Yesterday night most cities in the world turned off their lights for an hour to show solidarity with the need protect our climate - Earth Hour. It would have been what St Francis of Assisi would have preached and done. Well I turned off my room light at 10.30pm for an hour; only to find out later that I misread the official time to be 20.30 hrs. Ah well ..... at least I meant well even if I'd mistaken the time.
It was freezing cold last night. I went to the Holy Sepulchre for Vespers at 6pm because Vigils is way past midnight due to daylight saving, and I don't think I can make it with my exhaustion and the cold. After Vespers Osvalda our librarian and I went out to a small restaurant in the Old City just behind our Franciscan hostel for pilgrims - "Casa Nova". That's because the place where she's staying didn't serve dinner that night. We had a nice simple meal - a salad and a meat dish. After that I walked home but it started raining.
The rain continued this morning but when I went out to feed the canaries, it started to hail. Small hailstones but terribly painful on the head! And it was freezing cold. The weather has become so weird ... everything has gone topsy turvy. We're having winter in the beginning of summer.
I wanted to go out to buy somethings like toiletries but couldn't get off my work so I stayed in my room studying till 7pm when I walked up to the 8th Station where there is the new supermarket.
Just earlier in the afternoon I got shwarma-ed again by the powers that be. Have to finish my work or else .... the ultimatum ...... Well it's pretty tough to get work done when my 2 computers are not fully working and my right hand/shoulder hurts to high heaven and have difficulty to type on the computer. Aiya .... this is one Lent that has already roasted a lamb way before Good Friday comes. Burnt to a crisp by now.
Sunday, March 29, 2009
Saturday, March 28, 2009
Weather change
Well I did go to the Way of the Cross after all. Forgot that we were in daylight saving so the Way of the Cross was an hour later then winter time - 4pm. Had time to do some reading before going down to join the large crowd. Prayed for all of you again, step by step up to the Empty Tomb. There was a huge crowd participating. If only you guys could be here to join in, and walk in the steps of Jesus.
We had gale force winds in the evening. All the food and water troughs of the birdcage were blown down. Even the plastic coverings were blown off. Yesterday we bought a new male canary - a red factor - to bring new genes into the group that we have. The wind is also very cold - almost freezing.
The last week of Lent is in. Tonight Vigils at the Holy Sepulchre will be at 40 mins past midnight due to daylight saving but which the Holy Sepulchre does not keep. Hope I can get up for this.
Meanwhile today I'm trying to finish as much as possible of my paper.
We had gale force winds in the evening. All the food and water troughs of the birdcage were blown down. Even the plastic coverings were blown off. Yesterday we bought a new male canary - a red factor - to bring new genes into the group that we have. The wind is also very cold - almost freezing.
The last week of Lent is in. Tonight Vigils at the Holy Sepulchre will be at 40 mins past midnight due to daylight saving but which the Holy Sepulchre does not keep. Hope I can get up for this.
Meanwhile today I'm trying to finish as much as possible of my paper.
Friday, March 27, 2009
Another Friday
Yesterday or rather early this morning was daylight saving changeover time. That means we had to put the clock one hour ahead and this will last until Autumn (usually the feast of Tabernacles). But some students didn't catch the news (actually the secretary Sinead didn't either and she messed up) and were early for school and had to wait for the doors to open.
The weather is lovely Spring - cool winds with blue skies. No sign of rain. A turtledove has made a nest on a drainpipe in the courtyard of the sisters.
I'm feeling the pressure of getting my work done. But the body is weak - I don't feel I have the energy to keep up with all the reading and writing and visits to the library. I feel exhausted easily. And getting leg cramps quite alot recently. And my right shoulder still hurts from last Friday's Way of the Cross incident. It's causing me sleepless nights because of the pain. Which come to think of it, I'm not going for the Way of the Cross this afternoon because I just can't make it.
Must start studying again.
The weather is lovely Spring - cool winds with blue skies. No sign of rain. A turtledove has made a nest on a drainpipe in the courtyard of the sisters.
I'm feeling the pressure of getting my work done. But the body is weak - I don't feel I have the energy to keep up with all the reading and writing and visits to the library. I feel exhausted easily. And getting leg cramps quite alot recently. And my right shoulder still hurts from last Friday's Way of the Cross incident. It's causing me sleepless nights because of the pain. Which come to think of it, I'm not going for the Way of the Cross this afternoon because I just can't make it.
Must start studying again.
Thursday, March 26, 2009
Nisma Nafi’ Badir
DOB: 15 June1996
Class: Secondary 1 (2008-2009)
Benefactor: Agnes Leung O. Y.
History: Nisma is a quiet girl who is well aware of her family's plight. She attends a government school at Tawfiqiyyah Daher in Cairo, where she practically receives no instruction. Her family cannot afford to put her through night school much less a private school. Her father died from a tumour just a year ago on Feb. 7th 2008. Nisma has 4 brothers: Kyrillos (8 yrs); Girgis (10 yrs); Áshraf (14 yrs); Násh’at (16 yrs). Her family came from Dayr Mawas in Minya. They moved to Cairo 7 years ago in search for a better life. The village where the late Mr. Nafi’ used to work as a labourer in the fields gave them no hope for the future. In Cairo he found work as a watchman in the building where the family still lives. Mrs Fayza the mother continues the work of her late husband. She receives a monthly salary of 200 egyptian lira (35 US$). A family such as hers would need at least US$450-500 a month just for basic needs. The parish of Anba Bishoy helps the family with 50 egyptian lira a month. The family lives below the staircase which is no more than 4 metres square. The mother, Nisma and the two smaller boys sleep in there. The two older boys sleep in the open terrace and when it's cold, they sleep on the staircase. The building itself is tottering. The family does the cooking along the staircase.
Do something meaningful for Lent: support a child in need!
Class: Secondary 1 (2008-2009)
Benefactor: Agnes Leung O. Y.
History: Nisma is a quiet girl who is well aware of her family's plight. She attends a government school at Tawfiqiyyah Daher in Cairo, where she practically receives no instruction. Her family cannot afford to put her through night school much less a private school. Her father died from a tumour just a year ago on Feb. 7th 2008. Nisma has 4 brothers: Kyrillos (8 yrs); Girgis (10 yrs); Áshraf (14 yrs); Násh’at (16 yrs). Her family came from Dayr Mawas in Minya. They moved to Cairo 7 years ago in search for a better life. The village where the late Mr. Nafi’ used to work as a labourer in the fields gave them no hope for the future. In Cairo he found work as a watchman in the building where the family still lives. Mrs Fayza the mother continues the work of her late husband. She receives a monthly salary of 200 egyptian lira (35 US$). A family such as hers would need at least US$450-500 a month just for basic needs. The parish of Anba Bishoy helps the family with 50 egyptian lira a month. The family lives below the staircase which is no more than 4 metres square. The mother, Nisma and the two smaller boys sleep in there. The two older boys sleep in the open terrace and when it's cold, they sleep on the staircase. The building itself is tottering. The family does the cooking along the staircase.
Do something meaningful for Lent: support a child in need!
17th anniversary
Yesterday was the feast of the Annunciation - which marks 17 years of my ordination. I went off to the Holy Sepulchre to celebrate Mass. It was a quiet Mass - me alone inside the Crusader Chapel. But I had lots of time to think and pray. I used the 1st Eucharistic prayer which is very long - and I was thinking of all of you who had been supporting my vocation all these years and praying for you all. Thanks for being around. It helped and still does. The journey had its ups and downs. Being transferred from one end of the earth to another can be exciting but it's the friends you meet along the way that makes the journey worthwhile. I can't repay you, but I'm sure God will.
Spent most of the afternoon reading a ton of books and was so tired I fell asleep at 5pm. We sang solemn Vespers and then it was night again - no rain though but it's terribly cold like as if winter is back with a vengence. Nobody here knew about my anniversary so I kept quiet about it. No big deal.
Today I'll be working on my paper again, and I'll go consult Fr Buscemi who's my 2nd moderator. Hope I won't end up as shwarma again.
