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GREEK MINISTER OF PUBLIC ORDER VISITS THE PATRIARCHATE

On Thursday, the 14th/27th of November 2014, the Greek Minister of Public Order, Mr Vassilis Kikilias, visited the Patriarchate. He was accompanied by his associates, the Greek ambassador to Israel, Mr Spyridon Lambrides, and the Consul-General to Jerusalem, Mr Georgios Zacharoudiakis.

The Minister was received by His Beatitude, Patriarch Theophilos of Jerusalem, and Hagiotaphite Fathers.

During the meeting, Mr Kikilias pointed out that he follows and appreciates the work performed by the Patriarchate within its jurisdiction in the Holy Land.

In response, His Beatitude said that the Patriarchate’s work extends to its flock, but also to the other residents of Israel, Jordan, the Palestinian State and Qatar, which falls within its ecclesiastical jurisdiction.

The Minister went on to ask His Beatitude to suggest in what manner Greece, and particularly the Ministry of Public Order, could offer help. His Beatitude responded that the most effective way of assistance is the cooperation between the Patriarchate and the Greek government, represented here by its Embassy and the Consulate-General.

His Beatitude underlined the peacemaking role which could be undertaken by Judaism, Christianity and Islamism during religious and national extremities in Jerusalem and other cities of Israel and of the Palestinian State.

The Minister thanked His Beatitude for His time and asked for His blessing before carrying on his visit to the state of Israel.

From the Secretariat-General

httpv://youtu.be/P-Il_WRWrBY