Church of the Holy Sepulchre Jerusalem - History, Hours & Prayer Requests

Video: Church of the Holy Sepulchre Tour

About the Church

The Church of the Holy Sepulchre is the place that most Christian traditions see as the location of Christ's crucifixion, burial, and resurrection (also called the Church of the Resurrection or Church of the Anastasis by Orthodox Christians). The church is housed within the Christian Quarter of the Old City of Jerusalem, at the end of the Via Dolorosa (Path of Sorrows). Among the church walls, there is a site identified as Calvary Hill mentioned in the New Testament. Since the 4th century CE, the church, considered one of the most important and sacred churches of all Christians in the world, has been used as a pilgrimage center for pilgrims from all over the world.

The Church of the Holy Sepulchre is located in the Christian Quarter of the Old City of Jerusalem in Israel. The church is significant not only because it symbolizes the spot where the Lord Jesus Christ was crucified, laid to rest, and resurrected, but also because it couples the historical grounds with history-rich and groundbreaking miracles - miracles which have been agreed by scholars, historians, the faithful, and archaeologists to have very much been performed.

Holy Sepulchre Church Gallery

The church has been a major Christian pilgrimage destination since its creation in the fourth century, as the traditional site of the Resurrection of Christ, thus its original Greek name, Church of the Anastasis.

The Church of the Holy Sepulchre is located at: Christian Quarter (Saint Helena Street) - Old City of Jerusalem - Israel

After removing Jesus' body from the cross, it was buried in a rock-hewn tomb in Joseph of Arimathea's burial plot. Burial in the grave of a stranger was required by the prohibition of the dead Halatah in Jewish law. Three days after the burial, Jesus and Mary Magdalene reached Jesus's Tomb and found it open and empty. There was a scent of roses in the air as an angel hovered above, announcing the resurrection of Jesus.

The New Testament does not provide a clear description of the place of crucifixion. The identification of the place of crucifixion and burial, as is customary to the present day, is attributed to Helena, mother of Roman Emperor Constantine, who visited Jerusalem three centuries after Jesus' death, in 326. A local guide led Helena to the burial ground which was then agreed upon by the faithful, and also pointed out to her the remains of the true cross - according to tradition at the time. As a result, Helena consecrated the place where the Emperor, after a while, ordered the erection of a church to mark the site of the Holy Sepulchre - the "Church of the Tomb."

Video: Holy Sepulchre History

Operating Hours

Summer Hours (April-September)
Sundays: 5:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Monday-Saturday: 5:00 AM - 9:00 PM

Winter Hours (October-March)
Sundays: 4:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Monday-Saturday: 4:00 AM - 7:00 PM

History of the Church of the Holy Sepulchre

The Church of the Holy Sepulchre is a Christian church that originated around the 4th century in what is now known as Jerusalem, Israel. It was dedicated to the Christian religious beliefs (consecrated) on 13 September, 335 and it has been active in one way or another ever since. The Church was founded by Constantine the Great and its architecture has elements from Roman type buildings (i.e. Romanesque, Baroque). Also, the building can easily hold up to 8,000 faithful and additionally, it holds the last four Stations of the Via Dolorosa which stands for the last episodes of Jesus' Passion.

⛪ "He is not here; he has risen, just as he said. Come and see the place where he lay."
— Matthew 28:6

Holy Sepulchre Church Map

✨ "I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die."
— John 11:25

The Importance of Praying in the Church of the Holy Sepulchre

At the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, people from different cultures and backgrounds come to share a private time with God. These pilgrimages are special sessions that most people take with God through prayers. It is also a sign of utmost devotion to the works being performed daily by our Lord Father. However, hindrances like insufficient time and financial conditions might prevent such wonderful endeavors. This is why Pray4God.com exists. Our mission to connect people with meaningful prayers helps alleviate the need to physically travel on a pilgrimage. As Christians, prayer is pivotal to our spiritual life.

"This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us." - 1 John 5:14

Prayer at the Anointing Stone in Holy Sepulchre Church

In fact, God wants to bless us with our desires (as long as they are for our good) and all we have to do is communicate with Him and ask. The most powerful method is to pray to Him and ask for whatever we need. The purpose of this website is to provide support during spiritual challenges. We understand what you are going through. We have all needed prayers for financial stability, security, healing, encouragement, love, relationships, friendship and faith. It is as a result of that experience that we operate a prayer service that will bring you and your needs closer to God.

