Israel bars Pizzaballa from Holy Sepulchre

Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa and Father Francesco Ielpo were prevented from entering the Basilica of the Holy Sepulchre by Israeli police, despite travelling privately without a liturgical escort. According to the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem and the Custody of the Holy Land, this is the first time in centuries that Catholic leaders have been unable to celebrate the Palm Sunday liturgy at the site, Vatican News reported.

The Church described the intervention as disproportionate and unjustified, pointing to a departure from the principles of religious freedom and the historical status quo at holy sites. It said the move set a serious precedent given the sensitivities of believers around the world.

The Patriarchate said the Church had so far respected all security measures. Public events have been cancelled, participation by the faithful has been limited and celebrations have been held via broadcasts. Church officials expressed regret that the liturgy on one of the most important days could not be celebrated in the basilica.

They also cancelled the traditional procession from the Mount of Olives to Jerusalem because of the ongoing conflict.

Cardinal Pizzaballa said that this year, in addition to the difficulties caused by the war, there is also the pain of not being able to celebrate Easter together: ‘This is another blow in addition to the many that the conflict has brought. But no darkness, not even the darkness of war, can have the last word.’

(max)