Patriarch Theophilos tells US Ambassador about Russia-Ukraine mediation
Patriarch Theophilos and US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee. Photo: Orthodoxia News Agency
Jerusalem Patriarch Theophilos III discussed the mediation mission in the conflict between Russia and Ukraine with US Ambassador Mike Huckabee, reports the Orthodoxia News Agency.
The talks took place on July 14, 2026, at the Patriarchate's residence. The Primate of the Jerusalem Church emphasized that the mediation between the two countries is grounded in evangelical ministry and the pursuit of a just peace. The Patriarch prayed that the dialogue would help relieve human suffering and lead both countries to a just peace.
The Primate also called on the diplomat to assist in establishing a humanitarian medical corridor for the transfer of children with cancer from Gaza to the Augusta Victoria Hospital. The Patriarch highlighted that the mission of the Church is to contribute to the relief of all human suffering.
During the meeting, the Primate expressed concern over restrictions imposed on worshippers and clergy on Mount Tabor. He also reported on the seizure of Church land near the Pool of Siloam by the Israeli Authorities on June 15, as well as the discriminatory application of the municipal property tax (Arnona) to the detriment of Churches. The Patriarch noted that in the current global situation, the Christian presence in the Holy Land requires the protection of rights and security guarantees.
As the UOJ reported, Patriarch Theophilos received the Athens Medal for his assistance to those affected by the war in Gaza.
Read also
Ostapenko: Everyone in UCCRO feels fine except the “FSB UOC”
The director of the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra National Reserve called the All-Ukrainian Council of Churches “a wonderful organization.”
Khmelnytskyi Eparchy donates funds for treatment of 12-year-old girl
UOC believers raised UAH 20,000 for Anastasiia Mamchur as part of an eparchial charity campaign.
Shevchuk: We had to convince world UOC ban does not violate religious freedom
The UGCC head claims that by banning the UOC, the state is not violating religious freedom but merely protecting the Church’s faithful from Moscow propaganda.
Lavra reserve head estimates damage to Dormition Cathedral at €15 million
Maksym Ostapenko said restoring the Dormition Cathedral would take at least a couple of years and require major funding.
DESS official says state should not govern the Church
A DESS official called for cooperation between the state and the Church for the benefit of citizens.
Poltava court upholds mobilization of Protestant pastor
A court in the Poltava region ruled that a prior criminal conviction and religious beliefs do not exempt a person from military service.