Spent most of the afternoon reading a ton of books and was so tired I fell asleep at 5pm. We sang solemn Vespers and then it was night again - no rain though but it's terribly cold like as if winter is back with a vengence. Nobody here knew about my anniversary so I kept quiet about it. No big deal.
Today I'll be working on my paper again, and I'll go consult Fr Buscemi who's my 2nd moderator. Hope I won't end up as shwarma again.
Tuesday, March 24, 2009
Rain!
I was quite sure it would rain last night because the sky was a dull red yesterday afternoon. I decided to cover the birdcage with plastic. Sure enough it started raining hard by 4am this morning. Very strong winds too. And it was freezing cold. This is all very unexpected as it should be dry and sunny - Easter season. Everyone said the weather is going crazy.
Yesterday I was so exhausted i fell asleep at 6pm. I thought I could wake up by 7pm for vespers and a talk by Fr Giorgio, our visiting professor who is a benedictine monk. Slept right through to midnight!I was feeling very hungry when I got up, but was feeling even sleepier - so fell back to bed and slept till 4am when I opened the window to check if it rained. Slept right through in my day clothes - jeans, turtle-neck, woollen jumper, socks .... it was like being drugged. I couldn't move a bone ... just laid in bed with very heavy eyes. But I was pretty fresh this morning for Mass though! Some of the guys said that I must have slept well - well how did they know???
Today most of the friars in Judea came to our Flagellation Chapel to commemorate the Passion of the Lord - the gospel is solemnly sung in 3 parts (Christ, Narrator and crowd). And lots of people came as well. But I wasn't in though; had a previous appointment at another Monastery.
The Pious Disciples of Our Lord (Pauline sisters who are dedicated to the liturgical ministry) have arrived in Jerusalem to start a convent - somewhere near our monastery. They come every morning for Mass and Lauds since two are Italians (one Indian) and our liturgy is always Italian.
Yesterday I was so exhausted i fell asleep at 6pm. I thought I could wake up by 7pm for vespers and a talk by Fr Giorgio, our visiting professor who is a benedictine monk. Slept right through to midnight!I was feeling very hungry when I got up, but was feeling even sleepier - so fell back to bed and slept till 4am when I opened the window to check if it rained. Slept right through in my day clothes - jeans, turtle-neck, woollen jumper, socks .... it was like being drugged. I couldn't move a bone ... just laid in bed with very heavy eyes. But I was pretty fresh this morning for Mass though! Some of the guys said that I must have slept well - well how did they know???
Today most of the friars in Judea came to our Flagellation Chapel to commemorate the Passion of the Lord - the gospel is solemnly sung in 3 parts (Christ, Narrator and crowd). And lots of people came as well. But I wasn't in though; had a previous appointment at another Monastery.
The Pious Disciples of Our Lord (Pauline sisters who are dedicated to the liturgical ministry) have arrived in Jerusalem to start a convent - somewhere near our monastery. They come every morning for Mass and Lauds since two are Italians (one Indian) and our liturgy is always Italian.
Monday, March 23, 2009
4th week of Lent
Wow thank goodness the car bomb didn't work. It's scary. The north is now under red alert but I think it's the south that should worry. Jewish Passover is coming round soon and more such attacks could be possible. Better stay away from the screets. http://www.jpost.com/servlet/Satellite?cid=1237461642345&pagename=JPost%2FJPArticle%2FShowFull
And for those funny emails asking why i stick my head in the birdcage - haloooooooo? The cage is 6 feet long and 5 feet high and 3 feet deep (and 3 feet above the floor); and the door is 3 feet high. So if I have to put in food or take out rubbish, half my body is inside in order to reach the food trough. I just gave them their evening feed (leftover lettuce heads that I found in the rubbish bin, and bell-pepper cores full of seed) and these guys are so funny. They all flew to the bottom and pressed against the wire to see what i was doing.
We're into the 4th Week of Lent and the readings are intensifying. Hope you're preparing for Holy Week. Remember if you join our Sunday Reading blog "Under the Fig Tree" you'll get a Holy Week and Easter Octave special - daily reflection of the readings. Do something special this Lent.
And for those funny emails asking why i stick my head in the birdcage - haloooooooo? The cage is 6 feet long and 5 feet high and 3 feet deep (and 3 feet above the floor); and the door is 3 feet high. So if I have to put in food or take out rubbish, half my body is inside in order to reach the food trough. I just gave them their evening feed (leftover lettuce heads that I found in the rubbish bin, and bell-pepper cores full of seed) and these guys are so funny. They all flew to the bottom and pressed against the wire to see what i was doing.
We're into the 4th Week of Lent and the readings are intensifying. Hope you're preparing for Holy Week. Remember if you join our Sunday Reading blog "Under the Fig Tree" you'll get a Holy Week and Easter Octave special - daily reflection of the readings. Do something special this Lent.
Sunday, March 22, 2009
Thanks
Our heartfelt thanks to the following for their generosity:
For Gaza: CHUI Piu Ha, HO Miu Chun Michelle, KWONG Lai Ping, CHAN Wai Fong Wendy, CHAN Tak Hong, WU Wai Ming Dorine, PANG Catherine, P Leung
For the Holyland:Edmund Ng, Ma Jia, Sam & Nina Ip, Winifred Ng, Auntie Yvonne, Paulette, HO Elizabeth, CHAN Esther, KWONG Terry
Projects: Biddy Kwok, Josephine Leung, WONG Cecilia, SHUM Hon Chiu, TAM Dominic, Hong Kong Millennium Pilgrim Grp, Alice Tso, P. Leung
Webcast: Thursday Evening Class grp
For Gaza: CHUI Piu Ha, HO Miu Chun Michelle, KWONG Lai Ping, CHAN Wai Fong Wendy, CHAN Tak Hong, WU Wai Ming Dorine, PANG Catherine, P Leung
For the Holyland:Edmund Ng, Ma Jia, Sam & Nina Ip, Winifred Ng, Auntie Yvonne, Paulette, HO Elizabeth, CHAN Esther, KWONG Terry
Projects: Biddy Kwok, Josephine Leung, WONG Cecilia, SHUM Hon Chiu, TAM Dominic, Hong Kong Millennium Pilgrim Grp, Alice Tso, P. Leung
Webcast: Thursday Evening Class grp
Vigil
Yesterday afternoon I gave a thorough cleaning of the birdcage. The canaries are now so used to me, they have lost all fear. When I was spraying the dung away from the bottom of the cage, "Granny" the oldest canary flew down and followed the hose. She enjoyed the water sprinkling all over her. Slowly several other males came to follow her. She became so wet she couldn't fly after that ... but hopped around chirping happily. Then there is my favourite "Baby". She was the first baby canary born and survived last year and she also has no fear of me. She perches on branches or the feed-trough near my nose and looks at me. The other males will cling to the door of the cage whenever I come to the courtyard. They know I bring food for them. The two mottled females are bad. Every time I put my head inside the cage to remove or put in food, they fly close to my head. Don't know if they're attacking me or playing. But with such familiarity, it means they might want to fly out of the cage one day when I open the door. Anyway this is their meal arrangement. Every morning they get a new refill of mixed grain, lettuce, cucumbers, bell-peppers and egg-shell. Once a week they get boiled eggs and a stick of fruit and grain stuck together with honey. They love this! Usually they finish it off within an hour. In the evenings they get either the leftover vegies from the salad we had for lunch, or a different type of mix grain. And Fr Bissoli leaves them the apple cores and seed he eats after meals.
Last night I made it to the Holy Sepulchre for vigil. Went to sleep at 9.30pm but by 10.30pm was up and changing to go out in the cold. Many of the fathers here were already on the way there. There was a blackout here in the Muslim Quarter so we had to walk in the dark. Quite terrifying. Reached the Holy Sepulchre at 11.25pm - crowded with people. Vigils started at 20 mins. to 12 with hymns, psalms, responsories and readings (Leviticus and St Augustine), followed by Lauds (more psalms and readings). It lasted way over an hour. When the Benedictus was sung, everyone lit a cndle and there was a procession around the Empty Tomb. Fr Armando played the organ - it was so majestic, pounding loud ... even the Orthodox pilgrims were impressed. It was all so beautiful. That was what "church" was about - gathered around the Empty Tomb to proclaim the Resurrection. The Custodial Vicar Fr Artemio sung the Gospel of John's account fo the Resurrection and appearance to Mary Magdalene. When it ended, it was past 1am. Many fathers continued to stay back to celebrate Sunday Mass. I wanted to do so too but because Jean Paul did not bring the keys of the house, I had to accompany him home. I wanted to go back to the Holy Sepulchre at 4am to celebrate mass but my legs were so tired from all the walking the past week, I stayed back. Went to sleep at 3am and woke up at 5am for our own Mass at the Flagellation Monastery.
