Maronite Catholic Church Sierra elder p. Fx
Early History of the Maronite Catholic Church
The Maronites began in the Near East in an area known as the Fertile Crescent, which today comprises the countries of Lebanon, Syria, Jordan and Israel. Their common language was Aramaic, the same language spoken by our Lord Jesus Christ in the holy Family at Nazareth, as well as at the Last Supper. Aramaic is still used by the Maronites in various hymns and parts of the Mass, especially at the Consecration.
Liturgys and worship
The Maronite liturgy is very simple and very rich. The prayers which are used display a profound scriptural tradition, expressing innumerable images and motifs from the Old and New Testaments. Many of the prayers are also derived from the writings of ancient Fathers of the East,. This contemplative and monastic spirit typifies the Maronite liturgical tradition.
Traditions and practices
. The Maronite liturgy opens with a call for the mercy of God, compared to the Roman Catholic liturgy which begins with calling to mind sins. The Eucharist in the Maronite tradition differs from the Western church as well. The bishop, priest or deacon dips the Eucharistic bread into the wine and then places it directly on the communicant's tongue. Aramaic was the spoken language of Israel in which they to to incorporate into the mass.
Icons and gestures
Some of the saints that are icons of the Maronite are Elijah, Saint Gabriel, Saint Barnabas, Saint Anthony, Saint George, Saint Nimatullah Hardini, John climacus, John Maron.
The sign of the cross, bowing at the name of Jesus Christ, kneeling, and learning the ritual language are all gestures of the Maronite Catholic Church.
Spirituality
While one is unable to know God himself, he can know God who manifests himself through nature, humanity and scripture. Genesis indicates that the hidden God revealed Himself through His creating word. Since God spoke it into being, creation is a great symbol of the Creator. This spirituality teaches that the "image of Adam" was not destroyed but deformed by sin and is recreated in a new splendor by Jesus the Savior.
Curia
The Maronite Curia consists of a group of officials who assist in the governance of the Church. These curias range from the relatively simple diocesan curia, to the larger patriarchal curias, to the Roman Curia, which is the central government of the Catholic Church.
I have neither given nor received unauthorized help on this work.
Sierra elder