The Department of Ecumenical Relations and Development (DERD) is a nonprofit organization belonging to the Greek Orthodox Patriarchate of Antioch and All the East. The DERD operates from the Patriarchate located in the old city of Damascus.

In pursuance of Jesus Christ’s commandment “You shall love your neighbour as yourself” (Mathew 22:39), and in accordance with His teachings to respond to the need of the naked, the sick, the prisoner, the thirsty, the stranger and the hungry (Mathew 25:35-36), the Department of Ecumenical Relations and Development (DERD) extended its assistance to the thousands of Iraqi refugees with brotherly care, justice and utmost transparency.

On May 1, the Department organized a large barbeque for beneficiaries from the Capacity Building Program.

The Department of Ecumenical Relations and Development recently launched a new activity called “Help People to Find Jobs,”.

Many people's lives have been positively affected by the programs offered by the Department. There are some real success stories that we would like to share with you.

Vocational Training Courses aim at improving job prospects for disadvantaged people. There is a wide variety of courses available, including hairdressing, computer courses and photography. Click here to apply online.