Tempest

Wow - yesterday evening we had the heaviest rain this month here in Jerusalem. Cats and dogs! But it's a good sign - we need this rain to soak this dry earth. Inevitably the temperature dropped and it became cold and dark. That makes sleeping ideal - but not when I have to continue with my work.

Today we commemorate the Baptism of Christ in the River Jordan. The friars will lead the annual pilgrimage to the river - a militarised zone opened only this day for the pilgrimage. Friars and pilgrims need to bring their passports along. The baptismal site borders the Hashemite kingdom of Jordan, hence the heavy military presence.

Usually it's the Custos of the Holyland who presides at the Mass, but today it will be Cardinal Zen - yes, of HK. He's here in the Holyland at the invitation of the Salesians and will deliver a talk on Friday morning to the Christian public. Will update you on that.