Welcome to the Eastern Churches News Roundup!
Join us as we dive into the latest news from the Eastern Churches, brought to you in partnership with L’Œuvre d’Orient. This week, we have some fascinating updates on the happenings in Gaza, Cairo, and Mosul.
Visit of Patriarch of Jerusalem to Gaza
The Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, recently embarked on a four-day visit to Gaza to connect with the local Christian community and celebrate Pentecost. During his stay from May 15 to 19, he took the time to meet with families at the Holy Family Catholic parish, administer Confirmation to two boys, and extend his visit to the Orthodox parish. Upon returning to Jerusalem, he commended the unwavering faith of Gaza’s Christians, emphasizing the importance of love amidst adversity.
The parish priest of Holy Family and three devoted nuns continued their presence in Gaza, offering support and assistance to the residents.
Reopening of Nassbian Theater in Cairo
In Cairo, the Nassbian Theater recently reopened its doors in a special ceremony on Saturday, May 18. This event marked not only the revival of the theater but also the 25th anniversary of the El Nahda Association, which oversees the cultural venue. The organization, dedicated to empowering underprivileged youth through artistic activities and training, aims to foster self-expression and creativity among the city’s youth. Despite being destroyed by a fire in October 2021, the Nassbian Theater received generous donations for its reconstruction, ensuring that it can continue to enrich the cultural landscape of Cairo.
Joy of Christians returning to Mosul
In Mosul, a significant development took place as Father Roni, a Syriac Catholic priest, led a group of 350 women from Qaraqosh to Mosul on Wednesday, May 22. Together, they gathered at the Syriac Catholic parish of Al-Bichara to pray the Rosary in honor of the Marian month. Simultaneously, restoration efforts at Mar Toma Syriac Orthodox church and Al-Tahira Chaldean church are underway, breathing new life into Mosul and paving the way for the gradual return of Christians to the city.
The Christian community is slowly but surely reclaiming its place in Mosul, symbolizing hope and resilience in the face of adversity.
