Vance Plans to Visit Holy Sepulchre While in Jerusalem
Vice President J.D. Vance praying at the Western Wall during a 2022 visit to Jerusalem. Photo: J.D. Vance/X
JERUSALEM — U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance, who is currently in Israel for meetings in relation to the recent ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas, stated his intention to visit the Church of the Holy Sepulchre while he is there.
According to The Times of Israel in an article published on Tuesday, the "vice president also said earlier today that he plans to visit the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, a Christian holy site in Jerusalem’s Old City."
Several U.S. politicians, especially those who identify as Christian, have been criticized for praying at the Western Wall instead of the site of Jesus Christ's burial and resurrection, which is located a short distance away. The Western Wall is a holy site for the Jewish community, and while it has historical significance, it is not a holy site for Christians — despite attempts to make it one.
No time or date was given for the pilgrimage by Vance, who is a Roman Catholic.
In his meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu Wednesday morning, Vance expressed confidence in the recent ceasefire agreement.
"I never said it was easy, but what I am is optimistic that the ceasefire is going to hold and that we can actually build a better future in the entire Middle East," he said, as quoted by NBC.
Previously, UOJ reported that Vance and Elon Musk were outraged by a graffiti art exhibit in Canterbury Cathedral.
Read also
Met. Theodosiy’s Appeal to Pat. Bartholomew Circulated at OSCE
The document was distributed among diplomats attending the OSCE meeting and entered into the organization’s official documentation system.
Iconography Camp Held at Shadeland Monastery Inspires New Chapter for Serbian Orthodox Diocese
First-ever Eastern American Diocese iconography camp brings together artists and faithful to create monumental fresco, laying groundwork for future theological and artistic formation center.
Abp. Symeon of Sinai Officially Consecrated by Pat. Theophilos in Jerusalem
The archimandrite was elected after the resignation of former Abp. Damianos of Sinai last month.
Historic Consecration of Iconography at Romania’s National Cathedral Set for Oct. 26
Pat. Bartholomew and Pat. Daniel to officiate service marking a new spiritual milestone; over 10,000 expected to attend in person, with the majority gathering in the square outside the cathedral.
Vance Plans to Visit Holy Sepulchre While in Jerusalem
The Vice President, who has prayed at the Western Wall in the past, is in Israel for meetings with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and President Isaac Herzog.
ROCOR Celebrates First Feast of the Uncovering of the Relics of St. John
Over 100 participants from across the globe unite in prayer, learning, and music at St. Vladimir Memorial Church in New Jersey, marking the anniversary of the uncovering of St. John’s relics with newly composed hymns.