On Tuesday, June 17, 2025, His Beatitude Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, carried out a pastoral visit to several Catholic centers in Bethlehem. This visit, rooted in his deep concern for the life of the local Church, was an opportunity to meet with the staff, listen to their challenges and aspirations, and offer encouragement for their ongoing mission of service and witness to the faithful of the Holy Land.
The day began at the Bailasan Counseling Center for Individual and Family, where Cardinal Pizzaballa was warmly welcomed by Fr. Francis Shaheen, Director of the Center, along with a dedicated team comprising a religious sister and five lay staff members. Following a tour of the center, the Cardinal received a presentation outlining its current initiatives and programs. A fruitful and honest dialogue followed, addressing pressing social issues, particularly the challenges facing young people amid the complexities of modern technology and the harsh political realities of the region. These circumstances are prompting many to consider emigration, posing a significant concern for the Church’s pastoral and social mission.
During the visit, His Beatitude shared the decision to merge the Family Pastoral Center in Beit Jala with the Bailasan Center, recognizing how closely their missions align in serving families and individuals with care and compassion. He spoke with genuine appreciation for the dedication of the team, praising their efforts and encouraging them to keep moving forward with creativity, courage, and a spirit of hope, especially in the face of today’s many challenges.
The second stop was at the Franciscan Children’s Home, where the Cardinal was welcomed by Fr. Sandro, Administrator of the Center, and Fr. George, Director of Terra Sancta School. Currently serving around 30 children, some of whom reside full-time while others participate in day programs. The center provides care and support for children facing complex family situations, ranging from second grade to high school. The visit coincided with the launch of the summer camp, and the children offered a heartwarming performance depicting their daily life at the center. In a beautiful moment of spontaneity, the children posed questions to the Cardinal, who responded with warmth, humor, and paternal affection, reinforcing his closeness to the young and vulnerable.
The pastoral tour concluded at the Catholic Action Center, where His Beatitude was received by Mr. Tony Morcos, Dean of the Center, along with members of the administrative board. A guided tour showcased the various departments and recent developments, followed by a discussion focused on strengthening collaboration and ensuring the sustainability of the center’s diverse activities. In his welcoming remarks, Mr. Morcos noted, "Your visit is a comforting reminder that we are not alone. It gives us reassurance and hope for a better future."
In his address, Cardinal Pizzaballa emphasized that sustainability, along with financial and administrative transparency, forms an essential foundation for any future proposals presented to supporting institutions. These are legitimate and necessary requirements to safeguard and advance the Church’s mission. His visit left a strong impression on the staff and participants, who expressed their heartfelt gratitude for His Beatitude’s genuine interest and his willingness to listen closely to their challenges and hopes.
Throughout the visit, Cardinal Pizzaballa’s presence brought consolation and renewed strength to all he encountered. His attentive listening, pastoral sensitivity, and unwavering commitment to the mission of the Church in Palestine were deeply appreciated by staff and participants alike, who expressed their heartfelt gratitude for his support.
