Jerusalem, March 23, 2026 – The Armenian Patriarchate of Jerusalem has issued an official communiqué debunking widespread online rumors claiming the complete closure of the Church of the Holy Sepulchre and the cessation of all sacred rites, including those at the Tomb of Christ.
In a statement dated March 22, 2026, the Patriarchate emphasized that all Divine Liturgies, processions, and other assigned services under the historic Status Quo agreement have continued without interruption since the onset of the current regional conflict. The only adjustments involve certain Lenten observances, which have been performed with a limited group of monks and without full public solemnity due to ongoing security concerns from the war.
The communiqué addresses “false rumors circulating online” about a total shutdown, clarifying that while the church has been closed to the general public since late February amid escalated hostilities—including missile threats and debris impacts near holy sites—the Armenian community’s specific liturgical rights have proceeded as assigned.
Church leaders from the three main custodians (Greek Orthodox, Armenian Apostolic, and Roman Catholic/Franciscan) remain in close contact with each other and relevant authorities to finalize arrangements for Holy Week, which begins March 29. No definitive schedule has been set yet due to the fluid security situation, but updates will be shared promptly once confirmed.
The Patriarchate reaffirmed its unbroken Christian presence in the Holy Land since the 4th century and called for peace amid the challenges afflicting the region.
This statement comes as broader reports confirm the church’s public closure—ordered by Israeli authorities for safety reasons following attacks involving Iran—has disrupted typical pilgrim access and large gatherings during Lent. Some sources describe the situation as unprecedented in recent history, with negotiations underway for limited clergy-only services during Easter observances, similar to COVID-era restrictions.
The Armenian Patriarchate’s release serves as a direct counter to misinformation exaggerating the impact on Armenian rites specifically, while acknowledging the broader war-related disruptions affecting the shared holy site. Prayers for tranquility in the Holy Land were reiterated in the communiqué.
https://greekcitytimes.com/2026/03/23/armenian-patriarchate-debunks-holy-sepulchre-closure-rumors-2026/
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