Dean’s speech

The Greek Orthodox Patriarchate of Jerusalem expresses its deep concern over the Egyptian court’s moves to confiscate the lands surrounding the Monastery of Saint Catherine on Mount Sinai, the site where God appeared to Moses in the burning bush. This monastery houses the remains of Saint Catherine of Alexandria, making it the oldest continuously inhabited Christian monastery and a holy place for all Christians.

The Patriarchate affirms its ecclesiastical authority over the monastery, which is under our full protection. It is our sacred duty to ensure the continuation of Christian worship on this holy land, as it has been for seventeen centuries. We condemn any violation of the physical or judicial status of our places of worship.

Furthermore, the Greek Orthodox Patriarchate of Jerusalem firmly upholds the right to worship and hold religious rites in safety and freedom. This requires safe access and passage for pilgrims to our holy sites. This is a matter of freedom of worship.

Pilgrims have visited and revered Saint Catherine’s Monastery for thousands of years. This monastery was granted a document of protection by the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) in 623 AD, and Sultan Selim I reaffirmed it in 1517. It is a symbol of peace between Christians and Muslims and a source of hope for a world immersed in conflict. We therefore call on the Egyptian authorities to uphold this authentic tradition and guarantee freedom of worship and unhindered access to our monastery, so that our monastery may continue to embody the testimony of Christ based on peace, love, and hope.

Finally, the Greek Orthodox Patriarchate of Jerusalem commends the official statements issued yesterday by the Egyptian authorities, affirming the sanctity and integrity of our monastery and refraining from any violation thereof. The Patriarchate will closely monitor the situation and carefully consider the aforementioned court ruling. If necessary, the Patriarchate will condemn and take action regarding any attack on the monastery or violation of access to this holy site.