Saint Raphael of Brooklyn

A life of faith

Raphael Hawaweeny was born while his family was displaced by persecution. His education and teaching took him through the Middle East and Russia before he accepted a call to serve Arab Orthodox Christians in New York. He traveled widely to reach scattered households, organized parishes, and prepared Arabic prayer resources. He later encouraged English in worship and education for younger generations. Consecrated bishop in Brooklyn, he continued pastoral travel and published a church magazine. His life remembers attentive service across language and distance, with learning directed toward the needs of people who lacked a nearby pastor.

The Eastern Orthodox Church remembers saints in prayer and commemoration. Their lives offer examples for Christians learning to live their faith.

A reflection

Notice a person who lacks a nearby community. Offer a practical welcome, and consider how worship or learning could become easier to understand.

Read the Orthodox source

Feast dates follow the linked source. Local calendars and commemorations may vary. Themes describe a saint’s life; quiz suggestions do not assign a baptismal patron. Discuss choosing a patron saint with your priest.