The gates of the Church of the Holy Sepulchre have opened to worshippers who have gathered in Jerusalem to await the miracle of the Holy Fire. Before the ceremony begins, the church is closed, sealed, and its premises are inspected to ensure the absence of any artificial sources of fire. The doors are then opened, and the faithful begin to enter. Immediately after the doors opened, doves — birds symbolizing peace — flew out of the church.

The first group of pilgrims then streamed inside, where they will await the descent of the Holy Fire. It descends in the Edicule — a small chapel at the center of the church that enshrines the cave of the Holy Sepulchre, housing the stone venerated by all Christians as the site of Jesus Christ's burial. Throughout history, no one has managed to uncover the secret of this miracle, despite numerous attempts.