Bp. Anthony Concludes Sacred Music Institute with Hierarchal Liturgy

Photo: antiochian.org

PHOENIX, AZ — His Grace Bishop Anthony concluded the Winter Sacred Music Institute with the celebration of a Hierarchal Divine Liturgy on the Sunday of the Prodigal Son at St. George Church. He presided at Orthros and the Divine Liturgy, welcomed by Archpriest Christopher Salamy, parish clergy, and faithful. The parish had just hosted the institute, drawing more than 120 participants from across the Archdiocese for a weekend dedicated to sacred music and worship.

Two choirs composed of dozens of church singers offered hymns during the Sunday services and at a special concert the previous evening. In his homily on Luke 15:11–32, Bp. Anthony reflected on the parable of the Prodigal Son, emphasizing that the father’s love—not material wealth—was the true source of strength. “Lent is a time to remember that everything is a gift,” he said. “We don’t deserve anything, but we give thanks for everything.”

During the liturgy, Elias Mousa was ordained to the holy diaconate and will serve at St. George Church. Bp. Anthony reminded the new deacon that his role is to assist the celebrant and safeguard the flow of worship, while also embracing the teaching ministry exemplified by St. Stephen the Proto-martyr.

Previously, the UOJ reported that St. Vladimir's seminary opened registration for the 2026 Summer Music Institute.

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