Patriarch Ignatius Aphrem II Delivers Lecture on the Situation of Christians in Middle East at the Yerevan State University

October 2014

On October 13, 2014, His Holiness Patriarch Mor Ignatius Aphrem II was received as a guest of honor at Yerevan State University. The President of the university, Dr. Aram Simonian welcomed His Holiness and the accompanying delegation.

His Holiness Patriarch Aphrem II delivered a lecture on the current situation of Christians in the Middle East and the challenges faced. He  suggested some ideas and solutions that gives a new perspective to the way out of the crisis.

During the lecture, His Holiness depicted the long historical relations that existed between Christians and Muslims in the Middle East and which connect them to their homeland. He also spoke about the current events and the crimes that are committed in the name of religion.

Moreover, he proposed some ideas that are in the interest of peace in the region which will result in Christian-Muslim co-existence He pointed out that the major powers and great countries have to help through peaceful means to ensure the security and living conditions of Christians, thus enable them to remain in the homeland and to live in dignity.

At the end of the lecture, His Holiness answered questions from the audience. The president of the university thanked His Holiness and presented him with a gift.

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