Latest on the riots. Our street is now sealed off both from the east (Lions' gate) and the west (3rd Station of the Cross). It's eerily empty. All shops closed. And the rain is beating down hard.
http://www.jpost.com/Israel/Article.aspx?id=169829
http://www.haaretz.com/hasen/spages/1152809.html
Sunday, February 28, 2010
Riots
There was violence and rioting between muslims and Israeli soldiers this morning in front of our door. shots were fired.
The problem started when several muslim youths refused to leave the Golden Dome mosque in protest against Israel's proclamation to take over of the Patriarchs' tombs in Palestinian land. This morning the youths threw stones at visitors to the mosque. Soldiers entered the mosque and the imam began screaming through the PA system (believe me, it was really loud) on the minarets for muslims to gather and fight. Then chaos took over. All gates to the mosque (one in front of our house) were closed by the soldiers; in fact even the City Gates were immediately closed to anyone entering. Muslims began throwing rocks in the streets especially in front of our house, soldiers fired their weapons, scuffles, arrests. We had to close our monastery doors. The "Antonia Gate" or Ecce Homo Arch is directly next to our monastery doors.
Just now I went out to have a look. Soldiers and muslims of all ages are in confrontation at our door angle, and much more between the 3rd Station and the 5th Station.
There's going to be more trouble. It's much more serious than what the news reports.
http://www.jpost.com/Israel/Article.aspx?id=169829
http://www.haaretz.com/hasen/spages/1152809.html
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/middle_east/8541428.stm
http://www.israelnationalnews.com/News/News.aspx/136232
The problem started when several muslim youths refused to leave the Golden Dome mosque in protest against Israel's proclamation to take over of the Patriarchs' tombs in Palestinian land. This morning the youths threw stones at visitors to the mosque. Soldiers entered the mosque and the imam began screaming through the PA system (believe me, it was really loud) on the minarets for muslims to gather and fight. Then chaos took over. All gates to the mosque (one in front of our house) were closed by the soldiers; in fact even the City Gates were immediately closed to anyone entering. Muslims began throwing rocks in the streets especially in front of our house, soldiers fired their weapons, scuffles, arrests. We had to close our monastery doors. The "Antonia Gate" or Ecce Homo Arch is directly next to our monastery doors.
Just now I went out to have a look. Soldiers and muslims of all ages are in confrontation at our door angle, and much more between the 3rd Station and the 5th Station.
There's going to be more trouble. It's much more serious than what the news reports.
http://www.jpost.com/Israel/Article.aspx?id=169829
http://www.haaretz.com/hasen/spages/1152809.html
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/middle_east/8541428.stm
http://www.israelnationalnews.com/News/News.aspx/136232
Earthquake chart
CNN has come up with the top 10 earthquakes - the biggest and the deadliest. Very interesting because you'll note that the biggest earthquakes (over 8.0 on the Richter scale) are not the deadliest. And the deadliest (except for Sumatra 9.1 on the scale) are those ranging in 7.4 average on the scale; and it runs along a straight horizontal line from Japan to Italy. Hhhmmmmmm Israel is just below this line.....
http://edition.cnn.com/2010/WORLD/americas/02/27/top10.earthquakes.chile/index.html
http://edition.cnn.com/2010/WORLD/americas/02/27/top10.earthquakes.chile/index.html
Vigils
It's 1.35am. I just got back from Vigils at the Holy Sepulchre. It was so crowded. Vigils consist of a hymn, 3 psalms, 2 canticles, 2 long readings (from the Bible and one of the Fathers of the Church), then the Benedictus with procession around the Tomb of Christ singing "The Angel rolled the stone ...", then intercessions, the proclamation of the Gospel of Christ's resurrection and final blessing.
It was good to be there, even though many of us were tired after a day's work. Vigils started at 11.40pm the night before. As I seldom go out nowadays, I seldom see many of the friars from St. Saviour's. During Vigils I got to see many of them. It was so good to be among brothers. We're so international here - from over 30 countries. And the fraternity and camaraderie are always so good. It made me very happy. I was particularly happy because I made an unusual request to go up the gallery of the Basilica during the procession to film this unique event (you'll get to see it on Eternal Light webcast) and the superior of the Holy Sepulchre, the Custodial Secretary and the Head of Status Quo all made arrangements for it to be possible. That meant getting the agreement of the Greek Orthodox and the Armenian Orthodox as well. And the gallery is off limits. So to be able to be up there and film the procession was really unique, and the friars were very kind in helping arrange for this.
I prayed for you all. And also stopped at the foot of Mt Calvary to say a prayer for you.
From our monastery, only me and the superior went to Vigils - and our two sisters from the kitchen. As going home is dangerous in our neighbourhood, we decided to walk back together. The rain had stopped and the ground was pretty wet and slippery. And it was cold.
I don;t feel sleepy now, but awfully hungry. I think I'll stay up and do some reading and praying till Mass at 6.30am. Most of the people who went for Vigils attend Mass immediately on Mt Calvary and remain to pray till 6am. Now that's a real vigil!
