Patriarch Yazigi for Rejecting Violence and for Dialogue Among the Syrians
DAMASCUS, (ST)_ Patriarch John X Yazigi of Antioch and All the East for the Greek- Orthodox Church has stressed the need to reject violence in all its forms and to sit at the table of dialogue in the interest of our country , our people and peace in the entire region
In a press conference he held at the Holy Cross Church in Damascus on Saturday, Patriarch Yazigi said: “We are advocates of peace, love and tranquility as we are celebrating the Christmas,” recalling and we have to remember the divine saying :” Do not be afraid, we bring you great joy .”
“As Christians, we still live in amity with the people of our country, realize the meaning of citizenship and patriotism in challenging the outsiders , who seek evil for this country.” he said
“We, Muslims and Christians, stand together ,shoulder to shoulder, and will continue to withstand difficulties and are confident that the face of Christ will not miss this land from where Christianity was given birth.”
The Patriarch extended his greetings and blessings to all Syrians at home and abroad , appealing to the God Almighty to bless the Arab region, and Syria and Lebanon, in particular.
Replying to questions raised by journalists, Patriarch Yazji said the Patriarchal Center will remain in Damascus in the Church of Mary in Bab Touma.
He explained that “Syria is our homeland and we encourage all our people to stay in it and the Patriarchate would seek all ways and means for help .”
His Eminence the Metropolitan Archbishop of Western and Central Europe has been elected Patriarch of the Great City-of-God Antioch and all the East. The Patriarch-elect Youhanna X (Yaziji) was elected by the members of the Holy Synod on December 17th , during a special session held at the Balamand Patriarchal Monastery of the Dormition of the Most Holy Theotokos.
The Patriarch-elect was born in 1955 in the city of Latakiya, Syria into a pious Orthodox home. His father was Syrian and was a professor of Arabic Language. His mother is Lebanese. He has four brothers, with his brother Paul being the current Metropolitan of Aleppo, and he has one sister who is a nun. During his early studies, he played a key role in the leadership of Orthodox youth, and organized many choirs to sing in the local churches.
T. Fateh