On Saturday, Dec. 3, Our Lady of Lebanon Cathedral, Brooklyn Heights, will be the site of the elevation of its rector, Very Reverend James A. Root, to the rank of Periodeut with the title of Monsignor.
Msgr. Root heard the surprise announcement at the Divine Liturgy concelebrated at the Cathedral by Patriarch Bechara Peter Rai and Bishop Gregory Mansour on Oct. 23. It had been requested by Bishop Mansour of the Patriarch who graciously acceded to the request and made the announcement at the conclusion of his homily.
The entire congregation in the cathedral rose as one to confirm and congratulate the beloved rector.
“The honor is well deserved. Msgr. James has brought new life into the Cathedral, marshalling the talents of our group leaders and organizations for the benefit of all of Beit Maroun,” said Salma Vahdat.
“We are indeed a ‘living church,’ reaching out to our neighbors in the Heights as well as bringing our Maronite people and friends together under the roof of this beautiful Cathedral dedicated to Mary as Our Lady of Lebanon.”