The Holy Fire Ceremony at the Holy Sepulchre

Introduction

• Key Figures: Archbishop Isidoros, Abbot, and Sacristan of the Holy Sepulchre.
• Interviewer: Dimitris Alikakos, journalist, and author.
• Time and Place: Testimony recorded on November 26, 2018, in Jerusalem.
• Focus: Historical testimony regarding the lighting of the Holy Fire.

Historical Context

• Candle Dating: Estimated to be from 1840 to 1860, based on craftsmanship.
• Absence of Older Candles: No older candles in the Church of the Holy Sepulchre's Vault.
• Lack of Historical Records: No written or oral testimonies about the process before the existing candle.

Current Practices

• Candle Use: Used exclusively for the Holy Fire ceremony; stored afterward.
• Continuous Use: The candle has been used non-stop since its estimated dating.

Archbishop Isidoros’ Journey

• Arrival at Patriarchate: Came in 1986 as a student.
• Career Path: Progressed from student to High Priest and Vault Keeper at the Holy Sepulchre.

Ritual Process

• Procession: Begins outside; involves two oil lamps.
• Role of Dragoman: Coordinates the entrance into the Holy Sepulchre.
• Lighting of Oil Lamps: Two lamps are lit over the Holy Sepulchre using a lighter.

Knowledge Transfer

• Secretive Ritual: Known by very few; passed down selectively.
• Sacristan Initiation: Archbishop Isidoros was informed by Taborius Daniel in 2000.
• Contingency Plans: No second Sacristan currently; ritual knowledge must be preserved.

Importance of Truth

• Sanctification vs. Lighting: Distinction between sanctification (miraculous) and lighting (natural process).
• Ethical Concerns: Importance of truth-telling in religious contexts.

Challenges and Controversies

• Reactions to Truth: Varied responses from believers; issues with fanaticism.
• Public Statements: Careful communication is necessary to avoid offending religious feelings.

Conclusion

• Courage in Truth: Archbishop Isidoros emphasizes the need for honesty.
• Religious Understanding: Encourages logical understanding of the ceremony.
• Fanaticism vs. Theology: Differentiates true religiosity from religious fanaticism.
• Personal Integrity: Archbishop vows not to lie about the ceremony's details.