Just over a year after Syria’s former government collapsed and a provisional administration took control, Christian leaders are urging prayer as violence and instability continue across the country.
The new leadership, dominated by the militant group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), came to power amid widespread concern for the safety of Christians and other minority communities. Although the authorities pledged inclusion and protection, maintaining peace has proved difficult in a nation still deeply affected by more than a decade of war.
Over the past year, Syria has witnessed repeated outbreaks of violence. In March, hundreds of Alawites were killed during attacks by armed groups. In July, fighting broke out between Druze and Bedouin communities in the southern region of Suwayda. In October, clashes erupted between government forces and Kurdish groups in Aleppo following the country’s first parliamentary elections since the change in leadership.
A ceasefire reached between the government and Kurdish forces in December has now collapsed. Reports this week say that seven people, mostly civilians, were killed during renewed fighting.
Sister Annie Demerjian, a local Catholic nun, told the charity Aid to the Church in Need that ordinary people are exhausted after years of suffering. She said the continued conflict, especially in Aleppo, has left families fearful, displaced and grieving.
Catholic missionary Father Hugo Alaniz warned that the latest violence may signal a wider conflict, noting heavy troop movements and increasing gunfire in recent days.
Church leaders across the country are now calling Christians worldwide to pray for peace and reconciliation throughout Syria.
During New Year’s celebrations at the Mariamite Cathedral in Damascus, Patriarch John X Yazigi encouraged Syrian Christians to remain steadfast. He reminded worshippers that Christians, alongside their fellow citizens, have a responsibility to protect and rebuild their homeland.
