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Patriarch Theophilos III has praised Jordan\u2019s continued role in protecting Jerusalem\u2019s Christian and Islamic holy sites, saying the Hashemite custodianship remains central to preserving the city\u2019s religious character and Christian presence.<\/strong><\/p>\n In a statement issued on September 23, the Patriarch of Jerusalem referred to King Abdullah II\u2019s address to the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly, saying it conveyed a message centred on peace, justice and human dignity.<\/p>\n Patriarch Theophilos said the Jordanian position on Jerusalem and its holy sites carries particular significance because of the Hashemite custodianship of the Islamic and Christian holy sites in the city.<\/p>\n He described the custodianship as a historical, religious and national responsibility that has helped protect Jerusalem\u2019s identity and preserve its religious and historic character.<\/p>\n The Patriarch said the Greek Orthodox Patriarchate of Jerusalem stands behind King Abdullah II\u2019s position on Jerusalem and its holy sites, as well as his support for the rights of Christians and Muslims in the city.<\/p>\n He described the Jordanian monarch as an important safeguard for the continued Christian presence in Jerusalem.<\/p>\n According to Patriarch Theophilos, protecting the Christian community is inseparable from protecting Jerusalem itself.<\/p>\n He stressed that the Christian presence forms an integral part of the city\u2019s history, religious identity and cultural heritage.<\/p>\n The Patriarch also called for support for the resilience of Jerusalem\u2019s residents and the preservation of the city\u2019s holy sites and identity.<\/p>\n Patriarch Theophilos praised King Abdullah\u2019s UN address for emphasising international law and rejecting what he described as double standards.<\/p>\n He said Jerusalem requires responsible positions aimed at protecting its holy sites and residents while creating space for peace, dialogue and coexistence between different faith communities.<\/p>\n The Patriarch reaffirmed that Jordan\u2019s approach to Jerusalem reflects a longstanding Hashemite tradition of protecting holy sites and promoting religious harmony.<\/p>\n He said the Churches of Jerusalem view this role as important to supporting the resilience of Jerusalem\u2019s Christian community and preserving the city\u2019s character.<\/p>\n Patriarch Theophilos concluded by describing King Abdullah II as a consistent voice in support of Jerusalem, its people and its holy sites, while emphasising the Christian presence as an authentic part of the city\u2019s history and identity.<\/p>\nPatriarchate backs Jordanian position<\/h4>\n
Call for respect for international law<\/h4>\n