A Significant Ordination
After his ordination on September 17, 2023, Bishop Hanna Jallouf, OFM, embraces the Latin patriarch of Jerusalem, Pierbattista Pizzaballa, who was his direct superior during Pizzaballa’s tenure as custos of the Holy Land from 2004 to 2016.
Ordained on a Meaningful Day
Jallouf was ordained on a significant day for the Franciscans—the feast of the Stigmata of St. Francis of Assisi.
On September 17, 1224, St. Francis, while praying on Mount La Verna in Italy, received the same wounds as Jesus crucified in his body.
Bishop Jallouf chose this date for his ordination with a hope for healing in war-torn Syria.
Motto and Coat of Arms
The newly ordained Bishop Hanna Jallouf has chosen a motto and coat of arms as he takes on his role as apostolic vicar of Aleppo for the Latins.
Expressing Love for the Land
The new bishop’s words convey his deep love for his homeland, a love he wanted to express through his motto and coat of arms, as is customary for bishops. These symbols reflect his mission and his origins.
“As One Who Serves”
Bishop Jallouf chose the motto “Sicut qui ministrat,” which means “As one who serves” (Luke 22:27). These are the words spoken by Jesus to his disciples during the Last Supper.
Symbolism in the Coat of Arms
The coat of arms features symbolic elements that represent various aspects of Bishop Jallouf’s identity and mission.
Challenges Ahead
Bishop Jallouf acknowledges two significant challenges in his mission.
Reconciliation and Courage
One challenge is to foster reconciliation in a region divided by conflict. He hopes to bring courage and peace to both sides in Syria’s ongoing struggle.
Renewing Priestly Vocations
The second challenge is to rejuvenate priestly and religious vocations after years of emergency mode living.
The Power of Work and Prayer
Bishop Jallouf draws inspiration from Franciscan spirituality, emphasizing the importance of unity between work and prayer in saving Syria and bearing witness to their faith.
The Transformative Impact of War
The war has transformed the Christian population in Syria drastically, but the Church remains resilient and hopeful.
Seeds of Hope
Despite the challenges, new vocations are emerging, offering hope for Syria’s future.
Prayer for Salvation
Bishop Jallouf’s prayer for salvation and mercy remains a guiding force in his mission.
A Journey of Faith
Born and raised in Italy, Marinella Bandini is a professional journalist who has been covering Catholic news since 2008. Currently based in Jerusalem, she collaborates with the Custody of the Holy Land.