A significant meeting took place at the Greek Orthodox Patriarchate of Antioch, bringing together Patriarch John X of Antioch and All the East (Greek Orthodox Church), Patriarch Ignatius Aphrem II of Antioch and All the East (Syriac Orthodox Church), Patriarch Joseph I of Antioch and All the East (Melkite Greek Catholic Church), Cardinal Mario Zenari (Apostolic Nuncio to Syria), and numerous Christian leaders, bishops, and monastic representatives from Damascus and its surroundings. The gathering aimed to address Syria’s current challenges and explore ways to provide hope and resilience to its people.
The discussions focused on the critical need for national unity, mutual support, and a collective Christian witness in society and the global arena. Participants emphasized the importance of collaboration and formed a joint committee to address emerging needs and foster coordinated efforts for the nation’s stability and prosperity.
Meeting with UN Special Envoy
The gathering also included United Nations Special Envoy for Syria, Mr. Geir Pedersen. Patriarch John X welcomed him warmly, reaffirming Syria’s identity as a land of national partnership and equality, rejecting divisions based on majority or minority dynamics. He emphasized that all Syrians share a common destiny rooted in a shared history of triumphs and challenges. “Christians are not guests in their homeland but an essential and integral part of Syria’s social fabric,” he stated.
The Patriarch stressed the need for a democratic and inclusive constitution that guarantees equal participation for all citizens, respects religious freedoms, and upholds civil liberties while maintaining the secular nature of the state. Such a constitution, he noted, should reflect the hopes of the Syrian people for a just and peaceful future.
A Message of Hope and Responsibility
Mr. Pedersen expressed his gratitude for meeting with Syria’s Christian leaders, noting that Syria belongs to all its citizens. “Christians are not visitors but rightful citizens with equal rights and duties,” he remarked. He highlighted the beginning of a new chapter for Syria, acknowledging the challenges ahead but emphasizing the importance of unity and cooperation.
He reiterated the international community’s support for Syria’s recovery, guided by the principles of UN Security Council Resolution 2254, which outlines a roadmap for peace. Mr. Pedersen stressed that Syrians must lead the transitional process, with international backing for constitutional reform, lifting economic sanctions, and facilitating reconstruction efforts. “Today’s meeting sends a powerful message in the right direction,” he said.
Closing with a Prayer for Unity and Peace
The meeting concluded with a heartfelt prayer, invoking God to heal the pain and despair of the Syrian people, to inspire love and unity, and to strengthen efforts toward rebuilding the nation. The leaders expressed their hope for a brighter future where Syria’s rich diversity and shared history serve as a foundation for peace, justice, and prosperity.
