Your cart is currently empty!
Vatican Names Italian, Not Palestinian, as Acting Latin Patriarch
A shift in policy? The Vatican appointed Italian-born Pizzaballa as Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem – and not a Palestinian.
The Vatican has put its longtime protector of Church holy sites in the Middle East in charge of the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem — a sensitive position that serves as the chief clergyman to the local Catholic population.
The Vatican on Friday said that Rev. Pierbattista Pizzaballa would serve as the temporary caretaker of the patriarchate. Pizzaballa, a Franciscan priest, replaces Fouad Twal, who reached the mandatory retirement age of 75. The church did not say how long he would hold the post.
Twal, who was born a Bedouin and later converted to Christianity, has been a vocal opponent of Israel.
The appointment was unexpected. For the past three decades, the patriarch has been a native Arabic speaker, helping serve the local population.
The Italian-born Pizzaballa is well-known in the Holy Land. The 51-year-old Italian has headed the Custody of the Holy Land for the past 12 years.
By: AP and United with Israel Staff
Do You Love Israel? Show Your Support!
Want to do something important for Israel? Make a donation to United with Israel, and help to educate and inspire millions around the world to support Israel too!
Now more than ever, Israel needs your help to fight the battle of public opinion. Israel’s enemies are using social media to incite brutal terror against innocent civilians. We need your help to fight back.
Help defend the truth about Israel to millions of people around the world. UWI also contributes to vital charity causes like building bomb shelters to protect Israeli citizens. Please show your support today!
Source: United with Israel
