Jerusalem Patriarch expresses concern over Moldovan Church hierarch

Patriarch Theophilos of Jerusalem. Photo: Wikipedia

Patriarch Theophilos of Jerusalem. Photo: Wikipedia

His Beatitude Patriarch Theophilos III of Jerusalem expressed concern over the situation involving Archbishop Marchell of Bălți and Fălești in Moldova, who was prevented by authorities from traveling to Jerusalem to receive the Holy Fire. This was reported by RIA Novosti.

"The delay in Archbishop Marchell's departure is a matter of concern," said Patriarch Theophilos during a speech addressed to pilgrims.

As previously reported by the UOJ, Archbishop Marchell was stopped at the airport on two occasions and was not allowed to board his flight to Jerusalem, with no explanation given.

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