health
March 18, 2026
WILL THERE BE ORTHODOX EASTER THIS YEAR? Israel has closed the holy site where the Holy Fire has descended for 2,000 years on Holy Saturday
From strict water abstinence to a day of fish allowance – a time of prayer, forgiveness, and introspection awaits believers; we present the weekly schedule, dietary rules, and the most important spiritual guidelines.
TL;DR
- The Holy Sepulchre Church in Jerusalem is closed to believers due to escalating conflict, disrupting the Holy Fire ceremony.
- Israeli authorities closed religious sites, including the Holy Sepulchre, for security, citing risks from missile fragments and mass gatherings.
- This closure is unprecedented in recent history, affecting the core liturgical function of the church.
- Orthodox leaders are negotiating with Israeli authorities for limited liturgies, similar to pandemic-era arrangements.
- The Holy Fire is a symbol of Easter and spiritual hope for millions of Orthodox Christians globally.
- Diplomatic efforts continue to find ways to share the Holy Fire, even if the ceremony cannot be held with large crowds.
- During the COVID-19 pandemic, the ceremony still occurred, albeit adapted for quarantine conditions.
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