By Fr. David Steffy, L.C., Chargé of the Holy See
October 13th, 2023 - Notre Dame of Jerusalem Center
Dear Friends of the Notre Dame of Jerusalem Center,
You have all seen the news about what is happening in the Holy Land. The images are disturbing and shocking. Many of you have reached out offering prayers and asking about how we are doing at Notre Dame.
We truly appreciate your concern and prayers. Last week our Guesthouse and most of those in Jerusalem have been completely full so a large number of pilgrims have been caught in the insecurity of the situation. For the last several days our focus has been on helping the pilgrims find ways to get back home since many of the flights have been cancelled. The witness of faith amongst the pilgrims and our staff in the midst of the turmoil has been inspirational.
Thankfully, Notre Dame has been a place of safety and calm. We have the proper facilities and security measures so we are at least out of harms way as much as possible. The images you see are in contrast to the relative calm we are experiencing here in Jerusalem which is the safest place in the Holy Land now.
Yet, the situation is dire and no one knows what will develop in the next days, weeks and months. On behalf of the priests, consecrated women and staff I wish to thank you for your prayers and signs of support. Our desire is to keep Notre Dame open as place of welcome and prayer. Our staff are our first priority as they are the “spirit of Notre Dame” and we will support them during this time as they have always supported and kept Notre Dame strong over the years.
Many people have been asking us how they can help. Apart from prayers which are the most important thing we can ask for, we have set up a fund to help support our staff and their families if you so feel called to contribute. You can visit our donation page through the link below:
Thank you again for your prayers and support. Let us look to our Lord, accompanied by his Mother, our Lady of Peace, for the faith and courage to face the challenges of these coming days with hope and serenity.
Sincerely in Christ,
Father David Steffy, L.C.
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