RECENT STATEMENTS BY HIS HOLINESS ARAM I ON THE SITUATION IN SYRIA

27 August 2012. In recent weeks, either in his messages to the community or when receiving foreign guests, Catholicos Aram I has addressed the situation in Syria. Together with the members of the executive council of the Catholicosate, the Prelate and Diocesan Council in Syria, he has been monitoring the situation.

In view of the situation in Syria His Holiness has made the following statements:

“I cancelled my pastoral trip to the United States of America in order to follow the situation of our people in Syria closely”.

On the Feast of Transfiguration of St. Mary, Catholicos Aram I said to the faithful, “Since the Genocide in 1915, because of its history and organization, our community in Syria has played a crucial role in the diaspora. We should accompany them during these difficult times”.

“Humanitarian assistance to the Armenian community in Syria should become our top priority”.

“The Armenian population of Syria remains committed to its homeland and to Christian-Muslim dialogue”.

In his letter addressed to the prelates of dioceses, he appealed the Armenians to help the Armenian community in Syria.

Yesterday, during a meeting of the executive council, Catholicos Aram I said: “We should be wary of Turkey’s role in the region; unfortunately, there are false rumors both inside and outside the region about the Armenian Community vis-à-vis the crisis in Syria. Such rumors should stop”. His Holiness then added, “Armenians in Syria remain committed to Christians and Muslims living together and pursuing the common good. Armenians in Syria reject any external pressure. Armenians in Syria will never forget the warm welcome with which the people of Syria received the survivors of the Genocide. Armenians in Syria, as elsewhere, are committed to promoting justice, peace and dialogue of religions, cultures and people”.

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