Custos (Custodian) of the Holy Land

The Custos of the Holy Land is a senior official within the Franciscan Order appointed by the Vatican to oversee Christian sites in the Holy Land, including Jerusalem, Bethlehem, and surrounding areas. Their role involves safeguarding, maintaining, and administering these sacred places, ensuring they are correctly preserved and accessible to pilgrims and visitors. They serve as a spiritual and administrative representative of the Catholic Church in the region, fostering interfaith dialogue and cooperation. The position emphasizes both religious stewardship and the promotion of peace and understanding among diverse communities sharing the Holy Land.