It was good to be there, even though many of us were tired after a day's work. Vigils started at 11.40pm the night before. As I seldom go out nowadays, I seldom see many of the friars from St. Saviour's. During Vigils I got to see many of them. It was so good to be among brothers. We're so international here - from over 30 countries. And the fraternity and camaraderie are always so good. It made me very happy. I was particularly happy because I made an unusual request to go up the gallery of the Basilica during the procession to film this unique event (you'll get to see it on Eternal Light webcast) and the superior of the Holy Sepulchre, the Custodial Secretary and the Head of Status Quo all made arrangements for it to be possible. That meant getting the agreement of the Greek Orthodox and the Armenian Orthodox as well. And the gallery is off limits. So to be able to be up there and film the procession was really unique, and the friars were very kind in helping arrange for this.
I prayed for you all. And also stopped at the foot of Mt Calvary to say a prayer for you.
From our monastery, only me and the superior went to Vigils - and our two sisters from the kitchen. As going home is dangerous in our neighbourhood, we decided to walk back together. The rain had stopped and the ground was pretty wet and slippery. And it was cold.
I don;t feel sleepy now, but awfully hungry. I think I'll stay up and do some reading and praying till Mass at 6.30am. Most of the people who went for Vigils attend Mass immediately on Mt Calvary and remain to pray till 6am. Now that's a real vigil!
Saturday, February 27, 2010
Sick
The rainstorm turned to drizzle and occassional stormy showers. And the wind was still blowing - cold as ever. The canaries are miserable.
Yesterday I went off to sleep very early - at 5pm. I had a dreadful headache, and nausea and aching bones. I might have caught something from someone. But as my luck would go, phone rang, people knocking on my door ..... aahhhh penance for Friday. I felt pretty sick today too. But I continued to try writing my paper. The computer just won't move ... opened my file and the computer just hanged. I switched it on and off almost 10 times before I gave up. It's practically impossible to work on my thesis with this problem. It's slowing me down alot.
The earthquake in Chile is aweful ... just a month after the Haiti earthquake. It's a chain-reaction. And Israel's going to get one too. I briefed our collaborators in case of an earthquake, and each one has to prepare a survival bag. Scary thought but better safe than sorry.
Tonight I'll go to the Vigil service at midnight. Will be praying for you.
Yesterday I went off to sleep very early - at 5pm. I had a dreadful headache, and nausea and aching bones. I might have caught something from someone. But as my luck would go, phone rang, people knocking on my door ..... aahhhh penance for Friday. I felt pretty sick today too. But I continued to try writing my paper. The computer just won't move ... opened my file and the computer just hanged. I switched it on and off almost 10 times before I gave up. It's practically impossible to work on my thesis with this problem. It's slowing me down alot.
The earthquake in Chile is aweful ... just a month after the Haiti earthquake. It's a chain-reaction. And Israel's going to get one too. I briefed our collaborators in case of an earthquake, and each one has to prepare a survival bag. Scary thought but better safe than sorry.
Tonight I'll go to the Vigil service at midnight. Will be praying for you.
Friday, February 26, 2010
Storm
Last night till now there's been a furious storm battering Jerusalem. Yes we need the rain, but this type of storm has not been seen around here for the past 10 years. Extremely strong winds, cold; then endless rain and even hail. Thunder throughout the night and today. I'm sure the dry earth is finally being quenched right now.
Meantime I'm terribly stressed and exhausted from work. People around are reminding me to rest. They think I'm on the verge of a collapse. Maybe they're right. I feel like it too. I'm lucky I have a team of fantastic collaborators who do lots of great work.
Friday. Fasted the whole day till 5pm. Promised some of you I'd do it for your intentions. The storm forced the Way of the Cross to be cancelled.
The mosque down the road has been singing lamentations the past few days. It's because a muslim had died in his house (behind our monastery) but no one knew till 3 days later. Muslims must be buried within 24 hrs of death, and that incident was an abomination. So they're singing for the repose of his soul.
Now I'm off to rest. My body and mind just can't continue today.
Meantime I'm terribly stressed and exhausted from work. People around are reminding me to rest. They think I'm on the verge of a collapse. Maybe they're right. I feel like it too. I'm lucky I have a team of fantastic collaborators who do lots of great work.
Friday. Fasted the whole day till 5pm. Promised some of you I'd do it for your intentions. The storm forced the Way of the Cross to be cancelled.
The mosque down the road has been singing lamentations the past few days. It's because a muslim had died in his house (behind our monastery) but no one knew till 3 days later. Muslims must be buried within 24 hrs of death, and that incident was an abomination. So they're singing for the repose of his soul.
Now I'm off to rest. My body and mind just can't continue today.
Fr Jan Zan ofm R.I.P.
This morning during Mass we heard the announcement that Fr Jan Zan had died.
He was my schoolmate back in the early 90s here in Jerusalem. A quiet man who came from Slovakia, he was imprisoned many times by the communists for functioning as a priest. He was 56 years old when he died last night.
It's terribly sad, just 2 months after Fr Xavier, another classmate had died.
Rest in peace, Jan.
He was my schoolmate back in the early 90s here in Jerusalem. A quiet man who came from Slovakia, he was imprisoned many times by the communists for functioning as a priest. He was 56 years old when he died last night.
It's terribly sad, just 2 months after Fr Xavier, another classmate had died.
Rest in peace, Jan.
