Cardinal Gugerotti Visits Aleppo, Encourages Christians to Rebuild Syria
Cardinal Claudio Gugerotti, Prefect of the Dicastery for the Eastern Churches, recently visited Aleppo to offer support and encouragement to the local Christian community. His message was clear: it is essential for Christians to help rebuild Syria and maintain a strong Christian presence in the Middle East.
By Stefano Leszczynski – Aleppo
The journey from Damascus to Aleppo paints a somber picture of the struggles Syria has faced over the past decade. Abandoned buildings scarred by conflict, desolate landscapes, and the remnants of a once-thriving city serve as a stark reminder of the challenges that lie ahead.
Cardinal Gugerotti’s visit to Aleppo was met with both hope and despair. The city, once home to a vibrant Christian community, has seen a dramatic decline in its Christian population. Despite the hardships, the Cardinal emphasized the importance of not succumbing to fear and paralysis. Christians must play an active role in shaping the future of Syria and contributing to the nation’s recovery.
In a heartfelt address to the faithful, Cardinal Gugerotti echoed Pope Francis’ message of unity and solidarity. He stressed the need for all members of society, regardless of their religious affiliation, to work together for the common good.
Meeting the Challenges
During his visit, Cardinal Gugerotti met with families affected by the conflict, including the mother of a kidnapped priest who remains missing to this day. The pain and suffering endured by the local population were evident, underscoring the urgent need for healing and reconciliation.
At a gathering with Italian ambassador Stefano Ravagnan and UN High Commissioner for Refugees Filippo Grandi, Cardinal Gugerotti discussed the ongoing efforts to repatriate refugees and rebuild communities. Despite the progress made, much work remains to be done to ensure a stable and prosperous future for Syria.
As Cardinal Gugerotti bid farewell to Aleppo, he left behind a message of hope and resilience. The road ahead may be long and arduous, but with the support of the international community and the dedication of the Syrian people, a brighter future awaits.
