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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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World Leaders Gather in Rome to Honor Pope Francis

Rome is witessing an extraordinary convergence of global leaders and dignitaries as they arrive to pay their respects to Pope Francis, who passed away at the age of 88. Among the prominent figures attending the funeral are former U.S. President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. The funeral, set to take place in St. Peter's Square, marks the culmination of a week of mourning for the beloved pontiff.

Pope Francis, known for his humility and dedication to the marginalized, has drawn tens of thousands of mourners to St. Peter's Basilica, where his body lay in state. The Vatican has confirmed the attendance of 130 delegations, including 50 heads of state and 10 reigning monarchs, reflecting the global impact of his leadership.

The ceremony will also feature a poignant moment as a group of poor and needy individuals, in line with Francis' values, will pay homage to his coffin. As the world bids farewell to a transformative figure, the conclave to elect his successor is set to begin in early May.



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