Jerusalem Patriarchate Celebrates Agape Vespers at Holy Sepulcher

Photo: orthodoxianewsagency.gr

JERUSALEM — In a joyful and festive atmosphere, the ceremony of the Second Resurrection, or Agape Vespers, was celebrated at the Church of the Holy Sepulcher under the presidency of Patr. Theophilos III of Jerusalem. The service began at noon on Pascha Sunday with the ringing of bells and the chanting of “Christ is Risen,” followed by a solemn procession from the Patriarchate to the Church of the Resurrection.

Clergy vested in full hierarchical garments as prescribed by the Typicon, reciting the Ninth Hymn of Easter before proceeding in a majestic descent to the Catholicon. Upon arrival, prayers were offered and the Vespers service commenced with the traditional proclamation glorifying the Holy Trinity, accompanied by resurrectional hymns.

The service culminated in the Gospel reading from John, proclaimed in multiple languages—including Greek, Arabic, English, and Russian—emphasizing the universal message of Christ’s Resurrection and its call to all nations for life and salvation.

Previously, the UOJ reported that Patr. Theophilos said all thirsted for the peace of Christ as the Holy Sepulchre reopened.

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