Mgr. Pizzaballa’s pastoral visit to Bethlehem

"Mgr. Pizzaballa’s pastoral visit to Bethlehem"

BETHLEHEM - From April 28 to 30, 2023, His Beatitude Pierbattista Pizzaballa, Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, made a pastoral visit to St. Catherine's in the city of Bethlehem, where he prayed, listened to the consecrated persons and parishioners, and took note of all the pastoral activities of the parish..

On the first day, the Terra Sancta scout group welcomed His Beatitude at the entrance of the church of Saint Catherine, along with Fr. Rami Asakrieh, the parish priest, who expressed his joy for the Patriarch's visit. Mgr. Pizzaballa then met with the scouts before going to Bethlehem University, where he met with Fr. Iyad Twal, Member of the Council of Higher Education, as well as several heads of departments to learn about the latest developments on the campus.

Because his pastoral visit focused on listening to the needs and opinions of the consecrated as well as the laypeople of the parish, and to provide proper care for them, His Beatitude also met with the sisters of Saint Dorothy, who serve at the Effeta Institute, and the Salesian Fathers. He also took the time to visit the parish groups of the Institution of Catholic Action, who introduced themselves and explained the voluntary activities they carry out in the parish. Mgr. Pizzaballa thanked them for the active role they play in helping the faithful in their faith journey and contributing to the enrichment of the Christian presence.