The Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem was reopened on Thursday after 40 days of restrictions imposed in the context of the Middle East conflict. The resumption of access for believers to the shrine makes it possible to participate in the ceremony of receiving the Holy Fire and in the Easter services, reports IPN.
The decision was taken by the Israeli authorities following the update of the instructions of the Internal Front Command and the change in defense policy. Also, the Wailing Wall and the Temple Mount, two other holy places in Jerusalem, have been reopened, which are again accessible for visits and prayer, under enhanced security conditions.
To ensure the safety of the pilgrims, the Israeli police have ordered an increased operational mobilization. Hundreds of police officers and volunteers have been deployed on the main arteries and in the Old City.
The commander of the Jerusalem district emphasized that the purpose of these measures is to allow all visitors to exercise their freedom of worship safely. Authorities are appealing to the public to show patience and to follow the instructions of the field agents.
The specific manner in which the Resurrection service and the Holy Fire ceremony will take place will be determined after a meeting between the representatives of the Jerusalem Patriarchate and the authorities of the Old City.
