An appeal from the Greek Orthodox Patriarch in Syria

An appeal from the Greek Orthodox Patriarch in Syria

statement on the current situation

[Global Ministries is actively involved in relief efforts both in Syria and with Syrian refugees in Lebanon and Jordan through One Great Hour of Sharing (UCC) and the Week of Compassion (Disciples) offerings.  We continue to hold the people of Syria in our thoughts and prayers.  The Greek Orthodox Patriarchate of Antioch and All the East is among our partners in the Middle East.  It issued the following statement on Sunday, July 29, 2012.]

A countless number of Christians and Muslims are victims of the violence; the hospitals are full with injuries and the pain is endless. Syrians, in spite of their religious backgrounds, have the right to live in their country with pride and dignity. During the past fifteen months, we have lost many people and a large number of Syrians were forced to evacuate from their homes. Christians had to flee their towns, cities and everything they own, and our beloved priests had to leave their churches.

We call all Syrians, in the name of God, to accept each other and live as one nation in our beloved Syria, the cradle of prophets and religions. We urge the United Nations and all Arab organizations to understand and respect our beloved country and to work together in order to achieve peace and stability in Syria.