Patriarch John X of Antioch arrived at the headquarters of the Metropolis of Beirut on Thursday, May 28, 2026, where he was welcomed by Metropolitan Elias Audi and members of the Holy Synod of the Greek Orthodox Patriarchate of Antioch.
Following a prayer service, Patriarch John X presided over a meeting attended by the Metropolitans of Sidon, Byblos and Batroun, Tripoli and Koura, Zahle and Baalbek, as well as Bishop Constantine of the Monastery of Saint Elias Shouya.
At the outset, the Patriarch and the hierarchs extended warm greetings to Muslims on the occasion of Eid al-Adha, expressing their hope that the feast would bring blessings, peace, and prosperity to Lebanon and the wider region. They prayed that by next year the current crises and conflicts would have subsided and that stability would prevail.
The participants discussed the challenging situation in Lebanon, ongoing security concerns, and the difficulties facing the country. Patriarch John X emphasized the historic role of the Orthodox Church as a bridge of communication and reconciliation, noting that the Church continues to engage with all parties in an effort to promote dialogue and consensus on issues affecting Lebanon’s future.
Particular attention was given to supporting the people of southern Lebanon, especially those who have been displaced by recent events. The Patriarch stressed the need to assist affected families and help them return to their homes and rebuild their lives.
The meeting also addressed a range of ecclesiastical matters, including the life of the Patriarchate of Antioch, Christian relations, and the situation of Christians in Lebanon, Syria, and the broader Middle East. Discussions further focused on the growing challenge of emigration, with the hierarchs exploring ways to encourage people to remain in their homeland and overcome current hardships.
Patriarch John X also highlighted the importance of countering extremist religious rhetoric and promoting moderation, reaffirming the Church’s longstanding role in fostering peace, dialogue, and social cohesion throughout the region.
