IN PHOTOS: Holy fire ceremony in Jerusalem draws thousands

Eastern Orthodox Christians gather around Jesus' tomb inside the Church of the Holy Sepulchre to celebrate Christ's resurrection.
Associated Press|
Thousands of Christians gathered in Jerusalem on Saturday for an ancient fire ceremony that celebrates Jesus' resurrection.
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In a ritual dating back at least 1,200 years, they crowded into the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, where Christian tradition holds that Jesus was crucified, buried and resurrected.
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Photo: AFP
Photo: AFP
Photo: AFP
(צילום: AFP)
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Photo: AP
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(צילום: AP)
During the annual ceremony, top Eastern Orthodox clerics enter the Edicule, the small chamber marking the site of Jesus' tomb.
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Photo: AFP
Photo: AFP
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(צילום: AFP)
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Photo: EPA
Photo: EPA
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(צילום: EPA)
They then emerge to reveal candles said to be miraculously lit with "holy fire" as a message to the faithful from heaven. The details of the flame's source are a closely guarded secret.
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Photo: AP
Photo: AP
Photo: AP
(צילום: AP)
Roman Catholics and Protestants marked Easter in March, in accordance with the Gregorian calendar. Eastern Orthodox churches celebrate Easter this week using the older Julian calendar.
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Photo: AFP
Photo: AFP
Photo: AFP
(צילום: AFP)
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Photo: AFP
Photo: AFP
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(צילום: AFP)
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