Patriarchate of Antioch: Metropolitan Paul is not depicted in circulating photo

A photograph circulating online in recent days, purportedly showing Metropolitan Paul of Aleppo, who was kidnapped 11 years ago, has been addressed by the Patriarchate of Antioch. The Patriarchate has stated that it cannot confirm the authenticity of the claims.

In a recently issued statement, the Patriarchate clarified, “In light of recent social media posts asserting that Bishop Paul is alive, the Patriarchate promptly conducted an investigation and subjected the individual in question to thorough medical and scientific examination in the hospital.”

The statement further emphasised, “The Greek Orthodox Patriarchate of Antioch and All the East confirms that the circulating claims are false and that the person identified in the photo is not Bishop Paul. The Church of Antioch remains committed to praying, working, and prioritising the case of the two kidnapped Bishops, Paul and John-Ibrahim, while asking God to answer the heartfelt prayers of its faithful for their safe return.”

This announcement follows another statement made by the Patriarchate earlier, cautioning the faithful about the spread of misinformation. “Social media and newly created websites often recycle unverified news, especially concerning ecclesiastical matters in Syria. We urge our faithful to rely solely on the official sources, particularly the official page of the Greek Orthodox Patriarchate of Antioch,” the Patriarchate stated.

Meanwhile, the family of Metropolitan John-Ibrahim, who was kidnapped alongside Bishop Paul, has expressed unwavering hope for their fate to be uncovered. As reported by Arabic media, the family shared, “We hold onto faith and patience, hoping to learn about the Bishop’s fate, even as 4,250 days have passed since their disappearance.”

The family further called for intensified efforts to secure the release of all those unjustly detained or kidnapped in Syria, reiterating their heartfelt plea for resolution to this prolonged and tragic ordeal.

Source: orthodoxtimes.com