Remembering Archbishop Joseph Raya: A Legacy of Peace and Love

Archbishop Joseph Raya, a prominent figure in the Melkite Catholic Church, dedicated his life to building bridges between communities and advocating for social justice. Born in 1951 and baptized shortly thereafter, Raya served as a godfather and a spiritual guide to many, leaving an indelible mark on those who knew him. His contributions spanned continents and cultures, influencing both his local community and broader social movements.

A Life Rooted in Faith and Community

Father Raya, born in Zahlé, Lebanon, was the seventh of eight children of Almez and Mikhail Raya. He was educated in Paris and ordained a priest in the Melkite tradition in Jerusalem on July 20, 1941. His early career included teaching in Cairo, Egypt, until he faced exile for defending women’s rights.

After relocating to the United States, he became an assistant pastor at St. Ann’s Melkite Catholic Church in Woodland Park, New Jersey, where he met many families, including that of his godchild. During this time, the church was contemplating a shift from traditional liturgies in Latin and Greek to a more accessible format. With Raya’s guidance, his father translated the Greek liturgy, resulting in the widely adopted Byzantine Daily Worship.

Advocacy for Civil Rights and Peace

Raya’s commitment to social justice led him to become pastor of St. George’s Melkite Church in Birmingham, Alabama, where he actively participated in the civil rights movement alongside notable leaders such as Martin Luther King Jr.. His dedication to equality often placed him in harm’s way, as he was targeted and assaulted by members of the Ku Klux Klan for his advocacy.

On October 20, 1968, he was appointed Archbishop of Akko, Haifa, Nazareth, and All Galilee. In this role, he worked tirelessly to foster reconciliation between Arab and Jewish communities, emphasizing love and understanding. Despite the challenges he faced, including tensions with Vatican leadership and local communities, he remained steadfast in his mission.

During a lecture at Madonna House in Combermere, Ontario, Raya articulated his vision of peace, stating, “Do you know what the Lord says about peacemakers in the world? They are children of God.” He believed that those who create beauty and alleviate suffering contribute to the divine work in the world.

Raya’s legacy is not solely defined by his ecclesiastical achievements but also by the warmth he brought into personal relationships. He was known for his jovial nature, often welcomed into homes with excitement and laughter. His visits were marked by joy, as families greeted him with open arms, celebrating the bond they shared.

In reflecting on contemporary issues such as racial prejudice and gender inequality, his teachings resonate profoundly. Raya’s call for love and understanding remains crucial in today’s world. He famously stated, “Those who acknowledge goodness, or re-create it, are acknowledging and singing that God is real and permanently present.”

As we continue to confront societal challenges, the spirit of Archbishop Joseph Raya serves as a reminder of the power of love and the importance of striving for peace. His life exemplified the potential for individuals to make a difference by fostering connections and advocating for justice. The call to laugh, share, and embrace one another is as relevant now as it was during his lifetime. In honoring his memory, we are encouraged to keep trying to build a more inclusive and compassionate world.