Patriarch John X of Antioch Addresses Crisis in Gaza

OCP News Service – 16/10/2023

Beirut- Lebanon: His Beatitude John X, the Patriarch of Antioch and All the East, embarked on a fraternal visit to Beirut on October 10, 2023. Upon his arrival at the Beirut Archbishopric, he was warmly received by His Eminence Elias Audi, the Metropolitan of Beirut and its Dependencies, along with the archdiocesan priests.

During his visit, Patriarch John X engaged in a closed-door meeting with Metropolitan Elias, followed by a shared meal. He also addressed journalists, speaking about the challenging circumstances affecting the region. The Patriarch expressed deep concern over the situation in Gaza, where the Palestinian population has suffered from racial discrimination policies for many years. He called upon the international community, relevant authorities, and the United Nations to intervene swiftly and put an end to the ongoing crisis in Gaza.

Patriarch John X emphasized that it is time for an end to the oppression and suffering of the Palestinian people and urged the world to recognize their right to dignity and justice. He decried the impact of violence and expressed the hope that the world’s conscience would be stirred to seek a solution for the Palestinian cause.

Additionally, the Patriarch addressed the situation in Lebanon, where citizens have faced economic turmoil, loss of savings due to bank issues, and other challenges. He called upon Lebanese authorities to come together for the greater good of the nation, urging them to work towards resolving the current issues, including the need for presidential elections to initiate reforms and combat corruption.

Patriarch John X provided insights into the forthcoming Holy Antiochian Synod, scheduled for the following week. The Synod’s agenda includes three major themes: the family, the provision of humanitarian aid, and the canonization of two esteemed priests, Father Nicolas Khashe and Father Habib Khashe, who had sacrificed their lives for the Orthodox faith.

Furthermore, the Patriarch announced an international conference on October 16, focusing on the history of the Church of Antioch during the period between the fifteenth and eighteenth centuries. This initiative aims to provide an accurate account of this sensitive period, correcting potential misconceptions or misrepresentations in the historical record.

In conclusion, Patriarch John X extended prayers for global peace, healing for the sick, and comfort for the bereaved. He emphasized the importance of unity and collective efforts for the betterment of Lebanon and the well-being of all humanity.

Source:
OCP News Service