The Patriarch Theophilos III of Jerusalem, Patriarch of Jerusalem and head of the Council of Churches in the Holy Land, expressed hope that the recent ceasefire between Israel and Hamas could become a step toward a final and lasting peace.
He made these remarks during the annual Christmas and New Year reception hosted by Isaac Herzog, attended by representatives of all Christian communities in the Holy Land.
As reported by The Jerusalem Post, Patriarch Theophilos stated that the Churches are praying for the ceasefire “to lead to a conclusive and permanent peace, healing the wounds of October 7 and the war in Gaza.”
At the same time, he emphasized that Christians in the Holy Land continue to work and struggle to ensure that humanitarian aid reaches all those in need, “especially children, women, the elderly, and those who are sick, wounded, or injured.”
In this context, the Patriarch made special reference to children from Gaza suffering from cancer who are being treated at the Augusta Victoria Hospital in Jerusalem, underlining the importance of the uninterrupted continuation of their medical care, according to The Jerusalem Post.
Referring to conditions in other parts of the Palestinian territories, Patriarch Theophilos III stressed the need for greater attention to the real and growing challenges faced by local communities. He noted that “the rise and increasing hostility of radical groups in the West Bank and Jerusalem constitute a real challenge,” adding that effective ways must be found so that communities living side by side can coexist with respect and security. He further warned that “we must not abandon the effort until we confront an equally serious threat to all of us, which is crime and violence in the northern communities of Israel.”
Concluding his remarks, the Patriarch assured President Herzog that the Patriarchs and Heads of the Churches would remain steadfast in their spiritual mission as messengers of peace and reconciliation. He emphasized their commitment to working together with the President and with all those who place peace, and the fight against all forms of antisemitism and Islamophobia, above any other interest.
For his part, President Herzog expressed concern over the departure of young Christian families from Israel. “This is their place, just as it is mine and ours,” he said, stressing the need for Christian communities to feel welcome and secure in the country.
