Syriac–Assyrian cultural and social complex opened in Giessen, Germany

GIESSEN, Germany — A new Syriac–Assyrian cultural and social complex, the Saint Ephrem and Saint Theodoros Complex, was officially opened in Giessen, Germany, marking a significant milestone for the Syriac–Assyrian community in Europe. The opening ceremony was attended by members of clergy and many members of the Syriac–Assyrian community from Giessen and other regions across Germany.

The event began with a Mass at the Syriac Orthodox Church of Saint Ephrem and Saint Theodoros, presided over by Bishop Mor Felixenos Matthias Naish, Patriarchal Vicar for the Diocese of Germany, with assistance from Father Lahdou, the church’s priest. Syriac Orthodox Patriarchal Advisor Bishop Mor Theophilus George Saliba also participated in the service, during which several new deacons were ordained.

Following the Mass, attendees moved to the newly constructed Saint Ephrem and Saint Theodoros Complex, which was completed after two years of construction. The ribbon-cutting ceremony was performed by members of clergy and leaders of the Milli Council, Metin Gil and Sami Gergin. The complex was blessed by the bishops after a prayer session and performances of nationalist songs, celebrating its significance as the first project of its kind for the Syriac–Assyrian community in Europe.

The opening ceremony saw participation from representatives of various institutions, clubs, and councils, including the European Syriac Union (ESU), Suroyo TV, and former Syriac Member of Turkish Parliament Tuma Çelik. The festivities continued with the cutting of a celebratory cake, and the church provided free meals and entertainment for the children.

The Saint Ephrem and Saint Theodoros Complex features a wide range of facilities, including a wedding hall with a capacity for 700 guests, a funeral gathering hall for 500 people, a conference hall, a youth center, a kindergarten, and a home for the elderly, underscoring its role as a central hub for the Syriac–Assyrian community in the region.