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CV NEWS FEED // After decades of dictatorship and 13 years of civil war, Syria is showing signs of hope for its future, according to Cardinal Mario Zenari, apostolic nuncio to the country, who said Christians have a crucial role to play in its rebuilding.
The Cardinal described the recent ousting of President Bashar al-Assad and subsequent political developments as a “breach of hope” for the war-torn nation, Vatican News reported.
The new Syrian leadership, under Ahmed al-Sharaa, who is also known as Abu Mohammed al-Jolani, has extended assurances of inclusivity to minority groups, including Christians, according to the Cardinal.
Al-Sharaa met with Christian leaders in Damascus Dec. 31, including Franciscan friars, Catholic bishops, and representatives of other Christian denominations. In an unprecedented gesture, he wished them a Merry Christmas and a peaceful New Year.
“This event would have been unimaginable only three weeks ago and the bishops and priests present at the meeting left with a sense of hope for Syria’s future,” Cardinal Zenari said.
Acknowledging that the recent political developments represent only a small step forward, Cardinal Zenari likened them to a “narrow breach of hope” rather than a wide-open door.
“At the leadership level, there is an understanding of some fundamental principles and values,” he said. “However, it remains to be seen if words will translate into actions,” he cautioned.
Despite an uncertain “mixture of hope and apprehension” among Syria’s Christians, Cardinal Zenari urged those considering emigration to remain in the country and actively contribute to its reconstruction.
“This is not the time to leave Syria, but rather the time for Christians outside the country to return,” he said. “Christians have been given the opportunity — at least in words — to take part in rebuilding the new Syria, promoting values such as human rights, freedom, and respect for all. It is vital to be present and active in this reconstruction.”
Cardinal Zenari emphasized in particular the need to prioritize women’s rights in Syria’s reconstruction, stating that these should be a priority for Christians and all Syrians.
The Cardinal also advocated for justice to be administered impartially in addressing the crimes of the Bashar al-Assad regime, warning that perpetuating a retaliatory cycle of violence would be “disastrous” for the country.
The Cardinal expressed gratitude for the many “Good Samaritans” of all faiths who risked their lives to help others during Syria’s darkest years, and he called on all Syrians to seize this moment to build a brighter future.
>> Syrian Catholic leaders express cautious optimism after Assad’s fall <<
