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Metropolitan Hilarion of Volokolamsk, head of the Moscow Patriarchate’s department for external church relations, has sent the following message of condolences to the Holy Synod of the Syriac Orthodox Church:

THE HOLY SYNOD OF SYRIAC ORTHODOX CHURCH

 

Sincerely mourning for the demise of His Holiness Patriarch Ignatius Zakka I Iwas of Antioch and All the East, I express condolences to the entire Syriac Orthodox Church over its loss.

I happened to be acquainted with the deceased for many years. He was an ardent supporter of inter-confessional cooperation and of the strengthening of unity among Christians. When meeting with him, listening to him, or reading his addresses, I always noted his honesty, kindness and straightforwardness, and purity and greatness of his soul. His selfless ministry to the Church and his people, his tireless work for the sake of spiritual strengthening and consolidation of the Syrian nation, and his arduous peace-making efforts have characterized him as a true father for all children of the Syriac Orthodox Church and also as an outstanding religious leader of our time.

The main aspiration of the late-lamented Patriarch was the restoration of peace and fraternal love in the much suffered land of Syria. He fervently prayed for that during the last years of his life. I believe that soon enough it will be possible through his prayers to overcome the murderous military conflict that brings so many innocent victims.

May the Lord rest the soul of his late servant, His Holiness Patriarch Mar Ignatius Zakka I Iwas, with the holy righteous men and may He grant him eternal memory!

With love in Christ,

/+ Hilarion/

Metropolitan Hilarion of Volokolamsk

Chairman

Department for External Church Relations

Moscow Patriarchate