Conclusion of the Holy Antiochian Synod

The Holy Antiochian Synod concluded its fifth and final day of sessions at the Monastery of Our Lady of Balamand. The opening session began with a prayer by the Fathers of the Synod, invoking the Holy Spirit to guide them toward what best serves the Church.

The archdiocesan Metropolitans continued presenting their pastoral situations in their respective parishes, highlighting both achievements and challenges. These situations vary according to geographic location, the laws of the countries in which they are situated, and the surrounding circumstances. Their Eminences also reported archdiocesan efforts to care for their faithful and strengthen relations with local churches and authorities within their jurisdictions.

Following the archdiocesan reports, the Fathers reaffirmed the Church’s pastoral mission to carry its duty and spread the message wherever God has placed it for holy ministry.

The Synod discussed a proposal of amending the Personal Status Law, which will undergo further study and refinement following the final comments.

The Fathers also addressed the ecclesiastical situation in the region of Alexandretta, examining its pastoral conditions to determine the best possible ways to serve the faithful there.

Additionally, the eligibility criteria for episcopal candidacy for the year 2025 were revised and approved.

The Fathers of the Holy Synod concluded this synodal session with prayers for all their children, wishing them health and long life. They emphasized their unwavering support—alongside the faithful—for the national and ecclesiastical positions of His Beatitude.