Piotr Kowalczuk
On Palm Sunday, Cardinal Pizzaballa, Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, and Fr. Francesco Ielpo – Custos of the Holy Land – were not allowed to celebrate Holy Mass in the Basilica of the Holy Sepulchre. This sparked a wave of protests.
Joint statement
On Monday, March 30, a joint statement by the Patriarchate and the Custody of the Holy Land announced that, by agreement with the Israeli police, representatives of the Churches, in accordance with ancient Easter tradition, would be able to hold services in this temple. These will be celebrated with the restrictions introduced due to the ongoing hostilities, meaning without public participation of the faithful. Liturgies and prayers will, however, continue to be broadcast directly on television, as before.
Thanks for gestures of solidarity
The Custody and the Patriarchate expressed gratitude to Israeli President Isaac Herzog for his immediate intervention in this matter. They also extended thanks to the heads and officials of states who expressed strong protest against Sunday’s decision to deny the Patriarch and the Custos of the Holy Land access to the basilica.
Faith as a supreme value
It was emphasized that faith constitutes the highest value for Jews, Christians, Muslims, and Druze, and in times of problems and conflict like the present, ensuring security and religious freedoms becomes a fundamental, common duty.
Constant contact with authorities
It was assured that the Church remains in constant contact with the authorities, including the Israeli police. The Custody and the Patriarchate affirmed their prayers for an end to the tragic war unfolding across the region, which entails serious consequences for all. They also reaffirmed their support for dialogue, mutual respect, and the preservation of the Status Quo in the Holy Land.
