Syria: interfaith forum seeks peaceful solution to crisis

Damascus

The Syrian Forum of Families has joined the interfaith movement Mussalaha (Reconciliation), which is working to find a way of dialogue between the different parties in the current civil conflict. Mussalaha members want to show that there is a third way possible, an alternative to war and weapons, that of civil society.

Salman Al Assaf Rails, founder of the Forum, that brings together influential figures in the Syrian society, clans and different communities around the principle cores and values of family, stressed the urgency of "reconciliation, brotherhood, loyalty and belonging," expressing support for the work of reconciliation, dialogue and an era of reforms.

Khalil No, president of the executive committee of the Forum, said that the Mussalaha "shows a series of important clues on the health of Syrian society: firstly, the unity of the Syrian people, who constitute one family; then the common commitment against sectarianism and violence; and the awareness and willingness to sit around the negotiating table." These - he said - are the factors that could bring an end to the crisis.

Many religious figures also belong to the Forum: Catholic priest Fr Gabriel Khajo stressed the need for forgiveness and love, remembering that the human being is the cornerstone of society and the family is the primary source of education. Fr Hermes Shiba, Patriarchal Vicar of the ancient Assyrian Church raised a heartfelt prayer "so that God surrounds this Forum with the Spirit of love, reconciliation and peace," saying that "God created us to live in peace and security: peace generates love: let us love one another and our country."

Local committees of the Mussalaha are present in the provinces of Daraa, Deir Ezzor, Idleb, Hama and Homs. Theyhave started to obtain positive results, attracting the sympathy of the government and opposition. Recently more than 800 Syrian community leaders and elders met in Deir Zor, near Hassak and said that the only way out of the crisis is internal dialogue and non-violent action.

Source: Fides