Declaration Issued by the Holy Synod of the Syrian Orthodox Church of Antioch

Damascus- SOC — During the sessions of the Holy Synod of the Syrian Orthodox Church of Antioch held in Damascus under the patronage of His Holiness, Patriarch Zakka I Iwas, and the participation of the bishops of the Syrian Orthodox Church worldwide, we received the tragic, painful news of the death of the Revd. Father Boulos Iskander Behnam. Fr. Behnam was one of our priests in Mousel. According to the heads of Christian denominations in Iraq, Fr. Behnam died at the hands of extremist terrorists, people disconnected from humane, spiritual or ethical values.

Our Holy Synod expresses deepest regrets that this shameful crime took place. It touches all noble citizens of our beloved Iraq. The Synod denounces this horrible deed and calls upon the international conscience of those in authority to put an end to the bitter suffering of the Iraqi people. We invite all those in positions of authority and influence to continue their diligent efforts in spreading peace and security, so that the citizens of Iraq may resume normal life in their historic homeland within a framework of national unity.

May God protect Iraq and its people from adversity and affliction. May the coming days be full of peace, love, fraternity and prosperity.

Damascus
13 October 2006