The Assembly of Catholic Ordinaries of the Holy Land held its second Ordinary Plenary Meeting of 2025 in Nicosia, Cyprus, on November 4–5. At the start of our meeting, we warmly welcomed the new Custos of the Holy Land, Rev. Fr. Francesco Ielpo, OFM. We also congratulated Msgr. Luis Namo on the recent canonization of Saint Ignatios Maloyan, bishop and martyr.
The first part of the meeting focused on the various aspects of the conflicts in our region: how they have affected the lives of our respective communities, pastoral activities, families, religious communities, and schools—from practical concerns (visas, permits, employment, borders, etc.) to the consequences for the spirit and morale of our churches, ecumenical relations, and interreligious dialogue. We also discussed how our institutions have responded to these challenges and what is now expected of us in this apparent new phase.
Msgr. Selim Sfeir and Msgr. Bruno Varriano updated the Assembly on the pastoral activities of the Maronite Church and the Latin Church in Cyprus. Even amid various difficulties, the Church on the island continues to grow, and parish activities are being carried out. A center for pastoral and theological formation has been established, and efforts are underway to promote vocations. Representatives of Caritas Cyprus also presented the aid activities they provide on the island to those most in need.
The Assembly elected Msgr. Iyad Twal as Vice President of Caritas Jordan and approved the appointment of the proposed members to the governance board.
The work of all ACOHL commissions was reviewed, both in terms of service and formation. In this regard, the Father Custos was elected President of the Episcopal Commission for Pilgrimages. Special discussion was dedicated to the commissions that are still without a president in order to evaluate the procedure needed to conclude the nomination process.
The Assembly expressed—in a letter—its communion with Pope Leo XIV, recalling his invitation “to be a missionary Church, a Church that builds bridges, engages in dialogue, and is always open to receive—like this square with open arms—everyone, all those who need our charity, our presence, dialogue, and love.”
May the Lord, through the intercession of Our Lady, enlighten and strengthen us to remain faithful to our vocation as pastors and Christians in the Holy Land.
+ Pierbattista Card. Pizzaballa
Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem
President ACOHL
