ALEPPO/JERUSALEM – In the midst of the chaotic political situation, the Catholic bishops of Syria, on April 25, launched, a new appeal for reconciliation. The Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem and said he is “very worried” about the situation in Syria and in a special way for the Syrian refugees in Jordan. He also assures his prayers in Jerusalem for the situation..
In fact, the situation in Syria continues to be a cause for concern. The Assembly of the Catholic Churches in the country met in Aleppo at the end of April. Of the 17 members that compose it, up to seven were absent because, for security reasons, were unable to reach Aleppo.
The Bishops of Homs, the martyr city of the conflict, and other bishops of the coast have not been able to freely move from their diocesan sees. Rather the following were present: His Beatitude Patriarch Gregorios III, patriarch Greek-Catholic Melkite; Ignatius Joseph III (Younan), Patriarch of the Syriac Catholic Church and the Apostolic Nuncio in Syria, Archbishop Mario Zenari.
The city of Aleppo, at the time of the meeting, was the only city not to rise against Assad, despite some events in recent months, it too, however, is now in great tension following the incidents bloody Wednesday, May 2.
The Assembly published a document (see English text) addressed to all Christians. The message calls for dialogue and urges solidarity, mutual assistance and spiritual force, necessary to resolve the crisis.
The Catholic bishops of Syria again launched their appeal for the national solidarity: “We are on the side of our Syrian people, in search of a dignified life, of national unity and solidarity among all the different groups that constitute the social, religious and national reality “.
The Bishops state that it is urgent: “to pursue a widespread, effective reform process which must be carried out in the public arena, in services and in the political, social and cultural sphere, coordinating the efforts of all Syrians”.
“Violence has passed the limit”
Noting that “the violence has exceeded every limit”, they ask for “reconciliation and dialogue between the State and all the elements of the country, to rebuild confidence, openness to others and respect for different views of a political, religious and intellectual nature.”
The Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, H.B. Fouad Twal expresses his “full solidarity with all the Syrians who suffer.” He assures them of his prayers and that of Christians in the Holy Land.
Very impressed with the influx of Syrian refugees in Jordan, the Patriarch keeps abreast of the situation “with concern about the tragic and violent events in Syria and watches with special attention the humanitarian situation of the refugees, especially that of children and injured”.
Christophe Lafontaine
