Hamere Noh (Ark of Noah) St. Mary’s church which is found under the Diocese of the USA & Canada held it’s annual feast of the birth of the Holy St. Virgin Mary on the 1st and 2nd of Ginbot 2017 (May 11 2025). Honored by the presence and leadership of His Grace Bishop Elias of the Diocese and the Liqe Hiruyan (Chief among the Chosen) Father Priest Michael Teklay.

After beginning the eve prayers on Friday at 4pm with the presence of His Grace alongside all the fathers from various from around the states, the melodies and beautiful praises were completed in honor of the Holiness of the Holy St.Virgin Mary, and the evening was concluded with prayer.

The following morning starting at 2 am the chief fathers arose in honor of the feast of our mother the Holy Virign Mary. After completing morning canticles that touch the heart in the likeness of the angels, the rite of the Divine Liturgy was concluding by the leadership of His Grace Abune Elias according to the schedule, following by the feast’s homily given by reverend father Priest Melake Birhanat (Angel of Lights) Father TsegazeAb Negash, lead priest of Debre Gi’izan Iyesus Kristos Philadelphia under the theme verse of “Why do you seek the living amongst the dead” Luke 24:5.

Subsequently His Grace Bishop Elias of the USA & Canada Diocese gave words of wisdom and advice and anointed 7 youth from various cities & states such as: New Jersey, Cincinnati, Raleigh & Houston to the diaconate, and one deacon was anointed and elevated to the rank of Priesthood.

Following this, Mr Tewodros Birhan, a representative on behalf of the board delivered a brief message regarding the establishment of the church, its progress and a financial summary. 

Afterwards, the church's tabernacle procession was held by the leadership of His Grace Abune Elias and the orbiting of the church by reverend fathers, chief priests, as the Sunday school youth presented beautiful hymns and mothers with their ululy & supplications.

After concluding with the prayer of the “Peace of the Father,” supplications were completed. Followed promptly by the agape meal that the board and congregants prepared, the feast concluded with a benediction prayer by His Grace.