Greetings from Jerusalem

By Fr. David Steffy, L.C.,

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

August 7th, 2025

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Dear Friends of the Notre Dame of Jerusalem Center,

Greetings from Jerusalem.

Summer offers us a precious gift: the chance to slow down, to spend more time with those we love, and to rediscover the strength that comes from being together. Whether with family, friends, or the community we serve alongside every day, these moments of connection are often where we find the encouragement we need to keep going.

Just a week ago, a group of us had the joy of traveling to Armenia for the wedding of our esteemed colleague and Food and Beverage Manager, Armen. It was a beautiful celebration of love and marital commitment—but also a testimony to something deeper. Around 125 friends and staff from Notre Dame and Jerusalem made the trip to share this special moment with him and his bride. That so many chose to be there speaks volumes—not just about his character, but about the kind of spirit that unites people and builds lasting bonds. His thoughtful leadership, his care for his team, and his generosity with friends and family have left a mark on all who know him and remind us that each of us has a tremendous opportunity to bring out the good in others. I ask your prayers for him and his wife as they begin their journey together.

In moments like these—celebrating love, appreciating family, strengthening personal relationships, and being grateful for the gifts of life—we experience what gives true meaning to our lives. These are reminders that God is present in every human encounter, in every small gesture, and in every sincere heart that seeks Him. This is the spirit we strive to live every day at Notre Dame—among our staff, and in the way we welcome every pilgrim and guest who walks through our doors.

And yet, we remain aware of the sorrow that continues to weigh heavily on the Holy Land, and that the road to peace often feels long and uncertain. But even now, we are reminded of a powerful truth: Spes non confundit—hope does not disappoint (Romans 5:5). Chosen as the theme of the Jubilee Year, these words take on deeper meaning in our present reality. Christian hope is not passive. It is alive, active, and rooted in the certainty that God is always at work, even when the outcome is not yet visible.

We saw this hope come to life again in Rome, where one million young people gathered with Pope Leo XIV. Among them were youth from Jerusalem—bringing the light of the Holy Land into the heart of the Church. During the closing Mass, Pope Leo urged the participants to “spread your enthusiasm and the witness of your faith.” He encouraged them—and all of us—to “aspire to great things, to holiness, wherever you are. Do not settle for less. You will then see the light of the Gospel growing every day, in you and around you.”

At the end of July, the local Church joyfully welcomed the new Custos of the Holy Land and the Franciscan communities who serve here: Fr. Francesco Ielpo, OFM, recently elected and confirmed by Pope Leo XIV. His appointment reminds us of the long tradition of Franciscan service in this Land, and we accompany him with our prayers as he begins this important mission in a time of great responsibility and need.

As summer unfolds, I pray that each of you may find time to reconnect—with loved ones, with your community, and with God. May these weeks be filled with peace, rest, and renewed strength.

We are already preparing to welcome you back—especially for the public opening of the Pentecost Room this September. It promises to be a special space of grace, beauty, and encounter for all who visit. We look forward to sharing it with you.

With gratitude and every blessing,

Sincerely in the Lord,

Fr. David Steffy, LC