Metropolitan Varsanoufios of Petersburg, along with a group of clergy and laity from his Holy Metropolis, visited the Patriarchate of Jerusalem on the morning of Tuesday, September 17, 2024.
Patriarch Theophilos of Jerusalem welcomed the visitors and expressed his joy at the visit, emphasizing the importance of maintaining hope even in challenging times. He highlighted the significance of the Church of the Resurrection and other Holy Shrines in maintaining this hope.
During the visit, prayers were offered for those facing challenges in Ukraine, including Metropolitan Pavlos, Metropolitan Onufriy, and Metropolitan Arsenios. Metropolitan Varsanoufios conveyed greetings from Patriarch of Moscow Cyril and expressed gratitude for efforts towards Church unity.
The Patriarchate of Jerusalem remains committed to healing the broken unity of the Church and preserving its oneness. The Patriarch gifted Metropolitan Varsanufios with engolpia, a silver cross of blessing, and Patriarchal blessings for the Priests and pilgrims.
The Church of Jerusalem faces challenges, particularly in the Holy Monastery of Saint Porphyrios in Gaza. The Patriarch presented gifts to strengthen the bond between the Churches.
