Syriac Union Party hosts community discussion in Sweden

NYKÖPING, Sweden — After a divine liturgy led by Father Ayoub Saliba, members of the Syriac community gathered at St. Matthew’s Church in Nyköping, Sweden, for a discussion organized by Joseph Lahdo, Co-Chair of the European branch of the Syriac Union Party (SUP). The event provided a forum to address the spiritual and political challenges facing the Syriac (Aramean–Assyrian–Chaldean) people.

Call for Fasting and Reflection

During his sermon, Father Saliba highlighted the significance of the Nineveh Fast, urging attendees to dedicate their fasting to supporting the Syriac (Aramean–Assyrian–Chaldean) people in their homeland, particularly in Syria, which is undergoing a critical transitional phase. His message set a reflective tone for the subsequent discussions on the community’s responsibilities and challenges.

Lear More: Syriac Tradition: Observing the Nineveh Fast for Repentance and Renewal

Political and National Aspirations

Joseph Lahdo opened the dialogue by emphasizing the deep ties between the Syriac (Aramean–Assyrian–Chaldean) people and their Churches, encouraging continued engagement with religious and cultural institutions. He then addressed Syria’s uncertain future, calling on the Syriac (Aramean–Assyrian–Chaldean) community to actively advocate for their national rights.

Lahdo commended the progress made by the Democratic Autonomous Administration of the Region of North and East Syria (DAARNES), stressing that the rights of the Syriac (Aramean–Assyrian–Chaldean) people must be upheld across the entire country. He pointed to the political strides made in the region, where Syriacs (Arameans–Assyrians–Chaldeans), under the leadership of the Syriac Union Party, have secured representation and worked alongside other communities.

Unity as the Path Forward

Yakub Mirza, a member of the Bethnahrin National Council (Mawtbo Umthoyo D’Bethnahrin, MUB), underscored the need for unity among Syriac (Aramean–Assyrian–Chaldean) political parties and institutions. He asserted that only through collective action could the community achieve its rightful place in Syria’s future.

Engaging the Community

The event concluded with an open discussion, allowing attendees to pose questions and share their concerns directly with the speakers. The dialogue served as an opportunity for the community to engage in pressing issues and explore ways to safeguard their heritage and rights.