From Archbishop Bernard A. Hebda
I was thrilled to learn that Pope Leo XIV has given his assent to the election of Chorbishop Sharbel Maroun as Archbishop of Damascus of the Maronites in Syria by the Synod of Bishops of the Patriarchal Church of Antioch of the Maronites. Chorbishop Maroun has served as pastor of St. Maron Maronite parish in Minneapolis for more than 35 years and is beloved by not only his parishioners but also by the priests and faithful of our Archdiocese. I have long admired his pastoral heart and have been inspired by his generous and collaborative leadership in Northeast Minneapolis. His presence will be deeply missed. I pledge to him my heartfelt prayers as he prepares to assume leadership of the Church of Damascus, a venerable community rich in Christian history.
It is wonderfully providential that our Archdiocese has already been in a partnership with the Archeparchy of Damascus since 2017. It is my hope that the relationship will only grow stronger in the days ahead. I have valued the friendship and example of Archbishop Samir Nassar, who until this morning’s announcement was serving as Archbishop of Damascus. Archbishop Nassar has been a beacon of hope to the faithful of his flock as he guided them through the challenges of civil war. I wish Archbishop Nassar all the best and promise him my prayers for a well-deserved retirement.
I look forward for an opportunity for the Archdiocese to celebrate with Archbishop-elect Maroun before he departs for Damascus.
