Meeting of Primates: Archbishop Jerome and Patriarch Theophilos Discussed Orthodox Unity and Peace in the Middle East

An official meeting took place in Athens between Archbishop Ieronymos of Athens and All Greece and Patriarch Theophilos III of Jerusalem, during which they discussed issues of pan-Orthodox unity and the Church’s peacemaking role amid current geopolitical crises. The parties emphasized the need for close cooperation between the local churches to preserve spiritual stability in the region.

According to the news portal Orthodoxia.info, Archbishop Ieronymos highly commended the multifaceted peacemaking ministry of the Patriarchate of Jerusalem in the Middle East. He emphasized that, in accordance with canonical traditions, local Orthodox Churches must remain in unity with the Ecumenical Patriarchate. “We are called to promote dialogue and contribute to the common witness of the Orthodox Church in the face of the global challenges of our time,” stated the head of the Church of Greece.

During the conversation, the Archbishop also mentioned a recent legislative initiative by the Greek government aimed at supporting clergy in overseas communities. According to him, this decision recognizes the important contribution of clergy to the preservation of Orthodox identity and the strengthening of the Greek diaspora’s ties with its historical homeland and its traditions.

For his part, Patriarch Theophilos III of Jerusalem expressed his gratitude for the warm welcome and called the Greek Orthodox Church the “life force” and “nurturer” of all Orthodoxy. He noted that it is from its ranks that many outstanding hierarchs and theologians have emerged, upholding the witness of the faith throughout the world. The Patriarch also thanked Archbishop Jerome for his financial support of the holy sites of Jerusalem, the provision of educational scholarships, and his care for the Arabic-speaking flock.