“What a dream come true!” That’s what Father Toma K Toma said about Saint Marys Assyrian Church of the East. This church stands as a beacon of faith and culture for Auckland’s Assyrian community. It all began with a small group of families.
Father Toma arrived in New Zealand from Iran in 1992. Initially only ten families attended his services. He used Anglican church facilities at that time. Now Saint Marys Assyrian Church of the East has a thriving congregation. It has grown to over 200 families.
The Church of the East has ancient roots. It began during early Christian missionary work. This was in the first century. It spread through Mesopotamia including Iraq and Syria.
Saint Marys Assyrian Church of the East welcomes everyone. Father Toma hopes its facilities will host community events and weddings. The church is more than just a place of worship. It is a cultural hub.
Glen Mouchi is the committee president. He feels great pride in the new church. Glen arrived from Iraq in 1995. He is grateful to live in New Zealand. Many Assyrians came as refugees. Some faced persecution for their beliefs.
Over $1 million went into renovating the premises on Maich Rd. The renovations included a community hall. Most of the money came from generous donations. Glen Mouchi an engineer designed the new premises. He oversaw the renovations.
The renovations took only six months. They started in November of last year. Volunteers dedicated their free time to help. Glen said this project has a special meaning for him.
The details are important. The exterior and interior reflect deep thought and feeling. The patterns used are from 6000 years ago. This connects the community to their historical heritage.
Jessie Youkhana is a committee member. The church has become her life. She arrived in New Zealand nearly 20 years ago without family. Now she helps run church classes every Saturday. She teaches children the Assyrian language and culture. More than 80 children attend these classes. They range in age from 3 to 15.
Father Toma hopes the new building will give Assyrians a place to settle. He believes a church is essential for the community. Without it many might move to Australia. Now they have their own building to express their faith at Saint Marys Assyrian Church of the East.
Saint Marys Assyrian Church of the East offers regular services. Holy Mass takes place on Sundays at 10:00 am. Sunday School for children aged 5-12 also starts at 10:00 am. Daily prayers are held at 4:00 pm. Parish Bible Study meets from 7:00-8:00 pm.
There are additional study groups. Wednesdays Salt and Light Members Bible Study is for ages 25-40. Tuesdays feature Bible Study with Qasha Paulis Darmo. Fridays offer Youth Bible Study for ages 13-30. Fridays also include school for ages 2-12.
You can experience Gods love at Saint Marys Parish. The community is dedicated to serving God and others. At Saint Marys Parish Church, the love of Christ is the foundation. They embody that love in worship services and outreach programs. Everyone is welcome.
Consider supporting Saint Marys Assyrian Church of the East. Donations can be made via Zelle and PayPal. Follow Saint Marys Assyrian Church of the East to watch their regular livestreams.
Saint Marys Assyrian Church of the East stands as a testament to faith resilience and community. It offers a place of belonging for Assyrians in Auckland.