Patriarch Theophilos in Athens: The Church of Jerusalem facing trials
Patriarch Theophilos. Photo: UOJ
Patriarch Theophilos III of Jerusalem stated on June 7, 2026, that the Orthodox Church of Jerusalem is experiencing serious trials caused by instability in the region, reports the UOJ in Greece.
"Today the Church of Jerusalem, more than ever before, finds itself in a place subjected to disorders, anxiety and upheavals," emphasized the Primate of the Jerusalem Patriarchate, following the Divine Liturgy at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Athens. The Patriarch also noted that the Risen Christ remains "a refuge and hope for all people, and especially for Christians and our Orthodox brethren."
According to Patriarch Theophilos III, despite the difficult situation in the region, the Jerusalem Patriarchate continues to bear responsibility for preserving the Holy Land and maintaining vibrant spiritual life at the shrines of Christianity. The Primate emphasized that the Patriarchate does not abandon its care for the sacred pilgrimage sites.
As the UOJ reported, Patriarch Theophilos presented Donald Trump with the highest order of the Jerusalem Church.
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