Our Club: Syriac Orthodox Church’s summer haven for children in historic village of Sadad

SADAD, Syria — The Syriac Orthodox Church announced the opening of its summer club for children — Our Club — in Sadad, Syria. Suroyo TV met with club coordinator Sandy Shalouha to learn more about the initiative, which aims to provide a safe environment for children and adolescents aged 4–16 years. 

The club was established in 2012 by Father Boutros Qasis during his service in Sadad. It offers a diverse program that includes Bible study lessons, arts and crafts, group games, and social topics and initiatives aimed at developing children’s social skills.  

The program is divided into two sections: the first for children aged 4–12 years, with a curriculum tailored to their age group, and the second for youth aged 13–16 years.  

The goal of the Our Club program is to teach children new skills and help them discover their hidden talents, as well as to introduce new knowledge using age-appropriate educational tools such as educational videos, puppet theater, Bible study sessions, and Syriac language lessons for the older group.  

The summer education period extends from one and a half to two months, concluding with a final celebration that features performances by the children — guided by their mentors — including plays and various dances in both Arabic and Syriac.  

Abla al-Hay, a ninth-grade mentor in the summer program, also highlighted the importance of developing children’s potential to instill confidence in young people, enabling them to face life’s challenges and fostering a love for teamwork to help them give their best.

Village of Sadad  

Sadad is an ancient village in Syria, mentioned twice in the Old Testament. It lies roughly 60 km (37 mi) south of Hmoth (Homs) and 100 km (62 mi) northeast of Daramsuq (Damascus). Archaeological evidence indicates it has been inhabited since ancient times and was once part of the land of Canaan. Additionally, it served as an important station for trade caravans. 

The name Sadad is of Semitic origin. Various translations differ on its meaning in Aramaic, but it is believed to mean “side of the mountain.” The name refers to a geographical location once described as a tower marking the northern Canaanite border. Another interpretation suggests the name means “precious gem,” reflecting the town’s historical commercial significance. 

Antiquities and Historical Sites  

Sadad’s recorded history dates to the second millennium BCE. Among the most important archaeological findings are tombs and sarcophagi located northwest of Sadad, specifically in the Amro area, known in Syriac as “The Monastery.” The site was once referred to as “Mar Mama,” and served as a cathedral for ordaining bishop-monks. The monastery disappeared in 1715 AD, but several stone sarcophagi of notable historical figures have been discovered there. 

Archaeological missions to Sadad have also uncovered a pagan temple dedicated to the Aramean god Hadad, dating back to before the birth of Christ. The temple was located in the fields and orchards away from inhabited areas and was believed to be a fertility temple, built in several phases.