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Photo: Hovic
The Crisis in Syria
We are all watching the unfolding crisis in Syria with concern and alarm. As with other situations, particularly in Egypt and Libya, we are acutely aware of the human cost of what happens when old regimes that have held power for so long are challenged.
As Christians the land of Syria is deeply embedded in the story of our faith - Damascus is associated with the conversion of Paul and many of the first Christian communities where established there.
The Christian community in Syria is one of the oldest in the world and this and its location in the heart of the Middle East means that is as important to Christians as Israel and Palestine.
On this page we will be listing some of the recent statements from churches and other bodies that might be helpful in your prayers. We will also list here any action that is suggested.
(All links are to external websites)
23 April 2013
Call for prayers for kidnapped Syriac and Greek Orthodox Archbishops
Prayers are requested for Archbishop Gregorios Yohanna Ibrahim and Archbishop Boulos (Paul) who are reported kidnapped by armed insurgents in northern Syria.
Society of St John Chrysostom 
30 November 2012
Day of Prayer for the Middle East
The Catholic Church in England and Wales is calling for a day of prayer for peace in the Middle East to be observed on 4 December 2012, the Feast of St John Damascene.
Catholic Church in England and Wales
31 October 2012
Report - A Gathering for Syria
Sally Foster Fulton, Convener of the Church and Society Council of The Church of Scotland, reports back from the event at St Giles' Cathedral in Edinburgh.
Church of Scotland
24 October 2012
A Gathering for Syria
30th October 2012, St Giles Cathedral, Edinburgh, 6pm-7pm
A coming together of civic and faith communities: with music, readings and reflections to express shared support and hope for the people of Syria. This event is hosted by the Church of Scotland and supported by Edinburgh Inter-Faith Association and City of Edinburgh Council.
18 October 2012
Pope to send Delegation to Syria
Pope Benedict XVI will be sending a delegation to Syria to express "fraternal solidarity with the entire population".
Catholic Bishop's Conference of England and Wales
5 September 2012
WCC calls for dialogue and prayer in support of peace in Syria
Statements
Download the Podcasts on the Middle East from Dr Harry Hagopian
Christian Aid web page on the Syrian Crisis
Statement on Syria from the Catholic Bishops' Conference of England and Wales
WCC general secretary condemns violence in Syria
WCC underscores UN responsibility for peace in Syria
An appeal from Patriarch Ignatius IV of Antioch and All the East (PDF)
The World Council of Churches support for the Churches in Syria
Read the report on CTBI's visit to Israel-Palestine, aimed at helping CTBI discern how it should engage with the issues there