Amid the difficult circumstances currently facing the Middle East and the trials experienced by the peoples of the region, Patriarch Theodore II of Alexandria held telephone conversations on March 9 with Patriarch John X of Antioch and Patriarch Theophilos III of Jerusalem.
During these conversations, the Patriarch of Alexandria expressed the sincere support of the Church of the Apostle Mark and conveyed his fraternal love to the two primates. He assured them that the Greek Orthodox Patriarchate of Alexandria is closely following developments in the region with deep concern and continues to pray unceasingly for peace, stability, and reconciliation among the peoples of the Middle East.
It was emphasized that the bonds between the ancient Patriarchates of the region are not only historical and ecclesiastical but also deeply fraternal and personal. Patriarch Theodore II shares a long-standing spiritual friendship with Patriarch John X of Antioch, dating back to their student years at the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki.
At the same time, Patriarch Theodore II maintains a special reverence toward Patriarch Theophilos III of Jerusalem, inspired by his deep respect for the late Patriarch Benedict I of Jerusalem (†1980).
The Patriarch also recalled with emotion the spiritual guidance he received from his elder, Metropolitan Theodore Tzedakis of Rethymno (†1996), who instilled in him a profound love for the Holy Places and deep respect for the Brotherhood of the Holy Sepulchre.
The Church of the Apostle Mark continues to pray that the God of peace will grant wisdom to leaders, protection to the innocent, and hope to the peoples of the region, so that peace and reconciliation may ultimately prevail.
Source: Patriarchate of Alexandria, translated by: Konstantinos Menyktas