Anyway I wanted you to know that I went for Vigils to pray for all of you. Believe me it is not easy to wake up at midnight and pray for over an hour, then getting 2 hours sleep only to wake up and pray some more. But that's what our mission is here in the Holyland - to pray for all of you who cannot be at the actual place where the Resurrection took place. Know that during these last 2 weeks of Lent, you are very close to these holy places when I come to pray.
Last night I made it to the Holy Sepulchre for vigil. Went to sleep at 9.30pm but by 10.30pm was up and changing to go out in the cold. Many of the fathers here were already on the way there. There was a blackout here in the Muslim Quarter so we had to walk in the dark. Quite terrifying. Reached the Holy Sepulchre at 11.25pm - crowded with people. Vigils started at 20 mins. to 12 with hymns, psalms, responsories and readings (Leviticus and St Augustine), followed by Lauds (more psalms and readings). It lasted way over an hour. When the Benedictus was sung, everyone lit a cndle and there was a procession around the Empty Tomb. Fr Armando played the organ - it was so majestic, pounding loud ... even the Orthodox pilgrims were impressed. It was all so beautiful. That was what "church" was about - gathered around the Empty Tomb to proclaim the Resurrection. The Custodial Vicar Fr Artemio sung the Gospel of John's account fo the Resurrection and appearance to Mary Magdalene. When it ended, it was past 1am. Many fathers continued to stay back to celebrate Sunday Mass. I wanted to do so too but because Jean Paul did not bring the keys of the house, I had to accompany him home. I wanted to go back to the Holy Sepulchre at 4am to celebrate mass but my legs were so tired from all the walking the past week, I stayed back. Went to sleep at 3am and woke up at 5am for our own Mass at the Flagellation Monastery.
Anyway I wanted you to know that I went for Vigils to pray for all of you. Believe me it is not easy to wake up at midnight and pray for over an hour, then getting 2 hours sleep only to wake up and pray some more. But that's what our mission is here in the Holyland - to pray for all of you who cannot be at the actual place where the Resurrection took place. Know that during these last 2 weeks of Lent, you are very close to these holy places when I come to pray.
Saturday, March 21, 2009
Coincidence?
Finally my turn to celebrate Mass at the Sisters of Ivrea is over. I must say it was a nice walk out at 5.30am to their convent about 1km away. The sun is up but there was usually a cold wind blowing. The streets were practically empty except for the bakers and soldiers.
Yesterday I made the Way of the Cross for all of you. Because of the huge crowds that follow, several of us decided to go ahead; so when the main group was making the 4th Station, I went to the 5th Station - inside the chapel where it's nice and quiet to pray. It was there that I had a terrible cramp across my shoulders or actually the shoulder-blades. It was excruciating. From left to right and especially the muscles on the backbone just seized up. It was so painful I became giddy; but I couldn't breathe or call for help. Stayed there in pain for almost 10 minutes before I could stand up. It was very very painful. And I was afraid if I continued to panic, I'll get an attack of asthma as well. For a quick moment I did think "what a coincidence" - 5th Station Simon helps Jesus carries His Cross and here am I with a terrible pain across my shoulders. So I offered it up for all of you. Not that it's worth much, but at least you know someone prayed and suffered for you at the Way of the Cross.
Managed to stagger up the hill to the 6th Station where I met Fr Giovanni and told him. He tried to give me a rubdown, but it was not convenient - being in the middle of the street. So I staggered on to the 7th to rest again inside the Chapel and pray for you all; and then passed the 8th and 9th Stations, straight to the Holy Sepulchre to sit down and let the pain go away. I thought if this was going to happen in the 5th Station, what would happen if I went up to Mt. Calvary at the 12th Station where Jesus died on the Cross? Played safe - I stayed next to the Tomb of Christ - the resurrection!!!!
Yesterday I made the Way of the Cross for all of you. Because of the huge crowds that follow, several of us decided to go ahead; so when the main group was making the 4th Station, I went to the 5th Station - inside the chapel where it's nice and quiet to pray. It was there that I had a terrible cramp across my shoulders or actually the shoulder-blades. It was excruciating. From left to right and especially the muscles on the backbone just seized up. It was so painful I became giddy; but I couldn't breathe or call for help. Stayed there in pain for almost 10 minutes before I could stand up. It was very very painful. And I was afraid if I continued to panic, I'll get an attack of asthma as well. For a quick moment I did think "what a coincidence" - 5th Station Simon helps Jesus carries His Cross and here am I with a terrible pain across my shoulders. So I offered it up for all of you. Not that it's worth much, but at least you know someone prayed and suffered for you at the Way of the Cross.
Managed to stagger up the hill to the 6th Station where I met Fr Giovanni and told him. He tried to give me a rubdown, but it was not convenient - being in the middle of the street. So I staggered on to the 7th to rest again inside the Chapel and pray for you all; and then passed the 8th and 9th Stations, straight to the Holy Sepulchre to sit down and let the pain go away. I thought if this was going to happen in the 5th Station, what would happen if I went up to Mt. Calvary at the 12th Station where Jesus died on the Cross? Played safe - I stayed next to the Tomb of Christ - the resurrection!!!!
Friday, March 20, 2009
Way of the Cross online!
Had a rough afternoon yesterday when we encountered some problems with our website and its videos. Had to make an emergency run to Terra Santa College to take charge of the situation. Everything is ok now and you can watch the Way of the Cross online - the first and so far the only vlog to bring you the Way of the Cross from Jerusalem - where it all took place. Haven't seen it? Go to http://elwebcast.blogspot.com/
I hate to have to go out again, the weather is strangely cold, gloomy though the sun peeks through the clouds ever so often. Everyone is complaining of aches and pains, chills and heaches. But since it's Friday - fasting with lentil soup - I think I'll just take a walk up to the New City to get some things.
By the way, Mr P (the fish that is) began eating today after I accidentally toppled the late Mr Fish's food into the tank. Well after 4 days without food, it must be hungry. Do you know Mr. P has been gnawing at the aquarium's rocks that are covered in moss? He must be a moss eater.
Haven't heard from the engineer who has my computer - probably rotting away in his office. I decided to rewrite my paper as I'm wasting precious time waiting for it to come back - you know local time - tomorrow means one week or one month. It'll be a miracle if I ever get to see the computer again.
I hate to have to go out again, the weather is strangely cold, gloomy though the sun peeks through the clouds ever so often. Everyone is complaining of aches and pains, chills and heaches. But since it's Friday - fasting with lentil soup - I think I'll just take a walk up to the New City to get some things.
By the way, Mr P (the fish that is) began eating today after I accidentally toppled the late Mr Fish's food into the tank. Well after 4 days without food, it must be hungry. Do you know Mr. P has been gnawing at the aquarium's rocks that are covered in moss? He must be a moss eater.
Haven't heard from the engineer who has my computer - probably rotting away in his office. I decided to rewrite my paper as I'm wasting precious time waiting for it to come back - you know local time - tomorrow means one week or one month. It'll be a miracle if I ever get to see the computer again.
Thursday, March 19, 2009
Gethsemani
So I found out what type of fish it is - a parrot fish. Now what I need to know is what it eats! It's not eaten for 2 days but has torn apart the crytocoryne (an aquatic plant) that I put inside. And its name will be Mr. P (I think it's a "he"). Anyway I already got an offer from one of the students, Jobi from India, to keep him. I don't mind. But he wants Mr. P only after the Easter holidays. So I'll have to babysit Mr. P till then.
