January 25, 2002

Another "operation," as they are called on this side of the Green Line - a bomb exploding in Tel Aviv. We didn't hear about it until later, as we had headed down early in the morning to worship at the Greek Orthodox Church of the Holy Trinity in nearby Tubas. This town of 10,000 has 55 Orthodox Christians. From all accounts, community relations are harmonious.

The Christian faithful of Tubas, Palestine, gathered with Bishop Timotheus and Fr. To’mie.

Friday morning, being the Muslim day of prayer, becomes the Sabbath for this minority community. Most of the community, as well as a couple of cars from Zababdeh, arrived this morning to worship with Abuna To'mie as well as Bishop Timotheus from the Jerusalem Patriarchate. Like all Orthodox bishops here, Timotheus is Greek by birth and nationality, though he has lived here most of his life.

Bishop Timotheus and Fr. To’mie leading Orthodox liturgy in Tubas.

The community has done a remarkable job of keeping their life of faith going - the church building was rebuilt in the '70s and the hall was completed two years ago, and they have recently built a library as a resource for the children. Bishop Timotheus delivered the first books, with promises of more to come. We then returned to Zababdeh as the Bishop stopped in for coffee on his way to Burqin - we'll join him and the Greek Orthodox church there for Sunday morning worship.

Bishop Timotheus donating the first book to the Orthodox church’s library in Tubas.

The news from the States regarding this area is disturbing, as Bush scolds Arafat like a little child and threats to close PA offices in Washington are bandied about. Especially for those of us who are here and see what is happening, witnessing the American response makes one more and more cynical.

On a happy note, Marthame's sister had dedicated a half-day of programming on Orlando's Z88.3 Christian station - we caught the sponsorship announcement over the internet.