B e r l i n – Baptists in Europe feel solidarity with those who are suffering in Syria. That was the message of a statement, which was unanimously adopted by the delegates from 46 countries at the close of the Council of the European Baptist Federation (EBF), September 26-29, in Elstal near Berlin. Hope for Syria and the people there is found in the Bible verse, “God is our refuge and strength an ever-present help in trouble” (Psalm 46:1). They are praying for an end to the violence and for reconciliation. Member unions were also called on to pray for “a lasting peace, democracy, and the realisation of human rights”.

No travel permit for a Baptist from Aleppo

Originally, a Baptist from Aleppo in Syria was supposed to take part in the EBF Council meeting. However, as he informed the Council, he was unable to obtain a visa. He, too, made a plea for those gathered to pray above all for protection for the Christian minority in Syria. Before the beginning of the unrest, the Baptist Union in Syria included ten churches and three church planting projects, with a total of about 600 members. However, the church building in Homs was destroyed in the fighting. Attendees of the Council also prayed for peace in Syria during a communion service.