Damascus, April 8 (SANA) Children gathered at Ibrahim al-Khalil Monastery in Damascus for an Easter-themed arts and cultural event organized by the Directorate of Child Culture at the Ministry of Culture.
The event brought together about 200 children aged four to five in a day of activities designed to combine play with learning, including drawing, egg painting, storytelling sessions and introductory chess games.
Organizers said the program aimed to provide an interactive environment where children could explore early skills in creativity and expression. The monastery courtyard was transformed into an open space blending art and storytelling in a festive setting.
Arif Jweijati, assistant director of Child Culture at the Ministry of Culture, said the event was held in cooperation with the Greek Catholic Church to celebrate Easter, highlighting the role of culture in bringing communities together.
He added promoting citizenship and strengthening social cohesion remain key objectives of the ministry, with cultural initiatives reinforcing shared values across Syrian society.
Archimandrite Father George Jbeili, head of Ibrahim al-Khalil Monastery, said the event was being organized for the first time in cooperation with the ministry, aiming to offer diverse activities for children during religious holidays while supporting talent development.
Children attending the event said they enjoyed the activities, particularly games, drawing and gifts, as well as the festive atmosphere.
The initiative is part of a broader series of programs implemented by the Directorate of Child Culture across several Syrian provinces, aimed at supporting childhood development, enhancing creative skills and promoting culture as a bridge for community engagement.
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