Archbishop George of Cyprus has expressed the unwavering solidarity of the Church of Cyprus with the Patriarchate of Antioch during a telephone conversation with Patriarch John X of Antioch. This heartfelt exchange comes in the wake of the recent catastrophic events impacting Lebanon and Syria, particularly the devastating resurgence of conflict in Aleppo.
During the discussion, Archbishop George reaffirmed the steadfast support of the Church of Cyprus for the Church of Antioch, highlighting their shared concern for the hardships faced by the region. “We stand by your side and emphasize our fraternal solidarity with the Church of Antioch for what Lebanon has suffered from a devastating war and for what Syria now faces,” the Archbishop stated.
Archbishop George also conveyed the prayers of the Church of Cyprus, appealing for divine intervention to restore peace, security, and stability to the Middle East.
Patriarch John X, deeply moved by the support, expressed his gratitude for the Church of Cyprus’ solidarity and brotherly compassion. He emphasized the critical importance of preserving the Christian presence in the Middle East, despite ongoing adversities and decades of conflict, and underscored the resilience and unique witness of Orthodoxy in the region.
Similarly, in a show of unity and support, Archbishop Anastasios of Tirana, Durrës, and All Albania engaged in a telephone conversation with Patriarch John X. The discussion followed a public appeal by the Orthodox Autocephalous Church of Albania for an end to the deadly attacks in Aleppo.
Archbishop Anastasios reaffirmed the Church of Albania’s unwavering commitment to the Patriarchate of Antioch, expressing deep concern for the plight of thousands of Orthodox Christians and the historical presence of the Patriarchate in the region. He emphasized the Church of Albania’s prayers and support during these challenging times.
Translated by: Konstantinos Menyktas
