Leontius II of Jerusalem was a Greek Orthodox monk and patriarch who led the Church of Jerusalem during the late 12th century. Originally from Tiberioupolis, he served as a monk in Constantinople and later held the position of hegumen at the monastery on Patmos. Following the death of Nikephoros II, he was elected to the patriarchate in 1170. His tenure was marked by his role as a representative for the Byzantine emperor to King Baldwin IV, which led to his eventual recall.
Ecclesiastical career
After his time in Constantinople and Patmos, Leontius was chosen as patriarch in 1170. In 1177, he was dispatched to Jerusalem to act as an imperial envoy for the Byzantine emperor. During his time in the city, he performed the liturgy at the Holy Sepulchre, though he faced significant opposition from the Latin patriarch, Amalric.
Later years
Due to the political complexities of his mission, the Byzantine emperor eventually recalled him from his position. Leontius remained a significant figure in the Eastern Orthodox tradition, and he passed away in 1190. He is recognized as a saint within both the Catholic and Orthodox traditions.