(ZENIT News / Rome, 01.23.2025).- Pope Francis has entrusted Cardinal Claudio Gugerotti, Prefect of the Dicastery for the Eastern Churches, with a mission to Syria, a nation still grappling with the aftershocks of war and socioeconomic collapse. This visit, spanning January 24–29, serves as a tangible expression of the Pope’s unwavering commitment to the Syrian people and his desire to foster unity among Christians in the region.
A Nation in Turmoil, A Church of Resilience
Syria finds itself in a precarious state. Over a decade of conflict has left scars on its land, economy, and people, leading to widespread poverty and a mass exodus of citizens. Despite these challenges, Syria’s Christian communities—rooted in ancient traditions—continue to serve as steadfast witnesses to faith and cultural richness.
Pope Francis, in his message accompanying this mission, expressed his deep hope for the reconstruction of a peaceful and prosperous Syria. He called for the removal of sanctions that have exacerbated the nation’s economic struggles and urged the drafting of a new constitution that upholds freedom, human dignity, and inclusivity.
Cardinal Gugerotti’s Itinerary: A Symbolic Journey
Accompanied by Archbishop Michel Jalakh and Father Emanuel Sabadakh, Cardinal Gugerotti’s visit will be rich with spiritual and ecumenical significance. His itinerary includes stops in Damascus, Aleppo, and Homs, where he will engage with Catholic bishops, clergy, religious, and lay faithful.
In each city, he will visit the respective cathedrals of the Greek Melkite, Maronite, Chaldean, Syrian, Armenian, and Latin Catholic communities, joining in prayer and extending Pope Francis’ blessings. These moments will highlight the diversity and unity of Syria’s Catholic faithful, who remain resilient in their commitment to Christ despite ongoing hardships.
The Cardinal will also meet with leaders of local charitable organizations, whose efforts have been vital in providing relief to struggling communities. This underscores the Catholic Church’s active role in promoting not just spiritual healing, but also tangible support for those in need.
Building Bridges Across Christian Traditions
A hallmark of the mission will be Cardinal Gugerotti’s meetings with leaders of the Orthodox Churches in Syria. He is scheduled to meet with His Holiness Mor Ignatius Aphrem II, Patriarch of the Syriac Orthodox Church, and His Beatitude John X, Greek Orthodox Patriarch of Antioch, among others.
In these encounters, the Cardinal will carry Pope Francis’ message that Christian unity is an “unshakable imperative” in today’s fractured world. This outreach reflects the Pope’s vision of ecumenism as a cornerstone for peace and reconciliation, particularly in a region where division has long threatened to undermine collective progress.
A Celebration of Faith and History
On January 25, the Feast of the Conversion of Saint Paul, Cardinal Gugerotti will preside over a Eucharistic celebration at the Memorial of Saint Paul in Damascus.
The Cardinal will also venerate the relics of the Martyrs of Damascus, visiting both the Latin church and the Maronite cathedral in Bab Touma. These acts of devotion highlight the enduring witness of Syrian Christians who, across centuries, have remained steadfast in their faith despite persecution and adversity.
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