Beit Sahour Parish
Beit Sahour, traditionally known as the Shepherds’ Field, is one of the largest Christian communities in the Palestinian Territories, alongside Bethlehem and Beit Jala. This town carries profound spiritual and historical significance as the place where, according to tradition, angels announced the birth of Jesus to the shepherds. The Latin Parish of Beit Sahour, dedicated to Our Lady of Fatima, was first established by the Franciscan Friars. The first Latin missionary, Fr. John Moritan, arrived in 1859, and pastoral care was later transferred to the Latin Patriarchate towards the end of the 19th century. The first church was built in 1863, and the Latin School opened a year later in 1864. It remains one of the city’s most prominent educational institutions. A landmark in the parish’s history was the arrival of Saint Marie-Alphonsine to Beit Sahour in 1885. She contributed to founding the first girls’ school and left a deep spiritual impact despite her short time there. Today, the Rosary Sisters continue their mission as they play a vital role in the parish through providing catechesis, serving the youth as well as the fraternal groups, and caring for the poor and the sick. To honor Saint Marie-Alphonsine, Fr. Issa Hijazin established a dedicated shrine and garden in her name, where special celebrations are held. She has also been named the patroness of all parish families. Another shrine has been created in honor of Saint Joseph, patron of youth.
Infrastructures of the Latin Patriarchate
The parish thrives with a variety of active groups that contribute richly to its spiritual and social vitality. Among the parish groups are the youth, scouts, the Divine Mercy Apostles, the Legion of Mary, and the St. Vincent de Paul Society. The parish is also home to Christ the King Bookstore, inaugurated in 2011 as the first Christian bookstore in Palestine. The parish council serves as a vital instrument of communion and service, uniting representatives from diverse age groups and vocations to discern, coordinate, and support the pastoral and spiritual life of the parish.
The first Latin Patriarchate School in Beit Sahour was built in 1864. Since then, thousands of Christians and an increasing number of Muslim children have continued to attend classes at the pre-school, kindergarten, elementary, and primary grades (up to Grade 12). The school is committed to providing quality education in collaboration with the parish, Rosary Sisters, and social counselors. It actively hosts curricular and extracurricular activities and has seen major developments, including science labs, smart boards, and a multi-purpose library. Future plans include vocational classrooms, music education, special education, and counseling services.
