Since last Nov. 30, the friars of the Custody of the Holy Land based in Aleppo have been facing a serious emergency situation caused by the violence that armed rebel groups have initiated to destabilize the regime of Bashar al-Assad. The initiative, led by jihadist forces, has provoked a reaction from countries involved in Syria’s delicate political balance.
At the time of writing, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights estimates at least 132 dead, but fighting is still ongoing. The clashes are particularly concentrated in the Aleppo area, where the Friars Minor of the Custody of the Holy Land run the Franciscan Terra Santa College complex, a landmark for Christians in the city.
The complex was hit by shelling, and although there were no casualties or injuries, the buildings were heavily damaged. The friars are also facing the difficulties associated with any wartime context. The scarcity of water and food supplies makes it increasingly difficult to distribute meals at the soup kitchen. Nonetheless, the friars continue to operate the charitable bakery and other activities to assist parishioners and families in the area in order to counteract the growing discouragement among Aleppines.
As we watch the developments in the Syrian situation with apprehension, the OFM Fraternitas Foundation has activated its donation channels for those who would like to support the friars and the Syrian people, victims of yet another tragedy.
