Orthodox worshippers greet ancient ceremony of the Holy Fire in Jerusalem

A Christian Orthodox pilgrim holds a candle during the Holy Fire ceremony (AP)

Christian Orthodox worshippers have thronged the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem for one of the most chaotic gatherings in the Christian calendar – the ancient ceremony of the Holy Fire.

The event takes place in the location where Christians believe Jesus rose from the dead, and involves a flame being taken from Jesus’ tomb and used to light the candles of Christian Orthodox believers.