On 17 October, the Custody of the Holy Land, represented by Father Ibrahim Faltas, the Custodial Vicar, the Minister of Tourism and Antiquities, Mr. Hani Al-Hayek, and the European Union Representative in the West Bank and Gaza, Ambassador Alexandre Stutzmann, participated in a special meeting. The meeting was within the framework of the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities‘ plan to support the restoration of the outer courtyards of the ten new churches project in the Shepherds’ Field area in Beit Sahour. This initiative aims to develop religious sites with the goal of attracting more pilgrims and visitors. These sites represent a spiritual and historical heritage for the region. Mr HANI AL-HAYEK Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities The Shepherds' Field is now considered a top priority for the Ministry of Tourism. We wish to provide the necessary support to complete the restoration and prepare the new churches that will be inaugurated soon to welcome pilgrims from different countries to the Holy Land. ALEXANDRE STUTZMANN European Union Representative in the West Bank and Gaza Strip We believe in the importance of working with the Palestinian government. This morning I am very happy to be here with the Minister of Tourism. This government has shown a genuine interest in working with the European Union to preserve this Palestinian heritage, which we also consider part of our work, and is a common heritage worldwide. Br IBRAHIM FALTAS, Ofm Vicar of the Custody of the Holy Land There has been a profound interest and there will be collaborative projects with the Custody of the Holy Land on its behalf, and we welcome these initiatives. Today the guests expressed their deep sadness at the current situation, seeing the Shepherds' Field without tourists and pilgrims. Especially the Minister of Tourism, former mayor of Beit Sahour, knows that this place used to be able to receive up to 500 tourist buses a day. The Shrine of the Shepherds' Field in Beit Sahour is considered a spiritual meeting point. It attracts pilgrims from all over the world to experience a unique faith experience in the place that witnessed the proclamation of Christ's birth. This shrine also contributes to strengthening the local Christian identity. Reflecting an ancient heritage, it plays a vital role in supporting the local economy, increasing tourist activity and creating job opportunities. This promotes the stability and development of the region. Mr HANI AL-HAYEK Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities The tourism sector is completely paralysed and has been severely affected by these difficult circumstances. Today our first priority is to rescue the Gaza Strip above all else. Br IBRAHIM FALTAS, ofm Vicar of the Custody of the Holy Land We hope that this condition will end as soon as possible, that tourism will return and that the war will end. Christian families in Bethlehem have been unemployed for over a year. Unfortunately, since the beginning of the conflict, more than seventy families have emigrated from the towns of Bethlehem, Beit Sahour and Beit Jala. Let us hope that this initiative of the Ministry of Tourism can bring a ray of hope for a new dawn, in the place chosen by God to announce the good news of joy and salvation. Read More