Canonization of the “Martyrs of Damascus” Brings Hope and Unity to Syria
The Martyrs of Damascus to be Canonized: A Message of Hope and Unity
In Damascus, Syria, the news of the upcoming canonization of the 11 “Martyrs of Damascus” has been met with emotion and hope. The martyrs, who were murdered out of hatred for the faith in 1860, will soon be officially recognized as saints by the Catholic Church.
The event took place during a period of persecution of Christians by Shia Druze, resulting in thousands of victims. The martyrs, including friars and laymen, were brutally killed for refusing to renounce their Christian faith and convert to Islam.
The news of the impending canonizations comes almost 100 years after the beatification of the martyrs in 1926. Father Firas Lufti, guardian of the Franciscan convent where the martyrdom occurred, expressed his joy at the announcement, calling it a completion of the martyrs’ self-giving in service to God and the Church.
Lufti emphasized the significance of the canonization in the current context of conflict and turmoil in the Middle East, stating that holiness is the hope for a new world. He hopes that the canonization will serve as a message of dialogue, peace, and unity in the region.
The martyrs are commemorated every year on July 10, and this year’s celebration will hold special significance as a taste of holiness. The canonization is expected to give a new impetus to the Christian community in Syria, inspiring them to persevere in the faith and follow the example of the martyrs.
The cause for canonization of the martyrs was revived due to their growing reputation for holiness and the miracles attributed to their intercession. The pope approved the votes for their canonization on May 23, although a date for the ceremony has not yet been set.
The Church in Syria hopes that the canonization can be celebrated during the upcoming Jubilee Year announced by Pope Francis, further emphasizing the message of hope, unity, and holiness brought by the Martyrs of Damascus.