Letter from Theophilos III
Dear Mr. Upton,
We would like to extend our thanks to you for sending Us a copy of “The Covenants of the Prophet Muhammad with the Christians of the World,” by Dr. John Andrew Morrow, which is a very interesting and crucial work in terms of the aims of your initiative.
As you have mentioned in your letter, mutual respect between Muslims and Christians, as well as all faiths of our region, is the only way to move forward.
In the Holy Land, Our ancient Christian presence embodies this legacy of harmonious coexistence, as evidenced by the respect Caliph Omar ibn al Khattab showed for the Church of the Anastasis upon his entry into Jerusalem.
This early example has set a precedent for the generations, lasting until today. As our Middle East region passes through its contemporary plight, we commend your efforts to foster peace and reconciliation as a result of your academic research, and we offer you wishes for success in sharing your positive message.
With Our Patriarchal Blessings,
THEOPHILOS III PATRIARCH OF JERUSALEM
Holy City of Jerusalem Wednesday, March 26, 2014
Dr. John Andrew Morrow 