Archbishop Farrell

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.

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Nativity scene, Christmas painting, generative ai

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.

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Holy Mass at the Holy Family Latin Catholic Church04

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

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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.

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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.

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Christmas Message – 2024 —The Patriarchs and Heads of the Churches in Jerusalem

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.

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Donnacha Fahy meets George Akroush in the Holy Land

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.

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