who is completing this year his diplomatic and pastoral mission and by his presence as the representative of Pope Francis and the Holy See, demonstrates the constant ties of friendship and the spiritual values that Cyprus shares with the Vatican. He thanked him for his service witnessing the values of love and peace.
Archbishop Soueif in communion with the Patriarch H.B. Cardinal Mar Bechara Botros Rai and the Holy Synod of the Maronite Church announced the proclamation of a Holy Jubilee Year of “Martyrdom and Martyrs” which will commence on the feast of St Maroun and be concluded on the 2nd March 2018 on the feast of St John Maroun the first Patriarch of our Maronite Church.
In his own speech the President of the Republic of Cyprus referred to the respect and care his government shows to the Maronite community and revealed in the most clear way that during the Talks he has placed as strongly possible, the claims of the Maronites for the return to their villages and the land of their ancestors. President Anastasiades referred also to the current situation of the political problem and the on-going talks, expressing his determination and will to work hard for the common good of all the inhabitants of the island.