ISTANBUL

Churches across Syria marked Easter on Sunday with vibrant ceremonies and heartfelt prayers.

The neighborhoods of Bab Tuma and Bab Sharqi in the capital Damascus served as focal points for the celebrations. Churches in these historic quarters held special Easter liturgies featuring hymns, scripture readings, and the lighting of candles, according to Anadolu reporters.

Following the services, scout bands affiliated with local churches paraded through the streets with music and celebration.

“Masses began early in the morning. We prayed and felt great peace,” Nabil Fahel told Anadolu at the centuries-old Zeitoun Church in Damascus.

“The security situation was excellent, and there was a sense of calm. God willing, we will all build a new Syria together, united across all faiths,” he added, alluding to the new administration after decades of Baath Party rule.

Mary Frihat, one of the organizers at Zeitoun Church, said that families would continue Easter celebrations at home.

Highlighting the social nature of the holiday, she added: “We visit one another during this time. Our people have endured so much. We deserve peace, rest, and a safe life.”

A similar festival mood prevailed in ceremonies in other Syrian cities like Aleppo, Homs, and Latakia.

Former President Bashar al-Assad, who ruled Syria for nearly 25 years, fled to Russia on Dec. 8, ending the Baath Party’s decades-long rule that began in 1963.

A transitional administration was formed in Syria in late January, dissolving the Constitution, security services, armed factions, parliament and the Baath Party.