Recent Engagements of Patriarch Theophilos of Jerusalem

In late January 2026, His Beatitude Theophilos, the Patriarch of Jerusalem, engaged in a series of meetings with various dignitaries and groups, emphasizing the Patriarchate's commitment to its pastoral and multicultural mission in the Holy Land.

Patriarch of Jerusalem held a series of meetings

On January 26, Patriarch Theophilos welcomed a diverse group of pilgrims, including twenty-five Greek pilgrims led by Archimandrite Father Makarios, and groups from Russia and Poland. Notably, he met with Metropolitan Mark of Berlin from the Russian Orthodox Church Outside of Russia (ROCOR) and representatives from Azerbaijan, including Taleh Nazarli, the Consul of the Embassy of Azerbaijan, who acknowledged the Patriarch's efforts in maintaining the status quo of the Holy Places.

Patriarch of Jerusalem held a series of meetingsVISITS TO HIS BEATITUDE ON 28 JANUARYVISITS TO HIS BEATITUDE ON 27 JANUARY

The following day, January 27, the Patriarch received Milorad Dodic, the Prime Minister of Bosnia and Herzegovina, who expressed gratitude for the Patriarchate's hospitality and discussed matters pertinent to his country. The meeting highlighted the Patriarchate's role in fostering interfaith dialogue and humanitarian efforts. Additionally, the Ambassador of Belarus to Israel, Yury Simakov, visited to congratulate the Patriarch on the New Civil Year and sought blessings for participation in the upcoming Holy Light ceremony.

VISITS TO HIS BEATITUDE ON 27 JANUARY

On January 28, the Patriarch hosted a group of Russian pilgrims and representatives from the charitable foundation “Four Homes of Mercy,” which has been active in providing humanitarian aid in Bethany for over fifty years. During this meeting, Mrs. Nadia Kara’a, the Administrative Secretary of the foundation, was honored with the decoration of the Cross-bearer of the Order of the Knights of the Holy Sepulchre.

VISITS TO HIS BEATITUDE ON 28 JANUARY

The engagements reflect the Patriarchate's ongoing commitment to its religious, humanitarian, and multicultural mission, particularly in relation to the Most Holy Sepulchre and Golgotha. The meetings serve to strengthen ties with various communities and nations, promoting a message of unity and cooperation.

VISITS TO HIS BEATITUDE ON 28 JANUARY

Patriarch Theophilos articulated the significance of these meetings, emphasizing the Patriarchate's role in fostering peace and understanding among different cultures and faiths in the region. He expressed gratitude for the support received from various leaders and organizations, which aids in the continuation of the Patriarchate's mission.

Patriarch of Jerusalem held a series of meetings

While the engagements were largely positive, some critics argue that the Patriarchate's interactions with political figures may complicate its spiritual mission, potentially leading to perceptions of political bias. However, the Patriarchate maintains that its focus remains on humanitarian efforts and interfaith dialogue.

Patriarch of Jerusalem held a series of meetings

These meetings and interactions underscore the Patriarchate's pivotal role in the region, as it navigates the complexities of faith, culture, and politics.

Patriarch of Jerusalem held a series of meetings