In a moving statement, the Synod of Bishops of the Orthodox Church of Finland addressed the tragic situation unfolding in the Middle East.
The catalyst for this response was the deadly attack at the Prophet Elijah Church in Damascus, where over twenty people lost their lives during prayer.
The Church of Finland extended its heartfelt condolences to the Greek Orthodox Patriarchate of Antioch and its Primate, Patriarch John X, expressing solidarity with the suffering people of Syria. At the same time, it voiced serious concern over the escalation of violence across the region, pointing to the rising tensions between Iran and Israel, as well as the ongoing humanitarian tragedy in Gaza.
The statement emphasized the sacredness of every human life, regardless of religion or background, and called for prayer for all those affected by war and violence. The hierarchs urged believers to become instruments of love and reconciliation within their own communities, underlining that peace is born in small, daily acts of empathy and respect.
The message concluded with a reminder of hope from the Gospel of John: “The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.”
You can read the full statement in English here.
