The Syriacs are the oldest living stones in the Christian mosaic.

Mgr Mor Anthimos Jack Yacoub, patriarchal vicar for the Syriac Orthodox in Jerusalem, Jordan and the Holy Land says, "The Syriacs are a Semitic people. The Bible refers to the sons of Noah: Shem, Ham, and Japheth. With the birth of Christianity, as we read in the Acts of the Apostles, Chapter 11: 'In Antioch, the disciples were first called Christians. At that time, there was no division between Syriacs, Greeks, or Latins. The Church was united."

He continues, "We believe that Christ has two natures, united together," and remarks that "One scholar once said: 'If we lost the entire Bible, we could recover it from the writings of Saint Ephrem.' The Syriac Fathers were the first to translate the Holy Bible into Arabic. In the 7th century, Patriarch John led this effort."

He adds,  "Whether or not they speak Syriac, the Syriacs remain dedicated to preserving this heritage. They pass it down from generation to generation through their churches and schools. For them, Syriac Christianity is inseparable from their national identity."

Regarding the challenges Syriacs face, the bishop highlights the many difficulties. He asks: How can humanity overcome them? Does it place God first in its priorities?

He concludes saying, "The real challenge is that we may have grown attached to the sacred but forgotten the Holy One. The Bible reminds us: 'Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever.' Just as He walked the Holy Land doing good in the past, He continues to work among us today. It is up to us to give Him this opportunity."

Noadays, part of the Syriac community belongs to the Catholic Church. However, the majority follows the Orthodox Church, which defines Christ’s nature differently. Originally, they were called Arameans, named after Aram, the fifth son of Shem, son of Noah. Later, they became known as Syriacs, a name linked to the regions where they settled—Greater Syria—where they established distinct states.

The most important Syriac church in the Holy Land is in Jerusalem’s Old City. According to Syriac tradition, it stands on the ruins of Saint Mark’s house. It is the only church in the Holy Land that bears his name. Inside, it preserves a wooden altar, restored 400 years ago and covered in gold and silver.

The Syriacs take pride in their Syriac-Aramaic heritage, which has left an indelible mark on global civilization. Religiously, they played a vital role in spreading Christianity, carrying the faith to the ends of the earth, including India and China. Their patron saint is Saint Ephrem the Syrian, a 4th-century theologian whose writings are considered masterpieces of Christian literature.

The Syriacs have also contributed significantly to science and literature. Their history includes renowned figures such as the poet Imru' al-Qais and the physician and scientist Ibn Sina. Today, they are deeply committed to preserving and reviving their ancient language, which carries the fragrance of history.

 Around 2,000 Syriacs live in the Holy Land today. Worldwide, their population is about two million. They are spread across all continents, having endured persecution and massacres. Wherever they go, they carry their heritage, history, and faith—a witness to Christ that has endured for over two thousand years.