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"Christians in Bethlehem celebrated Holy Saturday, also known in the region as 'Saturday of Light', in a joyful atmosphere, as they received the Holy Fire from Jerusalem. Footage shows scout bands parading through a street in Bethlehem, as well as worshippers lighting candles from the Holy Fire brought from Jerusalem, with Metropolitan Venediktos, the Greek Orthodox patriarchal vicar, in attendance. Former Bethlehem mayor Hanna Hanania described the city's message as "one of peace and hope," noting that today's celebrations in Bethlehem reflect the arrival of light from Jerusalem, where the 'Saturday of Light' is observed, while Bethlehem's festivities focus on the Holy Fire. Hanania added that Bethlehem has long been a city of wide social engagement in religious occasions, emphasising that residents are always eager to participate. Local media reports noted that Christian churches following the Eastern calendar in Bethlehem, Beit Sahour, and Beit Jala observed the 'Saturday of Light' ahead of Easter Sunday celebrations tomorrow. Reports also noted that the welcome of the light emanating from the Church of the Holy Sepulchre was followed by the traditional 'Light Procession' to Manger Square, where the official reception was attended by church representatives, local authorities, and security services. Following this, special prayer was offered at the Church of the Nativity, with candles and lanterns lit in preparation for Easter Masses. The Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem held its Holy Fire ceremony on Saturday, drawing large crowds of monks and worshippers both inside and outside the church. Orthodox Christians celebrate 'Saturday of Light', which falls between Good Friday and Easter Sunday. Churches hold special services that blend joyful and sorrowful hymns. The day is distinguished by the 'Holy Fire', which emerges annually from Christ's tomb in Jerusalem, symbolising resurrection and hope for eternal life. "
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