Antiochian Patriarch discusses peace and future of Christians with Turkish officials

Patriarch John X with Turkish officials and clergy during his visit to Antioch. Photo: Orthodoxia News Agency

On April 20, 2026, Patriarch John X of Antioch arrived in Antioch as part of a multi-day pastoral visit to southern Turkey, where he held meetings with government officials and clergy, Orthodoxia News Agency reported.

The Patriarch was warmly received at the Syrian-Turkish border by clergy, representatives of Orthodox communities, and faithful who accompanied him to his residence. Upon arrival, he emphasized that Antioch remains the spiritual center of the Antiochian Orthodox Church and a place inseparably linked to the origins of Christianity.

On April 21, the Patriarch met with Hatay Governor Mustafa Masatlı. Hierarchs of the Orthodox Church and representatives of local communities also took part in the meeting. The Patriarch particularly stressed the importance of peaceful coexistence among religions, underscoring that preserving a Christian presence in Antioch is an important part of the spiritual heritage of the entire Orthodox world.

Particular attention was given to the situation of the region’s Orthodox faithful after the devastating earthquake of February 6, 2023. The talks addressed the restoration of churches and ecclesiastical life, including the rehabilitation of ancient shrines such as the Church of the Holy Apostles Peter and Paul. Support for parishes and the preservation of the Church’s structure in historic Antioch were also discussed.

The Patriarch thanked the Turkish authorities for the assistance they had provided to Orthodox communities both in the aftermath of the natural disaster and in preparation for the visit.

During a meeting with the municipal council of Antioch, the discussion turned to the restoration of urban infrastructure and living conditions for the faithful. Special emphasis was placed on Antioch’s role as one of the most ancient centers of Christianity, where, according to the Acts of the Apostles, the disciples of Christ were first called Christians.

Municipal authorities also noted their interest in developing religious tourism connected with the Christian shrines of the region. For his part, the Patriarch stressed the need to preserve the Orthodox presence and spiritual tradition in Antioch.

In conclusion, he highlighted the significance of the upcoming consecration of Archimandrite Paul Orduluoglu as Bishop of Tarsus, who will carry out pastoral ministry for the Orthodox faithful of the region.

The consecration will take place on April 25, 2026, at the Church of the Holy Taxiarchs in Mersin.

Earlier, the UOJ reported that the Patriarch of Antioch had called for an end to violence against Syria’s Christians.

Read also