Thursday, February 25, 2010
Fasting
I forgot that during Lent we fast two days a week - wednesday and friday. Yesterday (Wednesday) I invited a friend over for lunch - Fr Erik Ruiz, a first year student who said he never saw our monastery at all. Imagine my embarrassment when all we had was plain water, pea soup and a small piece of fish each (small - I mean 3 inches by 2 inches). Erik was shocked to say the least - he stays in another hostel where they don't fast. Of course we laughed about it, and he said he had enough food just to fill the space between his teeth. He can be very sarcastic. But he's great fun all the same. Aaahhh I'll have to be careful when to invite people over.
The violence is bad here in Hebron and Bethlehem. The Israelis have declared two shrines (Tombs of the Patriarchs and Matriarchs) in Palestinian land to be National (Israeli) heritage monuments. That means the Israelis will takeover the land, all access roads, build road blocks and check-points in these areas so normal travel will be hindered. Palestinians have staged a strike and then outright violence in the streets in both cities. Here in the Old City there're lots of police everywhere. Yesterday afternoon, soldiers ran down our street ordering us to close our doors and gates. I'm afraid it'll get worse this weekend.
By the way, the weather turned 180 degrees today - it's blustering cold and raining.
Today's reading was from the Book of Esther. The unlikely heroine who had no courage, strength, authority or influence. Yet with a simple thing like beauty, she conquered her enemy. (Well she actually fasted for 3 days previously) So what's you deal? God has given you a little gift - don't overlook it - it may be the most obvious thing in your life. Use it for God's purpose. You can change the world! Esther did!
The violence is bad here in Hebron and Bethlehem. The Israelis have declared two shrines (Tombs of the Patriarchs and Matriarchs) in Palestinian land to be National (Israeli) heritage monuments. That means the Israelis will takeover the land, all access roads, build road blocks and check-points in these areas so normal travel will be hindered. Palestinians have staged a strike and then outright violence in the streets in both cities. Here in the Old City there're lots of police everywhere. Yesterday afternoon, soldiers ran down our street ordering us to close our doors and gates. I'm afraid it'll get worse this weekend.
By the way, the weather turned 180 degrees today - it's blustering cold and raining.
Today's reading was from the Book of Esther. The unlikely heroine who had no courage, strength, authority or influence. Yet with a simple thing like beauty, she conquered her enemy. (Well she actually fasted for 3 days previously) So what's you deal? God has given you a little gift - don't overlook it - it may be the most obvious thing in your life. Use it for God's purpose. You can change the world! Esther did!
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
Cold again
Yesterday was Sr. Vicenta's birthday. She won't tell her age though. She works in the kitchen and is good with most food ... but not ponshki. Hmmmmm we should get her to baking lessons. Old Sr Raimunda who left us a month ago is now feeling homesick for the Holyland ... she remembers the Way of the Cross here whenever she makes the devotion back in Poland and wishes she was back here. But Sr Veronica, the superior here, says Sr Raimunda actually misses me dancing in the kitchen.
The weather has gone all crazy. From 29 degrees, yesterday it fell to 8 degrees. A biting cold wind is blowing. And I was out working in another monastery all dressed in summer clothes. I couldn't go home because of the cold, so Fr Raffaele lent me his jacket. That sure kept me warm was I walked home 2 km.
Don't forget to make the Way of the Cross this Friday! You can join the friars in the Holyland walk the entire route via Internet at http://elwebcast.blogspot.com this Friday.
The weather has gone all crazy. From 29 degrees, yesterday it fell to 8 degrees. A biting cold wind is blowing. And I was out working in another monastery all dressed in summer clothes. I couldn't go home because of the cold, so Fr Raffaele lent me his jacket. That sure kept me warm was I walked home 2 km.
Don't forget to make the Way of the Cross this Friday! You can join the friars in the Holyland walk the entire route via Internet at http://elwebcast.blogspot.com this Friday.
Sunday, February 21, 2010
1st Sunday of Lent
Sorry but I didn't make it to the Vigils last night. I was working on a paper and when I looked at the watch, it was already midnight ... too late to get to the Holy Sepulchre on time. Will do so next Saturday. But I did pray for you all during Mass this morning.
Sunday mornings as usual - clean the birdcage, feed the canaries (a couple tried to escape). But didn't clean my room. Nor did I have time to watch my usual Sunday Christian movie. I wanted to finish that paper. At 9.15am Fr Buscemi and I went out for our usual Sunday walk (4 km). Purim is round the corner so we bought some festive jewish cookies ("Hamam's ears". Don't know who he is? Read the Book of Esther and see its connection to the feast of Purim) as a treat.
While working on my paper, a strange thing happened on my computer. A window opened to say my computer was infected with lots of viruses. But I noticed this warning came from Skype ... which is pretty strange for me. When it asked if I should erase the viruses, I clicked yes. Then another window popped up and asked me to buy a programme to erase the viruses. It asked for credit card details etc.... I was pretty suspicious but since I know nothing about computers and programmes, I decided to play safe and not go ahead with the purchase. Turned off my computer instead. I'm terrified of these things because I can't verify if it's true. And two computers have already been infected and spoilt. I had to leave them in the library for some people who do not have computers of their own, and they need to do some research for me. What a disaster!
Healthwise my asthma is under control. Have been taking medicine regularly but only now found out the meds are expired. Never mind. As long as it works, I'll take it. But I'm utterly exhausted from work. The back (slipped disc) is still hurting but not as acute. Feet still get swollen every morning.
