On Tuesday, December 5, 2017, the second session was held during the 3rd Archon International Conference on Religious Freedom on the topic "Persecution of Christians and Possible Solutions.” This ecumenical panel brought together religious leaders and representatives from the various Christian communities of the Middle East, including Syria, Turkey and Egypt. The voices of ancient eastern Christian communities were joined by those of modern western Christianity. Members of the Coptic, Syriac, and Greek Orthodox Churches, together with Protestant representatives brought to light the persecution endured by these communities. The discussion also highlighted steps being taken to raise global awareness of the plight of Christians. Moreover, the discussion also introduced initiatives to preserve the region’s pluralistic fabric and interfaith peace building. The moderator was William Antholis, CEO of the University of Virginia’s Miller Center of Public Affairs. Panelists included: His Eminence Archbishop Dionysius Kawak, Syriac Orthodox Church; His Grace Bishop Angaelos, Coptic Orthodox Church in the United Kingdom; Very Reverend Father Isaac Crow, Antiochian Orthodox Church; Anna Koulouris, Communications Advisor, Patriarchate of Jerusalem; and Johny Messo, President, World Council of Arameans (Syriacs). Opening remarks were also offered by Senator James Lankford (R-OK) and Congressman Gus Bilirakis (R-FL) Co-Vice-Chair, Congressional Religious Freedom Caucus.(Photos by J. Mindala)