"But now, this is what the Lord says, He who created you, O Jacob, He who formed you, O Israel: Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze." - Isaiah 43:1-2

With God, you have a companion so great that you are never alone.

How the Church of the Holy Sepulchre Can Help You

You request a prayer on any topic of your choice and we submit it to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. On your behalf, there will be deep prayers that will help tackle any problem you are facing. As you well know, our God is one of action. He listens and always responds to requests. In fact, His refusal to act on a request is itself an action for your own good. Signs of His works might be apparent or subtle. An example of the latter is waking up every day with death having no claim over us. Any request or prayer we make of Him is answered. An added benefit of our prayer sessions is that you do not need to embark on a pilgrimage since we will be praying on your behalf. Your part is a small donation which will fund a printed copy of your request that will be submitted at the holiest spots of the church.

📖 "Why do you look for the living among the dead? He is not here; he has risen!"
— Luke 24:5-6

Would You Like Your Prayer to Be Prayed in the Holiest Place for Christians?

We provide delivery of your prayer to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre to be prayed over. Once your prayer is completed, we will send photos of your printed prayer on the Stone of Anointing inside the Church of the Holy Sepulchre.

Prayer is the most powerful conversation with God!

Why Send a Prayer Request?

Millions arrive every year on a pilgrimage to the holy church to visit and confess their prayers. Many individuals see it as a mission of a lifetime. Devout Christians across the globe go on a pilgrimage as a reflection of faith. God is said to give special favor to those who do good works in His name. Sending a prayer request to this holiest of holy places is a simple act to do a good deed on behalf of someone else. Traveling to the Holy Land is an expensive proposition. Pray4God enables you to bring God's love to you, or to those for whom you are praying. When you send a prayer request to us, we will print your prayer and take it to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. A religious official will pray your prayer, then lay it on the Stone of Anointing. This is the very place where Joseph of Arimathea prepared the body of Jesus for burial. Photos of your prayer on the Stone of Anointing, and the candle that will be lit on your behalf, will then be emailed to you. A certificate of authenticity, as well as the printed prayer, will be mailed to you by regular mail. You may request a video instead of a photo if you wish. We believe that everyone should have a chance to pray within the walls of this holy place. All Christians have a connection to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, regardless of denomination. We want to allow everyone to have a chance to pray here, no matter where they reside in the world. It is an act of devotion that has bestowed blessings upon devout Christians for centuries.

🙏 "Pray for the peace of Jerusalem: May those who love you be secure."
— Psalm 122:6

Video: Prayer Request Service

Holy Sepulchre Church - Jesus's Tomb

Jesus's Tomb at the Holy Sepulchre Church

Why the Holy Sepulchre is Considered Holy and Powerful

The Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem is considered one of the holiest sites in Christianity because it is believed to be the location where Jesus Christ was crucified, buried, and resurrected. The significance of the Holy Sepulchre is deeply rooted in Christian theology and tradition. The Church holds a unique and profound significance for Christians, and its holiness is deeply ingrained in religious belief, historical importance, and cultural traditions. Here are key reasons why the Holy Sepulchre is considered holy and powerful for Christians:

Crucifixion and Resurrection: According to Christian belief, Jesus was crucified at Golgotha, a hill outside Jerusalem, and buried in a tomb within the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. The resurrection of Jesus is a central event in Christian theology, symbolizing victory over sin and death.
Historical and Religious Tradition: The Church of the Holy Sepulchre has a long history, dating back to the 4th century when it was built by Constantine the Great. The church is traditionally believed to stand on the site where Jesus' crucifixion and burial took place.
Pilgrimage Destination: Christians from around the world consider the Holy Sepulchre a significant pilgrimage destination. Pilgrims visit to pray, reflect, and experience the religious and historical significance of the site. Pilgrimages to the Holy Land are an important aspect of Christian devotion.
Custody of Denominations: The church is shared by various Christian denominations, including the Greek Orthodox, Roman Catholic, and Armenian Apostolic Churches, among others. The shared custody reflects the recognition of the site's importance across different branches of Christianity.
Religious Rituals: The Church of the Holy Sepulchre is the site of various religious rituals and ceremonies, particularly during Holy Week leading up to Easter. These rituals commemorate the events of Jesus' Passion, crucifixion, and resurrection.

