# Syrian Christian schools reopen after 54 years

> Two Franciscan schools in northern Syria welcome students again, becoming symbols of hope and interfaith dialogue after decades of closure.
- Title: Syrian Christian schools reopen after 54 years · Vaticannews
- Summary: Two Franciscan schools in northern Syria welcome students again, becoming symbols of hope and interfaith dialogue after decades of closure. Education is…
- Keywords: syria, idlib governorate, franciscan friars, custody of the holy land, knaye, yacoubieh, christian schools, terra sancta, interreligious dialogue, post-war reconstruction, education, interfaith cooperation
- Source: Vaticannews — https://vaticannews.va/en/church/news/2026-09/two-christian-schools-reopen-syria-knaye-yacoubieh-franciscan.html
- Author: Vatican News
- Published: 2026-09-22T17:25:37.769+00:00
- Read time: 2 min
- Topics: syria, idlib governorate, franciscan friars, custody of the holy land, knaye, yacoubieh, christian schools, terra sancta, interreligious dialogue, post-war reconstruction, education, interfaith cooperation
## Two schools reopen in Syria
The Franciscan friars inaugurated Terra Sancta schools in Knaye and Yacoubieh on September 20, 2026, after nearly 60 years of closure. The schools were originally opened in 1958 but seized in 1972.
## From military shelter to school
When the military withdrew from the area, the school buildings became a refugee shelter for a decade. Father Khukaz Mesrob decided to restore them as a symbol of hope for the community.

> Why not start restoring these buildings?
## Restoration creates 100 jobs
The rebuilding project employed nearly 100 local workers as electricians, carpenters, artists, and labourers, providing steady income to families during Syria's reconstruction. This meant 100 families had secure employment.
## Schools welcome Muslim students
The Terra Sancta schools are open to everyone, including Muslim families. Currently serving 80 pupils, they will expand to nearly 300 students once fully restored next year.

> Our schools in Syria have always been open to everyone.
## Teaching peace, not war
Bishop Hanna Jallouf, Apostolic Vicar of Aleppo, emphasized that education is essential for Syria's future. Young people learned the trade of war during conflict and must now learn the trade of peace and coexistence.

> Young people have only learned the trade of war. We must ensure they learn the trade of peace.
## Franciscan mission through action
The Franciscan approach emphasizes evangelization through good works and kind words. Many Muslims now teach at the schools after receiving education from the friars, demonstrating the power of interfaith relationships.
## Families return to villages
Around 200 families now live in Knaye, Yacoubieh, and surrounding villages, double the number who remained during the war. The schools are helping communities rebuild and resettle.
## A mosaic of coexistence
The inauguration brought together religious leaders, ambassadors, government officials, Christians, and Muslims. Father Mesrob described the gathering as a mosaic where every stone matters in its exact place and colour.

> Every small stone in the picture matters in its exact place and colour.
## Key takeaway

Education is rebuilding Syria by creating jobs, bringing families back, and teaching peace instead of war.