The traditional Priestly Blessing ceremony at the Western Wall will take place Sunday in a limited format only, without public attendance, organizers announced.
Following recent reports and in light of the complex security situation, the Western Wall Heritage Foundation wishes to reiterate that, in accordance with Home Front Command and security authorities’ guidelines, the general public will not be permitted to visit the Western Wall during the intermediate days of Passover, and in particular for the Priestly Blessing ceremony on Sunday.
This directive is issued due to full responsibility for safeguarding human life and deep concern for the safety and security of worshippers and visitors.
Despite extensive efforts by the Western Wall Heritage Foundation, in cooperation with all relevant authorities, to explore ways to allow the ceremony to take place with public participation, it has become clear that under the current security conditions, it is not possible to ensure the safety of the tens of thousands of expected participants, especially in the event of an emergency or incoming missile alert.
It should be emphasized that the unique conditions of the Old City area and the narrow access routes to the Western Wall do not allow for the safe and rapid evacuation of large crowds, and could, God forbid, lead to situations of panic, congestion, and real danger to human life.
Accordingly, and in line with binding directives, it has been decided that this year the ceremony will be held in a limited format only, without public attendance.
The Priestly Blessing ceremony will begin on Sunday morning, and the schedule will be as follows:
• Morning prayer (Shacharit) - 08:30
• Priestly Blessing (Shacharit) - 09:00
• Musaf prayer - 10:00
• Priestly Blessing (Musaf) - 10:15
• Prayer for the well-being of IDF soldiers, security forces, and the people of Israel - 10:30
In order to allow the public to participate in this moving event during these challenging times, the ceremony will be broadcast live on the Western Wall Heritage Foundation website, news sites, and radio channels.
"The public is asked to act responsibly, refrain from arriving at the Western Wall, and follow the instructions of Israel Police, security forces, and Home Front Command, out of mutual responsibility and concern for public safety," the Foundation stressed.
"It is our prayer that we will soon merit days of peace and security, and once again see the people of Israel making pilgrimage in large numbers, with joy and in safety."