Anyway today's reading is on the Temptations. We all know the story. But more importantly we all identify with the temptations. The urge to fill the stomach, to get rich and to be famous runs like a movie theme down the centuries - from paupers to kings. Let's pray this Lent that we can overcome these empty promises of the devil and strive for what Christ offers - eternal life ... through the hard and narrow way.
Sunday mornings as usual - clean the birdcage, feed the canaries (a couple tried to escape). But didn't clean my room. Nor did I have time to watch my usual Sunday Christian movie. I wanted to finish that paper. At 9.15am Fr Buscemi and I went out for our usual Sunday walk (4 km). Purim is round the corner so we bought some festive jewish cookies ("Hamam's ears". Don't know who he is? Read the Book of Esther and see its connection to the feast of Purim) as a treat.
While working on my paper, a strange thing happened on my computer. A window opened to say my computer was infected with lots of viruses. But I noticed this warning came from Skype ... which is pretty strange for me. When it asked if I should erase the viruses, I clicked yes. Then another window popped up and asked me to buy a programme to erase the viruses. It asked for credit card details etc.... I was pretty suspicious but since I know nothing about computers and programmes, I decided to play safe and not go ahead with the purchase. Turned off my computer instead. I'm terrified of these things because I can't verify if it's true. And two computers have already been infected and spoilt. I had to leave them in the library for some people who do not have computers of their own, and they need to do some research for me. What a disaster!
Healthwise my asthma is under control. Have been taking medicine regularly but only now found out the meds are expired. Never mind. As long as it works, I'll take it. But I'm utterly exhausted from work. The back (slipped disc) is still hurting but not as acute. Feet still get swollen every morning.
Anyway today's reading is on the Temptations. We all know the story. But more importantly we all identify with the temptations. The urge to fill the stomach, to get rich and to be famous runs like a movie theme down the centuries - from paupers to kings. Let's pray this Lent that we can overcome these empty promises of the devil and strive for what Christ offers - eternal life ... through the hard and narrow way.
Saturday, February 20, 2010
Midnight Vigil for Lent
Saturday - the rigours of Lent have begun. In the afternoon there was the solemn entry of the Custos into the Holy Sepulchre. Later in the evening there was solemn Vespers. And at 11.40pm tonight we'll sing the vigils till about 1am. It'll be pretty solemn. it ends with a candle-light procession around the Tomb three times before returning to the Chapel fo the Blessed Sacrament where the prayers end.
I've decided to go to the midnight vigils like last year. Will be praying for you all there.
By the way, it was extremely hot today - 27 degrees. It's practically summer. Everyone thinks the weather has gone crazy. 20 years ago it was freezing cold, raining or snowing when we went to Vigils, all wrapped up in woolen habits and mantles and boots. Now we have to wear summer habits!
I've decided to go to the midnight vigils like last year. Will be praying for you all there.
By the way, it was extremely hot today - 27 degrees. It's practically summer. Everyone thinks the weather has gone crazy. 20 years ago it was freezing cold, raining or snowing when we went to Vigils, all wrapped up in woolen habits and mantles and boots. Now we have to wear summer habits!
Friday, February 19, 2010
1st Friday of Lent
I fasted today - no food or water .... till 5pm when I took some yoghurt. Didn't feel hungry though. But I needed to line my stomach otherwise it might get hurt. I promised I'd do it here in the Holy City for you. Didn't feel faint though, unlike Ash Wednesday. But i was very very tired. I've been working so hard for the past 2 weeks. I think my body is telling me to slow down. But datelines, datelines, datelines....
We had a couple of days of Hamsin ... hot sandy winds from the desert. It's so unlike Spring here. Aloes had blossomed and are gone. Almonds have begun flowering. So have geraniums ... and all the bulbs from tulips to snowdrops. Unbelievable. Everyone says it's a weird Spring. We even had 20 degrees on the thermometer!
The readings this week from Mass are all exhortations to return to a Loving God. Lent is alot more comforting than you think!
We had a couple of days of Hamsin ... hot sandy winds from the desert. It's so unlike Spring here. Aloes had blossomed and are gone. Almonds have begun flowering. So have geraniums ... and all the bulbs from tulips to snowdrops. Unbelievable. Everyone says it's a weird Spring. We even had 20 degrees on the thermometer!
The readings this week from Mass are all exhortations to return to a Loving God. Lent is alot more comforting than you think!
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Wednesday, February 17, 2010
Ash Wednesday
This morning we all gathered in Church for Mass and received ashes to begin our Lenten observance. It was solemn and our superior presided. He also preached a short sermon. Then most of us skipped breakfast in order to start our fasting.
Fr Praveen and I decided to fast absolutely for the whole day. He went to school for classes and I went to S. Saviour's for several meetings and then off to work. But my feet and knees were pretty swollen, and I was absolutely exhausted from the past 3 days non stop work. So I nearly fainted twice on the street. Had to telephone for help - someone to pick me up with the car. In the office I had several blackouts - no, it wasn't from the fasting but from the exhaustion.
Anyway I met up with Praveen at 4pm. He had a cup of tea to settle his hunger, but I had half a glass of lemonade as my throat was parched - I didn't drink any water the whole day. Strangely I didn't feel any hunger by the end of day and for dinner I only had a stick of carrot and a bowl of soul. So I did pretty good actually. Praveen had to go back to school in the evening and then to Tel Aviv to celebrate Mass for the Indian community.
