The Second Day of the Festival of the Cross 2025 – Mar Elias Shrine, Ankawa

The activities of the Festival of the Cross 2025 in Ankawa continued into the second day, September 10, 2025, with the presence of His Holiness Mar Awa III Royel, Patriarch of the Assyrian Church of the East, along with His Excellency Archbishop Bashar Matti Warda and His Excellency Archbishop Mar Nicodemus Daoud Matti Sharaf, in addition to priests, nuns, and crowds of the faithful. All expressed their joy in the unity of the churches and their shared faith, reflecting on the light of Christ that shines in their hearts and strengthens the bonds of love and peace.

The second day of the festival was held at Mar Elias Shrine, hosting special activities in a spiritual atmosphere that brought together the faithful from the various parishes of the diocese. It emphasized the power of common prayer in uniting hearts, deepening faith, and renewing hope in the life of every believer.

The events opened with a pastoral address by Fr. Savio Handola, parish priest of St. Joseph Cathedral, who warmly welcomed the distinguished guests and the gathered faithful. This was followed by a spiritual musical program presented by the parish choirs of the diocese, including an evening of hymns and chants for the Feast of the Cross. Fr. Savio also offered a reflection on the prayers of the feast, highlighting their theological and spiritual meanings, stressing that prayer is the fountain of spiritual life, the source of unity among believers, and the path to spreading hope and joy in hearts.

Later, Archbishop Bashar Matti Warda delivered a speech in which he welcomed the participants and expressed his gratitude to all contributors and organizers of this blessed event. He spoke about the mission of the Church in bringing the Gospel to the hearts of the faithful, praising Ankawa for its spirit of fraternity, love, and harmony among its people. He concluded his words by imparting a blessing upon all those present, wishing that this occasion may be a source of grace and renewed hope for everyone.

The shrine also hosted the screening of a documentary film that showcased various forms and designs of the Cross throughout history, shedding light on its symbolic and spiritual meanings. This offered the attendees a deeper reflection on this sacred symbol that unites all believers, strengthens living faith among the churches, and reminds us of God’s infinite love for all.

The second day concluded with the inauguration of official activities at the shrine, amid an atmosphere of joy and spiritual fellowship, affirming once again the power of shared prayer and the unity of the Church around the Holy Cross.