October 22, 2001 — Mudeif Productions

*Just a glimpse of the damage Jenin has sustained.*

Marthame went into Jenin today - not because he wanted to, but because he had to. Our telephone bill came, albeit extremely late, and we didn't want to face the prospect (once again) of having our phone disconnected for late payment. The destruction of the latest incursion was evident, almost apocalyptic in its appearance.

He returned back to the school in time for the soccer finals between Grades 9 and 10. Grade 9 was triumphant, 1-0. They were ecstatic - a coup for grade 9 to beat all of the high school grades!

After school we headed over to the Na'im Khader Center at the edge of Zababdeh. Two of our friends from the University wanted to see how they might be able to develop relationships that would help benefit the Center and the University. It seemed a productive first conversation, and there was much interest in seeing where things might lead together. As we talked outside, Israeli aircraft flew overhead - their blinking lights barely visible, but the sound unmistakable. Wonder where they're headed tonight.

We returned home to find an email invitation to Bethlehem tomorrow. The heads of the Jerusalem churches have planned a solidarity march. Bethlehem has been under heavy bombardment. Particularly disturbing to the Christian community is the recent death of several Christians, including a nineteen year old altar boy, shot as he played with his young nephew at the entrance to the Church of the Nativity. If we can get there tomorrow, we'll go.