Holy Sepulchre articles

Christians view the Old and New Testaments as inspired and believe the olive branch has a biblical-based tie to God's covenants, peace, and promises. 
Theologians trace the ancient associations to Genesis 8, when Noah, looking for a sign of assurance, released a dove in the hope it would find land—it returned with a small olive branch in its beak (Genesis 8:11). 

The answer is simple—as much as God leads you to give. However, know that followers of Christ view the tithe as a baseline for giving—a starting, not an ending point.
Christians draw on the following Scriptures and principles to conclude that giving is a kind of litmus test for spiritual maturity and that "God loves a cheerful giver" (2 Corinthians 9:7).

Donations to a church almost always make the giver eligible for a tax deduction. However, though there can be a tax benefit for those who make financial donations, followers of Christ believe that giving to support God’s work is not an economic issue—it is a spiritual issue. Let me address some common questions:

The Church of the Holy Sepulchre Prayer Bracelets have three primary purposes: 1) they provide comfort as they remind the wearer of the promises of God 2) they provide a visible witness of one's faith, and 3) they help individuals be a witness for the Lord as they invite questions and provide an opportunity share why they identify as a follower of Christ. 

Christians and Jews believe that Jerusalem and Israel have played an essential role in the past and will play a pivotal prophetic role in the future. 
Christians hold Israel in high regard because they recognize that God promised the land to Abraham's descendants (physical and spiritual). 

Some use the term Christmas candles to describe the candles people put in windows to remember the coming of Christ—born 2000 years ago in a simple stable in Bethlehem. Others put Christmas candles in their window as a symbol of hope or goodwill toward men.

Placing a light in a window during the Christmas season is a centuries-old tradition that flows from using candles to remember the grace of God, the coming of Christ, and the importance of extending goodwill to all.

The Judeo-Christian tradition of using special candles during what we now call the Easter season is approximately 3450 years old. In Old Testament times, faithful believers lit candles the evening before Passover (Christians now reference that day as Good Friday). 

The lighting of candles plays a very significant role in church life. Drawing on several millennia of tradition, using candles in services, masses, memorial services, homes, and holidays takes on many forms. 

Christians worldwide believe the Old Testament points to Jesus and finds its fulfillment in the events profiled in the Gospels and New Testament Epistles. Christians link light with the divine. 

Individuals from many denominations incorporate candles in their places of worship. However, using candles in connection with worship and prayer is particularly prominent in the Catholic Church.

The practice of lighting candles for the dead has many meanings. Some light candles to honor a memory or pay tribute to a well-lived life. Several religious groups light candles during a funeral or memorial service to symbolize the beauty and brevity of life. 

 

Lighting a candle is a simple act that brings comfort and solace. Lighting candles can be a truly meaningful experience when combined with prayer and worship.
Our staff facilitates these good feelings by offering several candle-lighting services and sample prayers. 

Lighting candles in places of worship is a timeless tradition--present in the Tabernacle of Moses, the Temple of Solomon, and the miracle of the oil and light in the days of the Maccabees. The incorporation of light and candles in times of prayer and places of worship has carried on through the centuries to the present day.

We offer a service of lighting candles for seven days not because it is essential but because the ceremony is beautiful and because pairing candles with prayers and solemn ceremonies has a biblical foundation.

The answer is, there are many Holy Sepulchre cemeteries. There are a number of crypts in and near the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem—Jesus was buried in that location because the notable Joseph of Arimathea had previously purchased a crypt and intended to be buried there (Matthew 27:60).

People of all faiths are welcome to visit the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. Located in the prominent Christian Quarter of Jerusalem, one can easily secure transport via taxi to the revered site.

Those who visit Jerusalem and the Church of the Holy Sepulchre may see men and women wearing distinctive white and black cloaks with prominent red crosses. The cross is known as the red Jerusalem cross; the men and women are the Knights and Dames of the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem (EOHSJ).

The Holy Fire Ceremony is centuries old. It happens annually at the Church of the Holy Sepulcher on Holy Saturday, the day before the Orthodox Church celebrates Easter. 

The tradition of lighting candles in the Church of the Holy Sepulchre was inspired by a miracle that occurred long ago and has blessed countless lives since. Click the image to learn more

Through the ages, candles have played an important role in praising God, in beautifying and illuminating places of worship, and in spiritual celebrations Candles illuminate and comfort as they help one reflect on the goodness and glory of God. Click here to learn more.

The Church of the Holy Sepulchre is a historic site that bears witness to the Father’s unconditional love, and the sacrifice, crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Click here to learn more.