Yesterday we had the annual pilgrimage to Gethsemani. The Wednesdays of Lent are commemorated by the friars of the Holyland by making a pilgrimage to the various sanctuaries associated with the Passion of Christ. So last week was Dominus Flevit ("The Lord wept") midway up the Mt. of Olives; yesterday was in the Basilica of the Agony (Gethsemani at the foot of the Mt. of Olives) and next week will be the Flagellation Chapel (my place across the Mt. of Olives in the Old City of Jerualem). We sing solemn Vespers together with Mass and lots of local christians and religious come to join in. I didn't concelebrate as I already celebrated Mass in the morning at the Sisters of Ivrea convent.
It was a solemn celebration with lots of latin hymns. Fr Artemio who preached the homily reminded us of Christ's commitment to do the Father's will, and our responsibility to imitate him. After Mass, I went to the Rock of the Agony - a huge piece of mountain rock in front of the altar where tradition says Jesus knelt there to pray, sweating blood. So I knelt down there -with alot of difficulty and the nuns had to help me up on my feet afterwards - and prayed. I prayed for all of you, every single one of you, all you who are alive now and all those who have died, for all your pain and sufferings, all your problems and difficulties, for all your darkness and confusion, that it may be joined to the suffering of Christ here on the Rock; and that you may receive the consolation Christ received here from the angel.
Yesterday we had the annual pilgrimage to Gethsemani. The Wednesdays of Lent are commemorated by the friars of the Holyland by making a pilgrimage to the various sanctuaries associated with the Passion of Christ. So last week was Dominus Flevit ("The Lord wept") midway up the Mt. of Olives; yesterday was in the Basilica of the Agony (Gethsemani at the foot of the Mt. of Olives) and next week will be the Flagellation Chapel (my place across the Mt. of Olives in the Old City of Jerualem). We sing solemn Vespers together with Mass and lots of local christians and religious come to join in. I didn't concelebrate as I already celebrated Mass in the morning at the Sisters of Ivrea convent.
It was a solemn celebration with lots of latin hymns. Fr Artemio who preached the homily reminded us of Christ's commitment to do the Father's will, and our responsibility to imitate him. After Mass, I went to the Rock of the Agony - a huge piece of mountain rock in front of the altar where tradition says Jesus knelt there to pray, sweating blood. So I knelt down there -with alot of difficulty and the nuns had to help me up on my feet afterwards - and prayed. I prayed for all of you, every single one of you, all you who are alive now and all those who have died, for all your pain and sufferings, all your problems and difficulties, for all your darkness and confusion, that it may be joined to the suffering of Christ here on the Rock; and that you may receive the consolation Christ received here from the angel.
Wednesday, March 18, 2009
Mystery bag
Was bogged down for the past few days with lots of things to do. And the weather was making me very tired. Just rushing and rushing around.
Last night when I was already in bed, the sisters form the kitchen called to say there's a plastic bag "outside" with my name written. I didn't have a clue where "outside" meant - could be the monastery, the courtyard, the school, the church ... so I quickly dressed and when searching. After 10 cold minutes out in the courtyard (remember the mummy?) I finally found the plastic bag on the table of the reception room. It was a fish in there - don't know what type it is: pretty weird looking with a funny bulged head and pinkish. It's quite popular here in local aquariums. But it was dying as there was no oxygen in the bag....floating tummy-up. So I rushed upstairs with it, filled up my empty fish-tank (tiny thing about 4 inches by 8 inches) and put it in. And it starting breathing again and swimming. I've been thinking who could possibly have given this fish to me - at 9.30pm too! Then I figured ... Mr. Fish (my black Siamese Fighting fish) died last week and everyone was asking after it (You can't possibly believe how many people know about Mr Fish - besides the students and profs. here, some of whom have become quite attached to him; the workers also know him - they help collect mosquito larvae to feed him - in fact the kids of our receptionist call me "Abu Zanaiba" meaning "larva" or literally "father of the mosquito"; and even the shopkeepers along the street know about Mr Fish and ask how he is. Jerusalem is small - there are no secrets here!). So anyway I think it was the sisters in the kitchen who bought him for me as they knew Mr. Fish died; but they wanted to remain anonymous so they put it in the reception room in the night and called to say "someone left a bag for you." Now I'll have to give him a name - pretty hard for a pink fish with a humpback and big bulging eyes. Give me your suggestions!
Last night when I was already in bed, the sisters form the kitchen called to say there's a plastic bag "outside" with my name written. I didn't have a clue where "outside" meant - could be the monastery, the courtyard, the school, the church ... so I quickly dressed and when searching. After 10 cold minutes out in the courtyard (remember the mummy?) I finally found the plastic bag on the table of the reception room. It was a fish in there - don't know what type it is: pretty weird looking with a funny bulged head and pinkish. It's quite popular here in local aquariums. But it was dying as there was no oxygen in the bag....floating tummy-up. So I rushed upstairs with it, filled up my empty fish-tank (tiny thing about 4 inches by 8 inches) and put it in. And it starting breathing again and swimming. I've been thinking who could possibly have given this fish to me - at 9.30pm too! Then I figured ... Mr. Fish (my black Siamese Fighting fish) died last week and everyone was asking after it (You can't possibly believe how many people know about Mr Fish - besides the students and profs. here, some of whom have become quite attached to him; the workers also know him - they help collect mosquito larvae to feed him - in fact the kids of our receptionist call me "Abu Zanaiba" meaning "larva" or literally "father of the mosquito"; and even the shopkeepers along the street know about Mr Fish and ask how he is. Jerusalem is small - there are no secrets here!). So anyway I think it was the sisters in the kitchen who bought him for me as they knew Mr. Fish died; but they wanted to remain anonymous so they put it in the reception room in the night and called to say "someone left a bag for you." Now I'll have to give him a name - pretty hard for a pink fish with a humpback and big bulging eyes. Give me your suggestions!
Sunday, March 15, 2009
Poor Clares, poor me!
Apparently I'm not the only one who feesl tired. ALmost everyone else I spoke with felt the same. They say it's the weather. It's grey, wet and switches between warm and cold. Makes the bones ache and the body tired. I was so exhausted I fell asleep at 2.45pm into a deep deep sleep. Kept telling myself I have a meeting at 3.30pm and need to get up but simply couldn't - it's like being trapped in a dead body. Well I was feeling so lethargic I sleep into the night and was late again for the midnight vigil at the Holy Sepulchre. Gotta make it this Saturday.
And I ended my week being hebdom - a whole series of mistakes that kept everyone entertained during Mass for the week. I was wondering why everyone was making an effort to come for morning Mass - now I know! Sigh! Today Sunday I begin my turn going to the Sisters of Ivrea convent for Mass. Now they have Mass pretty early - 6am, which means I have to start walking to the convent at 5.30am. It's situated deep in East Jerusalem and walking in summer is nice; but in wet, cold winter .... hmmmm takes alot of effort. But the thing is now we have to also celebrate Sunday Mass at the Poor Clare Monastery in Talpiot. Now that's quiet a distance - over 3 km. And I went there this morning to say the Mass. Scared me to bits - because another convent of sisters next door - the Sisters of St. Dorothy (where do all these nuns come from?) also came for the Mass plus over 10 lay people. The Poor Clare nuns (they're cloistered behind the grill) were giggling because of the tonnes of mistakes I made (I was soooooo nervous). Now I'm so traumatised. Got to sleep this one off.
And I ended my week being hebdom - a whole series of mistakes that kept everyone entertained during Mass for the week. I was wondering why everyone was making an effort to come for morning Mass - now I know! Sigh! Today Sunday I begin my turn going to the Sisters of Ivrea convent for Mass. Now they have Mass pretty early - 6am, which means I have to start walking to the convent at 5.30am. It's situated deep in East Jerusalem and walking in summer is nice; but in wet, cold winter .... hmmmm takes alot of effort. But the thing is now we have to also celebrate Sunday Mass at the Poor Clare Monastery in Talpiot. Now that's quiet a distance - over 3 km. And I went there this morning to say the Mass. Scared me to bits - because another convent of sisters next door - the Sisters of St. Dorothy (where do all these nuns come from?) also came for the Mass plus over 10 lay people. The Poor Clare nuns (they're cloistered behind the grill) were giggling because of the tonnes of mistakes I made (I was soooooo nervous). Now I'm so traumatised. Got to sleep this one off.
