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Holy Week Tensions Rise as Israel Blocks Cardinal from Entering Sacred Jerusalem Site

  Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, the Latin patriarch of Jerusalem, holds a prayer service to mark Palm Sunday, following the cancellation of the traditional Palm Sunday procession from the Mount of Olives, amid restrictions on gathering in large groups, in Jerusalem, March 29, 2026. Israeli police prevented Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, the Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, from entering the Church of the Holy Sepulchre on Palm Sunday, prompting widespread criticism from Christian leaders and governments worldwide. Authorities cited security concerns linked to the ongoing U.S.-Israeli war with Iran, noting that all holy sites in Jerusalem’s Old City had been temporarily closed due to the threat of missile strikes. The Latin Patriarchate condemned the move as an unprecedented disruption of centuries‑old tradition, marking the first time church leaders were unable to celebrate Palm Sunday Mass at the historic site. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu later stated that the ...

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Pope Francis to Make First Public Appearance in Over a Month

Pope Francis, 88, is set to make his first public appearance in five weeks this Sunday. The Vatican announced that the pontiff, who has been battling double pneumonia, will greet the public and offer a blessing from the window of his room at Rome's Gemelli Hospital. This marks a significant moment, as the pope has been hospitalized since February 14, making this his longest absence from public view since his election in 2013.

While his health has shown improvement, the Vatican has indicated that Pope Francis will not deliver the traditional Angelus prayer this Sunday, signaling that his recovery is ongoing. The pope's hospitalization has been a challenging period, but his resilience and determination to connect with the faithful remain evident.

This appearance will undoubtedly bring relief and joy to Catholics worldwide, who have been praying for his swift recovery. It also highlights the pope's commitment to his role, even amidst health challenges.

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