In Jerusalem, the Holy Fire descends in Church of Resurrection of Christ
Divine service in the Church of the Holy Sepulchre this year took place with unprecedented security measures due to military actions.
On May 4, 2024, at 14:14 Kiev time, the Holy Fire descended in the Church of the Resurrection of Christ above the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem. The service was broadcasted by the YouTube channel "Svidok".
The ceremony, during which the Holy Fire descended, was led by the Patriarch of Jerusalem, Theophilos III.
Initially, Patriarch Theophilos, along with the clergy and the faithful, circumambulated the Edicule thrice. After that, wearing one garment with unlit candles and without any means that could arouse suspicion of the earthly origin of the Holy Fire, he entered it and offered a prayer.
"If the Fire descends, we understand that the Lord has given us a chance for repentance and correction."
Footage of the descent of the Holy Fire:
As reported by the UOJ, pilgrims from Ukraine took part in the ceremony of the descent of the Holy Fire.
This year, due to the military actions, there were fewer pilgrims than usual. Entry to the territory of the church for participation in the ceremony was allowed only to those who received the appropriate permits.
According to the press secretary of the Israeli police, Mikhail Zingerman, "unprecedented security measures" were taken due to terrorist threats.
