His Holiness Patriarch Mor Ignatius Aphrem II inaugurates the “Syriac Song Festival” at Mor Gabriel Hall in Qamishly. The Edessa Cultural Choir performed some Syriac songs with Church melodies. The theme of this year’s festival is: “the voice of Edessa from Zalin”.  The children of the choir sang a diversity of songs on the land of the forefathers and the cities of the historical Archdioceses.

In his inaugural speech, His Holiness expressed his joy for having such a festival that reflects the Syriac culture and identity. His Holiness also said that such activities and artistic performances are a sign that the Syriac people refuses to be led to death, but they desire to live and refuse to die.

Their Eminences Mor Maurice Amsih, Archbishop of Jazeerah and Euphrates, Mor Justinus Boulos Safar, Patriarchal Vicar in Zahleh and Beqaa, and Mor Timotheos Matthew, Patriarchal Secretary for Indian Affairs were attended.