Wednesday, the Status Quo Committee of Churches issued a statement in regard to the 'unreasonable restrictions' imposed by the Israeli Occupation Forces for Holy Light Ceremony, which is one of the most important religious ceremonies for Christians.

The statement starts by explaining the significance of the Holy Week: "This week marks the holiest week in Christianity - Holy Week. We recall the events that led to the crucifixion of Jesus Christ our Lord and Saviour and we remember His glorious resurrection. The celebration of the Holy Light Ceremony, is a great moment that ties the faithful to the light of Jesus Christ. This ceremony has been faithfully taking place in the Church of the Holy Sepulchre for nearly 2,000 years, attracting Christians from around the world."

It then mentioned the obstacles Christians faced last year, "Each year, the Churches coordinate with the authorities to ensure this ceremony can take place without issue. Notably, last year barriers were imposed by the Israel Authority throughout the Old City that made impossible the access of our local Christian Communities pilgrims from attending the Holy Light Ceremony in the Holy Sepulchre, impeding their freedom to worship and witness the miracle of the resurrection."

It continues to explain the challenges they are facing this year, saying: "After many attempts made in goodwill, we are not able to coordinate with the Israeli authorities, as they are enforcing unreasonable, and unprecedented restrictions on access to the Holy Sepulchre - more so than last year. These heavy-handed restrictions will limit access to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre and the Holy Light Ceremony. Police are unfairly and inappropriately placing the burden on the churches to issue invitations while tying the Churches’ hands with unreasonable restrictions that will prevent worshippers from attending particularly our local community. This makes difficult our coordination with the police."

The committee concluded the statement with: "As we the Greek Orthodox Patriarchate, the Custody of the Holy Land and the Armenian Patriarchate clearly stated in our various statements, we shall continue to uphold the Status Quo customs, and the ceremony will be held as customary for two millennia and all who wish to worship with us are invited to attend. With that made clear, we leave the authorities to act as they will. The Churches will freely worship and do so in peace."