Preparations for Passover and the Traditional Birkat Kohanim

At the Western Wall, preparations are underway for Passover, culminating in the traditional Priestly Blessing ceremony, with the participation of thousands. During this event, all will join together in prayer for the return of the hostages, for the well-being of the IDF soldiers and security forces, for the healing of the wounded, and for peace for the people of Israel.

The traditional Birkat Kohanim (Priestly Blessing) ceremony will take place on Thursday, 17th of Nisan, April 25, 2024, with the participation of Israel’s chief rabbis, the rabbi of the Western Wall and holy sites, and masses of the Jewish people.

8:45 AM – Shacharit Morning Prayer
9:15 AM – First Birkat Kohanim of Shacharit
10:15 AM – Musaf Prayer
10:30 AM – Second Birkat Kohanim of Musaf
10:45 AM – Prayer for the return of hostages, well-being of IDF soldiers and security forces, healing of the wounded, and peace for Israel

During the ceremony, Psalms of thanksgiving, praise, and gratitude will also be recited.

Access to the Old City and the Western Wall may be restricted in case of overcrowding.
Crowd control will be managed by the Israel Police, and it is important to adhere to their instructions.
The public is requested to follow the instructions of the ushers for the safety of visitors to the Western Wall.
Stay updated on announcements and evolving guidelines.

During the Passover holiday, the Western Wall Tunnels sites will be open, including the new Gateway to Heaven audio-visual presentation – 8 minutes revealing the secrets of the Western Wall, why paratroopers wept when liberating the Wall, and what draws crowds from all corners of the earth for generations to cling to these ancient stones. For more details and reservations, visit the Western Wall Heritage Foundation website.

Photo Credits: The Western Wall Heritage Foundation