Sarah Mullally Meets with Greek Orthodox Patriarchate of Jerusalem Leaders During Ecumenical Visit

Sarah Mullally, the Anglican Primate, continued her ecumenical efforts with an official visit to the Greek Orthodox Patriarchate of Jerusalem. Following her recent reception by Pope Leo XIV at the Vatican, Mullally was warmly welcomed by Patriarch Theophilos III, marking a significant step in interfaith relations. During the visit, she engaged in discussions with the heads of the Churches of the Holy Land, emphasizing the importance of unity and shared witness among Christian communities in the region.

The visit followed a five-day pilgrimage through Israel and the Palestinian territories, during which Mullally traveled alongside the Anglican Archbishop of Jerusalem, Hosam Naoum. The itinerary included visits to various Anglican communities, hospitals, schools, and charitable initiatives, alongside meetings with religious leaders and civil organizations from different faiths. This journey underscored the Anglican Church’s commitment to humanitarian work and interfaith dialogue in the Holy Land.

A central moment of the trip occurred at the Greek Orthodox Patriarchate of Jerusalem, where Mullally participated in a meeting with the heads of the Churches of Jerusalem. In her remarks, she expressed gratitude for the hospitality extended by Patriarch Theophilos III, describing the encounter as a “profound gift.” She also acknowledged the Patriarch’s support for the Anglican presence in the Holy Land, particularly the Al Ahli Anglican Hospital in Gaza, which continues to provide essential medical care amid ongoing conflict.

During her stay, Mullally and Archbishop Naoum issued a pastoral letter expressing concern for the future of Palestinian Christians in the Holy Land. They highlighted the suffering caused by the war in Gaza, violence in the West Bank, population displacements, and worsening living conditions for Christian communities. The letter called for international support to end the conflict and advocated for a two-state solution as a path to lasting peace.

Mullally emphasized the mission of Christians to stand with the suffering and offer a unified witness to the Gospel in a region long marked by conflict. She invited Patriarch Theophilos III and other Church leaders to visit Lambeth Palace, the official residence of the Archbishop of Canterbury, to strengthen ecumenical ties and continue dialogue among Christian denominations.

Mullally’s visit reflects a broader commitment to fostering understanding and cooperation among religious communities in the Holy Land. As she continues her ecumenical agenda, her efforts align with the biblical call to seek peace and unity, as seen in Romans 12:18, which encourages believers to live in harmony with one another.

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