CMEP Stands with the Churches of Jerusalem and Prays for the Safety of All Spiritual Pilgrims

On April 11, 2022, the Patriarchate of the Greek Orthodox Church of the Holy City of Jerusalem released a statement in response to restrictions announced by the government of Israel on attendance for worship at Holy Fire Saturday services at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre on April 16, 2022. The government has declared that a limit of only a thousand worshipers will be permitted to enter the church and only 500 will be allowed to enter the grounds for this day, which has historically been attended by thousands. Churches for Middle East Peace (CMEP) stands in solidarity with the sacred churches of Jerusalem, opposes the police restrictions, and prays for the safety and the ability of all spiritual pilgrims to be able to worship freely in Jerusalem during this holy season. CMEP calls for an end to all violence and a renewed commitment to peaceful coexistence and the sacredness of the Holy City to two people groups – Israelis and Palestinians – and the three Abrahamic faith traditions of Jews, Christians, and Muslims.

Read the original statement by the Orthodox Patriarchate here.