Yesterday, I had the privilege of joining the vibrant Maronite Catholic community for their 31st annual Maronite Lebanese Family Festival, under the protection of the Mother of God—an event that beautifully wove together faith, tradition, and joyful celebration.
The day began with a Mass, followed by a moving procession with the statue of the Blessed Virgin Mary through the festival grounds. This public witness of devotion set the tone for the rest of the day: a celebration rooted in deep faith and a shared heritage.
Bishop Tabet emphasized during his homily that both Catholic and Orthodox Christians love and honor the Mother of God above all other saints and angels. While the Orthodox celebrate her Dormition and the Catholics her Assumption, both traditions recognize her unique role in God’s plan of salvation. His words reminded everyone present of the shared veneration of the Virgin Mary in both Christian traditions.
The festival was officially inaugurated with a ribbon-cutting ceremony, a moment that gathered together clergy, dignitaries, and community leaders. Among the distinguished guests were Archbishop Marcel Damphousse of Ottawa-Cornwall and the Chair of CNEWA Canada’s Board of Directors, Bishop Paul Marwan Tabet, Eparch of the Maronite Church in Canada, bishops and priests from numerous Eastern Catholic and Orthodox Churches, as well as several Lebanese government representatives, including the Minister of Refugees and Immigration.
Throughout the day, the air was filled with the warmth of hospitality and the aroma of delicious Lebanese cuisine, prepared with care and offered generously to all. The festival grounds resonated with music, laughter, and the joyful conversations of friends and families gathered together. Every year, this five-day festival welcomes over 35,000 participants, a testament to its place as one of the most anticipated gatherings in the community. This year’s celebration was made possible thanks to the dedication of 500 registered volunteers, whose tireless service ensured that every moment unfolded with warmth and hospitality.
The Maronite community in Canada is truly blessed to have Bishop Paul Marwan Tabet as its shepherd—an inspiring leader who fosters unity, preserves tradition, and opens the doors of the Church to all.
Events like this remind us of the richness of Canada’s cultural and religious mosaic, and of the vital role the Eastern Catholic communities play in strengthening the life of the Church. I left the festival with a full heart, grateful for the witness of faith, hospitality, and joy I experienced among our Maronite brothers and sisters.