The Premier of (Damascus) In The Vatican افتتاح دمشق تتكلم في الفاتيكان

Vatican City, (SANA) The Italian-dubbed version of the Syrian documentary "Damascus Speaks" which revolves around the life of St. Paul and his conversion to Christianity on the road to Damascus was launched at the Augustinianum amphitheater in Vatican City.

The launch ceremony and screening was attended by a mass public and official gathering, including representatives of 52 countries and President of the 200th Anniversary of St. Paul festivities Cardinal Andrea Cordero Lanza di Montezemolo, President of the Pontifical Council Cor Unum Cardinal Paul Josef Cordes, and President of Youth Arise International Dr. Henry Capello.

The event was also attended by Patriarch of the Church of Antioch Gregory III Laham, Patriarch of Jerusalem in Exile Hilarion Capucci, and chargé d'affaires of the Syrian Embassy in Rome Suha al-Jamali.

The even began with a brief word by Dr. Capello on the importance of the documentary and its screening at Vatican City, praising the efforts of the pridction company headed by Father Dr. Gamal Makkar and the efforts of the writer, director and actors.

Later, Patriarch Laham gave a speech, beginning by underlining the role of Damascus in the life of St. Paul and the history of Christianity, stressing that Damascus is still speaking and that Syria is committed to dialogue and preserving the spirit and message.

Cardinal Lanza di Montezemolo's speech focused on the importance of screening the movie near the ending of the 200th Anniversary of St. Paul festivities, affirming that Pope Benedict XVI personally welcomes the screening of the documentary in Vatican City.

The Cardinal noted that he saw the Arabic-language version of the documentary during his recent visit to Damascus, affirming that it represents a significant contribution to portraying the tale of St. Paul.

In a statement to SANA, President of Youth Arise International Dr. Capello said "We are very glad for the screening of the movie in Italian among this massive gathering," affirming that the movie sheds light on the character of St. Paul is a significant contribution to the whole church.

A copy of the documentary was presented to Pope Benedict XVI upon his return from his journey to the Holy Lands.

During his recent meeting with Patriarch of the Church of Antioch Gregory III Laham, Pope Benedict XVI praised the atmosphere of dialogue, amity and tolerance in Syria, underlining the importance of Damascus hosting the patriarchate headquarters since Damascus road was where St. Paul was converted to Christianity and moved on to spread it around the world.

The movie is written by Maysaa Salloum, directed by Khaled al-Khaled, and produced by al-Mahaba for Artistic Productions.

H. Sabbagh / Mazen

Category:

Film & Animation

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