On Tuesday, November 19, Holy Trinity Publications held a book launch for new release: Tsarist Russia in Greater Syria at the diocesan chancery of Bishop John of Worcester & New England (Antiochian Archdiocese) in Westborough, MA. The event featured greetings from Metropolitan Saba (in absentia) and Bishop John, followed by a conversation with the author, Dr Najib E. Saliba.
Dr Saliba is Professor Emeritus of History and Political Science at Worcester State University and the youngest brother of the ever-memorable Metropolitan Philip (+2014). His work illuminates the history and legacy of the Russian Empire’s activities in the Near East in the century before World War I, drawing lessons of continued relevance today. In the author’s remarks, he stressed the vital role that Russia played in the renaissance of Arab culture and identity and in upholding the native Orthodox Christian population in the face of Roman Catholic and Protestant proselytism.
In addition to the host, Bishop John, some 30 guests were in attendance, including: Archpriest Thomas Zain (vicar general of the Antiochian Archdiocese, who also wrote the foreword to the book), Archpriest Michael Crowley (dean of New England and rector of St. Xenia Church in Methuen, MA), and members of the Saliba family. The formal event was followed by a meal provided by a member of the community of St George Cathedral in Worcester.
Copies of Tsarist Russia in Greater Syria may be ordered worldwide from any good bookshop or online bookseller, or directly from the publisher at www.HolyTrinityPublications.com.
A full video of the evening will be released in the coming weeks. We pray that Tsarist Russia in Greater Syria will fill a critical gap in knowledge regarding the history of Russian influence in the region that continues to be relevant to today’s geopolitical situation.
