"We are waiting for the manifestation of the Lord's Grace, which will put an end to occupation and injustice, freeing us from those fears, problems and internal divisions that afflict this land. We are waiting for the dawn of a new era, in which the sun of peace and justice will rise". Hopes in peace, as well as a denunciation of the evils that have been crushing the Holy Land for decades: this is the content of the Christmas message of the Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, mgr. Fouad Twal, which has been published in Jerusalem today. "Christmas is back - writes Twal - and finds us more prone to hope, due to the latest international meetings at the highest levels, among religious leaders as well as several promoters of peace. There has been a veritable improvement, based on the sincere will to make progress in peace, in dialogue and in the acceptance of others, and some distance has been taken from uncompromising attitudes, from prejudice and accusations of unfaithfulness. May the Grace of Christmas guide the leaders who have taken these initiatives of peace, bless their efforts, and crown them with success". But this hope, warns the Patriarch, must not make us forget "the instability, the lack of clear prospects for the future, the lack of security, the aggressions against the citizens and the violations of property and assets". In his message, mgr. Twal urges people not to forget Jerusalem, which "suffers from illegal settlements and a haemorrhage of the migrations of its Christian children to other countries, because of the lack of peace and the deterioration of the political situation. All this cannot but deeply concern us". Concern also for "the other villages and cities of the Holy Land, which are affected by problems and tribulations, because of difficult internal and external communication. We are sorry and regretful of seeing that civilians are imposed closing barriers, exasperating check-points and isolating walls. Which cause violence and coercion, increases the feeling of hostility and hatred between peoples, while we would need peace, mutual trust and cooperation, instead". "May Benedict XVI's next time in the Holy Land next May - goes on the message, confirming the news of the Pope's trip - be an opportunity for harmony between peoples, a chance to pull down barriers, solve problems, alleviate sufferings and strengthen relations, so that all the peoples of the region will enjoy peace and security". Finally, an appeal: "do not forget Bethlehem and Jerusalem in your prayers. Do not leave the Holy Land alone in its tribulations. May it remain a land of love and peace, of reconciliation and justice for all its children".
© SIR