Damascus Representation of the Russian Orthodox Church celebrates Christmas

Damascus Representation of the Russian Orthodox Church (St. Ignatius of Antioch Catholic Church) on Friday held a divine liturgy in celebration of Christmas.

Moussa El-Khoury, the Auxiliary Bishop of the Greek Orthodox Patriarchate of Antioch and All the East, presided over the liturgy. He was assisted by Archimandrite Arsani Sokolov, Representative of Moscow Patriarch and All Russia at the Patriarchate of Antioch and All East, and a number of priests.

In his sermon, Al-Khoury talked about the sublime meaning of Christmas, the birth day of Jesus Christ, the messenger of peace and amity. He pointed out that the Orthodox Church in both Syria and Russia have been considered as one church since 1035, hailing Russia’s support and assistance for the Syrian people in fighting terrorism and restoring security and stability to most parts of the country.

 A congratulatory cable, sent by Patriarch Kiril of Moscow and All Russia, the Bishop of the Russian Orthodox Church, was read during the celebration, congratulating the Syrian people and members of the Russian community in Syria on Christmas.

Hamda Mustafa