So all that fasting was for all of you - didn't forget praying for you all today. Remember: Lent is holy only when you are.
Fr Praveen and I decided to fast absolutely for the whole day. He went to school for classes and I went to S. Saviour's for several meetings and then off to work. But my feet and knees were pretty swollen, and I was absolutely exhausted from the past 3 days non stop work. So I nearly fainted twice on the street. Had to telephone for help - someone to pick me up with the car. In the office I had several blackouts - no, it wasn't from the fasting but from the exhaustion.
Anyway I met up with Praveen at 4pm. He had a cup of tea to settle his hunger, but I had half a glass of lemonade as my throat was parched - I didn't drink any water the whole day. Strangely I didn't feel any hunger by the end of day and for dinner I only had a stick of carrot and a bowl of soul. So I did pretty good actually. Praveen had to go back to school in the evening and then to Tel Aviv to celebrate Mass for the Indian community.
So all that fasting was for all of you - didn't forget praying for you all today. Remember: Lent is holy only when you are.
Tuesday, February 16, 2010
Mardi Gras
Today is Mardi Gras or Martedi Grasso or Fat Tuesday. That's the last day we eat meat because Lent begins tomorrow (Ash Wednesday). So people gorge themselves with food and party. Well at least that's how it was done... and still do in some countries like Brasil (carnival).
We had cake after lunch, as a Mardi Gras symbol, before we begin our fast tomorrow.
And yesterday was Fr Praveen's birthday. You might have seen him presenting reflections for Advent last year on Eternal Light webcast. We had a good chat during lunch because he sat next to me. He's 33 yrs old so everyone said it's a nice age to die here in Jerusalem (Jesus died etc..... ) He took it well. hahahahahaha.
Happy Mardi Gras! And go to Church tomorrow for ashes! Make Lent meaningful!
We had cake after lunch, as a Mardi Gras symbol, before we begin our fast tomorrow.
And yesterday was Fr Praveen's birthday. You might have seen him presenting reflections for Advent last year on Eternal Light webcast. We had a good chat during lunch because he sat next to me. He's 33 yrs old so everyone said it's a nice age to die here in Jerusalem (Jesus died etc..... ) He took it well. hahahahahaha.
Happy Mardi Gras! And go to Church tomorrow for ashes! Make Lent meaningful!
Monday, February 15, 2010
New Year Dinner
Yesterday we had a nice New Year dinner - that's me and Sr. Maria, and our guests Sr. Mila, Fr. Buscemi, Fr. Johanny. Fr. Pedro, Fr. Niccacci and Osvalda. The food was exceptional as the cantonese cook wokked up some real chinese stuff not on the menu: cantonese soup (boiled for hours till the meat slipped off the bone; with chinese almonds, chinese dates and figs and other herbs), steamed fish, mushroom and Fat Choy, Pai Kuat (steamed spicy pork ribs), fatty pork slices with bean-curd skins .... wow... stuff that we never ever get here in Israel. It was a very rare treat, and the new manager (a Shanghai lady) prepared the special menu so that we chinese can feel at home at least on the New Year. Ohh and drinks were on the house. And the price was half less than the previous manager used to charge. And there was a benefactor among us who treated us to the meal.
And the lady manager kept asking us to sing some chinese songs - which we did, and the cook and the old chinese granny who helps in the kitchen all came out to join in. It was all very fun. And of course Sr Maria doggy-bagged everything left over.
And the lady manager kept asking us to sing some chinese songs - which we did, and the cook and the old chinese granny who helps in the kitchen all came out to join in. It was all very fun. And of course Sr Maria doggy-bagged everything left over.
Sunday, February 14, 2010
Happy New Year
The Year of the Tiger roars in ..... for better or worse. Of course here in Israel there are no celebrations. But I hope to go out for a chinese dinner (my once a year outing to the Chinese Restaurant) with Sr Maria (the only other chinese student in the area) and some other classmates (Sr. Mina a latin-american, Fr Johanny a portuguese who loves everything chinese, Fr Pedro a spanish missionary in Taiwan), Osvalda our librarian and Fr Buscemi our professor.
I had to go to the Poor Clares for Mass this morning - and of course I mentioned it's the New Year to day. The nuns were smiling and nodding and whispering to one another. They don't have the slightest idea what it is. I didn't have time to explain as I rushed back home to do the chores - feed the canaries, clean the cage and tagged a couple of males to prepare for the breeding season. So much for the CNY. No fire-crackers, no angpows (lai see), no lion/dragon dances, no one wearing red, no narcissus flowers, pussy-willows, carrot-cake, nian gao, kueh blandah, oh boy can I continue ....
A funny note: Sr. Vicenta is a good pastry cook - well until it comes to her homeland Ponshki (the jam-filled doughnut that I like very much). She tried, for the 1st time, to make some last week. They turned out to be hard as rocks and quite inedible. She was pretty embarrassed and kept them in the sisters' refectory. Then later she gave me one to try ... believe me, it was quite awful. So she promised to go learn make good ponshkis from the Polish sisters up the hill. Never too late to learn. That's a good start to the New Year.
So much for today ... have a prosperous and healthy New Year, success in all your undertakings, holy in spirit, charitable in thoughts, words and deeds!
