“We Are All Adopted Children”

AIN ARIK – On Sunday, January 5, 2014, Bishop William Shomali celebrated Mass at Ain Arik. There he met with the local faithful and with an Italian group of led by Fr. Giuseppe Dossetti .

“One of the greatest gifts we receive from the Christmas mystery, the incarnation of the Son of God, is our adoption as children of God. Through Baptism we all become children of God. Brothers and sisters in Jesus, we can call God “Abba, Father”. To Him we can turn as beloved children. It’s a great gift, a great joy that we must rediscover especially in these days of joy and celebration.” With these words Bishop William addressed the small Christian community of Ain Arik, during the homily at the Sunday Mass.

One of the most important tasks for Auxiliary Bishop Shomali is to visit the parishes. And he willingly immerses himself in the midst of his beloved Palestinian people. With his affable style and effective communication he touches hearts. The people really appreciate him; they ask him questions, and present their problems and difficulties. Bishop Shomali was invited to Ain Arik because the Parish Priest, Father Hanna (Giovanni Cinti ) was in Italy undergoing medical tests.

Brother Anastasio

The Little Family of the Annunciation, serving for many years the Palestinian village near Ramallah, in these recent days said farewell to Brother Anastasio, who lived a long time in Ain Arik, but also in Jericho, Main (Jordan), and who entered eternal rest on December 30, 2013. He was well known for his simplicity and charity, his fondness for children and his extraordinary manual skills. Father Tommaso, recently appointed superior of the male branch of the Little Family of the Annunciation, presided at the funeral (link) near Bologna.

On Sunday in Ain Arik it was difficult to find a place in the church! A group of Italian pilgrims from Reggio Emilia had come to visit. It was led by Fr. Giuseppe Dossetti, nephew of the famous founder of the Little Family of the Annunciation. The younger Father Dossetti is well known at the Latin Patriarchate. Not only does he come every year on pilgrimage, visiting and meeting local Christians, but he is also one of the canons of the Holy Sepulchre. A beautiful Sunday, indeed, of coming together and sharing Christmas greetings!

Article and photos Andres Bergamini