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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 Leo XIV Calls for Church to Illuminate the World in First Mass

 

 In his first Mass as pontiff, Pope Leo XIV urged the Catholic Church to serve as a guiding light in a world facing spiritual darkness. Speaking in the Sistine Chapel, where he was elected less than 24 hours earlier, the newly appointed pope emphasized the importance of faith and outreach.

Leo XIV, formerly Cardinal Robert Prevost, is the first American pope in the Church’s history. During his homily, he acknowledged the challenges of modern society, where faith is often dismissed or misunderstood. He expressed his vision for the Church as a beacon of hope, illuminating the “dark nights” of the world and offering guidance to those searching for meaning.

Dressed in simple white and gold vestments, Pope Leo XIV spoke briefly in English before continuing his homily in Italian. He described his role as a “faithful administrator” of the Church and called on Catholics to embrace their mission with joy and conviction.

The Mass was attended by over 130 cardinals, who had gathered for the conclave that elected Leo XIV as the 267th pope. Following the service, the new pontiff was scheduled to have lunch with the cardinals before they departed for their respective dioceses.

Leo XIV’s election marks a historic moment for the Catholic Church, and his first words as pope suggest a commitment to unity, faith, and renewal. As he embarks on his papacy, many will be watching to see how he leads the Church into this new chapter.

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