Israeli police stop Latin Patriarch from entering Church of Holy Sepulchre
Vatican News • • nation
Key Points:
- On Palm Sunday morning, Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, and Fr. Francesco Ielpo, Custos of the Holy Land, were prevented by Israeli police from entering the Church of the Holy Sepulchre to celebrate Mass.
- The Church leaders were stopped despite proceeding privately without any procession or ceremonial act, marking the first time in centuries that they were blocked from celebrating Palm Sunday Mass at this site.
- The joint statement from the Latin Patriarchate and Custody of the Holy Land called the action a "grave precedent" and a "grossly disproportionate measure" that disregards the sensibilities of billions worldwide.
- Both leaders have complied with all restrictions during the ongoing conflict, including canceling public gatherings and broadcasting celebrations to the faithful globally.
- The statement condemned the decision as unreasonable, violating principles of freedom of worship and respect for the Status Quo, and expressed profound sorrow that prayer was prevented on such a sacred Christian day.
