Patriarch Theophilos receives Athens medal for Gaza aid
Athens Mayor Haris Doukas highlighted Patriarch Theophilos’ role in peacebuilding efforts and the development of educational initiatives.
A ceremonial event was held at Athens City Hall to award Patriarch Theophilos III, Patriarch of Jerusalem and All Palestine, the Medal of the City of Athens. Haris Doukas, Mayor of Athens, presented the distinction in recognition of the Patriarch’s longstanding efforts in promoting peace, education, and humanitarian support across the Middle East, reports Vima Orthodoxias.
Doukas highlighted Patriarch Theophilos’ spiritual and social ministry and emphasized the Church’s role during the conflict in Gaza. He noted that the historic Monastery of Saint Porphyrius served as a safe refuge for hundreds of civilians, providing shelter, food, and essential supplies.
The mayor also praised the educational work of the Greek Orthodox Patriarchate of Jerusalem, which operates schools in Jerusalem, Palestine, and Jordan, serving thousands of children regardless of their religion or nationality. He further pointed to the establishment of the Middle East’s first Orthodox university as a significant contribution to cultural development and interfaith dialogue.
Patriarch Theophilos thanked the Athens municipal authorities for the prestigious distinction, saying the honor belonged to the entire Jerusalem Patriarchate and the Holy Sepulchre Brotherhood.
The Patriarch noted that the Church’s historic institution has served continuously in the Holy Land for seventeen centuries, supporting believers from around the world. He stressed that the Church would continue to care for victims of conflict and safeguard the Christian presence in the region.
As previously reported, Patriarch Theophilos III also presented Donald Trump with the highest order of the Jerusalem Church.
