Syria's religious leaders send a joint message to the new president

Patriarchs of Syria sent a joint congratulatory message to Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa on January 31, 2025. Photo: Facebook / Antioch Patriarchate

The Patriarch of the Antiochian Church, along with the heads of the Syriac Orthodox Church and the Melkite Greek Catholic Church of Antioch, jointly sent a congratulatory message to Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa upon his inauguration on January 31, as reported on the Facebook page of the Antioch Patriarchate.

In their message, Patriarchs John X, Ignatius Aphrem II, and Joseph Absi asked God to grant wisdom to the new president in leading the country through this critical transitional period.

"We bless your victory and your assumption of the presidency of the Syrian Arab Republic. We pray to Almighty God to grant you strength and wisdom to guide the country through this pivotal transition for the benefit of the nation and its people," the message states.

The patriarchs acknowledged the immense suffering endured by the Syrian people across all communities and expressed hope that a new era of security, freedom, and dignity for every Syrian citizen is beginning.

"Today, we stand on the threshold of a new history, marked by security, freedom, and dignity for every Syrian. Sharing in the joy of Syria’s new dawn, we express our solidarity and support, pledging to work hand in hand with all our compatriots to rebuild the nation and its constitutional institutions," the letter emphasizes.

The message concluded with a call to preserve this new chapter as a precious legacy for Syria, affirming that the Churches stand for the country’s stability and progress.

"May this victory be embraced with great responsibility and trust, so that it remains a valuable legacy for Syria, inscribing new, bright pages in its glorious history. Long live Syria and its free people," the country’s religious leaders concluded.

As previously reported by the UOJ, John of Antioch called for unity in rebuilding Syria.

Read also