Select language:

Russian Orthodox Church hopes that pilgrims could visit Church of Holy Sepulchre at Easter

 / Главная / Russkiy Mir Foundation / News / Russian Orthodox Church hopes that pilgrims could visit Church of Holy Sepulchre at Easter

Russian Orthodox Church hopes that pilgrims could visit Church of Holy Sepulchre at Easter


26.02.2018

Nastiya KU//wikimedia.org

Russian Orthodox Church hopes that the Church of the Holy Sepulchre will be open for visitors at Easter, reports TASS.

The representative of the Department for External Church Relations of Moscow Patriarchate the Archpriest Igor Yakimchuk called the situation quite tense. In his opinion it was not only about religion, but also about politics. It was hard to make any forecasts so far. The archpriest voiced his hope that pilgrims would soon be able to pray in the temple.

The reason for closing the temple was a conflict between the country’s government and the city’s management. This was done in response to introduction of some new taxes for church property imposed by the city administration. It is not clear yet when it might be reopened. It’s the first time the conflict is so acute, said the Russian Orthodox Church representative.

He said that they hoped the situation would not affect pilgrims from Russia.

The Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem was built in the very place where Jesus had been crucified, buried and resurrected. The ancient basilica was built in the fourth century. The empress Elena is believed to be its founder. On Easter’s Eve the Holy Fire descends upon the temple. This year the Orthodox will celebrate the Easter on April 8th.
Russkiy Mir

News by subject

Publications

Italian entrepreneur Marco Maggi's book, "Russian to the Bone," is now accessible for purchase in Italy and is scheduled for release in Russia in the upcoming months. In the book, Marco recounts his personal odyssey, narrating each stage of his life as a foreigner in Russia—starting from the initial fascination to the process of cultural assimilation, venturing into business, fostering authentic friendships, and ultimately, reaching a deep sense of identifying as a Russian at his very core.