Palestinian Tourism Minister Seeks Greek Orthodox Church’s Aid Amidst Crisis

OCP News Service – 03/08/2024

Athens- Greece: A plea for humanitarian assistance and support was made on July26,2024, by the Palestinian Minister of Tourism, Hani Al Hayek, during a visit to the Archbishop of Athens and all Greece, Ieronymos.

The Minister expressed deep concern over the escalating crisis in Palestine, highlighting the plight of its people, particularly the rising death toll of over 50,000 and injuries surpassing 100,000. He emphasized the urgent need for aid and called upon the Archbishop to advocate for the suffering population.

Of particular concern was the situation in the monastery of Agios Porphyrios, where refugees are trapped without basic necessities. Archbishop Ieronymos expressed solidarity and promised to address the issue through the Holy Synod.

A proposal for a Church of Greece delegation to visit Palestine was also discussed, with the aim of assessing the situation firsthand and exploring ways to provide material aid.

The Archbishop extended prayers for peace and strength to the Palestinian people, emphasizing the importance of Christian heritage in the region and the need to protect it.

Both parties agreed on the significance of Christian communities in Palestine and the challenges they face, with the Minister expressing fears of a drastic decline in the Christian population in the coming years.

This meeting marks a significant step in fostering closer ties between the Church of Greece and the Palestinian people, with a shared commitment to humanitarian aid and preserving Christian heritage.

Source:

OCP News Service and ecclesia.gr