siting St. Marys’ church or the churches in Bab Toma on Friday, May 6, 2022

22. Bab Toma is one of Damascus’s old gates, it was named after the priest Thomas, who was one of the 12 Christian apostles. Marys’ church is located in the neighborhood of Bab Toma, it is the headquarter of the Greek Orthodox Patriarchate of all the east. It was named after the Virgin Mary, and it is one of the most important churches in Damascus. Khassan F. Saka went to visit the church, and parish priest George Dawood was the one to welcome him. Regarding the role of churches in providing humanitarian aid, there is a department that helps all people within its center and arrangement of course after the CR Organization. As well the church also provide aid in agreement with donors, as it has social centers that provide psychological support to the citizens, education services, various subsidies, and medical aid such as small operations…etc. Mr. Khassan confirmed that the Canadian Organization work with the Canadian Red Cross and they conclude agreements with them according to programs. And he added, your church not only helps Syrian people but also helps the Iraqis, and the church never ask about their believes or religion kindly helping and respecting everyone. Mary’s church helps everyone regardless of anything. The church also provides seasonal educational programs about human development, women and family rights against violence. And they also purchase medical devices such as Eco device, ventilators…etc. to provide them when needed in hospitals. This church has a major role in accommodating citizens in their hotels, especial in the beginning of the crisis. The residents of Bab Toma confirm that the years of war only increased their strength and firmness to hold on to their land. And they are still praying to bring back peace to their land.