Metropolitan Anthony of Volokolamsk, head of the Russian Orthodox Church’s Department for External Church Relations, concluded a visit to Northern Iraq from September 27 to October 2. He met with Catholicos-Patriarch Mar Awa III of the Assyrian Church of the East, Kurdish regional authorities, religious leaders, and diplomats. He also participated in a theological conference in Erbil and visited Christian holy sites. A dialogue commission between the Russian and Assyrian Churches held its latest session during the visit, with both sides noting progress in relations.

The second International Theological Congress opened in Thessaloniki, marking the 100th anniversary of the journal Theology. The central theme — “The Impact of Technology on Humanity and the Church” — drew strong statements from Church leaders. Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew emphasized that science cannot replace spiritual seeking, while Bulgarian Patriarch Daniel warned against using artificial intelligence as a substitute for prayer.

On September 27, the city of Korçë celebrated the enthronement of its new Metropolitan, Anastasius. The ceremony, led by Archbishop Anastasios of Albania and attended by clergy and faithful, marked a significant moment for the Albanian Orthodox Church. Metropolitan Anastasius pledged to strengthen the spiritual life of the diocese and described his role as one of obedience and service.

Coptic Orthodox Patriarch Tawadros II consecrated the new Cathedral of St. Mark in Rizqat al-Dayr, Asyut province, on September 29. The ceremony included 20 bishops and local officials. The new church, serving a community of 16,000 Copts, is now the third in the village. The Patriarch called the Church a “school of love and service” and emphasized its role in both spiritual and civic life.

On September 29, Patriarch John X of Antioch met with Maronite Patriarch Bechara Rai in Dimane to discuss the situation of Christians in Lebanon and the broader Middle East. The patriarchs stressed the importance of interchurch cooperation and civic coexistence in the face of ongoing crises and emigration. They expressed deep concern over the challenges Christian communities face in the region.

On September 28, Serbian Patriarch Porfirije participated in a church-organized blood donation campaign in Belgrade. Held with the Red Cross and the National Blood Transfusion Institute, the event took place at several parishes and drew hundreds of donors. The Patriarch described blood donation as a “gesture of love and care for one’s neighbor.”

Tragedy struck Ethiopia’s Amhara region on October 1, when scaffolding collapsed during a packed church service celebrating the Feast of the Virgin Mary. At least 36 people were killed and over 200 injured. The government offered condolences and called for improved construction safety standards. The victims included elderly worshippers and children.

On the evening of October 1, masked gunmen opened fire on a group of young Christians in the Syrian town of Anaz (Wadi al-Nasara), killing two and seriously wounding another. The incident sparked widespread protests, including road blockades, a general strike, and church-led vigils. The Antiochian Orthodox Church condemned the killings, calling for justice and protection for Christians. In response, several Christian candidates withdrew from upcoming elections in protest.