While the significance of the Holy Sepulchre is profound for Christians, it's essential to note that different denominations may have variations in their beliefs and practices related to the site. Overall, the church holds a central place in Christian history and spirituality.

🕯️ "Burst into songs of joy together, you ruins of Jerusalem, for the LORD has redeemed his people."
— Isaiah 52:9

⛪ Powerful Prayers at the Holy Sepulchre Church

✝️ Prayer at the Holy Sepulchre Church for Divine Grace

Lord Jesus Christ, I come before You at the holiest site in Christianity, the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem, where You conquered death and rose triumphant. I pray at this sacred place where Your precious body was laid to rest, seeking Your divine grace and mercy. Fill my heart with the power of Your resurrection. Let the miracle that happened here transform my life completely. As pilgrims have done for centuries, I stand in awe of Your sacrifice on Golgotha and Your glorious rising from the tomb. Grant me the faith to believe in Your promises, the hope to trust in Your plan, and the love to share Your gospel with others. Bless me with spiritual renewal as I pray at this holy ground where heaven touched earth. May the grace that flowed from Your wounds heal my brokenness and make me whole. I surrender everything to You in this sacred space of resurrection. In Your mighty name, Amen. 🙏

🕊️ Prayer at Jesus Tomb for Spiritual Awakening

Heavenly Father, I pray at the tomb of Jesus Christ, the very place where death was defeated and eternal life was won for all believers. This sacred space witnessed the greatest miracle in human history - the resurrection of Your Son. As I offer my prayer at Jesus tomb, awaken my spirit to the fullness of Your truth. Remove the stone that blocks my heart from fully experiencing Your love. Like Mary Magdalene who wept at this tomb and then witnessed the risen Lord, open my eyes to see You in new and powerful ways. I pray for a spiritual awakening that will transform every area of my life. Break the chains of sin, doubt, and fear that hold me captive. Roll away the stones of despair and hopelessness. Let the light of Christ's resurrection shine into the darkest corners of my soul. Breathe new life into my faith, my relationships, and my purpose. May I leave this holy sepulchre forever changed by the power of the empty tomb. Thank You for victory over death. Amen. ✨

🌟 Prayer at the Holy Land for Blessing and Protection

Almighty God, I stand in prayer at the Holy Land, the blessed territory where Your Son Jesus walked, taught, healed, and performed miracles. This sacred ground has witnessed Your divine presence for thousands of years. As I pray at the Holy Land through the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, I ask for Your mighty blessing and protection over my life and my loved ones. Shield us from all evil, danger, and harm. Cover us with Your precious blood and surround us with Your guardian angels. Let the prayers offered in this holy place rise to Your throne like sweet incense. Jerusalem, the city of peace, reminds me that true peace comes only from You. Grant me peace that surpasses understanding, protection from the enemy's schemes, and blessings that overflow in abundance. May my pilgrimage of faith, whether physical or spiritual, draw me closer to You. Prosper the work of my hands and establish the plans You have for me. Thank You for the heritage of faith that flows from this holy land to all believers worldwide. Amen. 💫

🕯️ Prayer at Jerusalem Holy Sites for Healing and Restoration

Lord of Hosts, I come before You praying at the Jerusalem holy sites, particularly at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre where Your healing power was most profoundly displayed through Christ's resurrection. In this city where prophets prophesied, where Jesus walked the Via Dolorosa, and where salvation was accomplished, I ask for complete healing and restoration in my life. Heal my body from every sickness, disease, and infirmity. Restore my mind from anxiety, depression, and mental anguish. Renew my spirit from weariness, discouragement, and spiritual dryness. The same power that raised Jesus from the dead lives in me through the Holy Spirit. Activate that resurrection power for my healing today. As pilgrims journey to these holy sites seeking miracles, I too seek Your miraculous touch. Touch every cell, every organ, every system in my body. Speak healing over my circumstances, my relationships, and my future. Let the sacred history of Jerusalem holy sites remind me that You are the God who heals, restores, and makes all things new. Thank You for being Jehovah Rapha, my healer. Amen. 💚

