Pope Leo XIV has called on Christians in the Middle East to remain witnesses of reconciliation and peace amid war, persecution and economic hardship.Addressing the Synod of Bishops of the Melkite Greek Catholic Church of Antioch at the Vatican on October tenth, the Pope expressed solidarity with communities suffering from conflict and displacement. He described them as seeds of communion in lands scarred by violence. The Pope also highlighted the growing challenge of Christian emigration, as families leave their homelands seeking safety and employment.
SCHOLARSHIPS TO SUPPORT CHRISTIAN STUDENTS IN SYRIA, LEBANON AND IRAQ
In a significant announcement, the Holy See confirmed that Pope Leo has allocated funds to provide educational scholarships for Christian students in Syria, Lebanon and Iraq. The assistance will help cover school and university fees, supporting families and encouraging young Christians to remain in the region. The Pontiff also urged Church leaders to prioritize service over power, transparency over personal gain, and pastoral care over self-interest.
Recalling that the followers of Jesus were first called Christians in Antioch, he encouraged the Melkite Church to continue its historic mission of charity and peace. The Pope concluded by invoking the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary upon the Synod and its faithful.
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