Senior Catholic leaders in Jerusalem were reportedly prevented from accessing the Church of the Holy Sepulchre on Palm Sunday, sparking concern among Christian authorities.
According to a joint statement from the Latin Patriarchate and the Custody of the Holy Land, the Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, Pierbattista Pizzaballa, alongside the Custos of the Holy Land, Francesco Ielpo, were stopped by Israeli police while on their way to lead Palm Sunday Mass.
The statement explained that the leaders were traveling privately, without any form of public procession, but were nevertheless denied access and instructed to turn back.
As a result, Church officials noted that, for the first time in centuries, the Palm Sunday Mass at the historic Church of the Holy Sepulchre could not be presided over by the heads of the Church.
Church authorities described the development as deeply troubling, emphasizing that it could set a concerning precedent. They also highlighted the global significance of the site, especially during the Easter period, when millions of Christians focus their attention on Jerusalem.
The statement further noted that since the outbreak of conflict in the region, the Church has complied with all restrictions imposed by authorities, including cancelling public gatherings and limiting attendance, while making efforts to broadcast services to worshippers worldwide.
However, the latest action was criticized as excessive and inconsistent with principles of religious freedom and long-standing arrangements governing access to holy sites.
Expressing disappointment, Church leaders extended their sympathy to Christians both in the region and around the world, noting that worship on one of the most important days in the Christian calendar had been disrupted.