Appeal from the Patriarchate of Jerusalem for the Touching of the Holy Light – “Harsh restrictions of Israel on the Holy Sepulcher”

The Patriarchate of Jerusalem issued a statement accusing Israel of applying harsh restrictions on its Touch Holy Light to Holy Sepulchrestating that there is no coordination with the authorities.

In particular, he notes that “the Police unfairly and inappropriately put the burden on the churches (to invite certain people), while tying the hands of the churches with unreasonable restrictions that will prevent the faithful from attending, especially in our beloved community”.

“These harsh restrictions will limit the church’s access to the Holy Sepulcher and the Touching of the Holy Light ceremony,” it states, among other things.

The announcement

The announcement follows in detail:

“This week marks the holiest week in Christianity – Holy Week. We remember the events that led to the crucifixion of Jesus, our Lord and Savior, and we remember His glorious Resurrection. The ceremony of Touching the Holy Light is a great moment that connects the faithful with the Light of Jesus Christ. This ceremony has been reverently taking place in the Church of the Holy Sepulcher for almost 2,000 years, attracting Christians and more from all over the world.

Each year, the churches are coordinating with the Authorities to ensure that the ceremony can take place without any problems. In particular, last year the Israeli authorities imposed barriers throughout the old city, which made it impossible for the local Christian communities and our pilgrims to access the ceremony of the Holy Light at the Holy Sepulcher, preventing them from worshiping freely and witnessing the miracle of Resurrection.

This year, after many good faith efforts, we have been unable to coordinate with Israeli authorities as they impose unreasonable and unprecedented restrictions on access at the Holy Sepulcher, more than last year. These harsh restrictions will limit the church’s access to the Holy Sepulcher and the Touching of the Holy Light ceremony. The police unfairly and inappropriately drop it burden on churches (to invite those specific people)while tying the hands of churches with unreasonable restrictions that will prevent believers from attending, especially in our beloved community.

As the Patriarchate clearly stated in its announcement 2 days ago, we will hold the ceremony as it has been customary for 2 millennia and invite all who wish to attend. With that clear, we leave the authorities to act as they wish. The churches will function freely and in peace.”