Two Argentine priests are showing a true vocation for service in Syria. Despite living in one of the world's most dangerous cities, Hugo Alaniz and Enrique González have refused to leave Aleppo, committing to staying in the city and spending Christmas there amid a scenario of further uncertainty.
The priests are sheltering Catholic residents in the basement of their church, offering assistance to a community dealing, like the rest of the country and the world, with the fall of the Bashar al-Assad regime.
"Before 2011 (when the civil war began), Syria was a thriving country, but now more than 70% of the population lives in extreme poverty—they go to bed hungry. Many have been reduced to begging, losing their dignity in the process," Alaniz told Argentine newspaper La Nación. "In this context, the silent work of the Catholic Church, supported by external benefactors, sustains the people. Even many Muslims have told us that without the Church's presence, they would have died years ago."
The situation has worsened in recent days following the weekend fall of the regime. Violence, food shortages, and fear dominate daily life.
A critical mission in a time of uncertainty
"Today, some people ventured out of their homes to try to find food or medicine. People are scared; no one knows what will happen, and uncertainty is absolute," Alaniz explained.
"I just finished distributing bread I managed to get from a bakery. As soon as people saw me, neighbors rushed over, and within two minutes, a thousand people had gathered." In Midan, the area where their church is located, the priests operate two kitchens to feed the elderly who have been left alone after their families fled the civil war.
Alaniz, 55, has spent three decades in the Middle East and has been in Aleppo since 2017. Originally from Junín, Argentina, he shared that they remain in contact with the Argentine embassy in Damascus. Ambassador Sebastián Zavalla has offered them assistance to leave should they want to.
However, their response was unwavering. "We are missionaries, and we will stay where we are needed. Despite the fear and uncertainty, with Christmas approaching, we are trying to deliver a message of hope," Alaniz said.
The fall of Assad's regime to extremist-led rebel groups has added to the anxiety of Aleppo's residents, a city that is home to Catholics, Christians, Muslims, and Sunnis.
Alaniz noted that, so far, they have not received any threats.
He recounted an encounter shortly after the rebels took control of the city. "I was stopped while driving. I told them I was a clergyman, dressed in my usual priest attire. They greeted me politely, and I was allowed to continue on my way," he said.
The rebels have communicated through a Facebook page, issuing curfews and directives. "They have assured us Christians not to fear, stating they are not targeting us and that their enemies lie elsewhere," Alaniz added.
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