From the Perspective of the Middle East Council of Churches

Professor Michel Abs

The Secretary General of the Middle East Council of Churches (MECC)

The Middle East Council of Churches views the Sayfo massacres as a profound wound in the memory of the churches of the East. It is not a tragedy that concerns only one community, but one that touches the Christian and human conscience of this region. Syriacs, Assyrians, and Chaldeans have carried in their collective memory the pain of the sword, displacement, and uprooting. Yet this suffering transcends ecclesial and ethnic boundaries, for it strikes at the very heart of human dignity.

For this reason, we do not regard Sayfo as a closed chapter of history, but as a living memory that invites us to reflect on the meaning of the Christian presence in the East, on the meaning of justice, and on the responsibility of the churches toward truth. Preserving this memory does not mean remaining prisoners of the past; rather, it means protecting humanity from the repetition of such tragedies and transforming suffering into witness, and witness into a moral and ecclesial commitment.

Memory, if it remains only a source of pain, can become silent sorrow or a closed wound. Yet when it becomes a testimony, it turns into a spiritual and moral force that safeguards truth and resists oblivion. Therefore, it is the duty of the churches to transmit the memory of Sayfo to younger generations, not as a call to fear or isolation, but as an invitation to steadfastness, hope, and responsibility.

The Christian presence in the East is preserved not only through buildings and institutions, but also through memory, language, witness, and the ability to transform suffering into a commitment to life. Sayfo reminds us that the Church that suffered endured, and that the communities subjected to massacre and displacement continue to bear witness to their faith, culture, and mission in this region…

Produced by MECC

A Spiritual Retreat for the MECC General Secretariat Team

From Jrebta to Kfifan and Aabrin

The family of the General Secretariat of the Middle East Council of Churches (MECC) experienced a spiritual and cultural day in the Lebanese villages of Jrebta, Kfifan and Aabrin. The day was marked by a Spiritual Retreat organized by the MECC Theological and Ecumenical Department for the General Secretariat team, on Wednesday, June 17, 2026, on the occasions of the 25th Jubilee of the Canonization of Saint Rafqa, and the Beatification of Patriarch Elias Howayek.

The Retreat began at Saint Joseph Monastery in Jrebta, at the Tomb of Saint Rafqa, where Sister Marta Bassil welcomed the participants and guided them on a tour of the Monastery, presenting an overview of its history, as well as its spiritual and Ecclesial mission.

Then, a spiritual reflection and discussion with Mother Dolly Chaaya, Superior General of the Lebanese Maronite Order of Nuns, was made under the title “A Path of Holiness in a Wounded East.” In her presentation, she reflected on the meanings of witness, hope, and holiness amidst the challenges that the East is facing today. Her talk was followed by a discussion and exchange of ideas with the participants.

Mother Dolly Chaaya, Superior General of the Lebanese Maronite Order of Nuns, During a Spiritual Retreat for the MECC General Secretariat Team:

A Wound Transformed into Hope and Resurrection

During a spiritual and intellectual gathering with the General Secretariat team of the Middle East Council of Churches (MECC) on Wednesday, June 17, 2026, at Saint Joseph Monastery in Jrebta, Tomb of Saint Rafqa, Mother Dolly Chaya, Superior General of the Lebanese Maronite Order of Nuns, delivered a reflection entitled “The Path of Holiness in a Wounded East.”

Drawing from the life of Saint Rafqa and the wounds of the contemporary Middle East, Mother Dolly explored the meaning of holiness in everyday life. She emphasized that holiness is neither a distant ideal nor an image preserved in memory, but rather a daily path lived in the heart of suffering, in the face of fear, and in the continual search for hope.

Her reflection came at a time when many people in the region feel deprived of security and burdened by fear, migration, displacement, and wounded belonging. Yet Mother Dolly urged not to view this reality solely through the lens of defeat, but through the lens of faith, which sees that a wound, when touched by the Mystery of the Risen Christ, no longer remains a sign of death but can become a testimony of love and hope.

