A commitment was made in 2001 by the Syrian Orthodox Diocese of Jerusalem, Jordan and the Holy Lands, the Anglican Diocese of Kaduna, Nigeria, and the Diocese of Coventry, England to enter into a spiritual partnership.
Syrian Orthodox Diocese of Jerusalem, Jordan and the Holy Lands
Some time ago, a group of Syrian Orthodox Christians, originally from the borders of Turkey and Syria, made their home in Bethlehem. For many years the community dreamed of a school of their own where their traditions and especially the Aramaic language - the language that Jesus spoke - could be taught.
In 2000, a group of pilgrims from Coventry Diocese visited this community in Bethlehem and witnessed the plight of the children. On their return they were so moved by the situation that a support group was established to raise funds to help realise the community's dream and with significant funding from the Barnabas Fund a site was acquired which local workers transformed into the beautiful school that stands there today.
In September 2003 the school opened with 15 children. The quality, care and education was quickly recognised and the demand for places grew rapidly necessitating the need for more room. A third floor was added in 2006 providing 5 more classrooms. The school was officially opened in September 2006 with many foreign and local dignitaries attending. Canon Justin Welby represented Coventry Cathedral on behalf of the Bishop of Coventry, Bishop Colin and presented them a Cross of Nails.
Kaduna
Following the establishment of an initial link between the dioceses of Coventry and Kaduna, several visits have helped the link to flourish. The only project currently run is the sponsoring of water wells in villages. To date over 50 wells have been dug.