The Archbishop of Canterbury today expressed his sadness over the death of the Abune Dioskoros of the Eritrean Orthodox Church.

Archbishop Justin Welby said: 

"Having heard today the sad news of the death of Abune Dioskoros in Eritrea, I send profound condolences to the Eritrean Orthodox Church and pray for the unity of the Eritrean Orthodox Church, and for the comfort and grace of God to fill all those involved in its Holy Synod.

"May Abune Dioskoros rest in peace and rise in glory. May the Church find hope in the celebration of the Nativity of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. May there be strength to declare the good news of Christ for the people of Eritrea.

"May Abune Antonios be restored to liberty and ministry and may the Church be strengthened in apostolic unity for the sake of the poor and for the service of Eritreans around the world."