A Pastoral Journey of Faith, Unity, and Renewal: His Beatitude Cardinal Patriarch Pizzaballa’s Visit to Cana of Galilee
This news is shared from the website of the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem.
His Beatitude Cardinal Patriarch Pierbattista Pizzaballa, Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, began his pastoral visit to Cana of Galilee on Thursday, February 6, 2025, which lasted until Sunday, February 9, 2025.
Every pastoral visit carries its own unique character. His Beatitude considers these visits an essential part of his pastoral mission. On numerous occasions, he has emphasized the importance of personally meeting and listening to the people he serves, as it allows him to better understand their daily lives—something that cannot be fully grasped from a distance.
Day One – A Warm Welcome Reflecting Fraternal Love
The faithful gathered in front of the Church of the first miracle in Cana to welcome His Beatitude in a grand reception accompanied by the music of the Latin Scout of Reneh and the Orthodox Scout of Cana. Among the dignitaries receiving his beatitude were Msgr. Rafic Nahra, Patriarchal Vicar of Galilee, and Fr. Haitham Heno, the current Franciscan parish priest of Cana, alongside priests from various churches of the city, as well as the town's imam, Sheikh, and mayor. The scene was a true reflection of the spirit of love and fraternity uniting the local community of Cana.
The delegation then proceeded to the church, where Fr. Haitham delivered a welcoming speech, expressing hope for a fruitful visit. In his address, His Beatitude emphasized the significance of the visit, highlighting the need to strengthen communal unity despite challenges and recalling Cana’s role as a center for pilgrimage and spiritual renewal.
Several other speeches followed, including remarks from Muslim religious leaders and the mayor, all underscoring the importance of solidarity within the community and fostering a spirit of cooperation and brotherhood.
Day Two – Educational and Humanitarian Encounters
His Beatitude began the second day by visiting the Franciscan Sisters’ School in Kafr Kanna, where he was received by Sister Renée Moussa, the school principal, alongside Ms. Shireen Nator, Director of Arab Education at the Ministry of Education. During the meeting, he listened to the challenges facing the school before touring its various sections.
Expressing his joy at meeting the students and faculty, he remarked, “I was struck by the bright smiles on the children’s faces. This is essential for their growth in an encouraging environment. A school is not merely a place for academic learning; it is a space where values and principles are instilled, shaping future generations.” He also underscored the crucial role of schools in fostering both academic and spiritual formation.
Following this, His Beatitude visited the city’s mosque (the Old Abu Bakr Al-Siddiq Mosque), where he met with Sheikh Mohammad Dahamsheh.
Later, he visited the Kafr Kanna Institution for Special Needs, where he was welcomed by Mr. Ibrahim Khalaila, the institution’s director, alongside staff and families. During the visit, he stated, “This place holds special significance, as it reflects the community’s commitment to caring for its most vulnerable members, those God cherishes the most, and when we serve those in need, we are truly fulfilling God’s will. May God bless your service, and may you continue to be a light in your society.”
He also visited several families and administered the Anointing of the Sick to elderly and ailing individuals in their homes…
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This news was originally published on the website of the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem, click here to read more.