I had to go to the Poor Clares for Mass this morning - and of course I mentioned it's the New Year to day. The nuns were smiling and nodding and whispering to one another. They don't have the slightest idea what it is. I didn't have time to explain as I rushed back home to do the chores - feed the canaries, clean the cage and tagged a couple of males to prepare for the breeding season. So much for the CNY. No fire-crackers, no angpows (lai see), no lion/dragon dances, no one wearing red, no narcissus flowers, pussy-willows, carrot-cake, nian gao, kueh blandah, oh boy can I continue ....
A funny note: Sr. Vicenta is a good pastry cook - well until it comes to her homeland Ponshki (the jam-filled doughnut that I like very much). She tried, for the 1st time, to make some last week. They turned out to be hard as rocks and quite inedible. She was pretty embarrassed and kept them in the sisters' refectory. Then later she gave me one to try ... believe me, it was quite awful. So she promised to go learn make good ponshkis from the Polish sisters up the hill. Never too late to learn. That's a good start to the New Year.
So much for today ... have a prosperous and healthy New Year, success in all your undertakings, holy in spirit, charitable in thoughts, words and deeds!
Friday, February 12, 2010
CNY woes
Chinese New Year can be a nightmare .... some of you can identify with several of the interviewees. http://www.cnngo.com/shanghai/none/afraid-go-home-chinese-new-year-996162
Thursday, February 11, 2010
Body snatchers
So when you think things are getting bad with our muslim neighbours ... then comes news that ultra-orhtodox Jews have stolen a body to prevent an autopsy. Jewish religious law forbids autopsies as it is considered a desecration of the human body. http://www.haaretz.com/hasen/spages/1149175.html
The Chinese New Year is round the corner. But little cheer here .... with the awful tension in the streets around our house. I'm trying to keep a low profile for the moment - only so as not to endanger others living with me. What a New Year.....
Anyway, update on the health: my back pain has become worse today. Probably too much work and walk. It was really painful but not as crippling as when it first herniated. So I'll survive this. Pretty sure the body snatchers won't want my body ... it's falling apart.
The Chinese New Year is round the corner. But little cheer here .... with the awful tension in the streets around our house. I'm trying to keep a low profile for the moment - only so as not to endanger others living with me. What a New Year.....
Anyway, update on the health: my back pain has become worse today. Probably too much work and walk. It was really painful but not as crippling as when it first herniated. So I'll survive this. Pretty sure the body snatchers won't want my body ... it's falling apart.
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
Attacked
Yesterday saw a travesty that cannot be ignored - eight muslims came into our courtyard and attacked our porter. He had shooed out a muslim shopkeeper from our monastery and that guy got 7 others to come back and attack. Our porter, himself a muslim, suffered a broken nose and other injuries. When will the world wake up and condemn these things? Christians being harassed in the holiest places of christianity ....
Monday, February 8, 2010
Colder today
Helicopters were flying overhead early this morning. Must have been some trouble again. Later the newspapers reported of Palestinian riots in the neighbourhood and 5 policemen injured. This is almost a weekly thing now.
The weather is a little warmer today but that's relative. Tonight at dinner, it was definitely cold because even the strongest guys went up to their rooms to wear their thick coats - the refectory was very cold, so you can imagine what it's like outside. It's 6 degrees but it sure feels colder than that.
The sisters in the kitchen are down to two now that Sr Raymunda left. I try to help after dinner but my back really hurt. Sr Vicenta shooed me out of the kitchen and told me to rest. I think the disc is a little herniated again because I can feel some pain there and my right leg is very weak.
My woes with the new Mac computer has almost driven me crazy. After every 4 lines that I write, the computer hangs and I have to switch it off and restart, thus losing what I wrote. It is very frustrating. Now I was told that the Greek fonts I'm using is not compatible with Microsoft Word, that's why it's shutting down every few lines. Well, what can I do? And to make matters worse, my computer that I leave in the library is broken down so I have no backup computer to use. And my backup files in the external hard-drive is all lost. So it's starting all over from the beginning. Chapter one verse one ........
The weather is a little warmer today but that's relative. Tonight at dinner, it was definitely cold because even the strongest guys went up to their rooms to wear their thick coats - the refectory was very cold, so you can imagine what it's like outside. It's 6 degrees but it sure feels colder than that.
The sisters in the kitchen are down to two now that Sr Raymunda left. I try to help after dinner but my back really hurt. Sr Vicenta shooed me out of the kitchen and told me to rest. I think the disc is a little herniated again because I can feel some pain there and my right leg is very weak.
My woes with the new Mac computer has almost driven me crazy. After every 4 lines that I write, the computer hangs and I have to switch it off and restart, thus losing what I wrote. It is very frustrating. Now I was told that the Greek fonts I'm using is not compatible with Microsoft Word, that's why it's shutting down every few lines. Well, what can I do? And to make matters worse, my computer that I leave in the library is broken down so I have no backup computer to use. And my backup files in the external hard-drive is all lost. So it's starting all over from the beginning. Chapter one verse one ........
Sunday, February 7, 2010
Cold
It's still so very very cold. Last night was definitely below zero. And this morning when I cleaned the birdcage, the water was like ice. Freezing. But the canaries still took a bath like ... no problem! To boost their energy and heat, I'm feeding them extra seeds and mixed salad - lots of dandelion leaves because it raises their temperature and resistance.
