May 4, 2003

Some of the Melkite children of Zababdeh.

Today was an historic day in Zababdeh. For the first time in twenty-three years, the Melkite Church rang its bell on Sunday morning to gather the faithful for worship. It was a humble beginning. The Melkite community here consists largely of one extended family - and the families here are very extended. Many of the children arrived early, interested in the new village curiosity. The rest of the congregation was made up of immediate family and neighbors. After watching how the Anglican community has dispersed in a two-year period of neglect, we have a lot of awe for the work before Fr. Firas in regathering the community.

An icon of St. Thomas touching Jesus’ side.

After worship, we went to the Orthodox Church. Today, the eighth day of the Easter season, is St. Thomas day. At ordination, Fr. To'mie took the ordained name Fr. Thomas - thus today has special meaning for him personally.

Fr. Thomas with his granddaughter.

Following worship, we had lunch at his home. Fr. Aktham, the village mayor, as well as a representative of the Palestinian Legislative Council all came. Fr. Thomas' wife prepared msakhan, bread with olive oil, onions, sumac, and almonds. She said she prepared it because of us, knowing how much we like it. She's right! They also showed off their two-month old granddaughter.