On thisGood Friday, Christians turn their attention especially to the Holy Land and its place in salvation history.
Christians in the Holy Land face special challenges - many of which we hear about in the news quite often. The political and religious challenges in the Holy Land are more complex than ever, and the violent struggles we hear about continue to tear apart an already fragile fabric of peace. Keeping Christian tradition alive and available in the Holy Land is essential, and serving the people there is an urgent goal of the Church especially after their economy was upended by the worldwide pandemic.
The Franciscans who serve there have been entrusted with care, presence and service of the Holy Places. They house and feed the poor, provide formation and education and conduct pastoral ministry in 23 parishes and 80 shrines. This Good Friday collection is the primary means of support for their work.
Through the Good Friday Collection, you join with Catholics around the world to stand in solidarity with Church in the Holy Land. Pope Francis encourages us to donate to this Pontifical Good Friday Collection as a means of peace and an assurance of a Christian presence in the place where Christ lived on earth. Please consider a thoughtful contribution to this worthy cause.