal ; hosts extended coffee hours for Godparents’ Sundays, the Feast of the Cross, and special Church activities. The Cercle Saint-Georges Circle always gives generous contributions to the Food for the Hungry Appeal, and to other needy organisations. They participate in all Church activities such as the Fall Retreat, the Saint George Feast Day Brunch, and much more. Their mission is primarily to raise funds for the youth for such events as their Annual Soccer Tournament (soccer uniforms, soccer balls, etc., if need be), Communion Breakfasts, Altar Boy vestments, etc.

Parish Council

The Parish Council of Saint George Orthodox Church of Montréal oversees the Financial Resources, Facilities, and other important needs of the Church Community.

Young adult group

The Saint George Young Adult Group meets regularly for fellowship, and to explore their Orthodox Faith.

Church School (ages 3-19)

Church School is a key contributor to the spiritual growth of children and teenagers aged 3 to 19. It takes place in the Saint George's Youth Centre right after Holy Communion from mid-September to mid-June. It presents an opportunity of deepening the understanding of the Faith in conjunction with the irreplaceable teachings of Divine Liturgy every Sunday. The Church School curriculum, programmes, and activities aim to provide children with the tools that can help them understand their Orthodox faith ; establish a deeper and personal relationship with God ; and encourage their active participation in Parish life. They also intend to help participants bond with each other, and become solid Christian Orthodox individuals that can witness to their faith through their behaviour and positive contribution in society.

Parents have an undeniable role in the success of this organisation, as without their commitment to bringing children to church in a timely and regular manner, and to follow up on their learnings in Liturgy and Church School, the 45 to 75 minutes weekly classes can unfortunately have little effect.

Arabic Bible Study

The Arabic Bible Study meets every other Saturday in the Church Hall following the Saturday evening Vespers. Bible Study is done in the [htttps://en.wikipedia.org/wik/Arabic Arabic Language].

West Island Bible Study

The West Island Bible Study (WIBS) is an English-speaking bible study of which its purpose is to have a St. George spiritual activity for West Island St. George Parishioners close to home in a relaxed and informal environment. It should be noted that anyone from St. George no matter where they live or adult friends of parishioners of all ages are welcome to attend. The group studies books of the Orthodox Study Bible in line with other organisations of the Church. The sessions include interactive discussions as to how we are to apply the Word of God as a guide in navigating activities and challenges of everyday life.

Pastors who served this parish

 •	 Saint Raphael of Brooklyn
 •	 Father Ephraim (Al-Debs) (1898-1901)
 •	 Father Meletios Karroum (1901-1903)
 •	 Father George Mahfouz (1903-1906)
 •	 Father Aftimios Ofiesh (1906-1917)]   
 •	 Archimandrite Michael (Shaheen) (1956-1962)
 •	 Archpriest Anthony Gabriel (1976-2000)
 •	 Father Crow (mentioned as a priest at Saint George's, who joined forces with Mr. Fawaz to form the founding committee 
          for the new Saint Mary’s Antiochian Orthodox Church in 1992 due to growing parishioner numbers)
 •       Archpriest Dr Joseph F Purpura  (2000-____)

Particular parish information

This parish is part of the Antiochian Orthodox Diocese of Ottawa, Eastern Canada, And Upstate New York, of the Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America. The bishop is Bishop Alexander (Mufarrij).

This parish follows the New (Revised Julian) Calendar.

The Altar Feast-day of this parish is the Feast of Saint Nicholas of Myra (6 December).

In 2026, the pastor of the parish was the Archpriest Dr Joseph F Purpura.

Address :

Saint George Antiochian Orthodox Church

575, rue Jean-Talon Street Est

Montréal, Québec

H2R 1T8

Directions :

The city of Montréal, Québec (and the Parish of Saint Nicholas) is accessible by various airlines through the Trudeau Montréal International Aeroport.

The city of Montréal is accessible from the east, and west by VIA Rail ; and from the south by Amtrak railways.

The city of Montréal is accessible by road from the east by Highway #20, by Highway #40 ; from the west by Highway #20, by Highway #40 ; from the north by Highway #15 (Laurentian Autoroute), by Highway #117 ; by Highway #25 ; from the south by Highway #15 ; by Highway #10.

By public transit, consult the Société de transport de Montréal site for routes.

By car, gain access to Highway #440 east or west (depending upon the starting point). Take the exit for Boulevard Saint-Laurent South. Drive south until Rue Jean-Talon Est. Turn left (east), and drive until Rue Lajeunesse. The Temple is on the left.

References

Saint George Antiochian Orthodox Church Parish history

Additional information :

Corey, George S, Gilquist, Peter E, Mackoul, Anne Glynn, Sam, Jean, Schneirla, Paul, eds., "The First One Hundred Years : A Centennial Anthology Celebrating Antiochian Orthodoxy in North America" (Englewood, NJ : Antakya Press, 1995). BX738.A753F57.

A Chronological History of the Archdiocese of Canada, Part 1 Year 1898 : return of Bishop Nicholas to Russia_;_arrival of Bishop Tikhon

Patriarch Alexander III (Tahan)

Patriarch Theotosius VI (Abourjaily)

Patriarch Elias IV (Muawad)

Patriarch Ignatius IV (Hazim)

Patriarch John X (Yazigi)

Metropolitan Antony (Bashir)

Metropolitan Philip (Saliba)

Metropolitan Joseph (Al-Zehlaoui)

Metropolitan Sava (Esber)

Bishop Alexander (Mufarrij)

Bishop Antoun (Khouri)