Final Communique of the Holy Land Co-ordination 18-23 January 2025
The Holy Land Co-ordination's final communique, issued on January 23, 2025, highlights the fragile ceasefire in Gaza and the ongoing struggles faced by communities in the West Bank. The bishops' delegation, visiting as pilgrims of hope, emphasized the need for international cooperation to achieve lasting peace and support for those affected by the conflict.
Return of Dames and Knights: Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem Visits the Holy Land
On January 22nd, 2025, Msgr. William Shomali, General Vicar, warmly welcomed five Dames and Knights from the Northern Lieutenancy of the USA to the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem. During this significant visit, three members received their pilgrim Shells, marking a memorable moment in their spiritual journey
Bethlehem University Hosts EOHSJ France Delegation to Discuss Educational Support and Collaboration
Bethlehem University had the honour of hosting the Projects Committee of the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem […]
The Patriarch and the Palestinians
In this article, His Beatitude Pierbattista Pizzaballa, the Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, reflects on the precarious position of Christians in the Holy Land amidst the ongoing conflict between Israel and Gaza. Serving as a diplomat and protector of Catholic communities, Pizzaballa navigates the complexities of Israeli-Palestinian relations, aiming to ensure the safety of Catholics while balancing relations with both Israeli and Muslim authorities. The article explores the historical context of Christianity in the region, the challenges faced by Palestinian Christians, and Pizzaballa’s strategic approach to protecting his flock in the midst of war.
Archbishop Farrell: the injustices in Gaza now are no justification for past injustices
In his Christmas homily, Archbishop Farrell reflects on the hope and peace symbolized by the birth of Christ amidst the harsh realities of today's world. Drawing from his recent visit to Tigray, Ethiopia, and the ongoing conflict in Gaza, he highlights the suffering and resilience of displaced people. The Archbishop calls for a renewed commitment to peace, inspired by the humble birth of Jesus, and urges believers to welcome the Prince of Peace into their hearts this Christmas.
Visit to Bethlehem by His Beatitude Pierbattista Cardinal Pizzaballa ofm The Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem
Video images and interview from SKY TV Africa correspondent Yousra Elbagir, @YousraElbagir reporting on the visit to Bethlehem by His […]
Cardinal Filoni Reflects on Humanity and Faith: A Message of Hope Amidst Global Conflict
In a recent interview, Iranian writer Azar Nafisi shared a profound reflection on humanity amidst conflict. Her book, adapted into an award-winning film at the 2024 Rome Film Festival by Israeli director Eran Riklis, recounts her experiences in Tehran during the 1980s. Nafisi's message emphasizes the importance of remaining human in the face of violence and despair, highlighting the true meaning of Christmas and the enduring hope found in faith.
Cardinal Pizzaballa Brings Christmas Light to Gaza: Holy Mass and Youth Confirmations on 4th Sunday of Advent
On the 4th Sunday of Advent, Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, the Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, visited Gaza to show solidarity with the Christian community. He presided over Holy Mass at the Holy Family Latin Catholic Church and administered confirmation to youths, delivering a heartfelt sermon emphasizing hope, unity, and the light of Christ during the Christmas season
Honoured Pilgrimage: Donnacha Fahy Receives the Pilgrim Shell from Latin Patriarchate in Jerusalem
On Monday, 16th December 2024, Irish Confrère Donnacha Fahy, KHS had the honour of an audience with His Excellency Bishop Dr. Giacinto-Boulos Marcuzzo, Latin Patriarchal Vicar in Jerusalem and Palestine, at the headquarters of the Latin Patriarchate in the Old City of Jerusalem. Donnacha was awarded the Pilgrim Shell of the Latin Patriarchate, recognising his first pilgrimage as an invested Knight of the Equestrian Order. This moment marked the culmination of his three-week pilgrimage of solidarity to the Holy Land, where he met with the 'living stones' and visited sacred sites in Bethlehem, Nazareth, Galilee, Jaffa, and Jerusalem.
