Israeli Police Block Catholic Leaders from Celebrating Palm Sunday at Holy Sepulchre

On Palm Sunday morning, Israeli police prevented the Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, and the Custos of the Holy Land, Fr. Francesco Ielpo, from entering the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. The two were proceeding privately to celebrate Mass but were stopped en route and compelled to turn back. The Patriarchate and the Custody called the move a “grave precedent” that disregards the sensibilities of billions during Holy Week. They noted that, since the outbreak of war, church authorities have fully complied with all restrictions—canceling public gatherings, banning attendance, and arranging live broadcasts for the faithful worldwide. Their joint statement condemned the action as “manifestly unreasonable and grossly disproportionate,” saying it violated freedom of worship and the Status Quo. They expressed profound sorrow that, for the first time in centuries, the sacred Palm Sunday service at the Holy Sepulchre was prevented. Many Nigerian Christians liken their relationship with Israel to Friday and Monday: Friday seems close to Monday, but Monday feels far away. Despite efforts to draw nearer, Israel appears to pull away. A similar incident occurred in 2025. This one na family issue, mek I zip my mouth!

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