A Catholic Maronite Rite Mass will be celebrated in place of the Roman Rite at the 7 p.m. Mass in the oratory April 14. The Mass will be celebrated by Chorbishop Michael G. Thomas (right), Vicar General of the Eparchy (Diocese) of St. Maron and pastor at Heart of Jesus Catholic Church (Maronite Rite) in Ft. Lauderdale.

The Maronite Rite dates back to the time of the Apostles in Antioch (Syria) and uses a distinct liturgy characterized by its cultural and linguistic tradition and has always been in complete unity with the Bishop of Rome and the Roman Catholic Church. Mass will be about an hour in length and fulfills the Sunday obligation. A printed guide will be made available so that all may follow along and participate in the Mass.

For a description of how the Maronite Mass differes from the Roman Rite, click here.