Greece has confirmed it will support a significant renovation effort at one of Christianity’s most revered sites, the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem. The announcement was made by Greek Minister of Education, Religious Affairs, and Sports Sofia Zacharaki during an official visit to the city on 22–23 November 2025.
Zacharaki led the Greek delegation attending events marking the 20th anniversary of the enthronement of His Beatitude Patriarch Theophilos III. The commemorations included a Thanksgiving service inside the Holy Sepulchre and an official ceremony at the Patriarchate, where the Minister delivered remarks before church representatives and dignitaries.
Greece Reaffirms Support for the Holy Sepulchre and the Patriarchate
In her address, Zacharaki emphasized Greece’s deep-rooted relationship with the Patriarchate of Jerusalem and reaffirmed the government’s intention to assist in preserving the region’s spiritual and cultural heritage.
She announced that Greece will contribute financially to the enhancement and renovation of the Holy Sepulchre, along with additional restoration projects deemed vital for the local Christian community.
Strengthening ties through dialogue and cooperation
The Minister also underscored the importance of the Patriarchal School of Zion, which Greece has supported for many years.
The institution follows the Greek secondary education curriculum while also offering instruction in Arabic, English, Church History, and Byzantine Music. Students who wish to pursue a religious path may later join the Brotherhood of the Holy Sepulchre.
Zacharaki noted that Greece intends to deepen its educational cooperation and is exploring academic partnerships with Greek universities, including potential undergraduate and postgraduate programs in theology.
Greece deepens dialogue on the future of the Holy Sepulchre
During a private meeting with Patriarch Theophilos III, the Minister restated Greece’s willingness to support the revival of the Theological School of the Holy Cross. She was accompanied by Greece’s Consul General in Jerusalem, Dimitris Angelousopoulos, and the Secretary General for Religious Affairs, George Kalantzis.
The visit also included a stop in Bethlehem, where Zacharaki attended the Divine Liturgy at the Basilica of the Nativity. She met with Metropolitan Benediktos to discuss ongoing restoration efforts at the Grotto of the Nativity and the broader needs of the local Christian population.
Zacharaki’s mission to Jerusalem underscored Greece’s longstanding commitment to safeguarding significant religious landmarks and supporting the Patriarchate’s spiritual, social, and educational work. Her visit reaffirmed a partnership built on shared history, faith, and the dedication to preserving the sacred heritage of the Holy Sepulchre.
