Syriac Orthodox Patriarch AphremI II lays foundation stone for new Cross Monastery in Sweden

NYKÖPING, Sweden — Syriac Orthodox Patriarch Mor Ignatius Aphrem II presided over the ceremony to lay the foundation stone for the new building of the Cross Monastery in Nyköping, Sweden.

The new facility will feature lecture halls and classrooms for youth education, as well as spaces for spiritual retreats and Church activities. Additionally, there will be rooms to accommodate visitors.

The foundation stone event was attended by prominent Church leaders, including Syriac Orthodox Patriarchal Vicar in Sweden Mor Dioscorus Benjamin Ataş, Syriac Orthodox Archbishop of Sweden and Scandinavia Mor Youhanon Lahdo, Patriarchal Vicar in Europe Mor Theophilos Kuriakose, and Patriarchal Secretary Mor Augeen El Khoury Nemat. Monks from the monastery and members of the Church councils in Sweden also participated.

The Cross Monastery is the first Syriac Orthodox monastery in Sweden, dedicated to preserving the heritage of the Church while fostering study and prayer. It will serve as a spiritual hub for those seeking a deeper connection with God.