Greek Orthodox Patriarchate slams seizure of Jerusalem church land

-"The Greek Orthodox Patriarchate in Jerusalem has expressed grave concern about Christians’ rights and safety in Jerusalem after Israeli authorities seized land that belonged to the Church."

-"“Trees were uprooted, and the property was enclosed with fencing and gates,” the Patriarchate said while adding that the incident constitutes “an unlawful and illegitimate seizure of established Church property in the heart of Jerusalem.”"

-"It reiterated that the piece of land designated as Parcel 6 of Block 29985 is registered in its name as per official records and is of historical, archaeological, and religious value.

According to the Bible, this piece of land was bought by the Jewish priests with the thirty pieces of silver that Judas Iscariot returned after betraying Jesus. The coins were his payment from the priests.

The Monastery of Saint Onuphrius stands adjacent to it. It was built in 1874 over the ruins of a former church believed to be situated on a piece of land known as the “potter’s field.”"