Pope Leo to Christians in the Middle East: ‘The Whole Church Stands With You

VATICAN CITY, June 25, 2025: Pope Leo XIV on Wednesday remembered the terrorist attack on the Mar Elias church in Damascus, Syria, on June 22, and offered prayers for the victims of the attack and their families. Speaking during his weekly General Audience, the Pope described the incident as a “vile terrorist attack” and reaffirmed the Church’s solidarity with Christians in the region.

“I am close to you, and the whole Church stands with you,” Pope Leo said, directly addressing Christians in the Middle East. He emphasised that the attack on the church underscored the persistent instability and fragility in Syria, which has endured years of conflict and suffering.

The pontiff urged the international community not to avert its attention from Syria but to offer support “through acts of solidarity and a renewed commitment to peace and reconciliation”.

In his remarks, Pope Leo also voiced concern over ongoing tensions in Iran, Israel, and Palestine and called for an end to all forms of violence. Citing the prophet Isaiah, he said, “Nation shall not lift up sword against nation, neither shall they learn war anymore.”

The Holy Father expressed hope that this vision of peace would resonate in the region and that “the wounds caused by the bloody events of recent days be healed.”

In closing, the Pope urged all leaders of all nations involved in conflict in the Middle East to reject paths of domination and revenge and instead choose “the path of dialogue, diplomacy, and peace”.

Courtesy: Vatican News