”ARMENIAN FROM JERUSALEM” Facebook page post of the following:
For over 800 years, the Joudeh Al-Husseini and Nuseibeh families have been the guardians of the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem, one of Christianity’s holiest sites. This sacred duty, passed down through generations, represents a remarkable example of interfaith harmony. The Joudeh family holds the key to the church, while the Nuseibeh family is responsible for opening and closing its doors daily. This longstanding tradition has remained unchanged for centuries, honoring a historical pact that ensures neutrality and cooperation in maintaining the site’s sanctity. Despite the religious and political tensions in the region, these two Muslim families continue to protect and preserve the church, demonstrating mutual respect between faiths. Their role serves as a symbol of unity, coexistence, and shared history, proving that peace can thrive even in the most sensitive religious spaces.
#ChurchOfTheHolySepulchre #Jerusalem #InterfaithHarmony #HistoricTradition #FaithAndUnity
A Jerusalem Armenian expat Gaby Kevorkian posted his comment saying “Dear friends living faraway from Jerusalem:- First of all this tradition started during the Ottoman Empire period 800 years ago. Second : If the key was given to Christians they would kill each others. Third: If Ottoman Muslims were bad to us, it does not mean that all Muslims are bad people. You have no right to generalize it. Forth: This went softly and safely during the Ottoman, British, and Jordanian rules, and is going well nowadays during the Israeli rule!!! We are happy about this!! Thank you very much!”