Metropolitan Nektarios of Kerkyra: Syrian Christians today are martyrs
Metropolitan Nektarios. Photo: orthodoxianewsagency.gr
On December 15, 2024, Metropolitan Nektarios of Kerkyra stated during his Sunday sermon that Christians in Syria are enduring martyrdom today.
In his sermon, the metropolitan described the tragic situation of Christians in Syria: "Even today in Syria, Christians are subjected to martyrdom at the hands of the new authorities, fueled by the wars in the region."
The hierarch drew attention to the destruction of churches and the persecution Christians face in this region: "We see images of destroyed churches and the persecution of Christians."
Metropolitan Nektarios called on all believers and representatives of Local Churches to pray for Christians affected by persecution: "Pray that God will take care of these suffering people."
Earlier, the UOJ reported that militants in Syria desecrated the Orthodox Church of Hagia Sophia in Hama Province and looted an Orthodox church in Damascus.
At the same time, Syria's new government has promised to protect the rights of religious minorities.
Read also
ROCOR Priest Reflects on Trip to Capitol Hill
Archpriest Victor Boldewskul participated in the Society of St. John of Shanghai and San Francisco's Day of Action to raise awareness about the persecution of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church.
Hundreds of Chinese Christians Arrested in Pre-Christmas Crackdown
Hundreds of Chinese Christians face spending Christmas in detention after authorities launched a sweeping pre-holiday crackdown on churches under Beijing’s campaign to control religious life.
Ukraine Adviser: UOC Not Banned, but Offered a 'Choice' of Jurisdictions
A Ukrainian presidential adviser said the UOC is not banned but pressured to choose between joining the OCU, submitting to Constantinople, or remaining unregistered, while dismissing international concerns as propaganda.
Indiana Reports 98% Drop in Abortions Under Stricter Law
Indiana’s latest health report shows a 98% drop in reported abortions under stricter laws, though dozens still occurred under legal exceptions and concerns persist about unreported pill abortions.
Armenian Apostolic Church Pushes Back on Political Encroachment
The Armenian Apostolic Church plans to appeal to international bodies to resist government interference and defend its clergy and sacred relics.
Attempted Takeover at Armenian Etchmiadzin Cathedral Thwarted by Faithful
Supporters of Armenian PM Pashinyan attempted to storm Etchmiadzin Cathedral amid calls for the Catholicos’s resignation but were blocked by parishioners and security.