Universal Syriac Union Party in Lebanon offers condolences on pass away of Father Paul Mikhail

BEIRUT — Among the mourners of the Late Father Paul Mikhail was the Universal Syriac Union Party (USUP) in Lebanon which had close ties with him.

Via Facebook, the USUP offered its condolences to the Syriac (Aramean-Chaldean-Assyrian) people, considering that Father Paul Mikhail was a musical and spiritual leader in Beirut.

Born in Holeb (Aleppo), Syria, in 1932, Father Paul was married to Helen Abdeljalil Samsatli and is survived by two sons, Mikhail and Youssef, three daughters, Sina, Kima, and Sugit, and ten grandchildren. His funeral will take place next Saturday morning at Syriac Orthodox Mor Ephrem Church in Beirut, with prayers for the repose of his soul scheduled at 2:00 p.m.

Father Paul was a pioneering figure in Syriac music, having led the choir at Mor Yacob of Nusaybini Church in Zalin (Qamishli), North and East Syria, from 1962 to 1965. He founded Syria’s first scout choir and composed the iconic Syriac song, Shamo Mar. His contributions extended beyond music, as he became known for his kindness, spiritual guidance, and deep connections with those around him.

In March 2018, the USUP honored Father Paul Mikhail for his remarkable contributions to Syriac music and Church melodies, celebrating his achievements during a special ceremony at the Municipal Palace Hall in the Bouchrieh Sad area of Beirut.

Father Paul’s legacy lives on through his music, spiritual leadership and the love he shared with the community.