The Antiochian Orthodox Patriarchate has called for stronger protection of Christian communities across the Middle East, warning that armed conflicts, economic hardship, social instability and mass emigration threaten their future in the region.

The concerns were outlined at a meeting of the Holy Synod of the Antiochian Patriarchate, which concluded on October 24 in Balamand, Lebanon. The hierarchs also called for national unity in Lebanon, an independent judiciary and the exclusive control of weapons by the state.

During the meeting, the hierarchs stressed the importance of dialogue between religious communities and political groups, saying that efforts to combat violence, uphold the rule of law and protect citizens’ rights were essential to maintaining stability in Lebanon.

They called for all weapons to be placed under state authority and emphasized that the judicial system must remain fair and independent.

The synod also highlighted the importance of cooperation between Christians and Muslims, urging Lebanese citizens to put national interests ahead of political divisions.

The hierarchs expressed concern about the situation of Christians in Lebanon, Syria, Palestine, Iraq, Jordan and other countries across the Middle East.

According to the synod, the challenges facing these communities extend beyond armed conflicts. Economic difficulties, social instability and a lack of opportunities for young people are also contributing to their increasingly precarious situation.

Particular concern was raised over the continued emigration of families, young people and skilled professionals, as well as declining birth rates. The hierarchs warned that these trends were making it more difficult to preserve the historic Christian communities of the region.

The synod emphasized that the Church must continue to serve as a unifying center for Orthodox Christians both in the Middle East and abroad.

The hierarchs called for greater cooperation among parishes and encouraged the use of modern communication technologies to support religious education and maintain connections with the faithful, including those living outside their ancestral homelands.

During the meeting, the hierarchs also commemorated those killed in the October 23 attack on St. George’s Orthodox Church in Jordan’s Al-Karak governorate.

The attack occurred during a funeral service, leaving nine people dead and 34 injured, according to the latest figures cited in the report.

The synod expressed condolences to the victims’ families and wished those injured a speedy recovery.

The tragedy added to the hierarchs’ concerns about the security of Christian communities in the region and underscored the importance of protecting places of worship and preserving peaceful coexistence among religious communities.