MECC Secretary General Professor Michel Abs Participates in the Celebration at the Head of an MECC Delegation

Under the presidency His Beatitude Patriarch Raphaël Bedros XXI Minassian, Catholicos Patriarch of the Armenian Catholic Church of Cilicia, and President of the Middle East Council of Churches (MECC) for the Catholic Family, and at the invitation of the Bzommar Patriarchal Congregation and the Municipality of Jounieh, a cultural and spiritual evening was held on the occasion of the Feast of Saint Ignatius Maloyan under the title: “From the Wounds of Genocide to the Crown of Holiness.” The event took place on Saturday, June 13, 2026, at the Municipal Palace in Jounieh.

The evening was attended by the Secretary General of the Middle East Council of Churches (MECC) Professor Michel Abs, heading an MECC delegation that included the Coordinator of the Dialogue, Social Cohesion, and Human Dignity Program Professor Laure Abi Khalil, and the Coordinator of Media and Church Relations Journalist Lea Adel Maamary.

Attendees were also Religious, official, and cultural personalities.

“The Apostles' Fast is a thanksgiving for the gift of the Holy Spirit, preparation for the Church service,

and participation in the communion of the Holy Trinity”

What Meanings Does this Fast Carry?

In a season marked by hope and devotion, the Church traditions observe the Apostles' Fast, which begins after Pentecost and continues until the Feast of Saints Peter and Paul on June 29 and the Commemoration of the Twelve Apostles on June 30.

But what is the significance of the Apostles' Fast? What spirituality does it embody? What meanings does it reflect?

Father Dr. Nicolas Bustros, President of the Saint Paul Institute for Philosophy and Theology in Harissa, Lebanon, Professor of Dogmatic Theology, and Associate Secretary General of the Middle East Council of Churches (MECC), answers these questions in a special interview with the MECC Media.

Firstly, Fr. Bustros clarifies that "fast in the life of the Church is always a fast of repentance, because people prepare themselves to receive an important event, thus preparing their soul and mindset for what is to come. This is why we have fasts preceding major Feasts, such as the Nativity Fast and the Fast preceding Easter, which we also call the Holy Great Lent."

مرصد فلسطين – تقرير الجمعة 18 حزيران/ يونيو 2026

In light of the worsening humanitarian and social conditions in the region due to the escalation of security operations, the Middle East Council of Churches presents a weekly report entitled "Palestine Monitor," which includes the latest developments in Palestine, especially amid the deteriorating living, social, and security conditions in the country. Some texts will be in Arabic, and some others in English, depending on the source.

في ظلّ تفاقم الظروف الإنسانيّة والاجتماعيّة في المنطقة جرّاء تصاعد العمليّات الأمنيّة فيها، يقدّم مجلس كنائس الشرق الأوسط تقريرًا أسبوعيًّا بعنوان "مرصد فلسطين" حيث يتضمّن آخر المستجدّات الّتي تشهدها فلسطين خصوصًا وسط تدهور الظروف المعيشيّة والاجتماعيّة والأمنيّة في البلاد. ستكون بعض النصوص باللغة العربية، وبعضها الآخر باللّغة الإنكليزيّة، وذلك حسب المصدر.

An Episode With His Beatitude Patriarch Mar Polis III Nona

Chaldean Patriarch in Iraq and the World

Produced By MECC

A Meeting Emphasizing the Importance of Strengthening the Ecumenical Work

As part of his visit to Baghdad to participate in the Enthronement Ceremony of His Beatitude Patriarch Mar Polis III Nona as Chaldean Patriarch in Iraq and the World, the Secretary General of the Middle East Council of Churches (MECC) Professor Michel Abs, visited His Eminence Metropolitan Ghattas Hazim, Greek Orthodox Metropolitan of Baghdad, Kuwait and Dependencies. The meeting took place at the Archdiocese and attended by Economos Younan Alfred, Vicar General of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese in Iraq.

During the meeting, discussions centered around many Ecumenical topics, including the affairs of the Ecumenical movement and ways to strengthen its mission. Both sides stressed the importance of fostering the Ecumenical spirit among all Church Families and the various components of society.

As well as, both sides talked about the activities of the Church in Baghdad on the Theological and humanitarian levels. They highlighted the Church’s role in accompanying and supporting the neediest people amidst the worsening daily challenges.

Professor Michel Abs in Baghdad

Words Stressed the Need to Accompany the Neediest People

Canon Fayez Gerges, Member of the Executive Committee of the Middle East Council of Churches (MECC), received the MECC Secretary General Professor Michel Abs, at his office in Baghdad. Discussions focused on many of Ecumenical and humanitarian issues of concern to the Church and society.

