Cardinal Pizzaballa de Jerusalem visits three aid centers in Bethlehem, Holy Land

Cardinal Pierbarttista Pizzaballa, patriarch of Jerusalem, visited three help centers in Bethlehem, to encourage these places that help families and children in the Holy Land, before the numerous challenges they currently face as the war between Israel and Hamas.

1. INDIVIDUAL AND FAMILY ADVICE CENTER BAILASAN

The Latin patriarchy of Jerusalem He informed that on Tuesday, June 17, Cardinal Pizzaballa began his visits in this place, where he was received by its director, Fr. Francis Shaheen, next to a team formed by a religious and five lay people.

With them he dialogue “about the challenges facing young people in the midst of the complexities of modern technology and the harsh political reality of the region,” which makes many consider emigrating, a great concern for the Church.

The Cardinal also shared the decision to merge the Family Pastoral Center in Beit Jala with the Bailasan Center, due to the close relationship of the mission of both.; and thanked the great work they do in the latter.

2nd Franciscan Home of Children

Cardinal Pizzaballa was received here by Fr. Sandro, administrator of the center, and Fr. George, director of the Terra Sancta school. This home currently attains about 30 children, some of whom reside there while others participate in day programs.

The patriarchy indicated that children here, from second grade to secondary school, are helped because they face complex family situations. During the visit they had the opportunity to dialogue with Cardinal Pizzaballa, who replied “with warmth, humor and paternal affection.”

The visit coincided with the launch of the summer camp and the children did a performance about their daily life in the center.

3. Catholic Action Center

The third visit was given to the Catholic Action Center, where Pizzaballa was received by Mr. Tony Morcos, Dean of the Center, together with members of the Administrative Council.

Here the cardinal made a guided tour and spoke with those responsible about the best way to strengthen the activities carried out here.

Morcos thanked the cardinal and said that “his visit is a comforting reminder that we are not alone. He gives us security and hope for a better future.”

In his words, Cardinal Pizzaballa stressed that “sustainability, together with financial and administrative transparency, form an essential basis for any future proposal presented to support institutions”, in order to continue promoting the mission of the local Church.