Uniting Hearts: The Mission of Hebrew-Speaking Catholics in Israel
On Saturday, 14th December 2024, our Irish Confrère visited Jaffa and Tel Aviv to connect with the Hebrew-speaking Catholic communities in Israel. Under the guidance of Fr Piotr Zelazko, the Saint James Vicariate for Hebrew-Speaking Catholics provides pastoral care to these small but dedicated congregations across Tel Aviv, Haifa, Jerusalem, Beersheba, and Tiberias. This mission highlights the importance of solidarity and spiritual support within the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem.
Interview with George Akroush, project coordinator for the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem
Donnach Fahy recorded a conversation with George Akroush. George Akroush, project coordinator for the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem, speaks candidly […]
The Eternal Light: A Christmas Declaration from Jerusalem’s Faithful
In these dark days of ongoing conflict and uncertainty in our region, the Patriarchs and Heads of the Churches in Jerusalem remain resolute in proclaiming the timeless Christmas message of the True Light shining in the darkness: the birth of our Lord Jesus in Bethlehem. They steadfastly offer hope and renewal to their local congregations and the world, reminding us that Christ’s Nativity brought the light of God’s salvation into the world, illuminating all who would receive Him. As spiritual leaders in the very places where Jesus was born, ministered, and rose from the dead, they continue to testify to the sacred light of Christ. Through worship at holy sites, welcoming pilgrims, and ministering to those in need, they advocate for peace, justice, and mercy in a land still fraught with turmoil. In this hopeful Christmas spirit, they call upon all Christians and people of goodwill to join in their noble mission of bringing about peace and healing in the Holy Land and beyond.
Support and Solidarity: Irish Confrère’s Visit to the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem
On Friday, 13th December 2024, Irish Confrère visited the Offices of the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem, meeting with key staff members including Mr Sami El-Yousef, CEO, and Mr George Akroush, Director of the Projects' Development Office. The visit highlighted the impactful contributions made through the Emergency Appeal for Gaza, benefiting 140,000 people since the war's onset. Detailed insights into their relief efforts and the crucial work of the St James Vicariate for Hebrew-speaking Catholics were also shared. This visit underscored the importance of solidarity and support within the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem.
From Ireland to Bethlehem: A Spiritual Encounter with Compassionate Caregivers
On Monday 9th December 2024, Irish Confrère Donnacha Fahy KHS had the privilege to visit the offices of Bethlehem Care […]
Brother Anto Leo Mariadass and the community of Mendicant monks celebrate Holy Mass in the Chapel of John the Baptist, located in the crypt built by the Crusaders on the reputed birthplace of John the Baptist.
Today 8th December 2024, the Feast of the Immaculate Conception and Second Sunday of Advent, when we reflect upon the […]
Further update on Confrère Donnacha Fahy’s pilgrimage to Bethlehem
Donnacha had the privilege of visiting Hogar Niño Dios Special Needs Centre located just down the hill from the Church […]
Update from the holy land of JESUS
Irish Confrère Donnacha Fahy, KHS continues his solo pilgrimage of solidarity visiting Bethlehem and Galilee To mark the season of […]
Greetings from Bethlehem University
Irish Confrère Donnacha Fahy, KHS continues his solo pilgrimage of solidarity, visiting Bethlehem University at the invitation of Shahinda Nassar, […]
Visit to the Secretariat of the Custos of the Holy Land
This morning, Thursday 28th November 2024 our Irish Confrère Donnacha Fahy, KHS visited the Secretariat of The Custos of the […]
Praying for peace at the Holy Sepulchre, Jerusalem
Chev. Fahy, from the Lieutenancy of Ireland, praying for peace in the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem.
