In a heartfelt gesture of shared commitment to peace, Theophilos III, Patriarch of Jerusalem, received Consul General Diane Corner of Great Britain as she concluded her three-and-a-half-year tenure in Jerusalem. The farewell visit, held at the Patriarchate’s historic headquarters, offered an opportunity for reflection on the enduring role of the Church in the Holy Land and the joint commitment to upholding justice, humanity, and interfaith concord.
“Since the dawn of Christianity,” the Patriarch affirmed, “the Patriarchate of Jerusalem has stood as a steadfast shepherd of peace and resilience, working collaboratively with Christian communities across the Holy Land. Our pastoral duty is a sacred responsibility to uplift and protect the Christian presence in Jerusalem and the rest of the holy land, an obligation we hold with great reverence.”
He stressed the importance of cooperative efforts with other Christian denominations and religious communities, which aim to foster dialogue and peace amid the many challenges Jerusalem faces.
The Patriarch drew particular attention to the persistent struggles inflicted upon Jerusalem, noting, “Jerusalem, as a city held dear by the three monotheistic faiths, stands today under immense pressure from Israeli radical organizations who seek to marginalize the other faith communities. These organizations violate our sacred heritage and threaten the essence of our collective faith and peace in the region.”
In light of recent war, the Patriarch elaborated on the Patriarchate’s humanitarian response, particularly in Gaza, where the Church has provided sanctuary to hundreds in the Monastery of St. Porphyrius. “In Gaza,” he explained, “the Patriarchate extends a shelter of hope amid the storm of war, embodying the compassion and mercy that lies at the heart of our faith.
The Patriarch gratitude for the solidarity the Patriarchate receives from the British government and King Charles III, whose support has been vital in these trying times. The Patriarch also urged the international community to act decisively, stressing that “an end to hostilities is a moral imperative. The cries for peace from Gaza and Lebanon demand an urgent and unified response to protect innocent lives and restore dignity to the oppressed.”
In closing, the Patriarch commended Consul General Corner for her exemplary service, expressing hope that she would continue to work for peace and justice in future diplomatic roles. “Your dedication to the Holy Land’s people and their quest for peace has left a lasting imprint on this region. As you transition to new missions, we ask that you carry forth this mission of hope.”
Marking her departure, the Patriarch presented her with a portrait of Jerusalem featuring the Holy Sepulchre and Al-Aqsa Mosque, symbolizing the enduring spirit of understanding across faiths.
Source: Patriarchate of Jerusalem
