March 28, 2025, became a significant milestone in the Orthodox history of the Middle East. On this day, Patriarch John X of Antioch and All the East led the fourth part of the Akathist to the Most Holy Theotokos at the Church of Saints Isaac the Syrian, George the Victorious, and Macarius of Jerusalem in Doha. This event marks the restoration of brotherly relations between the Patriarchates of Antioch and Jerusalem, which had been interrupted several years ago due to disputes over church jurisdiction over Qatar.

The restoration of communion between the two ancient Patriarchates became possible thanks to the decision of the Holy Synod of the Antiochian Patriarchate in October 2023. Now, both Churches are working together to overcome the challenges faced by Christians in Lebanon, Syria, Palestine, and the Holy Land. In his address to the faithful, Patriarch John X emphasized the importance of unity: “It is pleasing and comforting when brothers meet.”

During the service, Patriarch John X was joined by Metropolitan Athanasius of Latakia (Fahd) and Archbishop Makarios of Qatar from the Jerusalem Patriarchate. Archbishop Makarios conveyed to Patriarch John X the brotherly love of Patriarch Theophilos III of Jerusalem and presented him with commemorative gifts as a sign of recognition of this historic moment.

In his speech, Patriarch John X emphasized the role of the Most Holy Theotokos as a unifying figure not only for Christians but also for Muslims. He also reminded the congregation of the difficult conditions in which Christians live in the Middle East, noting that they are the indigenous people of these lands: “We are not foreigners, but the indigenous people of this land. Christ was born in Palestine; He lived in Jerusalem and entrusted us with the Gospel of salvation.”

After his visit to Qatar, Patriarch John X arrived at Beirut Airport on March 29, where he was welcomed by Lebanon’s Deputy Prime Minister Dr. Tarek Mitri, President’s representative General Joseph Aoun, and the president of the University of Balamand, Dr. Elias Waraq. Upon his return, the Patriarch stated: “We are making every effort for the good of our country, our people, and our Church in the Middle East and everywhere in the world.”