Friday, March 13, 2009
Friday 13th
Not easy working with my 2nd infected computer. Sometimes it opens files, sometimes it stops opening anything. The 1st one hasn't returned home yet. Everyone here, and everyone, is trying to convince me to get a Mac computer instead. They say it's pretty resistant to viruses.
Two mornings ago I opened my window at 5am and saw this splendid sky - still dark - but with a few streaks of fiery red clouds just above the Dome of the Rock which faces my window. And there was another fiery red cloud above them, rising at an angle. I immediately thought of the fiery cloud that led the israelites in the Exodus. Snapped a photo for you to see.
This afternoon I made the Way of the Cross. It was very crowded. Some Stations are simply too narrow to accomodate such crowds so changes had to be made. The 7th and 8th Stations were made at the same place, and the 9th Station was made at the Lutheran Church entrance instead of the Coptic Church on the roof of the Holy Sepulchre.
And today is Friday - fasting. Told you before we fast two days a week in Lent - Wednesdays and Fridays. I didn't go down for lunch - it's lentil soup. But tonight for dinner I'll go down. Pretty hungry after a full day's fast. I had half a cup of coffee for breakfast and then at 10am I had a piece of shrek - the floppy paper-thin bread. Got a photo for you to see too. It's a foot across in diameter but very light. See it flop over my table/chair in the photo.
Anyway for those who still don't know: the online course for Lent is available - it's free and you'll study the Passion of Christ according to the 4 Gospels. Just write to dsbiblecentre@gmail.com
And those who missed out on the Paul of Tarsus course, it's back again this Monday. Write to the same address.
Two mornings ago I opened my window at 5am and saw this splendid sky - still dark - but with a few streaks of fiery red clouds just above the Dome of the Rock which faces my window. And there was another fiery red cloud above them, rising at an angle. I immediately thought of the fiery cloud that led the israelites in the Exodus. Snapped a photo for you to see.
This afternoon I made the Way of the Cross. It was very crowded. Some Stations are simply too narrow to accomodate such crowds so changes had to be made. The 7th and 8th Stations were made at the same place, and the 9th Station was made at the Lutheran Church entrance instead of the Coptic Church on the roof of the Holy Sepulchre.
And today is Friday - fasting. Told you before we fast two days a week in Lent - Wednesdays and Fridays. I didn't go down for lunch - it's lentil soup. But tonight for dinner I'll go down. Pretty hungry after a full day's fast. I had half a cup of coffee for breakfast and then at 10am I had a piece of shrek - the floppy paper-thin bread. Got a photo for you to see too. It's a foot across in diameter but very light. See it flop over my table/chair in the photo.
Anyway for those who still don't know: the online course for Lent is available - it's free and you'll study the Passion of Christ according to the 4 Gospels. Just write to dsbiblecentre@gmail.com
And those who missed out on the Paul of Tarsus course, it's back again this Monday. Write to the same address.
Thursday, March 12, 2009
Purim
Spent 4 hours yesterday afternoon with our computer engineer Shoukri to resolve the virus problem. I bought an anti-virus programme and we installed it into the two computers but it couldn't kill the bug. So now Shoukri has brought one computer back to the office to erase everything and reinstall the system. Hope I don't lose my thesis in the process - well definitely 10 pages at least will be lost.
Summer weather has definitely come - very hot and dry. But the nights are still cool, requiring a woolen vest at least.
And yesterday was Purim. They commemorate the triumph of Queen Esther over Haman the persecutor of the Jews. It's almost like Halloween - the kids dress up in costumes and people celebrating in the streets. Of course security was high - soldiers everywhere.
Summer weather has definitely come - very hot and dry. But the nights are still cool, requiring a woolen vest at least.
And yesterday was Purim. They commemorate the triumph of Queen Esther over Haman the persecutor of the Jews. It's almost like Halloween - the kids dress up in costumes and people celebrating in the streets. Of course security was high - soldiers everywhere.
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
Romani Wa'il Mahrus
DOB: 19 September 2007 – Cairo
Sponsors: Benefactors from Hong Kong / Singapore
History: Romani is too young to judge his behaviour. For the most part, he is a tranquil baby. He is the younger brother of Mahrus (see below). The details are as the same as Mahrus.
Sponsors: Benefactors from Hong Kong / Singapore
History: Romani is too young to judge his behaviour. For the most part, he is a tranquil baby. He is the younger brother of Mahrus (see below). The details are as the same as Mahrus.
Mahrus Wa'il Mahrus
DOB: 26 January 2004 - Cairo
Class: not schooling
Sponsors: Benefactors from Hong Kong / Singapore
History: Mahrus is an affable and tranquil boy. His parents are both young - 28 yrs and 25 yrs old. Mahrus has a younger brother, Romani who is 15 months old. His father Mr Wa'il Mahrus, repairs car wheels. He cannot do any heavier work than this because he broke a leg in a car accident. The leg is held in place with 6 screws. The mother, Mrs Samah, has asked the parish for help but was unsuccessful, so she turned to the Franciscan Monastery for help. Mrs Samah herself has a widowed mother whom she cannot afford to help. This mother of Mrs Samah has been helped on several occassions by the Franciscans to have some surgical operations done. Nermine, the sister of Mrs Samah takes care of Mahrus in the sense that she goes out to look for help to make sure he has the basic necessities. Last month, the Franciscan Monastery gave her some work in order for her to earn something for her family and Mahrus' family to have a little more dignity in life. The Monastery helps 16 people by giving fulltime jobs and another 4 or 5 with parttime jobs. These jobs are practically useless, except that it serves as a means to help the most needy. Almost all these workers eat at least one meal a day in the Monastery, having none of their own at home. It is difficult for the Monastery to do anymore, as the list of needy is very long. Fr Vincenzo informed me that he will soon buy a pair of sandals for Mahrus with your donation, as Mahrus has nothing but a pair of slippers to wear.
Class: not schooling
Sponsors: Benefactors from Hong Kong / Singapore
History: Mahrus is an affable and tranquil boy. His parents are both young - 28 yrs and 25 yrs old. Mahrus has a younger brother, Romani who is 15 months old. His father Mr Wa'il Mahrus, repairs car wheels. He cannot do any heavier work than this because he broke a leg in a car accident. The leg is held in place with 6 screws. The mother, Mrs Samah, has asked the parish for help but was unsuccessful, so she turned to the Franciscan Monastery for help. Mrs Samah herself has a widowed mother whom she cannot afford to help. This mother of Mrs Samah has been helped on several occassions by the Franciscans to have some surgical operations done. Nermine, the sister of Mrs Samah takes care of Mahrus in the sense that she goes out to look for help to make sure he has the basic necessities. Last month, the Franciscan Monastery gave her some work in order for her to earn something for her family and Mahrus' family to have a little more dignity in life. The Monastery helps 16 people by giving fulltime jobs and another 4 or 5 with parttime jobs. These jobs are practically useless, except that it serves as a means to help the most needy. Almost all these workers eat at least one meal a day in the Monastery, having none of their own at home. It is difficult for the Monastery to do anymore, as the list of needy is very long. Fr Vincenzo informed me that he will soon buy a pair of sandals for Mahrus with your donation, as Mahrus has nothing but a pair of slippers to wear.
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
Marina Farag Mina
DOB: 21 April 1996 - Cairo
Class: Primary 6 (2008-2009)
Sponsors: Benefactors of Hong Kong / Singapore
History: A normal little girl, sometimes depressed. Attends school at the Sisters of St. Vincent de Paul in Abbassiya. Sometimes she attends catechism on Friday with her companions, and also for evening Mass. Her health is normal, but is a little thin for her age. She suffers from tonsilitis and anaemia. Last year while playing ball, she suffered a wound on her right leg that has not healed. Mr. Farag worked at his brother's goldsmith shop. After the brother died, the family inherited the goldsmith's. Unfortunately 8 years ago, Mr Farag fell in love with a muslim woman and went to live with her, abandoning his family. He has never contacted his family. Mrs Teresa Farag, the mother, worked as a housemaid in several homes but due to health problems, she has stopped working. Mikel the brother of Marina used to attend an institute of informatics, but now works in a company that produces carton boxes. The work is not sufficient to sustain the family. The sister Dina left secondary school and is without a job. They live in one room which serves as everything including kitchen. The only furniture they have is one bed and three chairs.
