Bringing Hope to Bethlehem: A Message from the Custos of the Holy Land
As Advent begins, the Custos of the Holy Land, Father Francesco Patton OFM Cap., carries a message of hope to the people of Bethlehem in the West Bank, amidst ongoing hardship and war.
By Roberto Cetera and Lisa Zengarini
On the first Sunday of Advent, Father Patton marked the annual tradition of entering Bethlehem to preside over Mass in the Church of Saint Catherine, near the Basilica of the Nativity. His solemn entrance into the Palestinian city, escorted by both Israeli and Palestinian police, was met with a warm welcome from local authorities and residents.
A Somber Atmosphere in Bethlehem
For the people of Bethlehem, facing their second Christmas amid war and economic struggles, the atmosphere is grim. The once bustling tourism industry, a vital source of livelihood, has disappeared since the conflict between Hamas and Israel in 2023. The Basilica of the Nativity stands empty, local businesses have closed, and residents are left without income as they are unable to cross the separation wall to work in Jerusalem.
Despite the challenges, recent efforts to revive negotiations for a Gaza ceasefire and the release of Israeli hostages offer a glimmer of hope that this may be the last Advent spent in wartime in the Holy Land.
Keeping the Flame of Hope Alive
During Vespers on Saturday evening and Mass on Sunday, Father Patton emphasized the importance of hope. “Never lose hope, especially when the world seems intent on tearing it away from us,” he urged the faithful in Bethlehem.
As Pope Francis inaugurates the 2025 Jubilee of Hope, he echoes this sentiment, urging all to “preserve and spread hope and be pilgrims of hope” in the face of despair and war.
Fr. Patton reiterated this message during the Advent Mass, encouraging the congregation to watch and pray, following Jesus’ example.
The Testimony of a Young Man in Gaza
During the Mass, Father Patton shared the testimony of Suhail Abo Dawood, a displaced Palestinian sheltering in Holy Family Catholic church in Gaza. Suhail’s words, shared in a column for “L’Osservatore Romano,” reflect a deep sense of gratitude and hope amidst the chaos of war.
Despite the loss of his grandfather, Suhail’s message is one of faith and resilience, believing that peace will come and better days are ahead. Father Patton emphasized the importance of vigilant and grateful prayer in keeping hope alive, urging all to lift their gaze to Heaven and trust in the coming of Jesus.
