Holy Week pilgrims on decline due to Israeli and Palestinian border restrictions

(April 19, 2011) In the Holy Land, the influx of pilgrims is down because of tensions and tightened controls at checkpoints between Palestinian Territories and the State of Israel. On Palm Sunday, about 10 thousand faithful attended the procession led by Latin-rite Patriarch Fouad Twal of Jerusalem. The number is down from an average of 20 thousand pilgrims, who annually travel the path from the Palestinian village of Betfage to the Old City of Jerusalem.
Fr. Marcello Gallardo, vice-chancellor of the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem, told AsiaNews that many Christians in Bethlehem and Ramallah did not participate in the procession, due to the few permits issued by the Israeli authorities on the occasion of Holy Week. “But despite the difficulties” - he added –“ there are still many pilgrims, and in the coming days, many more will flock to the holy places of Christ's Passion." The priest said the atmosphere that reigns among the faithful is one of joy and people observe the Easter period with great fervour and devotion.