King Abdullah II Meets Patriarch of All Bulgaria, Discusses Safeguarding Christian Holy Sites

His Majesty King Abdullah II of Jordan recently received Patriarch Daniil, the Patriarch of All Bulgaria and Metropolitan of Sofia, at Al Husseiniya Palace. The meeting, which was attended by His Royal Highness Prince Ghazi bin Muhammad, the King’s chief adviser for religious and cultural affairs and personal envoy, focused on strengthening ties between Jordan and the Bulgarian Orthodox Church.

During the meeting, the King reaffirmed Jordan’s commitment to protecting the Christian presence in the region. He emphasized that under the Hashemite Custodianship, Jordan will continue to uphold its historic and legal responsibility for safeguarding both Muslim and Christian holy sites in Jerusalem. The King also expressed his determination to address ongoing violations against these sites.

The King extended an invitation to Patriarch Daniil to participate in Jordan’s 2030 millennium celebrations, commemorating two thousand years since the baptism of Jesus Christ. These celebrations will take place at the Baptism Site of Jesus Christ, known as Bethany Beyond the Jordan. He highlighted the opportunity to showcase the historical and religious significance of this site, as well as other important religious and tourist attractions in Jordan.

Patriarch Daniil praised the King’s custodianship of Christian holy sites and appreciated Jordan’s efforts to protect the Christian community in the region. He also commended the Kingdom for its role as a model of peace, coexistence, and interfaith harmony. His remarks reflected the deep respect and appreciation for Jordan’s commitment to religious and cultural preservation.

Other dignitaries present at the meeting included Patriarch Theophilos III, Patriarch of Jerusalem and All Palestine and Jordan, and Greek Orthodox Archbishop and Head of the Council of Church Leaders, Archbishop Christophoros Atallah. Their presence underscored the importance of interfaith dialogue and cooperation in the region.

This meeting exemplifies the Kingdom’s dedication to fostering religious freedom and preserving the rich spiritual heritage of the Holy Land. As Romans 12:18 reminds us, “If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.” Jordan’s efforts to maintain peace and harmony among diverse communities reflect this biblical principle.

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