The Conference of Latin Bishops in Arab Regions (CELRA) began their ordinary meeting of representatives in Rome today. CELRA is comprised of the Catholic Bishops of the Latin Church present in Middle East, Egypt and Somalia.
The bishops attending will have the opportunity to concelebrate Mass with the Holy Father every day in the Chapel of Domus Sanctae Marthae.
The meetings will focus on the initiatives taking place for the Year of Faith and the 50th Anniversary of the Second Vatican Council. Also expected to attend is the Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem Fouad Twal.
The meeting will most likely discuss the current conflicts affecting the Middle East, particularly the civil war raging in Syria. According to Fides News Agency, Fr. Georges Abou Khazen OFM, the Apostolic Administrator of the Apostolic Vicariate of Aleppo was going to attend the meeting in Rome.
Unfortunately, the Franciscan father was not allowed to leave the northern Syrian city since it has been under siege by anti-Assad forces.
