Early Beginnings (1902-1916)

Maronite immigrants from Lebanon began arriving in Richmond, Virginia, in the late 19th century. By 1902, a small community of 15-20 families had established itself. Initially, they attended services at St. Patrick's Roman Catholic Church in Church Hill. However, the desire for a Maronite Divine Liturgy motivated them to hold occasional liturgies in local homes, with a visiting priest officiating. The first Divine Liturgy was celebrated in the home of William Soffee in 1895.
 

A pivotal moment came in 1902 with the formation of the Star of the East Syrian Society. Led by Abraham Sanyour and Monsour John Kouri, the Society aimed to unite Maronites and ultimately establish a dedicated parish. Their first meeting marked the beginning of a journey towards a Maronite Catholic presence in Richmond.
 

The Society approached Bishop Van de Vyvor in 1903 to acquire plots in Mount Calvary Cemetery for Maronite burials. The bishop reluctantly agreed, allocating a plot in the segregated section of the cemetery.
 

Growth and Establishment (1912-1948)

In 1912, a new Bishop, Dennis J. O’Connell, arrived in Richmond. The Maronite community approached him and received permission to use St. Patrick's Church for a limited time on Sunday mornings.
 

A significant development came in 1914 when the community rented and renovated a hall above a candy factory, transforming it into a temporary chapel. Father Abdulla Tarabay arrived to serve the growing community. Unfortunately, a fire destroyed the hall in late 1915.

Undeterred, the Star of the East Society persevered. In 1916, they purchased a building on North 33rd Street, establishing St. Anthony Maronite Catholic Church. The Society also renamed itself St. Anthony's Society. Father Tarabay began celebrating Divine Liturgy in the new building even before renovations were completed. Bishop O’Connell officially dedicated the church, marking a milestone for the Maronite community. Father Tarabay served for two decades before returning to Lebanon in 1934.
 

Expansion and Development (1938-1984)

Following a request from parishioners, the Maronite Patriarch sent Father Anthony Korkemaz to serve as pastor in 1938. He played a key role in raising the profile of the Lebanese community within Richmond. In 1948, Father Anthony led the relocation of St. Anthony's Church to a new location on Park Avenue. He also received the title of Monsignor in 1954 before transferring to Utica, New York, in 1960.
 

Father Beshara Salwan succeeded Father Anthony. He focused on the parish youth, establishing organizations like the Maroniteens and the Altar Boy Society. Social events like picnics and beach trips fostered a strong sense of community.
 

Under Father Salwan's leadership, the church hall on Park Avenue was renovated to accommodate a religious education program for children. Weekly bingo nights became a source of revenue for the parish.
 

A Flourishing Parish (1966-Present)

The parish acquired land in Glen Allen for a future church complex. Father Salwan, along with parishioners and youth, actively participated in clearing the land and building a recreational area with a snack bar, locker rooms, and a caretaker's apartment. This was followed by the construction of a swimming pool, sports courts, a pavilion, and a parish house. The complex became a hub for social gatherings and community events.
 

In 1979, a newly built church was dedicated by Bishop Francis M. Zayek. The complex now included a social hall and an educational building that also served as a daycare center.

Monsignor Salwan remained with the parish until his passing in 1984. He was laid to rest on the church grounds.
 

Continued Growth and Service (1984-Present)

Monsignor George Sebaali assumed the role of pastor in 1984. A significant contribution during his tenure was the establishment of the first Lebanese Food Festival in 1985. This event has become a cherished tradition, celebrating Lebanese heritage and traditions within the wider Richmond community. In 1988 and 2007 the parish sponsored the conventions National Apostolate of Maronites.
 

In 1994, Kenneth Fodill was ordained subdeacon, the first from the parish. Michael Maynes was ordained a subdeacon in 2018, followed by Tony Saad in 2021. Both are in a diaconate formation program.
 

In September 2018, Chorbishop John D. Faris was appointed as pastor.
 

St. Anthony Maronite Church has flourished over the years. The parish boasts active pastoral and finance councils and ministries like the Maronite Women's Fellowship, Maronite Young Adults, and Maronite Youth Organization. A scholarship program supports deserving students, while food drives, Christmas outreach programs, and benefit dinners exemplify the compassion of the parish community.