It is with great honor and pleasure that I announce the success of the annual Eastern Regional One-Day Retreat hosted by St George’s Syrian Orthodox Church, Carteret, NJ. I would like to take this oppurtunity to thank Rev. Fr. Varghese Manikat and St. George's Youth for making the day a success. I am happy to report that MGSOSA again had over 80 youth present at the event. The youth had the opportunity to pray and worship as a group. We had the opportunity to have Very Rev. Fr. Eugene Ramban as the chief speaker. He was able to effectivly address the Theme: “If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross and follow me." (Matthew 16:24). The discussions were fruitful and several youth members commented on the speaker and his helpfulness in answering the questions. We truly were blessed to have Rev. Fr. Eugene Ramban present and we look forward to having him speak at future events. I would also like to thank St. Mary's White Plains youth and everyone who helped on events such as registration, to group leaders, to the choir. I am truly pleased with our youth and I encourage the young people to continue their support and interest in our church and its activities. Once again thanks to all who made the event a grand success. MGSOSA hopes to host another regional one-day retreat during spring break 2003.
 
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Rev. Dn. Bijo Mathew

MGSOSA Secretary