Patriarch Lahham calls on faithful to stay in Syria

DAMASCUS,(ST)_The Melkite Greek Catholic Patriarch Gregorios III Lahham of Antioch and All The East has underscored that most world Sates say ‘No’ to any military action on Syria, calling on faithful to stay put and not to leave the country.

He thanked those states, Pope francis, and the churches, especially in the United States, who stand by bringing about political solution to the ongoing crisis in the homeland.

The Patriarch was speaking in a prayer ceremony held today at al-Zaytoun Church in Bab Touma square in the country’s capital [Damascus] in response to Pope Fransic’s call for a global day of fasting and prayer for peace in Syria and against any military action.

He cited events taking place in Ma’aloula which has several churches and monasteries, including Deir Mar Takla.

“Don’t be afraid. Stay here in Syria. We will stay here..we will build the new Syria…we will stay here Muslims and Christians,” the Patriarch addressed the faithful.

For his part, Bishop Joseph al-Absi said: “violence will never lead to peace..War causes violence.”

He appealed to the international community to do its utmost to push forward with peaceful initiatives based on dialogue. 

A prayer in al-Bishara Church

Another prayer was held in al-Bishara Orthodox Church in the southern Daraa province where participants called on the spread of love and peace among Syrians who have took the brunt of the terrorists’ crimes for more than two years.

 Praying is not just a devotion or supplication , it is not just a retreat into peace or meditation. It is a powerful weapon, though also a peaceful one.

B.Qaddour