Request for financial assistance and protection of holy places – UNCCP – Letter from Greek Orthodox Patriarchate of Jerusalem

UNITED NATIONS CONCILIATION COMMISSION FOR PALESTINE

Letter dated 5 February 1950 addressed by the Representative

of the Greek Orthodox Patriarchate of Jerusalem to a Member

of the Commission's Secretariat in Jerusalem

Dear Sir,

With reference to my interview with you on the 23rd November, 1949, I beg to express my thanks for the information given to our Patriarchate with regard to the action taken by the Conciliation Commission in connection with our request made through you.

2. We appreciate the endeavours of the Conciliation Commission to render assistance to our Patriarchate through the channels which they consider appropriate, and would lead to the desired results.

3. The serious and difficult financial situation of our Patriarchate as a result of the hostilities in Palestine still continues and not only did not improve, but actually has deteriorated. Thereupon any immediate financial assistance to enable the Patriarchate to carry out their various obligations will be appreciated.

4. For this reason I shall be grateful if you would be good enough as to convey to the Conciliation Commission the request of our Patriarchate for continuous action in this respect. In doing so the Conciliation Commission mill render a service to the cause of protection of the Holy Places, which is seriously considered by the United Nations in their approach to the solution of the question of Jerusalem.

With best wishes and the assurance of my distinguished consideration,

I remain,

Yours faithfully,

(Signed) Archbishop of Sebastia

Athenougora

Representative

of the Greek Orthodox Patriarchate

of Jerusalem

Jerusalem,

5 February, 1950.