Let’s rebuild together after the earthquake

“Our three villages of Yacoubieh, Knayieh, and Jidayeh are part of the Orontes missions in the northwestern province of Idlib, Syria. Prior to the war in 2011, the number of Christians in Idlib was around 10,000 people, along with 10 priests and 8 nuns, spread across these villages and others in the area.

Unfortunately, due to the war, destruction, and persecution, only 500 people remain, including Catholics, Greek Orthodox, and Armenian Orthodox. We, two Franciscan friars from the Custody of the Holy Land, are the only two remaining religious serving this small flock, victims of war, persecution, the COVID epidemic, and most recently, the terrible earthquake.

Since the beginning of the war, our convents have been a refuge for the community and many refugees, including Muslims.

Many of our parishioners have fled, and their homes and properties have been stolen and occupied. As if that weren’t enough, since 2020, all roads to and from Idlib have been blocked, so neither we nor our parishioners can see our relatives and friends who live outside the borders. Idlib has become a closed ghetto!

On Monday, February 6, the earthquake threw us out of bed, terrified. It destroyed much of the villages and caused numerous deaths. I myself am alive by a miracle, but the Yacoubieh convent and church, where I was, partially collapsed. I barely had time to escape.

The damage is extensive, and we need all the help possible to rebuild the convents, centers of reference and hope for the community, and to repair the houses.

Our presence is important not only for the small community we serve but also for the many who don’t know where to turn. For this, we thank Divine Providence, which, through our generous benefactors, helps us carry out these missions in the love of Christ.

Thank you for the support you have given us and for what you can continue to do for us.”