The Assembly of Catholic Ordinaries of the Holy Land held its first Ordinary Plenary Meeting of 2025 in Amman, Jordan, at the headquarters of the Latin Vicariate. We have welcomed with joy the new Latin Vicar for Jordan, Msgr. Iyad Twal.

The situation in our jurisdictions is challenging and the consequences of the war are deeply felt in our Christian communities, especially in Palestine and Israel. The lack of work, the difficulties in movement, political and social insecurity and problems of criminality in Galilee, has caused the emigration of many Christians. We discuss also legal, economic and financial issues with the governments.

The Assembly approved the new governance of Caritas Jordan as well as some measures to improve the functioning of Caritas Cyprus. Caritas members have worked generously to assist those most in need, and efforts are being made to unify criteria across in all regional Caritas organizations to enhance the efficiency of this institution of the Catholic Church.

Fr. Ashraf Nimri, along with his team members, gave a presentation on the functioning of the Secretariat of Christian Schools in Jordan, including statistics, challenges, and difficulties in maintaining this fundamental service for Christian communities. These schools serve as an important point of encounter and dialogue with the Islamic world. It is essential to ensure that that all Christian schools remain united in the face of certain government requirements that make their operation difficult.

It was decided to establish an inter-ritual ecclesiastical tribunal in Cyprus in collaboration with the Maronite Church and the Latin Church.

As Catholic Ordinaries, we renew our fidelity to the Holy Father, Pope Francis and remain united in prayer, entrusting him to the Lord’s loving care and asking for strength, healing, and well-being as he faces health challenges.  We trust that the Lord, who hears the cries of His children, will answer our supplications in His mercy.

Amman, 4 March 2025

+Pierbattista Card. Pizzaballa
President of the ACOHL

R.P. Marcelo Gallardo IVE
Secretary General ACOHL

 

By custodia.org

Source Link: https://www.custodia.org/en/news/final-statement-plenary-meeting-acohl-3-4-march-2025-amman/