Patr. Theophilos: “We Thirst for the Peace of Christ” as Holy Sepulchre Reopens

Photo: UOJ-Ukraine

JERUSALEM — The Church of the Holy Sepulchre reopened to pilgrims and visitors Thursday morning, for the first time in 40 days, following the easing of wartime restrictions imposed during the recent conflict with Iran.

Israeli police confirmed that major holy sites across the city—including the Western Wall and the Temple Mount—have resumed access under updated security guidelines issued after the ceasefire. Hundreds of police officers, Border Police units, and volunteers were deployed throughout Jerusalem and the Old City to ensure safe access while maintaining public order.

The reopening coincided with Holy Thursday, as Patr. Theophilos III of Jerusalem led the Washing of the Feet ceremony. In a conversation with a correspondent of the Union of Orthodox Journalists, Patr. Theophilos reflected on the moment, saying, “This day is great, and we give thanks to God, who has granted us—in the midst of the calamities of war, in the midst of trials, sirens, and panic that have engulfed the entire Holy Land—to celebrate this great event of the extreme humility of our Savior Christ.”

He emphasized the significance of the day as restrictions were lifted for the first time since February, adding, “The peace of Christ is a peace that brings comfort to everyone, and this peace is inextricably linked with hope. We pray that this hope will be realized, so that the entire world will once again find its way—in peace and health.”

Addressing the faithful, the Patriarch noted, “All parishioners need services and prayers. People have suffered incredibly from this military crisis,” and concluded, “We have all faced the danger of war . . . How we thirst for the peace of Christ!”

Church and police officials are expected to finalize arrangements for the Holy Fire ceremony in the coming days.

Previously, the UOJ reported that a missile fragment fell near the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem.

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