About Saint Basil the Great [Melkite] · Lincoln, Rhode Island
Saint Basil the Great Melkite Greek Catholic Church in Lincoln, Rhode Island, is a Melkite parish founded by Syrian immigrants in the early 1900s, rooted in the ancient Patriarchate of Antioch. It is a Byzantine Catholic community that has endured trials and continues to serve Rhode Island and Massachusetts. The church moved to its current Lincoln location in 1975 after a fire destroyed its original building on Broad Street, and today it operates from a 26,000 sq.ft. complex with a large hall, Sunday school, and expanded cemetery. The parish is known for its strong community, faith formation, and long-term vision for growth.
- Established
- 1907
- Patron
- Saint Basil the Great
- Rector
- Rt. Rev. Archimandrite John Azar
- Diocese
- Melkite Eparchy of Newton
Why belong here
Join a vibrant, faith-filled community that offers strong religious education, active ministries, and a deep commitment to serving others. The parish provides a nurturing environment for families, with Sunday School programs for children through Grade 8, and opportunities to participate in worship, sacraments, and community events like annual festivals and bazaars. The church’s long-term vision includes building a rectory, formal church, and assisted living housing, reflecting its dedication to growth and service.
History
Founded by Syrian immigrants in 1907, the parish moved to Lincoln in 1975 after a fire destroyed its original church. The current 23-acre complex was built in 1998 and includes a large hall, Sunday school, and expanded cemetery. The parish has doubled attendance and grown its real estate value 30-fold.
Ministries
The parish offers Sunday School for children through Grade 8, annual Festival, Bazaar, and Hafli, as well as MYO and Bingo fundraisers. The community is active in worship, service, and outreach.
- Sunday School
- Festival
- Bazaar
- Hafli
- MYO
- Bingo Fundraiser
Faith Formation
The Sunday School program uses 'The God With Us' curriculum to teach children about God, the Church, and the Bible. Each grade level builds on the previous, with an emphasis on participation in worship and developing a personal relationship with God.
Sacraments
The parish offers the Holy Mysteries, including Baptism, Chrismation, Eucharist, and Repentance. The curriculum for children includes preparation for these sacraments through age-appropriate lessons.
Pastors & rectors through the years
- Fr. Hananias Boury1907 to 1919
- Fr. Timothy Jock1919 to 1948
- Rt Rev. Archimandrite Justin Najmy1948 to 1966
- Fr. Peter Capucci1966 to 1973
- Rt. Rev. Exarch Joseph S. Haggar1973 to 2020
- Fr. Ephrem Kardouh2020 to 2025
- Rt. Rev. Archimandrite John Azar2025-Present