On Sunday, January 19, 2025, the Holy Land Coordination of Episcopal Conferences visited Our Lady of Seven Sorrows Church in Aboud as part of their solidarity mission to the Church of Jerusalem titled: "Christian witness in the Holy Land: A light shining in the darkness". They were warmly welcomed by Fr. Remon Haddad, the parish priest, and the local parishioners.
During their visit, the delegation engaged with parishioners, listening to their stories and needs to gain a deeper understanding of the lives of Christians in the Holy Land. They did a courtesy visit to Aboud Village Council to explore the dynamics of village life and visited the Greek Orthodox Church and St. Barbara’s shrine.
The delegation celebrated the Sunday Mass presided over by Msgr. William Shomali, General Vicar, emphasized the joy of the parishioners in hosting the delegation. He described the visit as a testament to the universal Church's solidarity with the Church in the Holy Land. Msgr. Shomali also rejoiced at the announcement of the ceasefire, expressing gratitude for answered prayers and continued hopes for peace and justice in the region.
Reflecting on the Gospel of the Wedding at Cana, Msgr. Shomali highlighted the Virgin Mary's role as an intercessor for humanity, showcasing her trust in Jesus' divine providence. He underscored the power of faith and prayer, citing the story of the Canaanite woman whose persistent faith was rewarded by Jesus.
The following day, January 20, 2025, the delegation met with His Beatitude Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, and Msgr. Adolfo Tito Yllana, Apostolic Nuncio to Israel and Cyprus and Apostolic Delegate to Jerusalem and Palestine. They discussed the latest developments and challenges faced by the Church of Jerusalem. The day concluded with a Mass presided over by the Cardinal at the Pro-Cathedral, where prayers were offered for the Church of Jerusalem to remain a beacon of hope and witness to Christ in the world.
In his homily, Cardinal Pizzaballa expressed gratitude for the delegation’s ongoing support, emphasizing the importance of collaboration amid challenges. He reflected on the transformative power of Christ, encouraging faithful engagement with God’s living word. “What our people need above all is Jesus,” he said, expressing his hope that the Church would embody the joy and light of the Gospel.
Click here to read more about the visit of the Holy Land Bishops' Coordination.
