The Holy Light is described by Orthodox Christians as a miracle that occurs every year at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem on Holy Saturday.
Orthodox tradition holds that the Holy flame happens annually on the day preceding Orthodox Easter. During this time, blue light is said to emit within Jesus Christ’s tomb, rising from the marble slab covering the stone bed believed to be that upon which Jesus’ body is believed to have been placed for burial. The marble slab is now in the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in the Old City of Jerusalem. The light is believed to form a column of fire, from which candles are lit. This fire is then used to light the candles of the clergy and pilgrims in attendance. The fire is also said to spontaneously light other lamps and candles around the church. Pilgrims and clergy say that the Holy Flame does not burn them.
At churches usually it is tonight the faithful gather to receive their Holy Light. This year due to the deadly pandemic virus the light will not be received in our churches nor to the faithful.
It has, however arrived in Greece from the Holy Lands by aeroplane. In a closed ceremony it will be delivered to the Papal Legate of the Holy Sepulchre Damianos and one of his assistants will then return to Israel.
Although we are unable to receive this year’s Holy Light on the night of our Saviour’s resurrection, Zakynthians will be lighting a candle in tribute. When it is safe for all to gather once again we will receive our Holy Light and bring it into our homes a tradition that even Covid-19 cannot stop.