Greek Church calls on government to act in defense of Syria

Archbishop Ieronymos II of Athens. Photo: Orthodoxtimes

Archbishop Ieronymos II of Athens. Photo: Orthodoxtimes

Archbishop Ieronymos II of Athens has urged the Greek Foreign Ministry to take immediate action to safeguard the Greek Orthodox community in Syria amidst an increasingly threatening situation, reports Orthodoxtimes. Pointing to the deteriorating conditions in the war-torn country, the archbishop expressed deep concern for the fate of the Christian presence in the region.

“The situation in war-torn Syria has once again become extremely volatile. The internal armed conflict has deteriorated further, with dramatic consequences for the civilian population,” Archbishop Ieronymos stated.

The Greek Church expressed solidarity with Patriarch John X of Antioch, Metropolitan Ephraim of Aleppo and the suffering Orthodox faithful in Syria, and supported Christian leaders of other Churches whose communities are facing similar challenges. The Archbishop emphasized the importance of joint efforts to protect all Christians in the region.

Archbishop Ieronymos called on the Greek government and the international community to lead diplomatic and humanitarian initiatives aimed at stabilising the situation, protecting Orthodox Christians and rebuilding the affected areas. He stressed that the preservation of Christian heritage in Syria is of global importance, symbolizing mutual respect and cultural diversity.

As reported by the UOJ, Metropolitan Ephraim (Maalouli) of Aleppo and Iskanderoun said that the Church continues its ministry in Syria despite the military situation.

SBU told Phanar many UOC bishops would join OCU in 2018, report says

According to a Phanar representative’s account, Ukrainian security services told the Constantinople delegation that many UOC representatives were prepared to attend the OCU’s “Unification Council.” In the end, only two did.

Catholic cardinal visits Ukrainian POWs during trip to Russia

During three days of consultations in Moscow, Cardinal Matteo Zuppi discussed prospects for ending the war in Ukraine.

Ukrainians help restore Serbian Orthodox church in Paris

Orthodox Ukrainians have become regular parishioners of St. Sava Church in Paris and have taken part in its restoration.

Bulgarian Church clergy and laity oppose Phanar head’s visit

More than 2,000 clergy and laity have called for the Ecumenical Patriarch’s visit to be canceled, citing disagreement with his actions and concerns that the visit could legitimize schism.

Unknown intruders break down doors at two UOC churches in Sloviansk

Archbishop Paisiy said OCU activists are suspected of breaking into the churches in Sloviansk, and police have launched an investigation.

Sviatohirsk Lavra prays for murdered monk on 40th day after death

The brethren of the Sviatohirsk Lavra held a memorial service for murdered Monk Varsonofiy, calling on the faithful to pray for the newly departed monk.