Consider how blest you are, and consider sharing this blessing with others like Marina!
Class: Primary 6 (2008-2009)
Sponsors: Benefactors of Hong Kong / Singapore
History: A normal little girl, sometimes depressed. Attends school at the Sisters of St. Vincent de Paul in Abbassiya. Sometimes she attends catechism on Friday with her companions, and also for evening Mass. Her health is normal, but is a little thin for her age. She suffers from tonsilitis and anaemia. Last year while playing ball, she suffered a wound on her right leg that has not healed. Mr. Farag worked at his brother's goldsmith shop. After the brother died, the family inherited the goldsmith's. Unfortunately 8 years ago, Mr Farag fell in love with a muslim woman and went to live with her, abandoning his family. He has never contacted his family. Mrs Teresa Farag, the mother, worked as a housemaid in several homes but due to health problems, she has stopped working. Mikel the brother of Marina used to attend an institute of informatics, but now works in a company that produces carton boxes. The work is not sufficient to sustain the family. The sister Dina left secondary school and is without a job. They live in one room which serves as everything including kitchen. The only furniture they have is one bed and three chairs.
Consider how blest you are, and consider sharing this blessing with others like Marina!
Maryam Safwat Somhi
DOB: 9 November 1999 - Cairo
Class: Primary 4 (2008-2009)
Sponsors: Benefactors of Hong Kong / Singapore
History: Maryam is a gentle and sweet girl, pious and adoring at Mass. She is the 3rd and youngest child, the only girl in the family. She has two brothers: Waghih (14 yrs) and Philip (15 yrs). The family is Coptic Catholic originally from Darb el-Guenena . Mr. Safwat is 52 yrs. old. He used to live well, but 7 years ago he denounced the company he was working in of cheating. The company took revenge by accusing him of many things, which led to a fierce backlash of religious discriminaiton against Christians, and he was eventually sacked. He appealed to the Court but lost the case. Now he lives on occasional work which is insufficient to sustain his family. Keeping the children in school requires a constant budget that he hasn't. As is the usual case, these children can only attend night-school and payment is made to the individual teachers. Often the family of Maryam had to resort to borrowing or aid from benefactors. The mother used to work as a baby-sitter, but has since no job when the family left (Cairo). The nearby Coptic Orthodox Church used to help them occassionally but when it was discovered that they were Catholics, the Church abandoned them. The apartment in which they live is in a miserable state. For this reason, they cannot welcome anyone into their house.
Will you not answer the cries of the poor and needy?
Class: Primary 4 (2008-2009)
Sponsors: Benefactors of Hong Kong / Singapore
History: Maryam is a gentle and sweet girl, pious and adoring at Mass. She is the 3rd and youngest child, the only girl in the family. She has two brothers: Waghih (14 yrs) and Philip (15 yrs). The family is Coptic Catholic originally from Darb el-Guenena . Mr. Safwat is 52 yrs. old. He used to live well, but 7 years ago he denounced the company he was working in of cheating. The company took revenge by accusing him of many things, which led to a fierce backlash of religious discriminaiton against Christians, and he was eventually sacked. He appealed to the Court but lost the case. Now he lives on occasional work which is insufficient to sustain his family. Keeping the children in school requires a constant budget that he hasn't. As is the usual case, these children can only attend night-school and payment is made to the individual teachers. Often the family of Maryam had to resort to borrowing or aid from benefactors. The mother used to work as a baby-sitter, but has since no job when the family left (Cairo). The nearby Coptic Orthodox Church used to help them occassionally but when it was discovered that they were Catholics, the Church abandoned them. The apartment in which they live is in a miserable state. For this reason, they cannot welcome anyone into their house.
Will you not answer the cries of the poor and needy?
Monday, March 9, 2009
Aaaaaaaaahhhhhh
Now my second computer is down. All the default settings are messed up and the wireless programme is gone. I've still got my 3rd computer (see? people were saying I'm overcautious in having so many computers but if you're as computer-illiterate as I am, the only hope is to have another computer on standby for emergencies). I just don't know how to deal with these technical viral issues. All I want is to work but I'm scared if I transfer the file to this 3rd computer, it may carry the virus over as well. This 3rd computer is my stone-age version that I used back in 2000. But it's coming in handy now. This is a nightmare. I think it's safer now for me to write my thesis by hand first, then type it in when the computer is repaired (if ever ... remember we're in the ME and time stretches forever. Remember my bed incident? 1 week = 4 months).
The streets in the Old City - actually the Muslim Quarter where I live - was packed. It's the Prophet Mohammed's birthday I think, and everyone was out for the festival. I got stuck in the human jam when the muslim scouts came marching down the narrow Suq of Damascus Gate. I was on my way to the Missionaries of Charity. An hour later on the way back I was faced with a human tide just out from the mosque - I was going against the current to get back home. I couldn't go forward nor back to the Sisters. It was sheer panic. But nothing like the panic of having TWO computers downed!!!! I'm going to be the most roasted shwarma in Jerusalem.
The streets in the Old City - actually the Muslim Quarter where I live - was packed. It's the Prophet Mohammed's birthday I think, and everyone was out for the festival. I got stuck in the human jam when the muslim scouts came marching down the narrow Suq of Damascus Gate. I was on my way to the Missionaries of Charity. An hour later on the way back I was faced with a human tide just out from the mosque - I was going against the current to get back home. I couldn't go forward nor back to the Sisters. It was sheer panic. But nothing like the panic of having TWO computers downed!!!! I'm going to be the most roasted shwarma in Jerusalem.
Shwarma
OK the virus has totally killed my computer - can't link up to the Internet anymore although everything about the line is working. I'm using another computer now to upload this and it works fine on the same line. Now all my work is gone..... I have to start all over again. It's big time shwarma .... grilled, roasted, welldone. I'm a goner. And I've got only 4 weeks to hand over the paper!!!!!!! HELP!!!!!
Sunday, March 8, 2009
2nd Sunday of Lent
Yesterday was a very hot day - some 25 degrees. But inside the house, it still feels cold. It was also a muslim feast but I don't know which. The muezzin was singing early in the morning and there're lots of muslims in the streets - very festive.
The previous day - Friday - I made the Way of the Cross. Actually I was helping the filming crew to film it. That meant running up and down the streets to get the best shots. It was for the Custody of the Holyland and all the friars co-operated. It was good fun. But I hurt my ankle (the old problem with the left one) and should have stayed in bed that evening. But knowing me, I went to a catechism led by the neocatechumens at the Greek Catholic Cathedral. It was powerful preaching - fire and brimstone. And I did learn something for my spirituality. It's a good time - Lent - to hear these type of sermons.
Back to yesterday. Went to the new Curia building at St. Saviour's monastery to do something - then rushed off to the pharmacy where I owed US$100 because when I bought all that medicine for Gaza, I was short of money. Got home and had lunch. Then I had to discuss with the superior and Marco regarding the liturgy for the coming week because it's our turn to lead the prayers. Pressure was on to get me to preside at the 8am Sunday Mass (today) and preach the sermon. Must admit that that scares me very much and have been avoiding it for the entire year. Well, got cornered into it so spent the entire afternoon preparing for the sermon. Good thing Osvalda our library assistant was around to help correct my italian.
I wanted to go to the midnight prayers (Vigil) at the Holy Sepulchre but when I woke up, it was already 12am. Too late.
This morning at 8am I presided at the Mass. I managed to get Fr Paul Sun and Sister Miaria Jiang to come along - because I wanted them to sing a chinese hymn at Communion time. They did a good job. The concelebrants were few - about 10 in all (which was good. Can you imagine preaching to your professors?) But the laity filled the Flagellation chapel. There must have been some 15 to 20 people in all. I was cared stiff when I started preaching. But it was soon all over and I quickly rushed up to change my clothes because Fr Buscemi was going out for his usual Sunday walk and shopping along the way, and I needed to buy some medicine.
