Pat. Theophilos urges diplomats to protect Christians' rights in Holy Land
The Primate of the Jerusalem Church called on the international community to protect the freedom of worship in the Holy City and Christians of the Holy Land.
Patriarch Theophilos III held a meeting with general consuls and diplomats at the Jerusalem Patriarchate residence on February 6, 2026, and called on them to defend the rights of Christians in the Holy Land. This was reported by the Patriarchate website.
In his address, the Jerusalem Primate noted the severe consequences of the humanitarian crisis, especially in the Gaza Strip, where civilians are suffering. He thanked Christian communities for their faithfulness to their service amid destruction and called on the diplomatic community to support humanitarian initiatives for the region's reconstruction. The Patriarch noted that the Church cannot remain indifferent to human suffering, emphasizing: "What we do for the least of these, we do for Christ Himself."
Patriarch Theophilos expressed concern over the increasing attacks by settlers on Christian villages in the West Bank and restrictions on believers' participation in worship services in Jerusalem, especially during the descent of the Holy Fire and Holy Week. He emphasized that free access to holy sites is an inalienable right of all believers, enshrined in the centuries-old status quo of the Holy City.
He called the severe restrictions on the permitted number of believers, the disruption of traditional scout participation, and aggressive police actions unacceptable violations of freedom of worship and human dignity.
The Patriarch also called for ensuring medical assistance to children from Gaza suffering from cancer and ensuring free access for educators and medical workers who face restrictions on entry to Jerusalem. According to him, the Church's mission consists in healing bodies, souls, and protecting the dignity given by God to every person.
"Our mission is healing," he said. "To heal bodies, to heal souls, and to protect the dignity that God has granted to every person."
In conclusion, he reminded the diplomatic corps in Jerusalem that "blessed are the peacemakers," confirming that justice and mercy remain the only path worthy of the holy city of Jerusalem.
As the UOJ reported, the Patriarch of Jerusalem called on Churches to support Christians of the Holy Land.