No snow in view in Jerusalem although the Golan has about 15 cm of snow and Jordan has 20 cm. The sun is up like summer and the rains have left.
Watched my usual Sunday morning Christian movie. It's about an American Football coach who brings God to a losing team. They start praying, and influence the rest of the school to pray and study the Bible. Then they gain their confidence and faith on God and they start winning. It's the usual feel-good formula movie. But that's ok. It's good to feel good on Sunday morning, knowing God is on your side. It's good to know God loves you.
Right now I stay at home to avoid trouble with the muslims at our door. If I have to go out, it's always with someone else. They're dead serious about killing me. Ever thought about St Lionel the Martyr? Well maybe it's about time. Actually I see this as your responsibility - you see, 40% of Israel's economy is based on tourism. One of the top 5 tourist spots is my monastery. If tourists begin to complain to the Tourism Ministry or Israeli embassy about the lack of security in my area, the police will start doing something about it. As long as tourists keep quiet, nothing will change the muslims will continue to harass us. So the ball is in your court! What are you going to do about it?
No snow in view in Jerusalem although the Golan has about 15 cm of snow and Jordan has 20 cm. The sun is up like summer and the rains have left.
Watched my usual Sunday morning Christian movie. It's about an American Football coach who brings God to a losing team. They start praying, and influence the rest of the school to pray and study the Bible. Then they gain their confidence and faith on God and they start winning. It's the usual feel-good formula movie. But that's ok. It's good to feel good on Sunday morning, knowing God is on your side. It's good to know God loves you.
Right now I stay at home to avoid trouble with the muslims at our door. If I have to go out, it's always with someone else. They're dead serious about killing me. Ever thought about St Lionel the Martyr? Well maybe it's about time. Actually I see this as your responsibility - you see, 40% of Israel's economy is based on tourism. One of the top 5 tourist spots is my monastery. If tourists begin to complain to the Tourism Ministry or Israeli embassy about the lack of security in my area, the police will start doing something about it. As long as tourists keep quiet, nothing will change the muslims will continue to harass us. So the ball is in your court! What are you going to do about it?
Saturday, February 6, 2010
Goodbye Sr. Raymunda
It was 2 degrees yesterday with sleet and rain pummeling down on us ... and it fell to minus 4 last night. Yucks! It was freezing cold! And today it'll go even lower to minus 5 degrees. I've got my new "hot air fan" on almost the whole day and even resurrected my old one. Both turned on at the same time. Bbbrrrrr
Expect to see my obituary anytime now ... got into another altercation with the awful muslim shopkeeper opposite our house. He was entering our courtyard again, harassing pilgrims, pushing them and even beating up one Nigerian tourist. I went down to chase him out of our property and he starting threatening to kill me. Not the first time. But this time I was really mad with him. And he was ready to plunge the knife. When will the muslim persecution of christians end? here? in the Land of Jesus?
Yesterday Sr Raymunda returned to Poland. Poor thing was pretty homesick - being 82 yrs old and changing missions isn't easy on her. Hope she enjoys her minus 20 degree winter in Warsaw.
Expect to see my obituary anytime now ... got into another altercation with the awful muslim shopkeeper opposite our house. He was entering our courtyard again, harassing pilgrims, pushing them and even beating up one Nigerian tourist. I went down to chase him out of our property and he starting threatening to kill me. Not the first time. But this time I was really mad with him. And he was ready to plunge the knife. When will the muslim persecution of christians end? here? in the Land of Jesus?
Yesterday Sr Raymunda returned to Poland. Poor thing was pretty homesick - being 82 yrs old and changing missions isn't easy on her. Hope she enjoys her minus 20 degree winter in Warsaw.
Friday, February 5, 2010
Samaritan High Priest dies
The Samaritan High Priest died yesterday and was buried today. I met him two years ago to offer him Passover wishes on Mt. Gerizim where he lived.
I knew his brother who was the previous High Priest. He died of a broken heart when the famous Samaritan Scroll was stolen. He had showed it to me but several months later it was stolen and is never recovered.
So the high priesthood is passed on to his cousin. Perhaps I shall see him this Passover. Like it was noted in the following article - the Samaritan High Priesthood is perhaps is world's oldest unbroken religious office. Impressive.
http://www.jpost.com/Israel/Article.aspx?id=167868
I knew his brother who was the previous High Priest. He died of a broken heart when the famous Samaritan Scroll was stolen. He had showed it to me but several months later it was stolen and is never recovered.
So the high priesthood is passed on to his cousin. Perhaps I shall see him this Passover. Like it was noted in the following article - the Samaritan High Priesthood is perhaps is world's oldest unbroken religious office. Impressive.
http://www.jpost.com/Israel/Article.aspx?id=167868
Snow photos
Check out these photos of heavy snow in the Golan! http://www.haaretz.com/hasen/spages/1147554.html
We had several heavy hailstorms here in Jerusalem yesterday. Never saw it so severe before although the hail weren't very big. Well we're still hoping snow will come this weekend as the forecast is -2 to 2 degrees for the next few days.
Last night while I was working on my paper, I had a sharp pain shooting down my right leg several times. it weakened the leg so bad I had no strength to stand. I think it's the disc coming out again - I was sitting on a stool without a back to lean on so, it was bad posture and the disc was probably slipping out. What a pain it was.
