September 4, 2002

These days, many people are coming by the school and asking Fr. Aktham for assistance - there is little he can do other than a handout here and there and give them applications to various relief organizations in Jerusalem (and then deliver the papers for them). One lady came in from Jenin, from the Christian community there, asking for help. Her daughter is studying at Birzeit University, which has yet to open - and will probably spend the entire year alternating between being open and shut. As she explained her problem to Marthame, she broke down in tears. It's a difficult thing to see, particularly because everyone is in the same situation - no work, a lot of fear about the future...it's a terrifying time for a lot of people.

Bishop Carlson of Sioux Falls in his 2000 visit to Zababdeh.

In the evening, we did an interview with the Diocese of Sioux Falls' radio program Catholic Views. When we first arrived, they brought a group to Zababdeh and have been a great source of strength ever since. We had done an interview last year - this one will air this Sunday morning. We are hoping to encourage someone from there to come and teach in the school next year.