Patriarch of Jerusalem Presides at Nativity Eve Liturgy in Bethlehem
Pat. Theophilos III led the traditional Status Quo celebrations of the Eve of the Nativity, processing from Jerusalem to Bethlehem and presiding at the Divine Liturgy in the Basilica of the Nativity.
JERUSALEM — The Jerusalem Patriarchate marked the Eve of the Feast of the Nativity of Christ on December 24, 2025 / January 6, 2026, in accordance with the established ecclesiastical and pilgrimage Status Quo.
The celebrations began in the morning with an official visit to the Patriarchate by representatives of the Israeli Police and Scouts. Shortly afterward, the Brotherhood of the Holy Sepulchre, led by His Beatitude Pat. Theophilos III, set out in procession toward the Gate of David, accompanied by Scouts and representatives of the Greek Consulate General. The delegation then proceeded to the Monastery of the Prophet Elijah, where Pat. Theophilos was formally received by religious, civil, and military representatives, as well as local clergy and faithful.
Following a service of supplication and a brief reception, the Patriarchal delegation traveled under police escort to Bethlehem. There, Pat. Theophilos was warmly welcomed by Met. Benedict of Diocaesarea, clergy, and the faithful, before entering the Basilica of the Nativity.
The Patriarch presided over the Royal Hours, Vespers, and the Divine Liturgy of St. Basil the Great, concluding the traditional observance of the Eve of the Nativity.
Previously, the UOJ reported that the Patriarch of Jerusalem called for Palestinian statehood.
