Shaffaf Monitor – 

Given the usual delay by the Church hierarchy in responding to similar crises and the absence of any statements aimed at reassuring the parish, and in the light of the new phase beginning in Syria, we call for:

Clarifying the Fate of the two abducted bishops, Paul Yazigi and John Ibrahim:

It is crucial to identify those responsible for their abduction and to provide full details surrounding their fate, including the party responsible for their possible killing.

Reforming the process of choosing Ecclesiastical Leadership:
Since some patriarchs and bishops were elected in the context of a civil war and have shown political bias that negatively affected the Church and her congregations, we demand a comprehensive investigation into these processes. There should also be efforts to ensure that individuals who are neutral and upright hold leadership positions. It is essential to affirm that the people, as the essence of the Church, have the right to choose their shepherds.

Reconsidering the description of Hezbollah fighters as “Martyrs”:
This characterization, issued by certain ecclesiastical institutions, is a deviation from Christian orthodoxy and constitutes a theological heresy.

We call for clarification of this position and accountability for those who distorted theological truth in favor of political agendas.

The undersigned:

Jack Keilo – University Professor, France

Maria Kabara – University Professor, Greece

 

To read the original Arabic text:

نداء لتصحيح المسار الكنسي في ظلّ التّحولات السّورية الجديدة