The Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem said war-related restrictions are forcing major changes to Holy Week in the Holy Land.
In a 22 March statement, Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa said traditional Lenten observances and large public liturgies will not take place, citing ongoing conflict and uncertainty.
Key events are affected: the Palm Sunday procession from the Mount of Olives is cancelled, and the chrism Mass is postponed.
Celebrations at sites like the Church of the Holy Sepulcher remain in question, with decisions being made day by day.
In a 21 March statement, the Custody of the Holy Land said the Church of the Holy Sepulcher remains a place of continuous prayer despite restricted access and ongoing uncertainty over Holy Week and Easter, as friars appealed to Catholics worldwide to unite in prayer for an end to violence and for dialogue and diplomacy to prevail in what they described as a “time of trial.”
Despite the disruptions, churches will stay open, the Latin patriarchate said, and clergy are encouraging smaller, local expressions of prayer. The patriarchate also called for a shared day of prayer on 28 March, inviting the faithful to pray the rosary for peace.
