Tens of thousands of pilgrims visited the Old City of Jerusalem Saturday to observe the “Holy Fire” ceremony marking the day preceding Orthodox Easter, Israel Radio reported.
The annual occurrence held at the Church of the Holy Sepulcher stands as the holiest event for the Orthodox Christian sects.
Attendees participated in the passing of a flame borne by Greek Orthodox and Armenian clergymen exiting the place of Jesus’s tomb within the church.
Burning candles will also be flown out to Orthodox communities throughout the world.
The faithful believe that it is through divine intervention that the first flame comes to life – much like Jesus did at the same spot a day after his crucifixion.
