Greece is reportedly very concerned about the transport of the Holy Fire for its Easter celebrations following the indefinite closure of Israel’s Church of the Holy Sepulchre for security reasons.
Greek Orthodox Christians have been concerned with the consequences of the conflict in the Middle East in relation to what will happen during Easter and the reception of the Holy Fire from Jerusalem, which now seems in great doubt.
According to a report by Mega TV, the Old City of Jerusalem resembles a ghost town compared to the typical big crowds it hosts, with entry to the city and the operation of shops prohibited, as well as the monasteries and museums in the area being closed.
Jerusalem typically is flooded with believers for the touch of the Holy Fire, which is also transported to Greece, though the conflict has seemingly put a stop to that happening this year with a ban on gatherings above 100 people now in force.
According to Mega TV, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Greek embassy and the Israeli authorities are in constant communication about the necessary actions.
Although it is still considered early, all sides are saying that “the Holy Fire will come to the country in any way”, whether by special flight or by other means.
The Holy Fire which magically appears in a cave inside the Church of the Holy Sepulchre at noon on Good Saturday arrives in Athens with a special flight early evening and the Fire is distributed to churches throughout Greece.