It is a Holy Land marked by Passion that awaits Easter. The wound of the earthquake in Syria and Turkey and some recent episodes of intolerance against Christians dominate the message of the prefect of the Dicastery for the Oriental Churches, Msgr. Claudio Gugerotti, for the Good Friday Collection intended for Christian communities in the Holy Land. Msgr. Gugerotti visited Syria and Turkey in late February. He touched the tragedy of the people, but also the signs of hope that the Church is committed to make grow. It makes itself "a tent and shelter for the displaced," the message further reads, and cares for the "living stones" through social programs, schooling, housing and work projects, "so that it is worthwhile to continue to remain in the Places of Salvation." "The precious presence of the Friars of the Custody of the Holy Land," writes Msgr. Gugerotti, "not only guarantees the maintenance of the sanctuaries, but guards the life of the Christian communities, often tempted to lose their vocation to be people of Easter in the lands blessed by the presence of the Redeemer. The message invites all Christians to participate generously in the Collection: "In Jerusalem there are our sources," it concludes, "and we want to remain united and in solidarity with our brothers and sisters who continue to witness to the Gospel there. Read More