Agenzia Fides

Damascus (Agenzia Fides) - In addition to the heartfelt and urgent appeal to keep innocent civilians out of the conflict, the Christian churches of Syria launch a new message: "We join our voices to those of international institutions for the protection of the world heritage of humanity and cultural treasures of Syria. It is necessary to save the religious, historical and cultural heritage of the country! " Says an appeal sent to Fides Agency, after the destruction of the historic souks of Aleppo. The Christian leaders of all denominations and communities, have filed an appeal to UNESCO and to the Congregation for the Oriental Churches and the Pontifical Council for Culture.
The text says: "The fighting has touched relevant cultural areas such as Palmyra, Apamea, historical centers of old towns, museums, and jeopardize these valuable cultural assets." Also "religious buildings (synagogues, churches, mosques, monasteries and sanctuaries) are used for military purposes, which causes their progressive destruction." The Bishops also warn against those who "take advantage of the chaos to loot or vandalize historic buildings." "We implore the belligerents - concludes the message - to save the protected areas and not to used them for military purposes. We pray that the Syrian conflict is resolved in wisdom justice, and reconciliation." (PA) (Agenzia Fides 02/10/2012)