As part of the preparations for Christmas, the General Administration of the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem organized a spiritual retreat for its employees on Wednesday, 10 December 2025, at Deir Rafat Monastery, under the theme: “How Do We Live Advent in a Wounded World?”
The day began with a historical overview of the shrine, followed by a spiritual reflection delivered by Fr. Johnny Abu Khalil, who focused on three key points. First, he emphasized that God does not wait for perfect circumstances to be present among us; rather, He became incarnate in a difficult reality to be near us. Two thousand years ago, this reality was marked by occupation, fear, flight, and hardship, much like what Christians experience today in the Holy Land. Yet Christ came to grant us inner peace before outer peace.
Fr. Abu Khalil also reflected on the Star of Bethlehem, which guided the Magi and illuminated their path without allowing them to feel weary despite the long journey. Similarly, if we keep our gaze fixed on the Lord Jesus, our inner light remains steady and unshaken, no matter how great the challenges. Addressing the existential challenges facing the Christian community in the Holy Land, Fr. Johnny reminded participants that being a minority is not a weakness. Even a small remnant can accomplish great things because of the One we carry, and a small light is capable of changing the night, just as the first light of Christmas did.
He then reflected on the mission of the Latin Patriarchate in serving its people and highlighted the role of employees in embodying this mission with a spirit of witness and service. Fr. Johnny encouraged participants to see their work not merely as a job, but as a vocation, a way to serve the Church and carry Christ to others.
The retreat continued with discussion groups where participants reflected on how to apply these insights to their work and daily lives, carrying the spirit of Christmas back to their communities.
The day concluded with the celebration of the Holy Mass, followed by festive activities that brought joy and the spirit of Christmas to all.
