Jerusalem cardinal weighs in on Iran, calls for pilgrims to return to Holy Land
January 14, 2026
» Continue to this story on Vatican News
CWN Editor's Note: The Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem said that protests in Iran manifest the “desire [for] life, dignity, and justice” that is “inside the heart of any human being.”
Speaking with Vatican News, Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, OFM, expressed hope that the situation “will not conclude in more violence and bloodshed.”
Cardinal Pizzaballa also discussed the continued humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the far “more serene” situation of the Church in Jordan, where the Latin Patriarchate oversees 30 schools. Describing the Holy Land as “a fifth Gospel” and “a kind of eighth sacrament,” the cardinal said it is “absolutely safe” for pilgrims to return.
The above note supplements, highlights, or corrects details in the original source (link above). About CWN news coverage.
For all current news, visit our News home page.
All comments are moderated. To lighten our editing burden, only current donors are allowed to Sound Off. If you are a current donor, log in to see the comment form; otherwise please support our work, and Sound Off!
