On 23 April in Bethlehem, in the atrium of the National Orthodox Charitable Society, the Orthodox Scout group brought a smile and much joy to the faces of the more than 300 children. They all took part in the Easter Festival, which was organised for the Orthodox churches to mark the upcoming festivities. Fr ISSA THALJIEH Vice president of the National Orthodox Charitable Society "Today's message is one of love, generosity and participation. It is important to bring the joy of the Resurrection into the hearts of children, so that all may be together in joy, peace and love in these difficult circumstances in which we live today." The Festival started with a play that covered the meaning of the Resurrection, as well as the values of Scouting, followed by entertainment activities with distribution of gifts for the children. RAED HANANIA Member of the National Orthodox Charitable Society "The situation is very special and different from previous years because of the coronavirus pandemic. We are very happy with what the Orthodox Society and the Scouts, who are always on the front line, have done. Our children are also very happy. The programme was organised outdoors and not in closed halls, with the distribution of sanitizers and masks. We gave joy to the children, especially in these circumstances, as school attendance is irregular and the economic situation in Bethlehem is difficult due to the blockade of the tourist industry." SILA BANNOURA Little girl from Beit Sahour "I am very very happy." NICOLA KHAYAT Little boy of Bethlehem "We looked for Easter eggs, Happy Holidays." The Coronavirus pandemic did not stop the generosity of the Orthodox Scout group. Since the beginning of the pandemic, all members have been helping the needy by distributing food parcels, medicines and sanitizing products. The Easter Festival brought the joy of the message of the Resurrection, the hope in the end of the pandemic and the lock-down, and the expectation of a new tomorrow. Read More