Holy Week And Pascha Services In Jerusalem Will Proceed Under Restrictions
Access to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre remains tightly restricted as Pascha approaches under wartime conditions.
JERUSALEM — The Patriarchate of Jerusalem has announced that Holy Week and Pascha celebrations will proceed this year in a restricted format, limited strictly to religious rites without processions or public festivities.
In a March 30 statement, Church authorities said the decision reflects “the solemnity of the occasion” and respect for ongoing human suffering, as well as a desire to preserve the sanctity of the holy days. This marks the third consecutive year that the sacred season has been observed under wartime conditions in the Holy Land.
Concerns remain over access to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, which has been closed to most faithful since the outbreak of war with Iran, though clergy continue services. Israeli authorities indicated the Holy Fire ceremony may proceed under strict conditions, including safety measures and infrastructure readiness, with attendance capped at 50 and requiring permits.
Previously, the UOJ reported that Patr. Theophilos urged Israel to reopen the Holy Sepulchre.
