Thousands of Orthodox Christian faithful gathered at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem to witness the ceremony of the Holy Fire, a central event in Orthodox Easter celebrations.
According to tradition, the Greek Orthodox Patriarch enters the Edicule of the Holy Tomb, completely darkened, and emerges with candles lit by a flame believed to be miraculous. This light is then shared among the faithful, symbolizing the resurrection of Christ.
In Jerusalem, Orthodox Christians Celebrate the Miracle of the Holy Fire Amid Tight Restrictions pic.twitter.com/UNtJNtbfWq
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This year, the ceremony was held under tight security due to ongoing regional tensions. Israeli authorities limited access to the basilica to around 4,200 people, enforcing strict security checks to ensure the safety of all participants.
Despite these restrictions, the devotion of the faithful remained strong. The Holy Fire was transported to other Orthodox countries, including Greece, Russia, and Serbia, via special flights.
The Holy Fire ritual, which dates back to the 4th century, remains a powerful symbol of faith and unity for Orthodox Christians. Each year, it draws pilgrims from around the world who come to experience this profound spiritual moment in the heart of Jerusalem’s Old City.
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