✨ Prayer at the Site of Resurrection for New Beginnings

Risen Savior, I pray at the site of resurrection, the most significant location in all of Christian history. Here at the Holy Sepulchre, You emerged victorious over death, hell, and the grave. This is the place of ultimate new beginnings, where everything changed forever. I come asking for new beginnings in my own life. Whatever has died in me - dreams, hope, joy, faith - resurrect it by Your mighty power. Where there has been failure, bring success. Where there has been brokenness, bring wholeness. Where there has been endings, bring fresh starts. The resurrection proves that nothing is impossible with You. No situation is too hopeless, no heart too hardened, no life too far gone. If You can rise from the dead, You can resurrect anything in my life that needs renewal. I pray for a fresh anointing, new opportunities, divine connections, and breakthrough in every area. Let this be my moment of transformation, just as this holy site marks the moment when everything changed for humanity. Thank You for second chances, new mercies, and endless possibilities. I believe in resurrection power! Amen. 🌟

⛪ Holy Sepulchre Pilgrimage Prayer for Spiritual Growth

Father God, I embark on this Holy Sepulchre pilgrimage prayer journey, following in the footsteps of millions of faithful believers who have sought You at this sacred shrine. Whether my pilgrimage is physical or spiritual, I pray for deep spiritual growth and maturity in my faith. Pilgrimage represents our earthly journey toward our heavenly home. As I pray at this holiest Christian site, strengthen my relationship with You. Increase my faith, deepen my love, and expand my understanding of Your Word. Help me to live more like Jesus every day. The pilgrims who travel to the Holy Sepulchre Church demonstrate devotion, sacrifice, and commitment. May I show that same dedication in my daily walk with You. Teach me to pray without ceasing, to seek Your face continually, and to trust You completely. Let this pilgrimage prayer mark a turning point in my spiritual journey. Remove obstacles that hinder my growth. Plant me like a tree by streams of living water, that I may bear much fruit for Your kingdom. Thank You for the privilege of prayer and pilgrimage. May my life be a living testimony of Your grace. Amen. 🙏

✝️ Prayer at Golgotha for Forgiveness and Redemption

Merciful Savior, I bow in prayer at Golgotha, the place of the skull, where You paid the ultimate price for my sins. On this hill within the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, You were lifted up on the cross, bearing the weight of humanity's sin and shame. As I pray at Golgotha, I am overwhelmed by the magnitude of Your sacrifice. You who knew no sin became sin for me, that I might become the righteousness of God. I confess my sins before You and ask for complete forgiveness. Wash me white as snow with Your precious blood that was shed on this very spot. Redeem me from the curse of the law, from bondage to sin, and from eternal separation from You. Let the cross remind me of the depth of Your love - that while I was still a sinner, Christ died for me. I accept Your sacrifice, receive Your forgiveness, and embrace Your redemption. May I never take for granted what happened at Golgotha. Help me to live a life worthy of the calling I have received, to forgive others as You have forgiven me, and to share the message of the cross with a lost world. Thank You, Jesus, for Calvary. Amen. 💝

🕊️ Prayer at the Stone of Anointing for Divine Blessing

Holy Spirit, I pray at the Stone of Anointing, the sacred stone where the body of Jesus was prepared for burial after His crucifixion. Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus lovingly anointed Christ's body with myrrh and aloes at this very spot. As I offer my prayer at the Stone of Anointing, I ask for Your divine anointing upon my life. Anoint me with fresh oil from heaven. Set me apart for Your purposes and empower me for Your service. Let Your presence rest upon me like the precious ointment that flows down from the head, covering every part of my being. I pray for the anointing that breaks yokes, destroys burdens, and brings breakthrough. Anoint my mind with wisdom, my lips with words of grace, my hands for works of service, and my feet to carry the gospel. Just as Jesus was anointed for burial but rose in glory, anoint me for transformation and resurrection life. May Your anointing flow through me to touch others with healing, deliverance, and salvation. Pour out Your Spirit upon me without measure. Let me carry the fragrance of Christ wherever I go. Thank You for Your precious anointing. Amen. ✨

📖 Frequently Asked Questions About Holy Sepulchre Prayers

❓ What is the Church of the Holy Sepulchre?

