Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Jerusalem (Agenzia Fides) - In a land that is so marked by suffering, as is the Holy Land, hope has resisted despair and the Easter message of the Resurrection has been a source of peace and joy. This has been the experience of the Caritas volunteer workers in Jerusalem, who work in the city, in Palestinian territory, and in Gaza, trying to bring comfort and aid to families in need and the sick. The heads of the Church and the Patriarchs of the Holy Land, have sent a message to all faithful and citizens, making reference to the above mentioned situation and asking that each person become a bearer of hope, just like the apostles at the time of Jesus’ Resurrection.
Caritas Jerusalem says that their volunteer activity is thriving in all areas, in assisting the sick and injured, poor children, and families that live in poverty. The desire to help others is very alive in people’s hearts and the circles of support and love continue to grow. Where there is misery and pain, Caritas volunteers have brought their joyful smile, serenity, and the message of peace, announcing the message of the Resurrection in areas such as Ramallah, Bethlehem, and Gaza. There are about 140 people divided into 10 groups. There are also an additional 180 youth volunteers that have also brought gifts to the poor youth in the area.
Caritas continues to carry out one of the most important and efficient programs in the war on poverty and underdevelopment, of Micro-financing, that provides small-scale loans to persons or corporations in order to begin new economic activity (especially in business, artisan work, and agriculture) and to give a boost to local economy, promote small businesses, and create jobs. In 2007, Caritas’ program of micro-credit distributed a total of 534,000 dollars, among 90 micro-loans, that in turn support over 300 families.
A greeting of hope and love has resonated in the message from the Patriarchs and heads of the Christian Church in the Holy Land: “The new joy is a mission which the apostles have to bring to the world. Jesus sent them to the troubled world as a whole in order to bring to every one its joy and peace.” Thus, every Christian of the Holy Land is called to take up this announcement in situations of violence, insecurity, occupation, and hate. “In all these situations... we demonstrate that we are the apostles of the resurrection, with its joy and hope.” (PA) (Agenzia Fides 26/3/2008; righe 31, parole 410)
