Hey there, beautiful souls! Picture this: a regular Sunday at the parish of Blessed Sacrament in San Antonio, where Mass-goers had the unique opportunity to connect with fellow Catholics from Palestine. These special visitors, David David, Jack Odeh, and Sami Mubarak, brought with them an array of exquisite religious articles crafted from olive wood from Bethlehem – think crucifixes, statues, and nativity sets. But these items are so much more than just religious artifacts; they represent the dreams of over 500 Palestinian families who are striving to remain in the Holy Land.
Jack Odeh, one of the visitors, shared the challenges faced by Christian families in the Holy Land. The ongoing conflict in the region has made it increasingly difficult for them to sustain their livelihoods, especially with the decline in tourism to Bethlehem. As a result, Jack and his companions have taken it upon themselves to travel to different parishes in the United States, spreading awareness and offering these beautiful religious articles in support of their community back home.
The mission is simple yet profound – to empower Christian families in the Holy Land to stay rooted in their spiritual homeland. In the face of turmoil and uncertainty, these families refuse to abandon the land where Jesus was born and died. For them, it is a matter of faith and resilience, a testament to their unwavering commitment to their heritage and beliefs.
As Jack Odeh eloquently put it, “We can’t leave this land. We will die for Jesus.” The palpable sense of determination and steadfastness in his words speaks volumes about the unwavering spirit of the Christian community in the Holy Land. In the midst of conflict and chaos, they cling to their faith and hope for a peaceful resolution, knowing that their sacrifices are not in vain.
So, the next time you see one of these beautiful olive wood creations, know that you are not just purchasing a religious article – you are supporting a community, a legacy, a dream. Let’s come together as a global Catholic family and stand in solidarity with our brothers and sisters in the Holy Land. Our faith knows no borders, no boundaries – it is a bond that transcends time and space, uniting us in a shared purpose of love and compassion.
Together, we can make a difference. Together, we can uphold the spirit of faith and resilience that defines the Christian community in the Holy Land. Let us be the light that shines in the darkness, the beacon of hope that guides us through the storm. Thank you for being a part of this journey, for your support, and for your unwavering faith in the power of unity and compassion. Blessings to you all, and may the love of Christ continue to guide us on our path towards a brighter tomorrow. 🙏🌟
