Patriarch Theophilus III of Jerusalem asked to help resolve schism in the Ukraine / Православие.Ru

December 10, 2011

Jerusalem Patriarch Theophilos III

There is a strong possibility that Greek Patriarch Theophilos III will try to reconcile leaders and members of the Ukrainian Church that have been split foryears. At issue is the jurisdiction of the Moscow patriarchate over the Ukrainian churches, the Jerusalem Post reports. Theophilos III is inclined to accept request by Ukrainian president.

A schism exists between those who are loyal to the patriarchate in Kiev and those who continue to put their trust in the patriarchate in Moscow.

During his state visit to Jerusalem last week to mark the 20th year of both Ukrainian independence and Ukraine's diplomatic ties with Israel, President Viktor Yanukovych called on Theophilos III to intervene.

Theophilos, who attended the state dinner President Shimon Peres hosted in Yanukovych's honor Thursday night, told The Jerusalem Post he was inclined to accede to the request.

When asked whether he would then turn his attention to reconciliation between Israel and the Palestinians, Theophilos replied that religious leaders are already engaged in this effort, and have been for several years.