President Herzog and the Patriarch each emphasized the importance of coexistence, mutual respect, and dignity as qualities integral to making peace. Spiritual leaders of the Eastern and Latin Churches together with religious and lay leaders of Christian communities in Israel filled the main hall of the President's Residence.
Representatives of the Muslim, Druze, and Baha'i communities were also present.
"Our young people do not see a future of hope, but only a future of increasing despair, lack of opportunity, and the elusiveness of peace," said Theophilos.
This is a matter of urgent concern to the Churches, he continued, "and we hope that it might also be a matter of urgent concern to the governing authorities of our region. When people are robbed of hope, especially young people, there is not only the consequence of despair; there is also the prospect of uncertainty."
Source JPost/ Photos Flash90