BETHLEHEM, May 4, 2013 (WAFA) – Palestinian
Christians Saturday commenced celebrations of the Holy Saturday in preparation
for Easter which coincides on Sunday.
An official celebration will be held to
receive the Holy Fire at the Church of the Nativity in the presence of
officials and religious leaders.
Deputy Mayor of Bethlehem Issam Juha said
Bethlehem celebrates this religious holiday while the Israeli blockade and the Apartheid
Wall continue to be present.
He said that Palestinians trust that this
light will bring hope, “We tell the world that the time has come to achieve
Palestinians’ rights.”
Juha expressed dismay of the Israeli measures
to prevent celebrants from reaching the Church of the Resurrection in Jerusalem
which he claims to be “a living proof of the Israeli arrogance”.
He said that only a small number of people were
given permits to cross into Jerusalem.
M.H.