We had several heavy hailstorms here in Jerusalem yesterday. Never saw it so severe before although the hail weren't very big. Well we're still hoping snow will come this weekend as the forecast is -2 to 2 degrees for the next few days.
Last night while I was working on my paper, I had a sharp pain shooting down my right leg several times. it weakened the leg so bad I had no strength to stand. I think it's the disc coming out again - I was sitting on a stool without a back to lean on so, it was bad posture and the disc was probably slipping out. What a pain it was.
Thursday, February 4, 2010
Snow update
It's heavy snow up in the north. But down south here we're having strong cold winds and bursts of heavy hail. They're about 1cm across and make a terrible lot of noise when it hits glass and metal. And the sun is up as well so the hail melts quickly and makes the streets very slippery. http://www.jpost.com/Israel/Article.aspx?id=167758
Photo of our terrace peppered with hail.
Another photo - closeup of the hail.
Let's see if it'll snow a little later. The Jerusalem municipality is ready for the worst! But the kids are loving it! The boys from the Omariyya school opposite rushed out to play in the hail just now. The teachers had to shoo them into class again!
Photo of our terrace peppered with hail.
Another photo - closeup of the hail.
Let's see if it'll snow a little later. The Jerusalem municipality is ready for the worst! But the kids are loving it! The boys from the Omariyya school opposite rushed out to play in the hail just now. The teachers had to shoo them into class again!
St. Veronica
It rained the whole day and night - not heavy but a constant light shower. Cold .... felt like 0 degrees last night. But no snow so far. The local news reported that 20 snow ploughs are being prepared to clear roads in Jerusalem, and salt-sowing machines as well. Looks like they'll have to be recalled. The rains stopped at about 7am and the sun is up and shining again .... but who knows? In an hour things might change to the other extreme. This is after all the Holyland. Anything and everything can happen.
Today we celebrate the feast of St. Veronica ... the lady who wiped the face of Jesus on the way to Calvary. She's the patron of our sister superior - Sr. Veronica - who helps in the sacristy and kitchen. Lesson to learn - do we see the face of Christ even in a piece of rag? Jesus leaves his imprint in the simplest, daily events of our lives. But it requires our spiritual sensitivity to discern his quiet presence in things so mundane we don't even think twice about it.
Today we celebrate the feast of St. Veronica ... the lady who wiped the face of Jesus on the way to Calvary. She's the patron of our sister superior - Sr. Veronica - who helps in the sacristy and kitchen. Lesson to learn - do we see the face of Christ even in a piece of rag? Jesus leaves his imprint in the simplest, daily events of our lives. But it requires our spiritual sensitivity to discern his quiet presence in things so mundane we don't even think twice about it.
Wednesday, February 3, 2010
Elusive snow
It's supposed to snow today. But at 7am the sun was shining brightly like summer and the sky was blue. I emphatically stated to everyone that it's unlikely it'll snow. Then suddenly at 9am the sky changed, it became dark and started raining. Temperature fell drastically. Could probably snow later on! But at 1pm the sun was back up and the rains stopped. It's still terribly cold though, like 4 degrees. Forecast says it'll drop to -2 degrees tonight or tomorrow.
Today is the feast of St. Blaise, the patron of throat ailments. Fr Lino the celebrant for Mass blessed us with the traditional blessing - two crossed candles placed over the throat of each one. Maybe this will cure my asthma.
Today is the feast of St. Blaise, the patron of throat ailments. Fr Lino the celebrant for Mass blessed us with the traditional blessing - two crossed candles placed over the throat of each one. Maybe this will cure my asthma.
Tuesday, February 2, 2010
Feast of the Presentation
Today's feast is pretty meaningful for us because it took place just several hundred metres from where we live. Unbelievable isn't it? The ancient staircase where probably Mary and Joseph brought the baby Jesus, and where they probably met Simeon and Anna, still exists. It's incredible living here ... you actually get to see the places the Gospels talk about.
This morning for Mass, we had the blessing of candles at the door of our Flagellation chapel. Then at the homily, Fr Buscemi reminded us that the feast is not simply to recall Jesus being presented in the Temple, but the readings point to the event where God comes to meet us. It is an encounter with God. Do we encounter God in our daily lives? In little babies and old people? In the rejected and marginalised?
Berlusconi the Italian Prime Minister is here for a visit. Traffic jams everywhere! Tomorrow he'll visit Bethlehem and the Grotto of the Nativity.
But the biggest news in everyone's lips is - tomorrow it'll snow in Jerusalem. Well at least that's what the weather report says. I'm a little sceptical. It's too hot (10 degrees) and sunny today ... but like everything else here, things can change within an hour. Let's wait and see.
This morning for Mass, we had the blessing of candles at the door of our Flagellation chapel. Then at the homily, Fr Buscemi reminded us that the feast is not simply to recall Jesus being presented in the Temple, but the readings point to the event where God comes to meet us. It is an encounter with God. Do we encounter God in our daily lives? In little babies and old people? In the rejected and marginalised?
Berlusconi the Italian Prime Minister is here for a visit. Traffic jams everywhere! Tomorrow he'll visit Bethlehem and the Grotto of the Nativity.
But the biggest news in everyone's lips is - tomorrow it'll snow in Jerusalem. Well at least that's what the weather report says. I'm a little sceptical. It's too hot (10 degrees) and sunny today ... but like everything else here, things can change within an hour. Let's wait and see.
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