In Jerusalem
LE FIGARO. - How would you describe the atmosphere on Easter Eve?
Pierbattista Pizzaballa. -
I would speak of a depressed, “low profile” atmosphere. There are few people in town and hardly any pilgrims. Only a few thousand permits have been granted to Christians in the West Bank, although they usually have free access to Jerusalem during Holy Week. I'm not even sure that those who have obtained it will make the trip, as the war and political tensions create a negative atmosphere. The program of celebrations is the same as usual. At Christmas, we canceled the tree lights and markets. Easter, on the contrary, is an essentially liturgical celebration. But it is difficult to predict how many people will participate.
How does the war impact coexistence between religions?
Coexistence here is a reality. But, since the start of the war, all activities linked to interreligious dialogue have been…
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