On the morning of Monday, 6th January 2025, Patriarch Theophilos of Jerusalem, the Chief Celebrant of the Christmas Feast, welcomed the Body of the Orthodox Scouts and representatives of the Israeli Police at the Patriarchate. The event took place in the presence of Mrs. Anna Mantika, the representative of the General Consulate of Greece.
Following the meeting, Patriarch Theophilos, accompanied by the Holy Sepulchre Fathers, made his way through Jaffa Gate to the Holy Monastery of the Prophet Elias, situated between Jerusalem and Bethlehem. There, he was greeted by representatives of the Communities of Bethlehem, the Shepherds’ Village, Beit Jala, the Israeli Ministry of the Interior, and the Hegumen of the Monastery, Reverend Monk Achillios.
From the Monastery of the Prophet Elias, Patriarch Theophilos, escorted by riders of the Israeli Military Command, proceeded to the Syrian-controlled area of the Tomb of Rachel. Representatives of the Palestinian State received him and led him to Manger Square in Bethlehem. The Patriarchal Commissioner of Bethlehem, Metropolitan Benedict of Diocaesarea, addressed Patriarch Theophilos at this point.
The procession through the Courtyard of the Church of the Nativity began, with Archbishops leading and Priests chanting the hymn of the Holy Church. The procession culminated in the entrance to the Basilica, where Patriarch Theophilos venerated the Star and the Manger, accompanied by the Archbishops and the General Consul of Greece in Jerusalem, Mr. Dimitrios Angelosopoulos.
Following the veneration, the reading of the Great Hours of Christmas, Vespers, and the Divine Liturgy of St. Basil the Great commenced in the presence of the General Consul, the faithful of Bethlehem, and its surroundings. The service concluded at 3:30 p.m.
After Vespers, Patriarch Theophilos proceeded to the Baptismal Gate, where the Patriarchal Commissioner offered a fasting meal at the Rectory. The entire event was documented by the Patriarchate of Jerusalem.
