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04 February 2016

Recognition needed for Church networks in Syria

The general bishop of the Coptic Orthodox Church is calling for greater recognition of the role of the Church in Syria, as leaders gather to discuss the region.

The Supporting Syria and the region conference, which is taking place in London today, will focus on funding and social services only.

Bishop Angaelos said: "It must be acknowledged that some organisations, including many Christian and Church, are currently contributing substantially to ongoing social and relief work in the region.

Thanking the generosity of the British public and government, Bishop Angaelos offered prayers for the conference saying: "We pray for an effective discussion and fruitful outcome for those so desperately in need of the cooperation, collaboration and support of our world community."

He highlighted that many Christian and Church networks are already established in the region and are having a significant impact: "The fact remains that these legitimate and trusted networks have the greatest reach in their communities and have significant impact, as there is little - if any - separation in the region between government, civil society and religion.

"Similarly, existing pastoral and social Church networks on the ground are well placed to assist the most vulnerable in the region, and those without equal access to international support and schemes."

Bishop Angaelos asked God for an effective outcome in order to restore peace, safety and human dignity for those in need.