Sextons/Deacons/Mshamshono have been unavoidable in the church since the first Century. In the Holy Bible, these groups are mentioned-
Philippians 1:1 “Paul and Timotheus, the servants of Jesus Christ, to all the saints in Christ Jesus which are at Philippi, with the bishops and deacons”.
Acts 6:3″Wherefore, brethren, look ye out among you seven men of honest report, full of the Holy Ghost and wisdom, whom we may appoint over this business.
Bar Hebraeus Hudaya Canon (Nomo canon) Chapter I, Division IV states the role of Sextons in the Syriac Orthodox Church.
Our Parish is blessed with a group of Sextons who actively participate and fulfil their responsibilities.