Monks of Sinai and Jerusalem Patriarchate Delegation Declare Readiness for Reconciliation

At the Holy Monastery of Saint Catherine in Sinai, a meeting took place between the monastery’s brotherhood and a three-member delegation of the Jerusalem Patriarchate, appointed to resolve the conflict that arose after a portion of the monks temporarily suspended Archbishop Damianos from his duties. During the visit, the parties discussed paths toward reconciliation, emphasized the importance of preserving the monastery’s traditional status, and expressed their intention to act in a spirit of unity and conscious responsibility. This was reported by Orthodox Times.

The delegation arrived at the monastery on August 7, 2025, following meetings in Athens, adhering to ecclesiastical order and the sacred canons that affirm the pastoral care of the Jerusalem Patriarchate within its spiritual jurisdiction. The Patriarchate representatives held lengthy discussions with the monks who have lived and served in the monastery for many years, addressing both current and future issues.

Special attention was given to the necessity of coordinating actions with political authorities to preserve all historically established rights and special regulations that have accompanied the monastery’s life over the centuries. The parties expressed their readiness, if needed, to reconsider the steps required to protect the legitimate interests of the monastery, acting in the spirit of peaceful settlement.

The monastery brotherhood also emphasized their steadfast commitment and respect for Archbishop Damianos, noting his significant role in the life of the monastic community. By mutual decision, they intend to continue their collaborative work until the date of the General Assembly, where all planned matters will be examined and decisions will be made in the monastery’s best interest according to canonical order.

It is recalled that the Jerusalem Patriarchate issued a statement regarding the situation surrounding the Holy Monastery of Saint Catherine in Sinai. According to reports, Archbishop Damianos of Sinai appealed to His Beatitude Patriarch Theophilos III of Jerusalem for assistance in resolving the issue. In response, the Patriarch sent a delegation of three members of the Brotherhood of the Holy Sepulchre and a canon law specialist to Athens.