Israeli police prevented the Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem and the Custos of the Holy Land from entering the Church of the Holy Sepulchre for Palm Sunday mass.
Latin Patriarchate Condemns Police Actions
The Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem announced on Sunday, March 29th, that Israeli police barred Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa and Custos of the Holy Land Father Francesco Ielpo from entering the Church of the Holy Sepulchre for Palm Sunday mass.
Both were stopped en route, while traveling privately and without any procession or ceremonial act, and were forced to turn back. As a result, for the first time in centuries, the Heads of the Church were unable to celebrate Palm Sunday mass at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. The Latin Patriarchate stated this constitutes a serious precedent and disregards the sensitivities of billions worldwide who are focused on Jerusalem this week.
President Nawrocki Condemns the Blockade
President Nawrocki stated on X (formerly Twitter) that he expresses “strong opposition to the denial of permission to celebrate Holy Mass at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem.” He added words of support to the Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem and all Christians residing in the Holy Land.
He emphasized that Palm Sunday marks the beginning of Holy Week, as Christians prepare for the resurrection of Jesus Christ. “The actions of the Israeli police, which I condemn, are an expression of disrespect for Christian tradition and culture,” the President wrote.
Holy Week Celebrations Affected by Conflict
Cardinal Pizzaballa recently announced that some Holy Week celebrations in Jerusalem have been canceled due to the war in the Middle East, including the traditional procession from the Mount of Olives on Palm Sunday. He informed the faithful that the procession will be replaced with a moment of prayer.
Chrism Mass to Proceed if Possible
The Chrism Mass on Holy Thursday, which usually takes place in the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, is scheduled to proceed if the situation allows. Churches will remain open, and clergy will strive to enable the faithful to pray and participate in liturgy in available forms.