Jerusalem Churches appeal to Netanyahu over Easter services

The Descent of the Holy Fire in the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem. Photo: Orthodoxia News Agency

On March 25, 2026, the heads of the Christian Churches of Jerusalem appealed to the Israeli prime minister for clarification regarding possible restrictions during the Easter services and the ceremony of the Holy Fire, Orthodoxia News Agency reports.

According to the outlet, the Council of Heads of Churches held an extraordinary meeting under the chairmanship of Jerusalem Patriarch Theophilos III. Following the meeting, it was decided to send an official letter to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Foreign Minister Gideon Saar requesting clear instructions. The Churches note that there is currently uncertainty among the faithful about the upcoming services.

The letter has already been sent to the Israeli authorities. In it, the Churches ask that all Easter ceremonies be allowed to proceed in the usual manner and that no restrictions be introduced that could hinder the participation of worshippers.

The Council is said to be especially concerned by reports of possible restrictions on the descent of the Holy Fire on Holy Saturday, under which the number of worshippers allowed to attend could be significantly reduced. This has caused alarm among the Brotherhood of the Holy Sepulchre and representatives of other Local Churches.

The situation is unfolding against the backdrop of broader tensions in the region, as Jerusalem prepares for two major feasts at once – Christian Easter and the Jewish Passover. The Churches are now awaiting official clarification from the authorities so they can determine in advance how the services will be conducted.

Earlier, the UOJ reported that Greek authorities feared possible disruptions to the delivery of the Holy Fire from Jerusalem.

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