The Holy Synod of the Hierarchy of the Church of Greecewhich is meeting in Athens, during its regular session, said in a statement that it observes with deep regret the hostilities, which are mainly taking place these days in the Middle East.

“War always constitutes a tragedy in the life of humanity, because it goes against God’s law, which respects human life and resists anyone who attempts it. Above all, war is a tragedy for the civilian population and young children, who at this tender age face the horrors of war and the agony of death. We unequivocally condemn any act of terrorism against our fellow human beings, of any race and religion, wherever they come from“, notes the Holy Synod.

The Archbishop of Athens and all Greece Mr. Ieronymos and the metropolitans, who constitute the Body of the Holy Synod of the Hierarchy of the Church of Greece, pray, as they point out, “to end these hostilities, to stop shedding human blood because, if they continue, there will be terrible consequences, not only for the peoples themselves, but also for the neighbors and for all humanity».

“We stand with brotherly love to the Patriarch of Jerusalem Mr. Theophilos III and the Holy Sepulcher Brotherhood, who, being Deacons of Peace, minister with sacrificial love, peace in the Holy Land and fight for the peaceful arrangement of things in this long-suffering region of the earth, where all religions and races meet, wishing them to continue to work with inspiration their ministry of martyrdom in their flock for peace in the region. The Holy Places must be a cause of coexistence and mutual respect and not a cause of division, national rivalries and conflicts.

Likewise, we sympathize with the families of the victims and pray for the speedy recovery of the injured and the return of the hostages to their families. In this perspective, we wish God to enlighten those in charge to find sustainable solutions for the coexistence of peoples, with peace and justice“, concludes the Holy Synod in its announcement.