The problem has been solved
“During the conversation, regret was expressed over the situation, for which explanations were provided, and noted the agreement reached between the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem and the local authorities regarding participation in the liturgies of the Paschal Triduum in the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem,” a Vatican statement said.
Earlier, the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem and the Franciscan Custody of the Holy Land announced that the issues related to Holy Week celebrations in the Church of the Holy Sepulchre had been resolved.
“The Latin Patriarchate and the Custody of the Holy Land confirm that issues related to the celebration of Holy Week and Easter in the Church of the Holy Sepulchre have been discussed and resolved in cooperation with the competent authorities,” noted a statement issued in Jerusalem.
“In consultation with the Israeli police, access was provided to representatives of churches so that they could celebrate liturgies and ceremonies and preserve ancient traditions,” it said.
In a statement, the patriarchate expressed gratitude to Israeli President Yitzhak Hertzog for “his quick response” and added that “protecting freedom of worship remains a fundamental and shared responsibility.”
The case caused outrage
“Naturally, in light of the current state of war, the existing restrictions on public gatherings remain in force for the time being. Therefore, churches will provide broadcasts of liturgies and prayers for the faithful in the Holy Land and around the world,” it was reported.
On Palm Sunday, Israeli police prevented the Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, Cardinal Pizzaballi, and the Custodian of the Holy Land, Father Ielpo, the official custodian of the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, from entering the temple. The patriarchate emphasized that this was the first time in centuries that such a situation had occurred.
The Italian Minister of Foreign Affairs, Deputy Prime Minister Antonio Tajani, announced a meeting with the Israeli ambassador in Rome. “Religious freedom must never be threatened,” he wrote on the X platform.
