Greece is preparing for the annual transfer of the Holy Fire from Jerusalem and is considering alternate ways to transport the fire safely as strict Holy Week security measures have limited access to sacred sites in the Old City.
The annual ceremony at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre will still take place, but with only a small number of clergy allowed inside and tight controls on movement.
Greece’s primary plan of transport of the Holy Fire involves a direct flight from Israel to Greece, if conditions allow. Alternative routes include transporting the flame via Jordan or through Egypt’s Sinai Peninsula.
Final arrangements will be determined considering the security situation in the region as the ceremony approaches.
Security measures during Holy Week in Jerusalem will extend beyond the church and will include increased police presence across the Old City with entry through major gates being strictly regulated. The general public will be largely denied access during this time.
Holy Saturday will see further restrictions implemented when the Holy Fire ceremony takes place. It is reported that only permanent residents of the Old City may be allowed limited access during the day.
Source: Tovima
