Patriarchs and Persecution

Source:

On 7 August 2014, at the heart of a Middle East soaked in blood, the Patriarchs of the East published a press release condemning conflicts and violence which overwhelm the entire region, and most particularly the persecution of innocents and Christians. The religious fundamentalism, and those who feed it through financing its armed movements, affecting the balance and stability in the region, is unequivocally denounced. The Patriarchs therefore send forth an urgency plea to the international community.

Here is their set of conclusions:

At the end of this statement-appeal, the Patriarchs of Eastern Churches declare that:

1. Christians of the Middle East suffer from a serious persecution. They are expelled from their homes and properties seized by extremist groups and “takfiris”, under the guise of a world silence. It is a shame for humanity. As if our times go back to what they were before any law and human coexistence.
2. The religious components and faith-linked values, whether of humanitarian, cultural and ethical nature, are also at stake, menaced in a very dreadful manner.
3. The terrorist extremism and “takfiri” in the name of religion is a major threat for the region and the entire world.

That’s why the Patriarchs insist on:

1. All church leaders adopt a common position, clear and strong, against this persecution and menace.
2. The Arab league, Conference of Islamic Cooperation, UN Security Council, International Court of Justice, the International Community, react immediately through an efficient and massive relief work.
3. All states and parties which finance, directly or indirectly, through arms and money, fundamentalist groups, terrorists and “takfiris” for political and economical purposes, to stop this financing, this support.
4. The Patriarchs express their support to their Christian children ousted from their homes by force and disdain, assuring them that they remain close to them in prayer ; that they will do everything possible for them to find a secure shelter, before getting back to their homes and properties, and restoring their rights.

They also approach their children spread all over the five continents of the world to show solidarity with their brethren of this East in suffering, to help them materially, spiritually and morally, to enable them to hold on to their country in a a firm Christian hope, and to carry on their mission, by announcing the Gospel of brotherhood, justice and peace which the Lord – Man and World Saviour – has entrusted them with, who repeats in these difficult times “ Do not be afraid little flock … In this world you will have trouble. But take heart ! I have overcome the world.” (Luke 12:32 ; Jn 16:33)

Conclusion

We pray together for the repose of the soul of those who were killed during these tragic events, for the consolation of their parents, for the healing of the wounded. We pray also that security and peace prevail in the world, and in particular in our beloved countries, imploring the Lord to inspire leaders and persons of good will, so that they could jointly put an end to this dark and dreary juncture of our history, in order for our region to troubled region to restore its life and stability.