The roadblock was open, but there were those nasty tire-popping spikes lying across the road. The Israeli soldiers didn't seem to worry that cars were waiting.
Read MoreFr. Hatem thanked them for their solidarity and their encouragement for the Palestinian Christians of Israel.
Read MoreWe had to brave the chaotic roads along the way - main roads have been cut, and the settlers' bypass road we used to take back in the days of vehicle-owning is now closed to all but settlers and soldiers.
Read MoreThe Melkite Church here has fallen into severe disrepair after sixteen years of neglect, though the community remains and worships among Zababdeh's other parishes on Sunday mornings.
Read MoreEven with all that's been happening in Jenin lately, Marthame was assured that all was 'aadi - that is, normal.
Read MoreElizabeth took a walk in the hills, to see what was coming up and prepare for the 7th grade nature trip tomorrow.
Read MoreBut here, in a land where hundreds (becoming thousands) have been killed both in and out of combat, a murder is a rarity.
Read MoreThere was also a surprisingly extensive environmental center with natural specimens and displays about pollution, water issues, recycling and other local concerns.
Read MoreThe Scripture was Jesus calming the storm on the sea (Matthew 8:23-34). Hossam asked the question, "If Jesus is already risen, why do bad things continue to happen?" You know, something light to tackle in a ten minute homily. No better question to ask these days in this place.
Read MoreA Palestinian critique of Western culture, and perhaps rightly so, is that it is anti-social, private, and alienating.
Read MoreWe joined the school's Islam teacher and her family for a picnic. We lugged a couple of blankets, the requisite tea and coffee, and a big bucket of tabboule (Arabic salad) out to feast in the fields.
Read MoreWe discussed the incarnation and resurrection (both of which the Qur'an deny), as well as the elevated place of Mary and Jesus (both of which the Qur'an affirm).
Read MoreWe continued our periodic training sessions with the English teachers and one of the teachers from the AAUJ's school.
Read MoreTonight we had the chance to visit with friends at the AAUJ. As the American line gets tougher and tougher, we are keeping each other apprised of what's happening.
Read MoreAfter an aborted attempt before Christmas, we have finally managed to get to worship at the Greek Orthodox Church of the Leper in Burqin.
Read MoreHe came back because his wife gave birth to twins. Two more mouths to feed...
Read MoreThis town of 10,000 has 55 Orthodox Christians. From all accounts, community relations are harmonious.
Read More"Some people say we killed Jesus," said the soldier. "I think that's a good thing."
Read MoreAbuna Aktham has returned from his trip to Canada - there will be a big Roman Catholic youth gathering there in the summer, and he is one of the priests helping organize the event.
Read MoreToday was the last day of exams - the process here seems a little drawn out, with each class having one exam each day.
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