News by email Donate

Suggestions

Top Stories

Most Read

Popular Videos

aleppo-archbishops-paul-yazigi-and-Yohanna-Ibrahim-main_article_image.png
World News

World Council of Churches demand release of Archbishops abducted in Syria

by Cara Bentley

Syriac Orthodox Archbishop Yohanna Ibrahim and Greek Orthodox Archbishop Paul Yazigi were abducted by gunmen on their way back from the Turkish border to their city of Aleppo.

The World Council of Churches (WCC), a global fellowship of churches, have now issued an official announcement calling for the release of two metropolitans. 

The communique said: "In the years since their abduction, the World Council of Churches has expressed its concern and called for the release of the two archbishops of Aleppo,

"There is still no word on the whereabouts and condition of these two archbishops."

No group has ever claimed responsibility for their kidnapping and the organisation said they wanted to express "its solidarity with Orthodox churches in Syria and Lebanon who still suffer from the abduction". 

The WCC referenced how both archbishops served their communities faithfully: "In particular, H.E. Metropolitan Boulos (Paul Yazigi) helped strengthen this place as a foundation for Orthodox theology and Antiochian spirituality, strengthening the presence of Orthodoxy not only for Antioch but also throughout the east,

"Through its students, this institution continues to extend the Orthodox voice throughout the world."

"Both archbishops demonstrated the love of Christ for all persons without exception, and are considered spiritual Orthodox leaders.The Permanent Committee asks that all continue to pray for the safe return of the archbishops to their churches, their communities and their families, as a sign of hope for all the Christians of Syria and the region."

Stay up to date with the latest news stories from a Christian perspective. Sign up to our daily newsletter and receive more stories like this straight to your inbox every morning.

A Monthly Gift Of $11 Makes A World Of Difference

In a world of fake news there’s never been a greater need for quality Christian journalism. Premier’s mission is to provide the Church with the most up to date and relevant news, told from a Christian perspective. But we can’t do it without you.

Unlike many websites we haven't put up a paywall — we want to keep our journalism free at the point of need and as open as we can. Premier’s news output takes a lot of time, money and hard work to produce. No one in the USA is sharing news like we are across radio, magazines and online so please help us to continue that today.

For a monthly gift of $11 or more we’d also be able to send you a free copy of the brand new Premier Bible, a wonderful Anglicised version of the NLT packed with exclusive bonus content, reading plan and resources to help you get the most out of scripture.

Your monthly support will make a world of difference. Thank you.

Support Us
Continue the conversation on our Facebook page

Related Articles

Sign up to our newsletter to stay informed with news from a Christian perspective.

News by email

Connect

Donate

Donate