Church of Greece Holy Synod Announces Statement Regarding Bombardment of St. Porphyrios Church in Gaza
Church of Saint Porphyrius
OCP News Service – 21/10/2023
Athens- Greece: The Holy Synod of the Church of Greece, with heavy hearts, continues to closely follow the distressing hostilities unfolding in the Middle East for the past thirteen days. These brutal acts were unequivocally condemned in a statement issued by the Holy Synod of the Hierarchy on October 11, merely four days after the conflict’s initiation. In their statement, they expressed their fervent hope that those in positions of authority might be divinely guided to discover sustainable solutions for the peaceful coexistence of the region’s peoples, characterized by justice and tranquility.
Regrettably, in the course of the recent night, a merciless bombing raid targeted the historic Holy Monastery of Agios Porphyrios, situated in the long-suffering region of Gaza. This calamity resulted in the tragic loss of at least 18 innocent lives, with many others suffering injuries among the hundreds of Christian Orthodox residents who have sought refuge within the confines of the monastery.
The Holy Synod of the Church of Greece once again extends its fraternal support and affection to His Beatitude Patriarch Theophilos III of Jerusalem, His Eminence Archbishop Alexios of Tiberias, and the Holy Sepulcher Brotherhood. These spiritual leaders stand unwaveringly amidst the ongoing strife, which has led to the tragic loss of life and the injuries of thousands of innocent civilians. Their sacred duty remains clear: to minister to their flock by providing spiritual guidance, material aid, and shelter.
The Holy Synod of the Church of Greece fervently wishes and prays for the wisdom and reason to prevail among the conflicting parties. Their heartfelt plea is for hostilities and the shedding of innocent blood to cease as swiftly as possible.
From the Press Office of the Holy Synod of the Church of Greece
Source:
OCP News Service
