The Orthodox in Syria pray under fire

Orthodox Christians in Syrian Aleppo attend worships despite militants’ shootings. It is reported by Interfax.

“50 parishioners of our church died as a result of terrorist attacks. Everybody is afraid of death. But if you are faithful, God will help you. Come here on Sunday. You will see the church is full of believers even though there are shootings,” told senior priest of Prophet Elijah in Aleppo father Musa Al-Hesy.

Hundreds of residents have found shelter in a local Orthodox community. There is an active humanitarian center on the church where help is offered regardless denomination. 350 thousand people seek help at the center.

Those in need are handed in family kits, which consist of foodstuffs, personal hygiene items, medication. Up to 400 people receive such kits every day.

There is also an in-house hospital whose celestial guardian is Saint Luka of the Crimea (Voyno-Yasenetskiy).

“We render free medical services. Currently we employ 28 doctors of various specialities. We receive up to 100 persons daily. It’s 35 thousand a year. We cooperate with different medicinal establishments, such as the Red Crescent and the Cross,” told nun Estere