Patriarch Theophilos III of Jerusalem presided over a special prayer for peace held at the “Catholicos” of the Basilica of the Holy Sepulcher in Jerusalem on Sunday.
The prayer rally was organized following the devastating bombing that claimed the lives of 18 Christians in the Orthodox Church of St. Porphyrios in Gaza.
The ceremony, attended by the Apostolic Nuncio to Israel, Archbishop Adolfo Tito Yllana, and the Custos of the Holy Land, Father Francesco Patton, aimed to offer solace and support to the survivors and express a commitment to peace in the face of tragedy.
In an exclusive interview with the Osservatore Romano, Patriarch Theophilos III shared his thoughts on the situation, the initiatives being taken to support those affected, the sentiments among the people in Palestine and Israel, and his personal feelings.
The Patriarch expressed deep sorrow for the suffering of his fellow Christians in the Holy Land.
“The tragic bombing of our church in Gaza has left a profound impact on the Christian community in Gaza and the rest of the Holy Land,” he said.
He highlighted the resilience and faith demonstrated by the survivors, emphasizing the importance of being “peacemakers and seeking justice” in the face of such violence.
Patriarch Theophilos outlined the efforts being made to protect and support the Christian community in Gaza, including the provision of humanitarian aid and relief through charitable organizations working in collaboration with local partners.
He pointed out the challenges faced due to Israeli decisions to cut off essential supplies like water, electricity, food, and medicine, and expressed a determination to continue providing assistance as much as possible.
When asked about the sentiments among the Christian communities in Palestine and Israel, the Patriarch described their unwavering commitment to faith, peace, and coexistence.
He stressed their active participation in interfaith dialogues and collaborative efforts to promote understanding and reconciliation among diverse groups.
Despite the difficulties and hardships faced by many in the region, especially in Gaza, the Christian communities remain hopeful and steadfast in their mission.
Regarding his personal feelings, Patriarch Theophilos acknowledged the weight of responsibility that comes with his position, overseeing the spiritual welfare of the Christian communities in the region and safeguarding pilgrimage to the Holy Land.
“I do, indeed, feel a deep empathy for the suffering of our people, and my heart aches for those who endure the hardships of this land. I also feel a profound responsibility to lead by example, demonstrating Christ’s message of compassion, forgiveness, and reconciliation to all,” he said.
