FOLLOWING the latest attacks in Syria, one of the country’s leading bishops has issued an impassioned plea for peace – saying that the country needs prayer and not further violence.
Melkite Archbishop Jean Abdou Arbach of Homs, Hama and Yabroud told Catholic charity Aid to the Church in Need that after seven years of war – and the latest bombing raids on the country – Syrians are tired of the conflict.
Archbishop Arbach said: “People cannot take any more.
“They simply want to live an ordinary life, to sleep peacefully in their beds and wake and go to work, and not to the sound of falling bombs.
The prelate called for everyone around the world to pray for the Syrian people and for lasting peace.
He said: “We want and we need peace – please pray for us.
He added that Pope Francis had also asked for prayers for the situation in Syria.
He added: “I pray incessantly for peace, and I invite all people of good will to continue to do the same.
Archbishop Arbach added: “What was the point of this war?
ACN is helping with projects in Homs including scholarships for 4,000 students and the provision of essential foodstuffs and medicines.
The charity is also supporting repair of homes and Church buildings.
Archbishop Arbach said that up to 80 percent of churches and catechetical centres in his archdiocese have already been rebuilt.