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Holy Sepulchre articles

  
  • What does the olive branch symbolize in Christianity?


    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). 
  • How much should a person donate to church?


    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).
  • Are Church donations tax deductible?


    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:
  • How to use a prayer bracelet


    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. 
  • Why is Jerusalem important to Christians?


    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). 
  • What do Christmas candles represent?


    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.
  • What do candles in windows mean?


    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.
  • What does the Easter candle represent?


    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). 
  • What are church candles called?


    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. 
  • What do candles represent in Christianity?


    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. 
  • Why do Catholics light candles?


    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.
  • Why do we light candles for the dead


    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. 

     
  • Why and How to light a prayer candle


    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. 
  • How To Light A Candle at a Catholic Church


    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.
  • 7 Days Prayer Candle


    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.
  • Where is the Holy Sepulchre cemetery?


    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).
  • Why was the Church of the Holy Sepulchre built?


    Why did a Roman Emperor order the building of a Christian Church?
    Constantine the Great, the so-called first Christian Roman Emperor, came to power during a tumultuous time in the life of the Roman Empire. 
  • Can anyone visit the Church of the Holy Sepulchre?


    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.
  • Who are the Knights and Dames of Jerusalem?


    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 in The Church Of the Holy Sepulchre


    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. 
  • Lighting Candles In the Church of the Holy Sepulchre

    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

  • The beauty of lighting candles

    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 Importance of Church of the Holy Sepulchre

    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.