It was a good walk, covering some 5 km. I didn't get my medicine but I bought some potato pastries - a treat for doing a good job during Mass! And I bought 10 starfruit as well - good for lowering BP I hear. Now Israel is growing lots of asian fruit - including lychee, mangoes, papaya and I think rambutan.
Today It's the 2nd Sunday of Lent (for the Orthodox, it's the 1st Sunday). The Orthodox pilgrims will soon be flooding the Old City as they do every year. One thought from today's 2nd reading is how much God loves us. He didn't even spare his only Son in order to save us from ourselves - so much is his love. Are we ready to accept such love?
The previous day - Friday - I made the Way of the Cross. Actually I was helping the filming crew to film it. That meant running up and down the streets to get the best shots. It was for the Custody of the Holyland and all the friars co-operated. It was good fun. But I hurt my ankle (the old problem with the left one) and should have stayed in bed that evening. But knowing me, I went to a catechism led by the neocatechumens at the Greek Catholic Cathedral. It was powerful preaching - fire and brimstone. And I did learn something for my spirituality. It's a good time - Lent - to hear these type of sermons.
Back to yesterday. Went to the new Curia building at St. Saviour's monastery to do something - then rushed off to the pharmacy where I owed US$100 because when I bought all that medicine for Gaza, I was short of money. Got home and had lunch. Then I had to discuss with the superior and Marco regarding the liturgy for the coming week because it's our turn to lead the prayers. Pressure was on to get me to preside at the 8am Sunday Mass (today) and preach the sermon. Must admit that that scares me very much and have been avoiding it for the entire year. Well, got cornered into it so spent the entire afternoon preparing for the sermon. Good thing Osvalda our library assistant was around to help correct my italian.
I wanted to go to the midnight prayers (Vigil) at the Holy Sepulchre but when I woke up, it was already 12am. Too late.
This morning at 8am I presided at the Mass. I managed to get Fr Paul Sun and Sister Miaria Jiang to come along - because I wanted them to sing a chinese hymn at Communion time. They did a good job. The concelebrants were few - about 10 in all (which was good. Can you imagine preaching to your professors?) But the laity filled the Flagellation chapel. There must have been some 15 to 20 people in all. I was cared stiff when I started preaching. But it was soon all over and I quickly rushed up to change my clothes because Fr Buscemi was going out for his usual Sunday walk and shopping along the way, and I needed to buy some medicine.
It was a good walk, covering some 5 km. I didn't get my medicine but I bought some potato pastries - a treat for doing a good job during Mass! And I bought 10 starfruit as well - good for lowering BP I hear. Now Israel is growing lots of asian fruit - including lychee, mangoes, papaya and I think rambutan.
Today It's the 2nd Sunday of Lent (for the Orthodox, it's the 1st Sunday). The Orthodox pilgrims will soon be flooding the Old City as they do every year. One thought from today's 2nd reading is how much God loves us. He didn't even spare his only Son in order to save us from ourselves - so much is his love. Are we ready to accept such love?
Saturday, March 7, 2009
Ilaria Romani Nadi
Fr Vincenzo sends information about baby Ilaria, who is benefitting from your generosity and kindness.
DOB: 20 June 2008 - Cairo
Age: 8 months old
Sponsors: Benefactors from Hong Kong / Singapore
History: Ilaria's parents are Romani and Randa Nadi who married some two years ago. Romani the father, works as a labourer at a goldsmith's but now is out of a job. When he worked, he earned 500 Egyptian Pounds a month (US$89). In Egypt, one lives with minimum decency on at least 2000 Egyptian Pounds a month. Now with the economic crisis, many businesses have shut down just like the one Romani worked in. Ilaria and her family now live with either the parents of Romani or Randa until the crisis passes. Baby Ilaria and her mother suffer from a form of rheumatism and the economic situation is not making their medical needs possible. (Remember we bought milk powder for Ilaria so she's eating more nutritiously now)
Bring a little joy and hope to someone in need this Lent; sponsor a child in Musky.
DOB: 20 June 2008 - Cairo
Age: 8 months old
Sponsors: Benefactors from Hong Kong / Singapore
History: Ilaria's parents are Romani and Randa Nadi who married some two years ago. Romani the father, works as a labourer at a goldsmith's but now is out of a job. When he worked, he earned 500 Egyptian Pounds a month (US$89). In Egypt, one lives with minimum decency on at least 2000 Egyptian Pounds a month. Now with the economic crisis, many businesses have shut down just like the one Romani worked in. Ilaria and her family now live with either the parents of Romani or Randa until the crisis passes. Baby Ilaria and her mother suffer from a form of rheumatism and the economic situation is not making their medical needs possible. (Remember we bought milk powder for Ilaria so she's eating more nutritiously now)
Bring a little joy and hope to someone in need this Lent; sponsor a child in Musky.
Friday, March 6, 2009
Habiba Halim Halim
From Musky, your adoptee Habiba
DOB: 21 February 2001 – Cairo
Class: Primary 3 (2008-2009)
Sponsors: Benefactors from Hong Kong / Singapore
History: Habiba has a sister, Rahil who is 5 yrs old. She suffers from various ailments. (This has probably stunted her growth as you can see from the photo.) See below for the background of her family.
Do something beautiful this Lent, sponsor a child in Musky (Cairo)
DOB: 21 February 2001 – Cairo
Class: Primary 3 (2008-2009)
Sponsors: Benefactors from Hong Kong / Singapore
History: Habiba has a sister, Rahil who is 5 yrs old. She suffers from various ailments. (This has probably stunted her growth as you can see from the photo.) See below for the background of her family.
Do something beautiful this Lent, sponsor a child in Musky (Cairo)
Rahil Halim Halim
Another beneficiary of your kindness, Rahil from Musky.
DOB: 26 October 2003 – Cairo
Class: Kindergarten (2008-2009)
Sponsors: benefactors from Hong Kong / Singapore
History: Rahil has a sister, Habibah who is 9 yrs. old. The family originally came from Tahta in Upper Egypt but moved to Cairo since some time now. Unlike most of our adoptees , this family has an apartment with 3 rooms but it is not in a good state of repair. With the death of their father at age 39 from a tumour, they have difficulty keeping this apartment. Besides having to pay for the monthly rent, they must also pay the "caparra" to the landlord in order to enter the apartment. The mother has no job. The family lives only from the pension of their deceased father, which is 120 Egyptian Pounds and another 65 Egyptian Pounds from the Coptic Parish. In total, it comes to US$33 a month. The little girl Rahil suffers from fainting spells that has now affected her sense of balance.
Do something beautiful this Lent, sponsor a child in Musky (Cairo)
DOB: 26 October 2003 – Cairo
Class: Kindergarten (2008-2009)
Sponsors: benefactors from Hong Kong / Singapore
History: Rahil has a sister, Habibah who is 9 yrs. old. The family originally came from Tahta in Upper Egypt but moved to Cairo since some time now. Unlike most of our adoptees , this family has an apartment with 3 rooms but it is not in a good state of repair. With the death of their father at age 39 from a tumour, they have difficulty keeping this apartment. Besides having to pay for the monthly rent, they must also pay the "caparra" to the landlord in order to enter the apartment. The mother has no job. The family lives only from the pension of their deceased father, which is 120 Egyptian Pounds and another 65 Egyptian Pounds from the Coptic Parish. In total, it comes to US$33 a month. The little girl Rahil suffers from fainting spells that has now affected her sense of balance.
Do something beautiful this Lent, sponsor a child in Musky (Cairo)
Thursday, March 5, 2009
Terror attack
Just a few hours ago a terror attack in Jerusalem - http://www.jpost.com/servlet/Satellite?cid=1236246868064&pagename=JPost%2FJPArticle%2FShowFull it's the same tactic used twice before in July last year: a bulldozer
Good news for asthma
Good news for severe asthma sufferers like me who have to use prednisone with terrible side effects. http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/health/7922986.stm
Your adoptee
Fr Vincenzo has sent me this information regarding one of the children in Musky whom you are sponsoring.
