Beneath the unassuming exterior of Syrianska kyrkan lies a vibrant community. It is a testament to faith and perseverance. The Syriac Orthodox Church has deep roots in Sweden. The community numbers around 120 thousand. They are spread across two dioceses. Bishop Dioskoros Benjamin Atas and Bishop Ablahhad Gello Sabo lead them.
Syrianska kyrkan stands as a beacon for many congregations. They are in Södertälje Norsborg and Örebro. You will find them in Gothenburg and Norrköping too. Jönköping Västerås and the suburbs of Stockholm also have them.
In 1992 something special happened for the Syriac Orthodox Church. Sundbyberg Church moved. The Syriac Orthodox parish showed great interest in buying the church. Discussions followed with Bishop Julius Abdulahad Shabo. He oversaw the Syriac Orthodox Church in Sweden and Scandinavia.
The church board formed committees. They visited members to collect donations. With God’s help and the generosity of members the church was paid off in 1995. This shows the community’s commitment to their faith.
The youth group is called UI. It is also known as St. Petrus youth association. The group shows how the church embraces its younger members.
The leader of the Syriac Orthodox Church Patriarch Mor Ignatius Aphrem II visited St. Mary Church in Tensta Stockholm. This visit shows the importance of the church to its members. He dedicated the Sayfo monument. He also blessed the scouts. Archbishop Mor Dioscorus Benjamin Atas spoke about the parish. He highlighted its many activities. The Patriarch thanked everyone. He recognized their faith and devotion to their church.
But there have been some challenges for Syrianska kyrkan. In Stockholm the Syriac Orthodox Church of Mary Virgin in Tensta was vandalized. Archbishop Mor Dioscorus Benjamin Aktaş investigated this crime. Despite the vandalism the community remains strong.
The Syriac Orthodox Church plays an important role in Swedish society. Five Syriac members serve in the Swedish Parliament. They are Tony Haddou Robert Hannah and Roger Haddad. Robert Halef and Abraham Halef also serve. Ibrahim Baylan is Minister of Enterprise. He honored Bishop Benjamin Atas at his silver jubilee.
The church has expanded its reach. It partnered with the Stockholm School of Theology. Together they created the Sankt Ignatios Syriac Orthodox Seminary. This seminary trains future priests. They are needed for parishes in Sweden and beyond.
The Syriac Orthodox Church in Sweden has grown. It has overcome challenges. Syrianska kyrkan continues to be a vital part of Stockholm. It shows the strength faith and community.