Syriac Orthodox Church and Christian leaders call for unity and peace during Syria’s political transformation

DARAMSUQ — Following the fall of the authoritarian Syrian regime, the Syriac Orthodox Patriarchate of Antioch and All the East issued a statement emphasizing that Syria is at a critical juncture in its history. The Church reaffirmed its commitment to spreading justice and peace among all citizens during this pivotal time.

The statement urged adherence to divine teachings that promote wisdom, mercy, and faith, calling for a society built on tolerance, understanding, and cooperation. It appealed to all Syrians to uphold their national duty by safeguarding public and private property, respecting neighborly relations, and refraining from violence or the use of weapons under any circumstances.

Archbishop Hanna Jallouf, Apostolic Vicar in Holeb (Aleppo) and head of the Latin Church in Syria, reflected on the unexpected fall of Holeb to opposition forces and the rapid political changes that reshaped Syria within days. Initially, he admitted to feelings of fear and uncertainty due to the unfamiliar situation but noted assurances from opposition factions that Christians would remain an integral part of Syria’s cultural mosaic, with guarantees that churches and Christian properties would be protected.

In Al-Suqaylabiyah, a town in the Hemto (Hama) countryside, Christian clerics congratulated the Syrian people on the regime’s fall. They emphasized the unity of the Syrian people and called for collective efforts to rebuild Syria into a nation of fraternity, serving as a model of coexistence for the world.

The clerics also urged displaced Syrians to return to their homeland, advocating for their active participation in the nation’s reconstruction and its future as a pluralistic society.