The Church of the Holy Sepulchre is the most sacred site in Christianity, located in the Christian Quarter of the Old City of Jerusalem. It is believed to be built on the site where Jesus Christ was crucified at Golgotha, buried in a tomb, and resurrected three days later. The church encompasses both Calvary (Golgotha) and the empty tomb. First built by Emperor Constantine in 326 AD, it has been destroyed and rebuilt several times throughout history. Today, the church is shared by several Christian denominations including Greek Orthodox, Roman Catholic, and Armenian Apostolic. Millions of pilgrims from around the world visit this holy site annually to pray, worship, and experience the sacred ground where Christianity's most pivotal events occurred.

❓ Why pray at the Holy Sepulchre?

Praying at the Holy Sepulchre holds special significance for Christians because it connects believers directly to the physical locations where Jesus died and rose again. Many Christians believe that prayers offered at this holiest of sites carry particular spiritual power and meaning. The church contains the Stone of Anointing where Christ's body was prepared for burial, the site of crucifixion at Golgotha, and the empty tomb itself. Throughout history, Christians have made pilgrimages to the Holy Sepulchre seeking healing, miracles, forgiveness, and spiritual renewal. Even if you cannot physically visit Jerusalem, sending a prayer request to be prayed at the Holy Sepulchre allows you to participate in this ancient tradition and connect your faith to the most important events in Christian history.

❓ What happened at the Holy Sepulchre?

The Holy Sepulchre is the site of Christianity's most crucial events. Here, Jesus Christ was crucified on Golgotha (Calvary) around 30-33 AD, dying for the sins of humanity. His body was taken down from the cross and placed on the Stone of Anointing, where it was prepared for burial according to Jewish customs with myrrh and aloes. Joseph of Arimathea, a wealthy follower of Jesus, provided his own new tomb carved from rock, located nearby. Jesus' body was laid in this tomb, and a large stone was rolled across the entrance. On the third day, Sunday morning, the greatest miracle in history occurred - Jesus rose from the dead, conquering death forever. The empty tomb proved His resurrection and established the foundation of Christian faith. This is why the church is also called the Church of the Resurrection.

❓ Can I send my prayer to the Holy Sepulchre?

Yes! Through Pray4God.com, you can send your prayer request to be prayed at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem. We print your prayer and take it to this holiest Christian site, where it is prayed over by religious officials and placed on the Stone of Anointing - the same stone where Jesus' body was prepared for burial. We also light candles on your behalf at the church. After your prayer is delivered and prayed, we send you photographic proof showing your printed prayer at the Holy Sepulchre. This service allows Christians worldwide to participate in the ancient pilgrimage tradition even if they cannot physically travel to Jerusalem. It's an affordable and meaningful way to connect your personal prayers to this sacred location where Jesus conquered death.

❓ What is the Stone of Anointing?

The Stone of Anointing (also called the Stone of Unction) is a sacred stone slab located just inside the entrance of the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. It marks the spot where Jesus' body was prepared for burial after being taken down from the cross. According to tradition, Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus laid Christ's body on this stone and anointed it with myrrh, aloes, and spices before wrapping it in linen cloths. The current stone dates to 1810, but it commemorates the original location. Pilgrims kneel before the Stone of Anointing to pray, touch it with religious items, and sometimes anoint it with oil or perfume. It is considered one of the most sacred spots in Christianity, and many believe prayers offered here are especially powerful because of the stone's direct connection to Christ's burial preparation.

❓ What are the most important prayer sites inside the Holy Sepulchre?

The Church of the Holy Sepulchre contains several crucial prayer sites: (1) Golgotha (Calvary) - the rock where Jesus was crucified, now topped with altars on two levels; (2) The Stone of Anointing - where Christ's body was prepared for burial; (3) The Edicule - the shrine housing the Holy Sepulchre (tomb) itself where Jesus was laid and from which He rose; (4) The Chapel of Adam - believed to be where Adam's skull was buried, directly beneath Golgotha; (5) The Prison of Christ - where Jesus was allegedly held before crucifixion; and (6) The Chapel of Mary Magdalene - commemorating where Mary first saw the risen Christ. Each location holds deep spiritual significance, and pilgrims often pray at all these sites during their visit to experience the full journey from crucifixion to resurrection.