Orthodox patriarch warns against emigration
Hazim focuses on role of youth within the church
By Karine Raad
Daily Star staff
Monday, October 25, 2004
BEIRUT: Orthodox Patriarch Ignatius IV Hazim said Saturday that people should beware of emigration, as "it is a plan under thorough implementation, and a Middle East with no Christians would lose its characteristics."
In an open dialogue with 300 members of Orthodox youth movements from Lebanon and Syria, the patriarch tackled various issues, including freedom, church associations, care, emigration, the role of youth in church and the Christian presence in the Mideast.
The event was hosted by the Theology Institute of Saint John the Damascan in Balamand.
In an attempt to answer the youths' frequent questions, Patriarch Ignatius defined freedom as the "non-humiliation of the other" and the acknowledgement of his existence, recalling Christ's call to love and serve one another.
The patriarch said he opposed dependence on anyone, as well as tyranny through any method, whatever the purpose.
He also called for respecting the laws of Antiochia, further highlighting the civilian role in complementing that of clerics in the church's workshop and stressed the importance of liturgic reform.
On emigration, Hazim urged youths to cling to their homeland as "God wants us to preserve it to witness his word."
The patriarch applauded the role of youths and their vitality in church activities, and called for further meditation into one's life, saying. "the church is not just a school of intellect, but a school of life with Christ.
"The Christian presence in the East is a testimony of true faith to accept the other."
As for the Middle East Church Council, Hazim stressed the need to re-examine its performance and structure for increased efficiency in conveying the church's word, and in drawing churches closer to each other.