This visit came as part of the tour of the Secretary General in Baghdad to participate in the Enthronement Ceremony of His Beatitude Patriarch Mar Polis III Nona as Chaldean Patriarch in Iraq and the World.

During the meeting with Canon Fayez Gerges, discussions revolved around matters related to the Middle East Council of Churches and recent developments of its work, in addition to the programs it is implementing for the benefit of the Church and humanity.

Both sides also explored ways to face the challenges surrounding the MECC work, emphasizing the importance of solidarity and building bridges among all components of society.

Produced by MECC

“Ecumenical Horizons” is a weekly program that features spiritual, cultural, intellectual, educational, youth and environmental topics.

In Light Construction in Lebanon

In Partnership with the “Safadi” Foundation and supported by “Danmission” Organization

In Partnership with the “Safadi” Foundation and supported by “Danmission” Organization, the Diakonia and Social Service Department, Lebanon’s Office, launched a Vocational Training in Light Construction for 12 people over a period of one month in the Akkar area/ Deir Dalloum – Lebanon.

The aim of the project was to train people on how to carryout remodeling and renovations for small residential and commercial buildings. Learning such a skill is not only beneficial for finding a job but can also be used in carrying out repairs for their own homes thus reducing economic burdens.

Participates in the Annual Mass of the Association “Roots Never Die”

At the invitation of the Parish Priest of St. Behnam and Sarah Syriac Catholic Church and President of the Association “Roots Never Die,” Father David Melki, a delegation from the Middle East Council of Churches (MECC) participated in the Association’s Annual Mass, which included the Secretary General Professor Michel Abs, Professor Laure Abi Khalil and Journalist Lea Adel Maamary.

The Mass was held at St. Behnam and Sarah Syriac Catholic Church in Fanar. It was presided over by the Patriarchal Vicar of the Syriac Catholic Archdiocese of Beirut and the Head of the Episcopal Committee for Christian-Muslim Dialogue, Bishop Mar Matthias Charles Murad, with the participation of the Parish Priest Father David Melki and Deacons, in the presence of notable figures and faithful attendees.

What Meanings Does It Carry?

The khachkar is more than just a carved stone; it is a testimony of faith, memory, and identity. In the Armenian tradition, the Cross is engraved in stone surrounded by motifs symbolizing life, resurrection, and eternity, becoming a sign of hope and of Christ’s victory over death.

In this monument, the sculptor sought to give another meaning to the carved Cross by transforming it into a Tree of Life. This tree recalls the Armenian people, who have passed through trials yet have not lost their roots. The tree’s roots, planted deep in the rock, symbolize steadfast faith; its branches reaching toward the sky are a sign of unceasing hope; and its fruits are holiness, witness, and new life born from the heart of suffering.

This commemorative monument is dedicated to Saint Ignatius Maloyan, and the tree also reflects his image. His roots were firmly grounded in Christ, so trials could not uproot him; his spirit rose toward heaven with uncompromising faith; and his martyrdom bore the fruit of holiness that continues to give life and hope to generations.

“Momentum”

12-6-2026

This issue includes reports, videos, news, articles, and a full coverage of the latest developments of the Middle East Council of Churches (MECC), as well as the Church, Ecumenical, and social events…

This is in addition to the weekly word of the MECC Secretary General Professor Michel Abs which is entitled in this issue “Saint Rafqa and Social Cohesion”.

You can check the issue via the following link: https://us14.campaign-archive.com/?u=1db32cafe9ea32b38eb90480a&id=1f8825ca2a.

You can also subscribe to the Momentum Newsletter via the following link:
https://mecc.us14.list-manage.com/subscribe?id=fd3381352a&u=1db32cafe9ea32b38eb90480a.

Professor Michel Abs

The Secretary General of the Middle East Council of Churches (MECC)

Saint Rafqa is considered one of the saints who have profoundly shaped the identity of people in Lebanon and the East, not only because of her remarkable spiritual life, but also because of her deep social and cultural influence on society. Her life can be viewed as a model of the social and religious values that contribute to strengthening social cohesion and reinforcing collective identity.

Born in 1832 in the village of Hemlaya in Mount Lebanon, Saint Rafqa lived a life marked by challenges and suffering. She lost her mother at an early age, endured difficult economic and social circumstances, and later entered religious life, dedicating herself to prayer and service. She is especially known for accepting illness and pain with patience and faith, becoming a symbol of sacrifice and perseverance.

