Patriarch of Antioch calls for unity and solidarity as Holy Synod of Antioch convenes

The Holy Synod of the Greek Orthodox Patriarchate of Antioch opened its 16th synodal session on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, at Balamand, under the presidency of Patriarch John X of Antioch and All the East.

The session brought together Metropolitan bishops from the Patriarchate’s dioceses in the Middle East and across the diaspora. Metropolitan Sergios Abd of Chile was the only hierarch absent, while Metropolitan Paul Yazigi also participated in the prayers of the Synod Fathers.

Following the opening prayers, Patriarch John X delivered an address focusing on the Church’s mission, the challenges facing Christians in the Middle East, and the importance of unity and cooperation throughout the Patriarchate of Antioch.

Patriarch John X: “We face the cross of a historic responsibility” “We gather today facing the cross of a historic responsibility,” the Patriarch declared at the beginning of his address.

Reflecting on the Church’s role amid political and social challenges, he acknowledged the growing expectations placed upon religious institutions, particularly when governments struggle to address people’s needs.

“Everyone asks everything of the Church when governments are…