March 11, 2003

Marthame's return trip came earlier than desired. Once arriving at Jalame, though, all traffic was forbidden to cross. Marthame began walking. A soldier who was checking outgoing traffic turned around. "Where are you going?"

"To Jalame," Marthame said over his shoulder.

That was it. It's a long walk into the village. The road back to Zababdeh is slowly improving from the rain damage, thanks to bulldozer activity, but still difficult.

Fr. Firas oversees the rehabilitation work of the Melkite Church.

Marthame visited with Fr. Firas for breakfast before going to the church to check on the progress. The plastering work is nearing completion, and the electrical work should begin in earnest soon.