Saint Rafqa embodies values that are highly cherished in Eastern societies, such as patience, solidarity, faith, and selflessness. Communities need symbolic figures who personify moral principles that contribute to social stability. Through her life story, Rafqa has become a source of inspiration for many believers facing difficult circumstances, whether economic, social, or health-related.

She also plays an important role in strengthening the religious and cultural identity of broad segments of the faithful. Places associated with her life, particularly the Monastery of Saint Joseph in Jrabta, where her body rests, have become centers of pilgrimage that attract thousands of visitors each year. This religious activity contributes to strengthening social bonds among individuals and groups, as people gather around shared values and beliefs, fostering a sense of belonging to one community.

Furthermore, Saint Rafqa exemplifies the role that sacred figures play in building social solidarity. Religion often unites members of society through common symbols and practices. In this context, Rafqa serves as a religious symbol that brings believers together and strengthens their sense of solidarity…

Headed by the Secretary General Professor Michel Abs

Visits His Eminence Sheikh Al-Aql of the Unitarian Druze Community, Sheikh Dr. Sami Abi Al-Muna

Words Emphasized the Strengthening of Cooperation Between the Two Sides for the Benefit of People and the Nation

His Eminence Sheikh Al-Aql of the Unitarian Druze Community, Sheikh Dr. Sami Abi Al-Muna, received at the Druze Community House in Beirut, a delegation from the Middle East Council of Churches (MECC). It included Secretary General Professor Michel Abs, Associate Secretaries General Father Dean Nicolas Bustros and Mrs. Seta Hadeshian, Professor Laure Abi Khalil, Dr. Laudy Khoury, Mrs. Caroline Haddad, Journalist Lea Adel Maamary, Mrs.Maha Samaan, Mr. Richard Sassine, Mr. Rabih Abu Rjeily, and Mr. Elia Nasrallah.

The delegation affirmed the MECC support for the statement issued by the recent Christian-Muslim Spiritual Summit held at the Druze Community House, as well as for the general framework outlined by His Eminence Sheikh Abi Al-Muna. The delegation noted that this framework strengthens communication among all spiritual and national components in Lebanon and promotes dialogue outcomes that contribute to spreading awareness, fostering a culture of tolerance, preserving values, consolidating stability, and safeguarding civil peace.

The delegation also praised His Eminence Sheikh Al-Aql’s initiative in meeting the Heads of State with a delegation representing Religious Authorities within the framework of a spiritual and national partnership aimed at rescuing the State and protecting the nation.

A Meeting that Emphasized the Importance of Strengthening the Ecumenical Spirit

As part of his visit to Lebanon, His Grace Anba Antonios, Metropolitan of Jerusalem and the Near East for the Coptic Orthodox Church, and President of the Middle East Council of Churches (MECC) for the Eastern Orthodox Family, received the MECC Secretary General Professor Michel Abs, on Thursday, June 11, 2026, at the Coptic Orthodox Patriarchate in Beirut.

Attendees were the Archpriest Father Arsanius Al-Orachalimi, Father Athanasius Resto, the Lawyer of the Coptic Orthodox Church in Lebanon Mr. Abdallah Moussallem, and Mr. Albert Jonki.

Lebanon’s Righteous Daughter: The Story of an Entire Nation

Media of the Middle East Council of Churches (MECC)

In a time when events accelerate and challenges intensify, people remain in need of guiding lights to show them the way, and of exceptional figures whose lives embody the meanings of perseverance, faith, and hope. Lebanon, this small country in size but great in its mission, has offered the world not only a rich cultural and civilizational heritage, but also Saints who, through their lives, reflected the image of a faithful person deeply rooted in their land and open to heaven.

Among these luminous figures stands Saint Rafqa, Lebanon’s righteous daughter, whose life story has become the story of an entire nation. In her life, we can read many of Lebanon’s defining traits: faith that cannot be broken, patience that transcends hardship, and hope that springs from the heart of suffering. Rafqa lived in a simple Lebanese village, yet she carried a human and spiritual message that went far beyond geographical boundaries, becoming a Saint of the universal Church and a beacon of light illuminating the paths of believers around the world.