A Christian Orthodox pilgrim holds up a candle Saturday, May 4, in the Old City of Jerusalem, during the Holy Fire ceremony at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, where many Christians believe Jesus was crucified, buried and rose from the dead. In the annual ceremony, held that has been observed for over a millennium, a flame taken from Jesus' tomb is used to light the candles of fervent believers of Christian Orthodox communities near and far. The devout believe the origin of…
May 10, 2024
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Cheers, flames as Orthodox worshipers greet 'Holy Fire'
Christian Orthodox worshippers in Jerusalem have thronged the Church of the Holy Sepulcher in one of the most chaotic gatherings in the Christian calendar. Cheers and prayers rang out as candles one by one were lit after reaching through a small opening into Jesus' tomb. Soon, the dim chamber was lit by a constellation of handheld flames as part of the rite of Orthodox Easter week in Jerusalem. Worshipers believe the flame's origin is a miracle. There is not enough space for all who would like to attend, which has caused friction with Israeli authorities in the past. But Saturday's event was joyous, if jostling, and reflective amid the Israel-Hamas war not far away.