The millennium-old celebration, symbolizing Jesus's resurrection, usually draws thousands of worshippers to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, where Christians believe Jesus was buried.
But Israeli police this year have significantly limited access to the event, citing safety concerns.
Only 1,800 allowed for Holy Light ceremony
In contrast to previous years, when as many as 10,000 worshippers packed into the church, only 1,800 will be allowed inside this year, with another 1,200 outside. Additional checkpoints around the Old City will also restrict access to the area around the church.
The churches said they would not be cooperating with the police restrictions, which they see as part of long-standing efforts to push out the local Christian community. READ MORE