Jerusalem Patriarchate prepares for 2,000th Anniversary of Christ’s Baptism

The Synod of the Patriarchate of Jerusalem convened on Thursday August 13, at the Patriarchate in Jerusalem under the presidency of Patriarch Theophilos III of Jerusalem, with the members of the Holy Synod in attendance.

The Synod examined the administrative, ecclesiastical and pastoral affairs of the Patriarchate, including the stewardship of its monasteries, holy shrines and churches and the pastoral care of its clergy and faithful. The Synod considered the grave challenges and needs facing parishes across the Patriarchate’s jurisdiction and measures to strengthen its spiritual and pastoral ministry.

Developments affecting the Orthodox Church worldwide were also discussed. The Synod reaffirmed its commitment to ecclesiastical responsibility, pastoral fidelity and the historic mission of the Church of Jerusalem in the Holy Land and throughout the Orthodox world.

Patriarch Theophilos and the members of the Holy Synod offered fervent prayers to the compassionate God for peace and stability in the Holy Land and throughout the Middle East. They prayed for the protection of the region’s peoples and for the illumination of every heart through love and reconciliation, so that this…