On October 29, 2020, His Holiness Patriarch Mor Ignatius Aphrem II honored Mr. Shady Sarweh, upon his resignation from his office as Executive Director of EPDC, at the Patriarchate Headquarters in Damascus.

The reception was also by their Eminences Archbishops: Mor Boutros Kassis, Patriarchal Assistant and General Manager of EPDC, Mor Dionysius John Kawak, Patriarchal Vicar in the Archdiocese of Eastern USA, and Mor Timotheos Matta Al-Khoury, Patriarchal Vicar in the Patriarchal Archdiocese of Damascus. Members of Mr. Shady’s family and friends as well as the directors of the various departments in EPDC and its employees and partners were also present in the reception.

At the beginning of the reception, His Eminence Mor Boutros Kassis spoke about the work of EPDC as well as the role of Mr. Shady Sarweh in the different stages of the development of EPDC, and the projects that it is executing in different areas. Then a video of the achievements of the EPDC in the social field was diffused.

Then His Eminence Mor Dionysius John Kawak spoke about his personal acquaintance with Mr. Shady since he was the conductor of St. Aphrem Patriarchal Choir. He also remembered the events that they organized together throughout the years. His Eminence appreciated the effective role of Mr. Sarweh in leading EPDC during the phase when it became an institution for development instead of just relief.

In his speech, His Holiness spoke about the ministry of the church and the services it offers to every human being in order to help him preserve his dignity and to live the human values in his society. His Holiness spoke about the different stages that man goes through to reach salvation that the Lord called him to. He mentioned the numerous talents of Mr. Shady Sarweh and his contributions to the works of the Patriarchate since he was a conductor of the Patriarchal Choir to the day he resigned from his office as Executive Director of EPDC. His Holiness emphasized that ministry is evangelization and it reflects the faith of the person. He pointed out that EPDC offers its services in response to the needs and it will continue to offer its services as long as there is a need, in fulfilment of its vision and the faith of the institution, its leadership and the volunteers who work in it. At the end of his speech, His Holiness offered a certificate of appreciation and an icon of the Virgin Mary to Mr. Shady Sarweh in recognition of his efforts and work in EPDC.

At the end of the reception, Mr. Shady Sarweh expressed his gratitude for all who assisted him during his work in EPDC and thanked all those who supported him and made his mission successful. He also expressed his joy to have good relations with the employees and partners of the EPDC who were all part of the mission of serving the needy.