JERUSALEM /PNN/
Greek Orthodox Patriarch Theophilos III urged members of the diplomatic corps on Wednesday to defend freedom of worship and human dignity in Jerusalem, warning of growing restrictions on access to holy sites and escalating violence affecting Christian communities across the occupied West Bank.
The patriarch, joined by the Council of Patriarchs and Heads of Churches in Jerusalem, met with consuls general and diplomats at the headquarters of the Orthodox Patriarchate, where he outlined what he described as urgent moral and humanitarian challenges facing the Holy Land.
In his remarks, Theophilos pointed to the ongoing devastation in Gaza, saying civilians continue to bear a heavy human cost amid widespread destruction and deprivation. He recalled a recent pastoral visit to Gaza with Latin Patriarch Pierbattista Pizzaballa and praised local Christian communities for maintaining humanitarian service despite the conflict.
“The Church cannot turn its face away from human pain,” Theophilos said, adding that faith compels continued presence and service to those suffering.
He also expressed concern over what he described as a rise in settler-related violence in the West Bank, citing incidents affecting Christian communities in the towns of Taybeh and Birzeit. He warned that settlement expansion near Beit Sahour, one of the largest remaining Christian towns in the West Bank, threatens the social and religious fabric of the area.
The patriarch raised alarm over restrictions on freedom of worship in Jerusalem, including limits imposed during Holy Week and the Holy Fire celebrations. He said constraints on the number of worshippers allowed into holy sites, the disruption of traditional Scout processions, and what he described as aggressive policing undermine long-established religious rights under the historical Status Quo arrangements.
Theophilos also renewed calls for unhindered humanitarian access, urging authorities to allow children with cancer from Gaza to reach Augusta Victoria Hospital in Jerusalem for treatment. He highlighted ongoing permit obstacles facing teachers and essential workers, saying the restrictions disrupt education and livelihoods.
“Our mission is healing — to heal bodies, to heal spirits, and to safeguard the dignity bestowed upon every human being,” he said.
He concluded by calling on diplomats to uphold justice and peace in Jerusalem, describing them as essential to preserving the city’s religious character and shared heritage.
