On January 4, 2026, His Beatitude Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, presided over the annual Mass of the Palestinian Catholic Scout Association of St. John the Baptist at the Church of Our Lady of Fatima in Beit Sahour. The celebration was attended by Fr. Issa Hijazin, spiritual chaplain of the Association; Fr. Louis Salman, parish priest of Beit Sahour; and Fr. Hanna Salem, parish priest of Beit Jala, along with leaders of Catholic scout groups from various regions of Palestine.
In his homily, Cardinal Pizzaballa reflected on the Gospel of John, which is founded on two essential concepts: the Word and the Light; through which the world was created and darkness was dispelled. He highlighted the vital role of the Scout Movement in society, stressing that Scouting is not merely about activities, parades, or music, but rather a true mission in life. He noted, “Our land is full of challenges and difficult circumstances, yet the presence of scout troupes remains a light amid this darkness. Scouting is a mission through which we strive to be a light in this world.”
He added, “Scouting means living the presence of Christ within us and remaining a constant light despite all the darkness that surrounds us.”
At the conclusion of the Mass, His Beatitude expressed his gratitude to all the scout troupes for their dedication, presence, and ongoing support of young people. He commended their tireless efforts in building a conscious and active Christian generation engaged in Scouting.
Addressing the scouts directly, Cardinal Pizzaballa emphasized that their role as Christians in this land makes them a point of reference for Christians worldwide. He also noted that last Christmas celebrations in Bethlehem, enlivened by the Scout groups, have turned the world's attention back to it once again.
