The Patriarchate of Jerusalem welcomed the diplomatic visit of Greece’s Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ms. Alexandra Papadopoulou, on Sunday, December 8, 2024.
She was warmly received by Patriarch Theophilos III of Jerusalem at the Patriarchate’s headquarters in the Old City of Jerusalem.
During the meeting, the Patriarch expressed his heartfelt wishes for the end of the ongoing war, especially for the victims in Gaza, and his deep concern for the more than two million inhabitants of the region, particularly the children, who are enduring the heartbreaking reality of suffering and loss.
The strong bonds between the Patriarchate of Jerusalem and Greece were then highlighted, along with their shared commitment to safeguarding the Christian presence in the Holy Land.
Accompanied by Greece’s Ambassador to Israel, Mr. Kyriakos Loukakis, the Consul General of Greece in Jerusalem, Mr. Dimitrios Angelosopoulos, and members of her delegation, Ms. Papadopoulou discussed with the Patriarch and members of the Brotherhood of the Holy Sepulchre. The Patriarch described this visit as “a strong message in many directions,” emphasizing its significance, particularly in light of the growing threats to the Pilgrimage Status and the challenges faced by Christian Communities in the Holy Land.
During the meeting, the Patriarch voiced serious concerns, including issues related to the restrictions on granting residence permits (visas) for clergy and students, particularly the refusal of the Israeli state to issue residence permits to students under the age of 15 attending the Patriarchal School of Zion. He also expressed concerns over unauthorized construction activities around the Monastery of Saint Sabas and the ongoing difficulties in issuing IDs for members of the Brotherhood who have lived in the country for decades.
Appealing for support, the Patriarch handed Ms. Papadopoulou a letter urging the Greek Government to help address the aforementioned issues. He also encouraged Greece’s collaboration in promoting conservation efforts at the historic Monastery of the Holy Cross, emphasizing its cultural and spiritual significance.
The exchange of gifts between the Patriarch and Ms. Papadopoulou demonstrated the deep mutual respect between the Patriarchate and Greece. The Patriarch presented the Deputy Minister with an icon of the Virgin Mary of Jerusalem, while Ms. Papadopoulou gifted him a silver ceremonial tray.
The importance of the Patriarchate’s mission was also underscored during the meeting. As Patriarch Theophilos explained, “United, we stand as custodians of the sacred relics of our faith, ensuring that the Light of Christ will continue to shine on the land of His earthly ministry.”
The Patriarch’s address aligned with the spirit of cooperation that characterized the events of the day, sealing the shared commitment to preserving the Christian heritage of Jerusalem.
Following the discussions, Ms. Papadopoulou visited the Holy Sepulchre, where she was welcomed by the Elder Sacristan and Abbot of the Holy Sepulchre, Archbishop Isidoros of Hierapolis. There, she was guided through the Holy Tomb, Golgotha, and other holy sites. This visit highlighted the pivotal role of the Patriarchate in preserving the sacred landmarks of Christianity.
Source: Patriarchate of Jerusalem
