BEIT JALA – Last Sunday, November 30, 2014, the parish of the Annunciation in Beit Jala opened its celebrations for the beginning of Advent, with a Solemn Mass celebrated by Father Imad Twal, General Administrator of the Latin Patriarchate in Jerusalem, who later attended the opening of the parish Christmas market.
The Mass was celebrated in the presence of a large number of the faithful, and concelebrated by Father Simon Hijazeen, Vicar of the parish, and Father Faysal Hijazeen, Parish Priest. Also participating were the leaders of the various scout groups of the parish, who are celebrating 65 years of their foundation. Numerous representatives of civil authorities in the governorates of Bethlehem and Beit Jala were present at the celebration, including the Mayor, Mr. Naël Salman, himself a member of the parish.
In his homily, Father Imad recalled how the Catholic faithful in this First Mass of Advent have embarked upon the Holy Season of Advent in preparation for the Birth of our Savior Jesus Christ. In the Catholic Church, this Season is not only an external preparation for Christmas, but also an interior one, in spirit, for man needs the joy of Christmas in his life. This interior journey is a pilgrimage. A pilgrimage in the heart and life of each person and every family. A pilgrimage that knows its Day of great popularity, but also its less beautiful and more difficult days. The Birth of Christ must occur in our hearts, and in the quality of our relationships, which, in turn, are real sources of joy.
After Mass, all were escorted to the main parish hall for the opening of the Christmas market, called “The joy of Christmas”. The market is composed of and organized by the different parish groups, without exception. There is the opportunity for beautiful photos with family and with Santa and the nursery. A grand selection of local savory items and pastries are available for purchase, as well as Christmas decorations, children’s games, books, and other items of interest to every Christian family. The profits from this Christmas market will be used to bring a smile to a few poor families of the parish. The Market is open until Wednesday, December 3, from 3:00pm-9:00pm.
Enjoy!
Wassim Kasabri
Source: http://en.lpj.org/2014/12/03/beit-jala-celebrates-the-beginning-of-advent-and-the-foundation-of-its-scouts/
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