Circular #23.01
We received yesterday the sad news of the passing of Monsignor Paul Mouawad in Lebanon. The funeral was today in his hometown in Lebanon.
Monsignor Paul Mouawad was officially named Monsignor by a decree coming from the Holy See, during the days of Archbishop Francis M Zayek But Father Paul asked that this honor not be bestowed upon him. He has served so very well as a priest for over 52 years.
He was a true missionary priest for Christ. Everywhere he went he put his hand to the plow and began his work. He started missions, and he reached out to everyone he could to make them succeed. He was a true fisher of men.
He served Portland, San Francisco, Providence, Philadelphia and made many pastoral visits to Maronite communities interested in becoming parishes.
Our deep appreciation and condolences to his large family who loved him so much, and whom he so greatly loved. My last time in Lebanon, June of 2022, I visited Monsignor in the Bhanes Hospital. When we prayed, his usual joy was once again so tangible. We prayed for his health and well being and then he prayed for me and the Eparchy.
In the Eparchy of Saint Maron, the clergy, religious and laity, will miss Monsignor Paul and extend our condolences to his family, former parishioners and friends.
May God’s good and faithful servant rest in peace and joy.
+ Gregory
Bishop Gregory John Mansour
Eparchy of Saint Maron of Brooklyn