Patriarch John X of Antioch and All the East presided over the Sunday Liturgy and the feast of Saint Joseph of Damascus in the Church of the Holy Cross in Al-Qasaa – Damascus.
He was assisted in service by Bishop Moussa El-Khoury, with the participation of Father Ioan Sauca, Acting General Secretary of the World Council of Churches, as well as many priests and deacons.
The liturgy was attended by the Director of the World Alliance of Ecclesial Organizations, Rodelmar de Faria, Michel Abs, Secretary-General of the Middle East Council of Churches, and Michel Nassir.
Father Ioan Sauca delivered a homily in which he introduced the World Council of Churches and the Middle East Council of Churches along with their work, which stems from and goes along with the faith in the Lord Jesus Christ.
Father Sauca also expressed his and the accompanying delegation’s joy at their visit to Syria and the beautiful impression the visit has left on them, for they have witnessed the faith of the kind and loving people, which is similar to the faith of the centurion mentioned in the gospel’s text that was read today.
He also thanked the Patriarch for the warm hospitality and the distinguished cooperation with the World Council of Churches.
At the end of the liturgy, Patriarch John X wished many happy returns to the faithful on the feast of St. Joseph of Damascus, asking for his intercession, especially during the circumstances we are living in nowadays. He also welcomed the distinguished guests, wishing them a successful and fruitful visit at all levels.
Source: Patriarchate of Antioch
