Archbishop George of Cyprus has conveyed the unwavering solidarity of the Church of Cyprus with the Patriarchate of Antioch during a phone conversation with Patriarch John X of Antioch. This heartfelt exchange comes in response to the recent catastrophic events affecting Lebanon and Syria, especially the devastating resurgence of conflict in Aleppo.
Archbishop George reiterated the firm support of the Church of Cyprus for the Church of Antioch, emphasizing their shared concern for the challenges faced by the region. “We stand with you and emphasize our brotherly solidarity with the Church of Antioch for the suffering Lebanon has endured from a destructive war and the current situation in Syria,” the Archbishop said.
Archbishop George also conveyed the prayers of the Church of Cyprus, seeking divine intervention to bring back peace, security, and stability to the Middle East.
Patriarch John X, deeply touched by the support, expressed his gratitude for the Church of Cyprus’ solidarity and compassionate gesture. He stressed the vital importance of preserving the Christian presence in the Middle East, despite continuous adversities and years of conflict, highlighting the resilience and unique witness of Orthodoxy in the region.
Similarly, Archbishop Anastasios of Tirana, Durrës, and All Albania engaged in a phone conversation with Patriarch John X to show unity and support. This discussion followed a public appeal by the Orthodox Autocephalous Church of Albania to end the deadly attacks in Aleppo.
Archbishop Anastasios reaffirmed the unwavering commitment of the Church of Albania to the Patriarchate of Antioch, expressing deep concern for the Orthodox Christians affected and the historical significance of the Patriarchate in the region. He highlighted the prayers and support of the Church of Albania during these difficult times.
Translated by: Konstantinos Menyktas