Signs of Peace from Aleppo, a city devastated by War

A talk by Sant’Egidio in Amsterdam

The Catholic Chaldean Bishop of Aleppo, Msgr. Antoine Audo, visited the Community of Sant'Egidio in Amsterdam. On this occasion, he gave a lecture on the situation of the Church in Syria during war, and shared the expectations of Peace. He then joined the Evening Prayer for the Peace of Sant'Egidio, in which he prayed for all countries at war. During his talk, Msgr. Audo recalled the causes of war in Syria. Moreover, he stressed the importance of solidarity and humanitarian aid as the only possible ways to restore hope and renew dialogue. Christians have opened up to Muslims, trying to meet the needs of everyone in distress, without any ethnic or religious distinctions. Many Muslims sensed a different image of Christians, particularly when rescued by organizations Christian.

Bishop Audo pointed out that, in creating new opportunities for Dialogue and Peace Christians living far away from each other, in communities separated at confessional level, have discovered their common vocation: to work together for the rebirth of the country and to serve the elderly and sick people. Muslims have been struck by the solidarity of Christians towards them, and a collaboration with some Islamic associations has now started. Starting from this new commitment , a citizenship involving everyone and overcoming differences can be build, together with Muslims.

Read the full speech here.