Immaculate Conception Latin Parish Church in Bir Zeit
An interesting background history of the Immaculate Conception Latin Parish Church in Bir Zeit, close to Ramallah in the occupied […]
The Feast of Our Lady of Palestine, the Patroness of the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem
October 25th is the Feast of Our Lady of Palestine, the Patroness of the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre […]
Visit the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem
Spontaneous introductory visit to the principal places inside the Holy Sepulcher in Jerusalem. We start at the lowest level in […]
September 2024 – Newsletter of the Seminary of the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem
September 2024 – Newsletter of the Seminary of the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem. It is a blessing to fulfill God’s purpose for the Church of Jerusalem, the Mother Church. God willed for a Latin Patriarchal Seminary to be founded in Beit Jala to support the local church by forming good priests. Since 1852, the Seminary has formed 298 diocesan priests, including 15 Bishops and 3 Patriarchs. Many candidates have also left to pursue marital life, establishing Christian families who act as beacons of hope. Thanks to global Christian generosity, the Seminary continues to offer priestly formation for seminarians from Jerusalem and beyond.
12 Messages from the Clergy of the Holy Land
A video series featuring messages from His Beatitude Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, as well as from bishops […]
Patriarchs and heads of the churches in jerusalem
Statement on the urgent need to conclude the present war and turn from the pursuit of death and destruction towards […]
A heartfelt message in view of the Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, celebrated on August 15th 2024
Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, the Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, has addressed Christians in the Holy Land with a heartfelt message in […]
Interview with the Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem HB Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa
Credit: iCatholic The Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem HB Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa reflects on the situation in the Gaza since the […]
Cardinal Pizzaballa: We stand by those working for good in this dark night
The Cardinal Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem talks of the critical time in the Holy Land and of how difficult it is to see ways out.
Irish Bishops call for courageous world leadership to stop Israel/Hamas war
The Bishops of Ireland have asked for prayers for all people affected by the Israel/Hamas war, for the release of hostages, for humanitarian workers and for first responders. Bishops reiterated the words of Pope Francis that this war is a “catastrophe for humanity.”
We should not forget the Christian minority in Palestine and Israel
Aid should not be based on religion, but Christians face specific challenges Breda O’Brien – Sun Jun 9 2024 – […]
Corpus Christi is celebrated in the Basilica of the Holy Sepulcher on the Thursday after the Trinity Sunday.
Corpus Christi is celebrated in the Basilica of the Holy Sepulcher on the Thursday after the Trinity Sunday. On the eve of the solemnity, the Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, Card. Pierbattista Pizzaballa, made the solemn entrance and presided over First Vespers. After Vespers, they all took part in the solemn procession of the Franciscan friars to the holy places inside the Basilica, to then end with the Compline.
Return to the Holy Family parish for a pastoral visit
Wonderful news to learn that His Beatitude Cardinal Pizzaballa, the Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem and Fr Gabriel Romanelli, Parish Priest of the Holy Family Church Gaza finally returned to the parish for a pastoral visit.
Cardinal Dolan visits the Holy Land: the only path to peace is love
In the midst of the maddening war that is ruthlessly engulfing the Holy Land, Archbishop of New York Cardinal Timothy […]
The latest issue of Jerusalem Cross 2023-2024
The latest issue of Jerusalem Cross 2023-2024, the annual magazine of the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem, […]
Father Gabriel Romanelli, Parish Priest of the Latin Holy Family Church Gaza
Father Gabriel Romanelli, Parish Priest of the Latin Holy Family Church Gaza
Support the Good Friday Collection
The Pontifical Good Friday Collection is the result of the Pope's wishes for the bond between all Christians in the world and the Holy Places to remain strong. The collection is taken up on Good Friday, in all Catholic Churches around the world, to support the work of the Franciscans of the Holy Land.
The Message from fr. Francesco Pattonfor the Good Friday Collection
On this occasion, we friars of the Custody of the Holy Land become beggars and we turn to you so that Good Friday may be a day of universal solidarity, a day on which Christians from all over the world take concrete care of the Mother Church of Jerusalem, which at this moment is in dire need of it.
