Damascus, Jan. 1 (SANA) Patriarch John X of the Greek Orthodox Church of Antioch and All the East said on Thursday that Christians in the region are not seeking protection, stressing the importance of partnership among all citizens in safeguarding and building the country.
The patriarch made the remarks during the New Year’s Day Divine Liturgy at the Mariamite Cathedral in Damascus. Several metropolitans, bishops, and clergy assisted him, and the Patriarchal Spiritual Choir performed during the ceremony.
During the service, Patriarch John X prayed for peace in Syria, Lebanon, the Middle East, and the world. He also prayed for the release of the kidnapped, including Metropolitan Yohanna Ibrahim and Metropolitan Paul Yazigi, and for the martyrs of Mar Elias Church.
He stated, “We will not abandon or surrender, even if some are tempted to emigrate.”
The patriarch also recalled Patriarch Ignatius IV Hazim, saying: “I reject the idea of a Middle East without Christians and Christianity, for Christ Himself is Middle Eastern.”
Earlier, President Ahmad al-Sharaa congratulated the Syrian people on the new year via Twitter, expressing hope for a bright future for a united, strong, and stable Syria.
R.H
