“Oil is dripping from the icon” Father Gerard announced. That was the beginning of the miracle at Saint Simeon Stylites Melkite Catholic Church. This is the story of how a community came together. It shows how faith can create miracles.
Saint Simeon Stylites Melkite Catholic Church is more than a building. It is a testament to the dedication of its parishioners. The church’s story starts with a vision. The vision was to create a spiritual home for generations.
Father Gerard Abi Saab was ordained March 25 2015. This marked the beginning of the Melkite community’s journey. They joined hands to build a parish. The Melkite Eparchy of Canada and Bishop Ibrahim Ibrahim helped. Sts Vladimir and Olga Ukrainian Catholic Church offered their space. The community celebrated Divine Liturgy at 601 Lake Trail Drive.
In October 2018 the parish purchased its own building at 8700 Jerome Street. Local donors generously provided funds. Parish families worked hard to renovate the church building and hall. Their dedication transformed the space.
Mid-2019 brought an extraordinary event. Around the Feast of the Dormition of the Mother of God the church icon started to drip oil. The icon was of the Mother of God. It was called the Inexhaustible Chalice. Father Gerard documented this miracle. The dripping oil was seen as a sign. It was a sign of blessing and divine presence.
Saint Simeon Stylites Melkite Catholic Church is part of a larger tradition. It is an Eastern Catholic Church. It is in communion with the Pope of Rome. Yet it maintains its own distinct traditions. The church’s roots trace back to Antioch. That is where the followers of Jesus were first called Christians.
Melkites accepted the teachings of the Council of Chalcedon in 451 AD. The Melkite Church recognizes the seven Holy Mysteries. These are Baptism Chrismation Eucharist Confession Holy Orders Marriage and Anointing. These sacraments are administered according to the Byzantine tradition.
The church uses Arabic English and Greek in its services. This reflects the community’s diverse heritage. The Divine Liturgy is accessible to all. Transliterated phonetics help everyone follow along.
The priest faces East during services. This ancient practice symbolizes facing God. God is seen as the source of light. The priest leads the people in prayer. He directs their praise and thanksgiving to God.
Saint Simeon Stylites Melkite Catholic Church welcomes everyone. It is a blend of Near Eastern heritage and other backgrounds. All are invited to join the community. All can experience its rich traditions.
The story of Saint Simeon Stylites the original Saint Simeon inspires the church. Saint Simeon Stylites lived in the 5th century. He lived atop a pillar for 37 years. He offered spiritual counsel and converted many.
Today Saint Simeon Stylites Melkite Catholic Church continues this legacy. It offers a place of worship and community. It welcomes all to experience the divine. The miracle of the dripping icon reminds us of the power of faith. It shows the importance of community.