28.04.2023
Jerusalem Diocesan Majma Draws to a Close
Archbishop Michael Jackson is in Jordan attending the Majma (Synod) of our link dioceses, the Diocese of Jerusalem, at the invitation of Archbishop Hosam Naoum. Here he reports on the Majma’s final day (Thursday April 27).
THURSDAY
The business of The Majma (Synod) on Thursday began with a celebration of Holy Communion. The preacher once again took the theme: Built Together. There then was the establishment of a range of committees for the year following on from yesterday’s discussions. This included the Theological Committee of the Pastors and The Women’s Committee.
The Youth Committee gave a spirited report on activities in 2022 and thus far in 2023. Careful thought in the planning was given to ensuring that these events took place in a wide spread of geographical areas as befits a diocese that covers five countries. The activities, which take the form of residential camps, also cover age ranges from Sunday School and early years in school to University Students. The Youth Committee pledged itself to build the church of the Lord and to expand his Kingdom. The theme for this year is: From where does your strength come?
The Majma concluded with elections to what is in effect the standing committee of The Synod. Constitutionally each region has to be represented. Of the four remaining places, women were elected to all four places. This was the first time in the history of The Diocese of Jerusalem and The Middle East that this has happened.
The evening, prior to flying back to Dublin, was spent in St Paul’s Parish, Ashrafia where the rector is the Reverend Dr George Al–Kopti. There was a concert of sacred music led by another of the clergy who attended The Majma. It was my second time to be in St Paul’s in a month and delightful to be back among friends.