Antiochian hierarch: We continue our ministry in Aleppo despite threats

Metropolitan Ephraim. Photo: Hellas Journal

Metropolitan Ephraim (Maalouli) of Aleppo and Iskenderun, a hierarch of the Antiochian Orthodox Church – the largest Christian community in Syria –delivered a pastoral message to his flock in Aleppo:

“...our beloved children in Aleppo, we remain here, in Aleppo, with our flock in all circumstances – from the most difficult to the most joyful. This is our pastoral ministry, and we will steadfastly continue to fulfill it. In times of need, we will be your support, so do not hesitate to reach out to us directly.

We assure you that prayers in our churches will continue as circumstances and available means allow. In prayer, dear ones, we cast our burdens upon God and trust in Him. Therefore, I urge you: pray without ceasing! Let us patiently follow Christ's path to the cross, until we rise with Him in His Resurrection! May the intercession of St. Simeon the Stylite, the patron of the Aleppo Diocese, be with you always!”

Metropolitan Ephraim assumed leadership of the Aleppo Metropolis on December 17, 2021, following the kidnapping and martyrdom of his predecessor, Metropolitan Paul (Yazigi), who was murdered by Islamists in 2016.

On December 1, 2024, reports indicated that terrorists attacking Aleppo are planning to locate and behead Metropolitan Ephraim.

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