Christian theological meeting in Syria

http://www.sana.sy/eng/21/2008/01/30/158778.htm

A Three-Day Theological Meeting Kicks off in Ma'arrat Sidnaya, Near Damascus
Wednesday, January 30, 2008 - 08:00 PM
Damascus, (SANA)- The 5th meeting of the theological dialogue atarted on Wednesday at Mar Aphram the Syria Monastery in Ma'arrat Sidnaya, near Damascus with the participation of the Vatican representatives (the Catholic Family) and Oriental Orthodox Churches (Family).
The meeting would discuss theological issues between the two churches, the Christian unity and defending the beliefs through amity and mutual understanding.
His Beatitude Patriarch Mar Ignatius Zakka I Iwas of Antioch and All Orient and Supreme Head of the Syriac Orthodox Church in the World delivered a speech stressing that the Eastern Churches were keen on continuing discussions with the Catholic Church to make rapprochement between them and reach mutual understanding.
His Beatitude voiced happiness that this meeting was being held in Damascus, capital of the Arab culture and cradle of civilizations and heavenly religions and from which the message of Jesus Christ had spread to the whole world.
He pointed out that Syria was the symbol of national unity and coexistence and an example to be followed in the world.
The opening ceremony was attended by 30 Christian figures from the Vatican, the US, Armenia, Egypt, Lebanon, Ethiopia, Eritrea, Indian, some European countries and Syria.
Representative of the Vatican and Head of the Catholic delegation Cardinal Walter Casper highlighted the meeting which grouped together the two churches in an atmosphere of amity and cooperation.
He expressed happiness that the meeting was held in Syria, the country of safety and stability in this tense region.
Ahmad Fathi ZAHRA

-and-

http://www.sana.sy/eng/21/2008/01/29/158606.htm

Syria offers condolences over the death of Archbishop Christodoulos
Tuesday, January 29, 2008 - 06:40 PM
DAMASCUS, (SANA)-President Bashar al-Assad on Tuesday sent a cable of condolences to his Greek counterpart Karolos Papoulias over the death of Greece's Orthodox Church leader, Archbishop Christodoulos who died yesterday.
In the cable, President al-Assad, on behalf of Syrian people and himself, expressed grief and sorrow to President Papoulias and the Greek people over the passing away of Archbishop Christodoulos.
The President recalled the honorable stances of Archbishop Christodoulos and his meetings with the late President Hafez al-Assad, and his commitment to boost and enhance ties between the Syrian and Greek peoples.
Mazen

***
Syria continues to have a dignified and generous spirit in Muslim-Christian relationships and are to be applauded for setting such a notable example of people secure in their faith in God. May God bless all people of good will and spirit.