A message from the Custos of the Holy Land thanks those who have contributed to the Good Friday collection that supports schools, parishes, charitable works, social projects and emergency interventions.
Vatican News While the Franciscan custodians of the Holy Land continue to draw hope and the meaning of their service from the source of Easter, “we cannot hide that the time we are living through is difficult. War, violence and insecurity have struck Gaza, Palestine, Israel, Lebanon and Syria,” writes Fr Francesco Ielpo, OFM, the Custos of the Holy Land. In a message published on Holy Friday, Fr Ielpo extended his thanks to all those who have contributed to the Pontifical Good Friday Collection for the Holy Land, noting that it “is not only a gesture of solidarity, it is a concrete sign of communion with the Church of Jerusalem.” Added to the instability and suffering caused by war, the Custos noted the long absence of pilgrims has “worsened an already deeply critical economic situation. Many Christian families who lived thanks to pilgrimages now struggle to support themselves. Young people find it increasingly difficult to imagine a future here, in their own land.” “Hope itself seems wounded in Bethlehem, in Jerusalem, in northern Israel, as well as in Lebanon and Syria. In this context, the words of the Holy Father resound strongly, calling us to the urgency of prayer and fasting for peace, firmly asking that the conflict in the Holy Land come to an end,” he said. Thanks to the Collection, the Custos added, “we can support schools, parishes, charitable works, social projects and emergency interventions, keeping alive the Christian presence in the places of redemption.” Upholding the need for a culture of encounter and peace to be achieved and promoted by education, young people and families, Fr Ielpo noted that “On Good Friday, as we contemplate the crucifix, we ask you not to forget the Holy Land. Remember us in your prayers and support us with your generosity.” He concluded, affirming that the closeness of believers is “a precious sign of fraternity and hope,” and offering the assurance of prayers as “we wish you to live the Lord’s Easter as a source of new life.”