Patriarchate of Antioch expresses appreciation for Greece’s steadfast support of the Syrian people

On the occasion of Greece’s National Day, a festal Divine Liturgy was celebrated at the Cathedral of the Dormition of the Theotokos in Damascus, under the blessing of His Beatitude Patriarch John X of Antioch and All the East.

The Liturgy was officiated in both Arabic and Greek by His Grace Bishop Arsenios (Dahdal), who was joined by Their Graces, Bishop John (Battas) and Bishop Moses (Al-Khoury), as well as numerous priests and deacons.

Representing the Hellenic Republic were His Excellency Ambassador Emmanuel Kakavelakis, Chargé d’Affaires of Greece in Syria, and other dignitaries. The service was also attended by many faithful of the local Orthodox community.

At the conclusion of the Liturgy, Patriarchal Vicar Romanos offered congratulations to the Greek Ambassador and attendees on behalf of Patriarch John X. He conveyed the Patriarch’s blessings and paternal prayers, highlighting the deep historical and spiritual bonds between Greece and Syria—particularly the fraternal ties between the Churches of Greece and Antioch. He also expressed appreciation for Greece’s steadfast support of the Syrian people in these challenging times.

A joyful reception followed at the Patriarchate, during which Ambassador Kakavelakis had the opportunity to engage in conversation with the hierarchs, further strengthening the spirit of friendship and mutual respect that defines Greek-Syrian relations.