A meeting took place at the Phanar between Patriarch Theophilos III of Jerusalem and Patriarch Bartholomew of Constantinople

On Tuesday, July 21, 2026, an official meeting took place between Patriarch Bartholomew of Constantinople and Patriarch Theophilos III of Jerusalem, who had arrived on a visit to the Phanar. According to Orthodox Times, the meeting took place in an atmosphere of brotherly love and mutual understanding.

The solemn welcoming ceremony began with the festive ringing of bells, after which Patriarch Theophilos III venerated the holy relics in the Patriarchal Cathedral. During the talks, which took place in the Throne Room, the parties discussed a wide range of interchurch relations and current issues of mutual interest.

During a private conversation, special attention was given to the dire situation facing Christians in the Holy Land. Patriarch Bartholomew expressed deep concern over the events unfolding in the Middle East, emphasizing the Church of Constantinople’s commitment to establishing peace in the region. The visit concluded with a ceremonial dinner in honor of the delegation from the Patriarchate of Jerusalem, after which, the following day, Patriarch Theophilos III returned to his see.

As a reminder, it was previously reported that U.S. President Donald Trump supported the initiative to appoint Patriarch Theophilos III of Jerusalem as a mediator in efforts to reach a ceasefire agreement between Russia and Ukraine. The religious leader is expected to help establish a direct channel of communication between Moscow and Kyiv to seek ways to achieve a peaceful resolution to the conflict.