After two years of of diminished celebration and lighting due to the ongoing conflict, Manger Square has now been fully-decked with its traditional Christmas lights, and the magnificent tree has been lit. Please take a moment to enjoy this article which recaps and celebrates with wonderful photographic detail the festive activities which have unfolded in
Christmas Lights in Bethlehem Read More »
Continuing a centuries-old tradition, the Custos of the Holy Land accompanied the local community of Bethlehem in a joyful procession to the Basilica of the Nativity to mark the eve of the first Sunday of Advent. After addressing the crowd in attendance, the Franciscans prayed vespers, and the Custos led the procession to Grotto of
Advent in the Holy Land: the Custos’ Solemn Entrance Read More »
On October 25, 2025, pilgrims from throughout the Holy Land assembled at the Marian shrine in Deir Rafat to mark the feast of their patroness, Our Lady of Palestine. The video below documents the ceremony and festivities while also celebrating the hope and joy of the resident and pilgrim faithful alike. We highly recommend you
Video – Feast of Our Lady Queen of Palestine Read More »
On October 15, H.E. Cardinal Pizzaballa stepped into the Vatican Radio studios for an interview about the past, present and future of the Church and the Faithful in Gaza and the Holy Land. “There is still much to do. The situation remains dramatic because everything is destroyed. People are returning, but they are returning to
“They were able to sleep through the night without hearing the sound of bombs” Read More »
In the early 13th century, amidst the fervor of the Fifth Crusade, a humble friar named Francis of Assisi set sail for the Holy Land, a region sacred to Christians, Muslims, and Jews, at that time torn by conflict. Born in 1181 or 1182 in the Italian town of Assisi, Francis had already renounced wealth
St. Francis Celebrated in the Holy Land Read More »
“In this dramatic time, our Church is called with renewed energy to witness her faith in the passion and resurrection of Jesus. Our decision to remain, when everything urges us to leave, is not a challenge but an act of love. Our denouncing is not an offense to any party but a call to dare
The Tears Watering the Desert will Make the Easter Garden Bloom Read More »
Despite the challenges and difficult circumstances, the youth movements of the Holy Land organized their summer camps for 2025, affirming that hope is unconquerable. In the Diocese of Jerusalem, a variety of spiritual and educational activities brought together hundreds of young people on a journey of faith, love, and renewal — reaffirming that youth are
Youth of the Holy Land: A Hope Renewed Despite the Challenges Read More »
Beneath the incense-filled vaults of the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, one of the most intricate and profound archaeological operations in the Holy Land is unfolding. What began in 2022 as a restoration project for the church’s deteriorating floor has become a journey into the deep layers of sacred history. Photo credit: LPJ.org and Custodia
Excavations Reshaping the History of the Holy Sepulchre Read More »
Please take a moment to watch this new video published by the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem. It covers the mission and goals of the LPJ along with a brief history, utilizing beautiful scenery, historical art and archival photography.
Video – The Latin Patriarchate, A History Read More »
Please take a moment to read this reflection from Sami El-Yousef, Chief Executive Officer of the LPJ. In it, he provides a deep reflection stemming from his first-hand experience in the Holy Land, along with the data from the individuals, services, donors and foundations that are coordinated through his offices. “The most troubling part is that
Reflections From The Holy Land, Is There Any Humanity Left? Read More »
