On Sunday, June 22, 2025, the Latin Parish of Birzeit joyfully celebrated a landmark occasion, its Golden Jubilee, marking 50 years since the parish’s founding in 1975. The celebration was also an opportunity to honour the priestly golden jubilee of Fr. Louis Hazboun, the parish priest, along with several couples commemorating 25 and 50 years of marriage.
The day began in the parish courtyard with a warm and festive welcome for His Beatitude Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, accompanied by bishops and priests. The joyful atmosphere was heightened by the vibrant scout performances, and a traditional procession of local women dressed in authentic Palestinian attire, beautifully expressing the deep-rooted faith and heritage of the local community.
Among the assembly were various civic and religious dignitaries, representatives of official and community institutions, and parishioners from surrounding towns and villages, further reinforcing the ecclesial and national spirit of the celebration.
The Eucharist is a style, a daily decision
In his homily, the Patriarch congratulated all those celebrating their jubilees, emphasizing that “these are not merely festive occasions, but living signs in the life of the Church and its people.” He noted the profound significance of celebrating the jubilee during the Solemnity of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ, saying: “The Church is not just a series of pastoral activities, but a faith filled community gathered around the mystery of the Eucharist, where we become one in Christ’s death and resurrection and .” He also stressed that the Eucharist is not disconnected from daily life, but rather a wellspring of renewed hope, even amid darkness and despair.
Reflecting on the church’s foundation, he highlighted the joint effort between the Christian and Muslim residents of Birzeit, reminding the parish of its mission to serve all people of the town with love and openness.
A history of persistence
His Beatitude recalled the life and legacy of Fr. Anton Bozo, the founding priest, who persisted in building the church despite many challenges. “Without that faithful determination, this parish would not have come into being,” he said, encouraging especially the youth to “dream and pursue a better future, despite the difficulties", noting: “Hope in our land may seem humanly impossible, but through the Body and Blood of Christ, a new perspective of life can be kindeled in our hearts.”
A Testimony of Life and Blessing
Following Holy Communion, Fr. Louis shared a moving personal testimony, recounting his vocational journey from childhood, when he consecrated his life to the Virgin Mary, and how he continued to follow the inspiration of the Holy Spirit. He concluded by inviting the entire community to join in a heartfelt prayer to Our Lady.
Cardinal Pizzaballa then presented Fr. Louis with a commemorative gift in honor of his priestly jubilee and distributed special marriage blessing certificates to the couples celebrating their 25th and 50th anniversaries.