Name: Raimond Fu'ad Fayez
Age: 9 yrs old
Class: Primary 3 (2008-2009)
Sponsors: Benefactors from Hong Kong/Singapore
History: Raimond suffers from a form of allergy that makes him lose his appetite. His parents work to make a living. They have no other income and the salary does not meet up with the cost of living, nor for basic necessities. His father Mr Fayez suffers from kidney problems. The cost of medicine has risen. Often Mr Fayez has to help his own mother who is ill. Mrs Fayez had an operation on the throat as a result of some allergy several years back. The family lives in a shack built on the roof of a building, like most inhabitants of Cairo. This shack does not protect them from the cold nor rain. They cannot afford to pay rent for a proper apartment.
Name: Raimond Fu'ad Fayez
Age: 9 yrs old
Class: Primary 3 (2008-2009)
Sponsors: Benefactors from Hong Kong/Singapore
History: Raimond suffers from a form of allergy that makes him lose his appetite. His parents work to make a living. They have no other income and the salary does not meet up with the cost of living, nor for basic necessities. His father Mr Fayez suffers from kidney problems. The cost of medicine has risen. Often Mr Fayez has to help his own mother who is ill. Mrs Fayez had an operation on the throat as a result of some allergy several years back. The family lives in a shack built on the roof of a building, like most inhabitants of Cairo. This shack does not protect them from the cold nor rain. They cannot afford to pay rent for a proper apartment.
Wednesday, March 4, 2009
Shrek
The weather did a 180 degree turn and it's very sunny today with very few clouds. But it's still cold. This afternoon I was back at the pharmacies to buy more medicine and dettol and valium (finally got it, but only one box). The kids are totally traumatised in Gaza. http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/middle_east/7921416.stm God have mercy.
Last Monday when I was buying medicine at the pharmacy, an american couple (tourists) came in to buy Alka-seltzer. They were surprised to see me buy so much medicine and asked where it was for. When I said Gaza, they were very touched and offered some money to pay for the medicine. Goes to show there're still people who care, like you.
Meanwhile I had chicken sandwich - local style of course. I gathered the leftover chicken (to save them from being thrown away) from last Sunday's lunch and removed the meat. Wrapped them up in "shrek" (not the cartoon ogre! It's a large unleaven bread about one foot in diameter, very fine about only 2mm thick) which the Missionaries of Charity gave me; added wasabe salad dressing (really good stuff) and ate one for brunch and another for tea. It was good. Didn't have lunch though. Today lentil soup was served. I ate instead 4 brussels sprouts for lunch with plain water.
And it's back to more studies. Today I thought discourse analysis would be an interesting twist in my research. So have been reading up on it today.
Last Monday when I was buying medicine at the pharmacy, an american couple (tourists) came in to buy Alka-seltzer. They were surprised to see me buy so much medicine and asked where it was for. When I said Gaza, they were very touched and offered some money to pay for the medicine. Goes to show there're still people who care, like you.
Meanwhile I had chicken sandwich - local style of course. I gathered the leftover chicken (to save them from being thrown away) from last Sunday's lunch and removed the meat. Wrapped them up in "shrek" (not the cartoon ogre! It's a large unleaven bread about one foot in diameter, very fine about only 2mm thick) which the Missionaries of Charity gave me; added wasabe salad dressing (really good stuff) and ate one for brunch and another for tea. It was good. Didn't have lunch though. Today lentil soup was served. I ate instead 4 brussels sprouts for lunch with plain water.
And it's back to more studies. Today I thought discourse analysis would be an interesting twist in my research. So have been reading up on it today.
Monday, March 2, 2009
Wet Monday
The weather remains gloomy. The sky is overcast and a constant drizzle carpets Jerusalem. It's like it's going to storm, but it never really gets there. A bit frustrating.
I was out this morning to buy medicine for the Missionaries of Charity - got loads of stuff but had to walk back home (almost 1 km) with 5 heavy bags. Finally I couldn't go on, so I telephoned the sisters to wait for me at the 3rd Station so they can bring the medicine directly to their convent and later into Gaza, without me lugging them through the Way of the Cross back home and then back to their convent later in the day. (I bet when you guys make the Way of the Cross each Friday in your clean churches and well-organised liturgy, you never realise the crowds that actually walk up and down the real Way of the Cross here in Jerusalem, doing business; the grime in the streets, the shouts, the jostling, the Israeli soldiers standing around with their guns, the arab kids playing and eating, everyone spitting, and people like me carrying heavy stuff home). I was exhausted when I got home. Spent 2000 shekels (almost US$650) getting the urgent supplies. Still have to go back to get more tomorrow morning. They need simple things like antibiotics, paracetemol, cough syrup, baby powder and lots of valium (which I can't get) as the people in Gaza are breaking down under pressure. Oh, and lots of dettol as well. I also really want to get water-purification pills but I can't find them. Anyway this good deed was made possible through your kind generosity. We'll be praying for you.
A heart-warming news article for Lent. http://edition.cnn.com/2009/WORLD/asiapcf/03/02/china.disabled/index.html?iref=mpstoryview If only we all could do something to make life better for others.
I was out this morning to buy medicine for the Missionaries of Charity - got loads of stuff but had to walk back home (almost 1 km) with 5 heavy bags. Finally I couldn't go on, so I telephoned the sisters to wait for me at the 3rd Station so they can bring the medicine directly to their convent and later into Gaza, without me lugging them through the Way of the Cross back home and then back to their convent later in the day. (I bet when you guys make the Way of the Cross each Friday in your clean churches and well-organised liturgy, you never realise the crowds that actually walk up and down the real Way of the Cross here in Jerusalem, doing business; the grime in the streets, the shouts, the jostling, the Israeli soldiers standing around with their guns, the arab kids playing and eating, everyone spitting, and people like me carrying heavy stuff home). I was exhausted when I got home. Spent 2000 shekels (almost US$650) getting the urgent supplies. Still have to go back to get more tomorrow morning. They need simple things like antibiotics, paracetemol, cough syrup, baby powder and lots of valium (which I can't get) as the people in Gaza are breaking down under pressure. Oh, and lots of dettol as well. I also really want to get water-purification pills but I can't find them. Anyway this good deed was made possible through your kind generosity. We'll be praying for you.
A heart-warming news article for Lent. http://edition.cnn.com/2009/WORLD/asiapcf/03/02/china.disabled/index.html?iref=mpstoryview If only we all could do something to make life better for others.
Sunday, March 1, 2009
1st Sunday of Lent
Somehow I was totally exhausted yesterday - probably for not sleeping after I accompanied Ephrem to New Gate in the stormy night. The professors were saying my eyes were extra small because I was too tired and should go to sleep, which I did - the whole afternoon.
Woke up at 5pm to prepare for Vespers and Lectio Divina by prof. Sabino Chiala, a monk from the Bose community who's an expert in ancient Syriac writings. gave a very good commentary on the Sunday readings. But the church was so cold - even our Slavic Fr. Tomislav who's used to the cold said it was extraodinarily cold yesterday.
The Lenten schedule of liturgies is underway. That means 1.30pm Saturday there's the solemn procession of friars inside the Holy Sepulchre; then at midnight they sing vigils and proclaim the resurrection of Christ. This goes on for every Saturday of Lent. It was too cold, rainy and I was too tired to go last night. So maybe next Saturday.
Today I'm cleaning my room. The sky is threateningly dark and the storm will likely break in an hour's time. So cleaning my room sounds like the best idea.
Woke up at 5pm to prepare for Vespers and Lectio Divina by prof. Sabino Chiala, a monk from the Bose community who's an expert in ancient Syriac writings. gave a very good commentary on the Sunday readings. But the church was so cold - even our Slavic Fr. Tomislav who's used to the cold said it was extraodinarily cold yesterday.
The Lenten schedule of liturgies is underway. That means 1.30pm Saturday there's the solemn procession of friars inside the Holy Sepulchre; then at midnight they sing vigils and proclaim the resurrection of Christ. This goes on for every Saturday of Lent. It was too cold, rainy and I was too tired to go last night. So maybe next Saturday.
Today I'm cleaning my room. The sky is threateningly dark and the storm will likely break in an hour's time. So cleaning my room sounds like the best idea.
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