The Greek Orthodox Patriarchate of Jerusalem, which represents the most senior authority of Jerusalem Churches, has issued a statement on the upcoming celebrations of Holy Week and the Saturday of Light, 4 May 2024. The statement reads:
“‘Father, not my will, but yours, be done’ (Luke 22/42)
“On the occasion of the approaching Passion Week which is considered the most sacred week in Christian life, we recall the anniversary of the events that led to the Crucifixion and glorious Resurrection of Christ.
“The rituals of Holy Week and the Saturday of Light constitute an important moment that brings together believers in the light of Christ. These rituals emanate from the Church of the Holy Sepulchre to enlighten the world, and have done so over the past, over some two thousand years, attracting Christians from all over the world.
“In light of the current conditions in the Holy Land, resulting from the ongoing war in Gaza, the Greek Orthodox Patriarchate announces that celebrations of this year’s Saturday of Light would be restricted to the status quo arrangements in force for centuries in Jerusalem. In other areas, the Holy Light will be handed over at the doors of churches according to religious rituals alone, not festive rituals.
“The current situation, and the deep sadness that prevails in the Holy Land, emphasise the need to share in the suffering of the victims of war. We thus allocate sufficient time for prayer and reflecting on the spiritual meaning of the Passion Week and the Resurrection.
“Jesus said to her, ‘I am the Resurrection and the Life. Whoever believes in me, even if he dies, will live; and everyone who lives and believes in me will never die’.” (John 11:25-26)
Watani International
23 April 2024