Encouragement for Global Leaders to Visit Holy Site
ATHENS, Greece — Theophilos III, the Patriarch of the Greek Orthodox Church in Jerusalem, expressed to Breitbart News his hope that leaders of all faiths would follow the example set by U.S. President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance by visiting the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem, Israel.
During a written interview with Breitbart News while they were in Greece last month, Theophilos III praised Trump for his visit to the Church during his first term in 2017. He also reflected on a meeting at the White House this past summer with Trump, where he emphasized the plight of Christians globally. At that meeting, Theophilos III awarded Trump the prestigious title of Grand Bearer of the Cross of the Order of Cross-Bearers of the Holy Sepulchre. This portion of the interview comes following a previous story focused on Theophilos III’s attempts to foster peace in Ukraine; he is organizing discussions with both Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, especially after visits from Trump’s envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner to both leaders.
“Meeting President Trump at the White House was a significant honor,” Theophilos III shared. “It wasn’t our first encounter, as I had the great privilege of welcoming him to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre back in 2017. His visit highlighted the hope we Christians find in the resurrection. It was a deeply meaningful moment. In our discussions at the White House, we talked about the challenges facing Christians in the Holy Land and the broader Middle East, the significance of maintaining the Status Quo regarding access to holy sites, and the role of religious leadership in fostering dialogue and protecting vulnerable groups. I found President Trump to be genuinely committed to supporting Christians everywhere. This is why I deemed it appropriate to present him with our highest recognition. Since his first term, he has championed International Religious Freedom, and I hope he continues this vital work, allowing everyone to worship freely. When individuals can practice their faith without fear, they can truly thrive.”
Theophilos III also expressed gratitude towards Vance for his visit to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre last fall during peace discussions in Israel. “His visit was quite meaningful, and I was thankful to host the Vice President,” he remarked. “Whenever any political or religious leader travels to Jerusalem, I kindly extend an invitation to visit us at the Holy Sepulchre. It’s the heart of our faith—where crucifixion and resurrection took place. Stepping into the Church allows one to feel the final hours of Christ’s life through experiences like touching the Anointing Stone and praying at Calvary. It’s a unique space where our different churches come together in a sacred harmony.”
When asked about the importance of the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, Theophilos III noted that it encompasses numerous significant Christian sites, describing it as a “faith of resurrection and hope” that serves as an active pilgrimage destination for Christians worldwide. “For those who may not know, the Church of the Holy Sepulchre contains many holy sites, from the Holy Deposition from the Cross to Golgotha, where Christ was crucified. It also includes the site of Christ’s prison and where Saint Helena discovered the Cross. The church includes the Edicule, which contains Christ’s tomb. This site is incredibly sacred and shared among several churches, making it a vital part of Christianity,” he explained, adding that it is not merely a historical landmark but a vibrant place of pilgrimage. “On Holy Saturday, the miraculous Holy Fire descends from Heaven, spreading hope and the message of resurrection. The Church is also integral to the local Christian community, which has existed since Christ’s time, providing hospitality and spiritual support to visitors.”
Theophilos III went on to state that Christians around the world are enduring persecution and that leaders in both the U.S. and globally need to amplify their voices for protection. He highlighted Trump and King Abdullah II of Jordan as allies in advocating for persecuted Christians.
“We must not tire of listening to those Christians who face or have faced persecution. It’s essential for influential figures in the U.S. and the international community to elevate the voices of those suffering for their beliefs. If speaking directly isn’t possible, engage with leaders and organizations that advocate for them. We must hold accountable those who suppress their worship,” he affirmed. “In Jerusalem, we have exemplary leaders supporting our community, like President Trump and King Abdullah II, who uses his position to ensure Christians can visit their holy sites freely. It’s crucial to keep praying for those who worship in fear, as their courage serves as an inspiration for all Christians, and it’s our responsibility to keep their plight in our thoughts.”
