Damascus, December 10, 2024
Photo: antiochpatriarchate.org
The Antiochian Orthodox Church issued a statement yesterday reaffirming its historical and spiritual connection to Syria as a cradle of Divine messages and prophetic heritage, while acknowledging that the country is at a crucial historical crossroads with the overthrow of the Assad government by militant rebels.
The statement emphasizes the need for wisdom and unity during this period, highlighting Syria’s potential for a bright future that honors its identity as a land of civilization.
The Church calls on all Syrians, regardless of their backgrounds, to fulfill their national duty by maintaining unity, protecting property, and working together for the country’s future. The statement concludes with a prayer for peace, linking the current situation to the approaching celebration of Christmas and expressing hope for goodness to prevail throughout Syria.
“God is in the midst of her; she shall not be moved.”
Syria has always been, and continues to be, a country honored by God as the cradle of His divine messages and the land that embraced the footsteps of His messengers and prophets, despite the many historical eras it has endured. Today, it stands at a new crossroads in its history, looking towards a bright future aspired by every Syrian—a future that reflects Syria’s identity as a land of civilization and the cradle of history.
This phase requires wisdom, solidarity, and concerted efforts. Above all, it demands trust in God and reliance on Him, seeking His mercy and the wisdom of His providence to remain steadfast in the love of the homeland and the preservation of its people’s dignity.
Accordingly, as a Church deeply rooted in this great East, we are committed to continuing our journey of serving humanity and promoting peace and harmony among people in a country governed by law and democratic institutions.
In this critical phase, the Church urges all its parishioners and every Syrian citizen, regardless of ethnic, political, or religious affiliation, to fulfill their national duty by striving for unity, protecting public and private property, fostering safety in their surroundings, exercising self-restraint in the face of challenges, and approaching matters with wisdom and foresight. It calls on everyone to extend a hand to those responsible for the care of this beloved country. The Church also appeals to all concerned people to work toward addressing violations and safeguarding the dignity of every citizen, so we may collectively progress toward a brighter tomorrow.
Finally, as we prepare to celebrate the Nativity of Christ born in a Cave, we lift up our prayers to Him, asking for peace to reign in the land of peace, bringing goodness to all the people of this cherished country.
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