About Our Church
Morth Smooni Jacobite Syrian Orthodox Church is a parish of the
Jacobite Syrian Orthodox Church, rooted in the ancient traditions
of the West Syriac liturgy. We are a welcoming community dedicated
to worship, fellowship, and spiritual growth.
We steadfastly proclaim our faith and express our solidarity with our spiritual leaders: His
Holiness Moran Mor Ignatius Aphrem II, Patriarch of the Universal Syrian Orthodox Church;
His Beatitude Aboon Mor Baselious Thomas I, Maphrian of the Syrian Orthodox Church; and His
Grace Issac Mor Osthatheos, Patriarchal Vicar of the United Kingdom. Their spiritual
enlightenment guides us with wisdom and grace.
Our Holy Leadership
Patriarch of Antioch
H.H. Ignatius Aphrem II
The supreme head of the Syriac Orthodox Church, holding apostolic succession through Saint Peter. As the "Father of Fathers", the Patriarch serves as the general administrator of the Holy Synod, supervising the spiritual and administrative matters of the global church.
Catholicos of India
H.B. Baselios Joseph I
The Maphrian or Catholicos of India is the second-highest rank in the Syriac Orthodox Church. Serving as the head of the Malankara Jacobite Syrian Church in India, the Catholicos guides the regional synod and plays a vital role in the election and ordination of the Patriarch.
UK Diocese - Metropolitan
H.G. Isaac Mor Osthatheos
His Grace provides spiritual leadership and administrative oversight to the Jacobite Syrian Orthodox congregations across the United Kingdom. He is instrumental in preserving the West Syriac liturgy and traditions, fostering the growth of the Church within the British diaspora while serving as the direct representative of the Patriarch.
Our Origin & Journey
From a humble prayer group to a recognized sanctuary in Sheffield.
Early 2020s: The Seeds of Faith
Migrating to the UK for work and study, our community recognized the vital need to preserve our traditional worship practices and pass them down to the next generation. We began as a humble prayer group seeking solace in a foreign land.
July 30, 2022: A Turning Point
His Grace Dr. Mathews Mor Antimos visited Sheffield. This visit ignited a deep desire to establish a formal congregation. Following this, the Bishop graciously agreed to hold Holy Mass on the 4th Saturday of every month.
August 2022: Formal Inception
Through Kalpana No UK-20/22, we received formal permission to start our church. We were named after Morth Smooni, Eliazaar, and her seven children—saints who exemplify resilience. Our inaugural service was held on August 27 at St. Mark’s Church, Grenoside.
October 2023: Elevation to Church Status
Under Kalpana U.K.-24/2023 by His Grace Issac Mor Osthatios, our congregation was officially elevated to the status of a Church, granting us full representation within the MSOC UK Patriarchal Vicariate.
April 2024: A Permanent Sanctuary
After two years of patient prayer, Saint Thomas Church Wincobank graciously granted us use of their building. We look forward to continuing our spiritual journey and service to the community from our new home.
Feast of Morth Smooni & Our 1st Anniversary
In July 2023, we joyously celebrated the 1st anniversary of our church along with the feast of our Patron Saint, Morth Smooni. This milestone was marked by spiritual devotion and vibrant community life:
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Evening Prayer (July 21st): The congregation gathered for a heartfelt prayer service, invoking divine blessings upon our growing church community.
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Sunday School Cultural Programs: Our young members showcased their talents through performances. We extend our gratitude to the dedicated teachers, supportive parents, and enthusiastic children who made this celebration a success.
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Vanitha Samajam Food Sale: On the feast day, the Vanitha Samajam organized a food sale to raise funds for church activities. The community’s heart-warming participation made this initiative a great triumph.
A Year of Grace
Commemorating our journey from a prayer group to a recognized sanctuary in Sheffield.
The Legacy of Morth Smooni
In the annals of Jewish history, amidst the turmoil of ancient Judea, there exists a tale of unparalleled courage and unwavering faith. This is the story of Morth Smooni and her Sons, immortalized in the pages of 2 Maccabees 7, who stood firm against tyranny and persecution, inspiring generations with their steadfast commitment to God’s commandments.
During the reign of the Greek emperor Antiochus IV, the Jewish people faced relentless oppression, forced to abandon their faith and embrace the customs of their conquerors. In the face of such tyranny, Morth Smooni and her Sons remained resolute, refusing to betray their beliefs even in the face of death.
Theirs is a story shrouded in martyrdom, as they were subjected to unimaginable torture. Each son, in turn, faced horrific trials; yet, through it all, their faith remained unshaken. The second son boldly proclaimed the hope of resurrection, a testament to their unwavering hope in God’s promises.
Perhaps the most remarkable of all was Morth Smooni herself, who bore witness to the martyrdom of her sons with a courage that defied comprehension. In the midst of her grief, she remained steadfast, exhorting her sons to remain true to their beliefs even unto death.
As we reflect on their noble deeds, let us be reminded that it is faith, above all else, that sustains us in our darkest hours. May their memory continue to inspire and uplift us on our own journey of faith and courage. Amen.
Hull Chapel
Learn more about our sister community serving Jacobite Syrian Orthodox families in Hull and East Yorkshire.
Visit Hull Chapel Page