Print This Post

The Primate of the Russian Orthodox Church has sent a message of condolences on the demise of Patriarch Mar Ignatius Zakka Iwas of Antioch, Syriac Orthodox Church. Below is the text of the message:

THE HOLY SYNOD OF SYRIAC ORTHODOX CHURCH

 It was with a deep grief that I learnt of the demise of His Holiness Mar Ignatius Zakka I Iwas, Patriarch of Antioch and All the East, who had stood at the helm of the Syriac Orthodox Church for over thirty years.

The Christian world has suffered a great loss. The late Primate, whom I have known personally for several decades, was an outstanding person. By his tireless labours for the good of the Church and of the Syrian people he had won sincere love of his flock of many millions scattered all over the world. Religious leaders, politicians and public figures have listened to his words as he had always been notable for his profound wisdom and genuine candour.

The Lord has judged Patriarch Ignatius Zakka Iwas in his declining years to witness the cruel civil war in his homeland and see the suffering of his flock and of the entire Syrian people. In the years of hard trials, the late first hierarch was incessantly praying for peace asking to put an end to the fratricidal bloodshed.

I will always remember His Holiness Patriarch Ignatius Zakka I Iwas as a radiant and sincere person, a man of prayer and a good archpastor. May the Lord rest his soul in the mansions of the righteous.

With love in the Lord,

 

/+ KIRILL/

PATRIARCH OF MOSCOW AND ALL RUSSIA