The Asia News website reports today that the Israeli government decided yesterday (March 28, 2010) to close the border with the West Bank for nine days, and is only allowing access for humanitarian reasons or to Christians who have permission to celebrate Easter in Jerusalem.
It is almost impossible for Christians in Gaza to obtain permission. Because of the presence of many Jewish pilgrims -- and the fear of possible attacks -- the entrance to the Temple Mount is forbidden to men under 50 years of age.
This year, Catholics, Orthodox, and Protestants will celebrate Easter on the same date (April 4, 2010).
The Council of Arab Orthodox has invited all Christians to come to Jerusalem, despite the prohibitions and restrictions of the occupying power. It has asked all the heads of Churches in Jerusalem to "uphold the rights and aspirations of their communities and to oppose Israel's discriminatory policy toward freedom of worship."
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