Syrian Orthodox Patriarch Under Fire From Bishops Over Respect For Islam

His Holiness Ignatius Aphrem II Syriac Orthodox Patriarchate of Antioch

Six Syrian Orthodox Bishops have publicly condemned the actions of their leader, Mor Ignatius Aphrem II, Patriarch of Antioch. Vatican Insider reports that they are concerned about the Patriarch's respectful displays towards Islam. This includes referring to the 'Prophet Mohammad' and raising a copy of the Quran in a gesture showing respect.

The six bishops have issued a statement that describes the Patriarch's actions as 'contrary to the teachings of Jesus Christ and his Holy Gospel'.

However, a larger group of bishops, some 30 in total, has come to his defence. This group has described the criticism of the Patriarch as 'rebellion against the Church'.

The Syrian Orthodox Church, which is thought to have around five million members worldwide, is based in Damascus, the capital of Syria. Some of its members have been on the front line of the persecution of Christians by Islamic State. However, the Patriarch said of his actions: 'Christ loves everyone, and calls us to be peace-builders with everyone.'

The Patriarch is no stranger to the dangers posed by extremist Islamism in Syria. Last year he was the target of an attempted suicide bombing by a man dressed as a priest – he was protected by security checks which foiled the attacker. 

News
Young people increasingly open to faith and God, research finds
Young people increasingly open to faith and God, research finds

"The time is now. It is urgent," said lead researcher Laura Hancock.

Israeli shelling hits Gaza’s only Catholic Church, killing three and wounding 10
Israeli shelling hits Gaza’s only Catholic Church, killing three and wounding 10

In a rare move, the Israeli Foreign Ministry posted an apology on social media.

Fresh attacks on Christians in Syria after deadly church bombing
Fresh attacks on Christians in Syria after deadly church bombing

Can anyone bring peace and order in Syria?

UK government targets 10 countries to protect believers – but have they made the right choices?
UK government targets 10 countries to protect believers – but have they made the right choices?

As Christians face increasing numbers of attacks across the world, the British Foreign Office is to target 10 countries in a bid to get them to improve their record on protecting freedom of religion or belief (FoRB).