Persecution of Christians and Destruction of Churches in East and West

Christianity remains the most persecuted religion worldwide, with incidents of attacks and destruction of churches, as well as political decisions targeting its spiritual and historical presence.

A recent terrorist attack on a church in Syria resulted in the deaths of worshippers. In Sinai, the Monastery of Saint Catherine faces the risk of losing property due to an attempted confiscation. In Turkey, Hagia Sophia and the Chora Monastery were converted from museums into mosques. In countries in Asia and Africa, abductions, torture, and destruction of churches are reported.

According to the article, persecution is not limited to acts of violence but also includes marginalization in Western societies through irony and ridicule.

The article emphasizes that Orthodoxy has historically endured with patience and humility, and that the response to acts of hatred should be prayer and love.

It highlights the importance of respecting the conscience of others as a foundation of civilization, and emphasizes that Christianity simply asks to be allowed to exist.

The article concludes by referring to the Christian teaching of love for enemies.