Last update: 14:17
With a significantly lower number of pilgrims than usual—reminiscent of the COVID-19 period—and amid a strong police presence, the Holy Fire Ceremony took place today at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem, due to the ongoing war in the region over the past two months.
Patriarch of Jerusalem Theophilos III of Jerusalem emerged from the church holding lit torches, bearing 33 candles, distributing the Holy Fire to the faithful present and conveying the message of hope and the Resurrection.
Two days earlier, the Church of the Holy Sepulchre reopened its doors after 40 days of closure, during which it remained shut due to restrictive measures imposed amid the conflict.
This development followed a revision of guidelines for places of worship in Jerusalem by the Israeli police.
In an official statement, the Israeli police announced that, following changes in defense policy and updated directives from the Home Front Command of the Israeli army, as a result of the ceasefire with Iran, holy sites in Jerusalem have reopened to the public, both for visits and for prayer.
These include the Western Wall, the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, and the Temple Mount. Authorities noted that, due to the expected increase in attendance, the Jerusalem District Commander ordered enhanced operational readiness. As a result, hundreds of police officers, border guards, and volunteers have been deployed throughout the city, covering major roads, the Old City, and the holy sites.
According to the same announcement, the main objective is to ensure safe access for worshippers and visitors, while safeguarding freedom of worship and maintaining strict public order and security.
It is recalled that, under the previous decision, only the Patriarch and 15 members of the Brotherhood of the Holy Sepulchre are permitted inside the church during the ceremony. The presence of the Deputy Foreign Minister has also been arranged, who will receive the Holy Fire to transport it to Greece.