A brief report of Cardinal Fernando Filoni’s pilgrimage for peace in the Holy Land
A brief report of Cardinal Fernando Filoni’s pilgrimage for peace in the Holy Land from December 28, 2023, to January […]
Cardinal Filoni in Holy Land: ‘Please believe that peace and dialogue are possible’
Cardinal Fernando Filoni concludes his Pilgrimage of Peace to the Holy Land with an appeal to Israelis and Palestinians to […]
Cardinal Grand Master arrived today in the Holy Land
Cardinal Grand Master arrived today in the Holy Land welcomed at Tel Aviv Airport by the Apostolic Nunzio, Mons. Adolfo […]
Notification from the Grand Master
‘Notification that the Grand Master and the Governor General of the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem will travel […]
Advent 2023 – The Season of Hope and Preparation
Members of the Irish Catholic Bishops’ Conference gathered this week in Saint Patrick’s College, Maynooth, for its Winter 2023 General […]
The Order of the Holy Sepulchre renews its commitment to the Holy Land alongside the Latin Patriarchate
Informative video summary, detailing the meeting of the Lieutenants and Grand Priors of the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre […]
Pope Francis laments ‘innocent dead‘ in Holy Land conflict
Pope Francis laments ‘innocent dead‘ in Holy Land conflict Pope Francis met with leaders of the Equestrian Order of the […]
General Appeal – November 2021
Dear Brothers and Sisters, May the Lord give you peace! Charity and prayer animate the entire extended family of the […]
A Pastoral Letter has been sent by His Beatitude Cardinal Pizzaballa to all the parishes across the Holy Land.
Given the current situation the Patriarch has felt it necessary to share this. The feast of Our Lady Queen of […]
Promotion to Cardinal for His Beatitude Pierbattista Pizzaballa
The Lieutenancy of Ireland sends our sincere congratulations to our dear friend on his elevation to Cardinal – Deus lo […]
Easter is a special time to visit the Holy Land
Dame Eleanor Hurl, DCHS, along with her husband Chevalier Dr Frank, KC*HS and her cousins from Los Angeles, joined members […]
2023 Project – The Latin Parish Convent, Al-Salt, Jordan
This year 2023, the Lieutenancy of Ireland has committed to funding £45,000 towards the cost of essential refurbishment works to […]
Three members of the Lieutenancy of Ireland visited the Holy Land in April 2023
Ecclesiastical Knight Very Reverend Gerard MacCormack, KHS returned to Jerusalem where he met with the Custos, His Excellency Fr. Franceso […]
Cniotáil chun tacaíocht a thabhairt don creche i mBeithil
Tá Dame Veronica Holohan, lena cáirde ag leanacht ar aghaidh ag bailiú airgid ó bheith ag cniotáil clocaí tae phota […]
Pilgrim Shell Awarded to Fr. Gerard MacCormack in Jerusalem
On 25th October 2022, Very Reverend Gerard MacCormack, KHS was awarded the Pilgrim Shell and Commemorative Parchment by Monsignor William […]
Archbishop opens new 4 classroom School extension in Jordan
Today 12th September 2022, Archbishop Kieran O’Reilly, Archdiocese of Cashel and Emly opened a new 4 classroom school extension at […]
New Appointments in The Holy Land
On Friday 11th March 2022, the Holy Father appointed The Reverend Canon Jamal Khader, Patriarchal Vicar for Jordan assigning him […]
The Order of the Holy Sepulchre supports the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem in responding to the Covid-19 crisis
From May 2020, the 30 thousand Knights and Dames of the Order of the Holy Sepulchre, present in the various […]
Christmas message from Holy Family Children’s Home, Filles de la Charité St Vincent
HOLY FAMILY CHILDREN’S HOME FILLES DE LA CHARITE St. Vincent BETHLEEM E-mail: creche@p-ol.com Dear Friends and benefactors. What a joy it is for […]
Jordan, 2019 update
Since the dawn of Christianity, Christian communities have flourished in and around the provincial towns of Karak, Madaba, Salt, and […]
Synoptic Report from Holy Land Commission
Report of Site Visit to The Holy Land (Jordan) 8 – 15 September 2019 INTRODUCTION The week spent exclusively in Jordan […]
Why are Holy Land Christians Called “Living Stones?”
The term living stones in 1 Peter 2:5 is used as a metaphor to illustrate the secure and intimate relationship believers have with Jesus, […]