Uncertainty regarding the transport of Holy Light from Jerusalem to Cyprus

The transportation of the Holy Light from Jerusalem to Cyprus and other countries for the upcoming Easter holiday is currently uncertain. Christakis Efstathiou, President of the Association of Theologians of Cyprus, stated that the ongoing war in the Middle East has led to significant disruptions in flight operations at Israeli airports. While the ceremony in Jerusalem is expected to proceed as planned, it will likely occur without the physical presence of pilgrims, consistent with recent religious events in the region. Mr. Efstathiou expressed doubt that air travel restrictions will be lifted in time for Easter. In the event that the Holy Light cannot be transported, the Church of Cyprus has prepared a contingency plan. Local priests will perform the Resurrection service as usual by lighting candles from the sanctuary's perpetual flame on the Holy Table. The Church emphasizes that this flame is considered holy and equal in significance to that brought from Jerusalem. This alternative method has historically been used in remote areas of Cyprus without detracting from the liturgical essence of the holiday.