Greetings from Jerusalem

By Fr. David Steffy, L.C.,

Chargé of the Holy See for the Pontifical Institute Notre Dame of Jerusalem Center

September 3rd, 2025

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Dear Friends of the Notre Dame of Jerusalem Center,

Greetings from Jerusalem.

In many parts of the world, September marks the beginning of the school year and a return to normal routines. In the United States, the first Monday of September is Labor Day, signaling the close of summer activities and the start of something new. It is no coincidence that this turning of the seasons begins with a celebration of work. Nearly every country honors workers with a special day during the year. Personally, I have always preferred May 1st, which coincides with the feast of St. Joseph the Worker — a patron dear to me, especially on Mondays.

Work is both a privilege and a responsibility. My father used to tell me that the best way to know a person’s character is to watch how they work. He did not mean this as a way of judging others but as a reminder to examine my own approach to my responsibilities. That lesson has stayed with me and has become even more meaningful over time. After all, almost everything we do requires effort, and our work plays a central role in our lives.

In my family, I also learned that work is never separated from the intention behind it. From a young age, I was encouraged to find meaning in my work by recognizing the good it could bring to others. I was fortunate to be surrounded by hardworking people who sought not their own advantage but the benefit of those around them. Very often, when I most needed help, I discovered someone nearby ready to put others first — meeting my needs without my even asking. You could call that the circle of love.

As we return to our daily tasks this month, I invite each of us to reflect on the unique blessings of our work — how it shapes us personally and how it benefits others. By making our work part of this circle of love, we discover that what matters most is not simply what we do, but why we do it and for whom we do it.

This same spirit has been at the heart of the mission of the Notre Dame Center during this time of conflict and upheaval. Our employees are a living example of the circle of love, serving others before themselves with dedication and generosity.

On September 15, the Catholic Church celebrates Mary, the Mother of Jesus, as Our Lady of Sorrows. The suffering of her Son became her sufferings as a mother. Her faithful presence at the Cross shows us the strength of love that suffers with others and offers itself completely. We look to her as an example of strength and self-giving love when confronted with difficulties and sorrow.

Please continue to keep all of us who live and serve in the Holy Land in your prayers, along with the countless innocent victims of war here and throughout the world.

With gratitude and every blessing,

Sincerely in the Lord,

Fr. David Steffy, LC