Table of Contents

BAR-SAWME, Gabriel, “Comparing the Syriac Order of the Consecration of Myron with the Order of Eucharistic Liturgy both in External Structure and in Theological Themes”, SOPJ 54 (2016), 1-25.

Abstract: This study analyzes the Syriac Orthodox rite of the Consecration of the Myron by comparing its structural and theological features with the Eucharistic liturgy. Drawing on manuscripts such as Vat. Syr. 51 and later commentaries, the paper demonstrates that the myron rite is intentionally modeled on the Eucharistic ordo, sharing elements such as processions, litanies, anaphoral structure, benedictions, and epiklesis. The analysis shows how the rite recapitulates salvation history through typology, moving from Old Testament figures and symbols to the full revelation of Christ and the Church. The study argues that the consecration of the myron functions as an ecclesiological drama in which divine self‑revelation, sanctification, and the Church’s participation in God are expressed liturgically.

AYDIN, Mor Polycarpus Augin, “The work of the Holy Spirit in the Church to make it One, Holy, Catholic, and Apostolic, according to the Syriac tradition”, SOPJ 54 (2016), 27-34

Abstract: This study explores the role of the Holy Spirit in shaping the Church as One, Holy, Catholic, and Apostolic within the Syriac Orthodox tradition. Drawing on biblical foundations, liturgical texts, and patristic insights, it highlights the Spirit’s work in worship, sanctification, and ecclesial identity. Syriac hymns and prayers portray the Spirit as teacher, comforter, and sanctifier who enables authentic praise and guides believers into divine truth. The analysis emphasizes the Spirit’s central role in the Eucharistic epiclesis, where creation is transformed and the faithful are consecrated. The four marks of the Church are shown to arise from the Spirit’s continuous activity, uniting believers, sustaining holiness, preserving apostolic faith, and extending the Church’s universal mission.

SHEMUNKASHO, Aho, “Mor Gregorios Yuhanna Ibrahim as a Promoter of Syriac Studies”, SOPJ 54 (2016), 35-40.

Abstract: This article examines the scholarly, cultural, and ecclesial contributions of Mor Gregorios Yuhanna Ibrahim, highlighting his central role in promoting Syriac studies in the Middle East and abroad. Tracing his formation at St. Ephrem Theological Seminary and his later academic work in Rome, the study shows how his pastoral leadership, ecumenical engagement, and intellectual vision shaped Syriac Christian identity in Aleppo and the diaspora. As Metropolitan, he revitalized parish schools, preserved Edessan liturgical heritage, and founded the Dar al‑Raha–Mardin publishing house, producing an extensive body of Syriac scholarship. His initiatives, including the Aleppo Syriac Colloquia and the Barhebraeus Centre, positioned him as a key figure in advancing Syriac theology, education, and intercultural dialogue.

RIZK, Charbel Samuel, “Bönens fenomenologi”, SOPJ 54 (2016), 41-64.

Abstract: This article investigates prayer through the lens of phenomenology, arguing that an authentic understanding of prayer emerges when it is approached as a meaningful lived experience rather than as a psychological or doctrinal object. Drawing on Heidegger’s phenomenology and contemporary phenomenological studies, the author critiques the common view of prayer as negotiation and instead presents it as an encounter shaped by self‑decentering, openness, and existential meaning. The study highlights how phenomenology clarifies the relational structure of prayer, its transformative character, and its grounding in human “being‑in‑the‑world.” It further proposes that Syriac Church Fathers, writing between the fourth and sixth centuries, articulated experiences of prayer that resonate with phenomenological insights, enriching modern interpretations.

AKHRASS, Roger-Youssef, “Les trois anaphores attribuées à Philoxène de Mabboug. Introduction, texte critique et traduction française”, SOPJ 54 (2016), 65-192.

Abstract: This study presents a critical edition and French translation of the three Syriac anaphoras attributed to Philoxenus of Mabbug, situating them within the broader manuscript tradition of nearly ninety Syriac Eucharistic prayers. After surveying the extensive textual witnesses—from the thirteenth to the twentieth century—the article evaluates the authenticity of the Philoxenian attribution through linguistic, theological, and historical analysis. While certain christological expressions resonate with Philoxenus’ writings, other formulations diverge significantly from his vocabulary, suggesting later composition or redaction. The study also examines alternative attributions to Proclus of Constantinople and Basil of Caesarea, concluding that the complex manuscript tradition reflects evolving liturgical usage rather than a single identifiable author.

Ecumenical report

Thirteenth Meeting of the International Joint Commission for Theological Dialogue between the Catholic Church and the Oriental Orthodox Churches, SOPJ 54 (2016), 193-196.

Fourth Meeting of the Anglican-Oriental Orthodox International Commission, Communiqué, SOPJ 54 (2016), 197-199.

Book reviews

Young, Frances M., Biblical Exegesis and the Formation of Christian Culture. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, 1997, pp xiv – 325. By Samuel Issa, SOPJ 54 (2016), 200-201.

Winkler, Dietmar W. (ed.), Syriac Christianity in the Middle East and India: Contributions and Challenges. Piscataway, NJ: Gorgias Press, 2013. pp. xiii +168. By Ephrem Aboud Ishac, SOPJ 54 (2016), 202-206.