It's been drizzling since yesterday evening. The streets are very slippery and the souvenir shopkeepers have switched to selling umbrellas. A brisk profit. One thing for sure, everyone around is saying Thank God for the rain.
The situation in Egypt and Jordan is once again the worry for all of us here. And we've been thinking of Fr Vincenzo and his community in Alexandria as well. We have lost contact with him. Pray for their safety.
The Year of the Tiger certainly is moving out with a vicious roar, mauling everything in sight - political upheavels in the Middle East, natural catastrophes around the world, swine flu claiming it's first victims in many countries ... Let's hope the Rabbit brings back some calm and balance.
Monday, January 31, 2011
Sunday, January 30, 2011
Again Goodbye
It's 2.15am and I've just come back from the Ecole Biblique. No, the school is closed at this hour, but I accompanied a Hungarian student who was leaving us. The shurut (airport shuttle minibus) picked him up from there at 2am. It's dangerous to be out at this hour so I told him I'd accompany him; he protested because I am still sick, and said his two other classmates will accompany him. As things would have it, both guys overslept so luckily I was available to help him carry his luggage and walk the dark, quiet street up to the bus station opposite the Ecole.
I never knew this student well, as he lived mostly in our other monastery in the New City. But we've chatted several times. Very nice guy, quiet and polite. But like all our casualties, it's because life here strikes hard and harsh. He is leaving after 3 years of studies, just one final step away from graduation ... such a pity. As we waited for his shurut in the cold wind, beneath the bare branches of the hibernating trees that cast shadows dancing under the street lamps, he said to me "I admire your courage in staying here. I can't do it."
Wishing you all the best, Entre, in your new apostolate. There's nothing to be ashamed; rather it takes alot of courage to recognise one's limits and act upon it. You're still a hero. Goodbye.
I never knew this student well, as he lived mostly in our other monastery in the New City. But we've chatted several times. Very nice guy, quiet and polite. But like all our casualties, it's because life here strikes hard and harsh. He is leaving after 3 years of studies, just one final step away from graduation ... such a pity. As we waited for his shurut in the cold wind, beneath the bare branches of the hibernating trees that cast shadows dancing under the street lamps, he said to me "I admire your courage in staying here. I can't do it."
Wishing you all the best, Entre, in your new apostolate. There's nothing to be ashamed; rather it takes alot of courage to recognise one's limits and act upon it. You're still a hero. Goodbye.
Saturday, January 29, 2011
One month almost gone ...
The growing unrest in Egypt and now in Jordan is unsettling ... alarming us here. It's not just a simple question of unstable borders that Israel shares with Egypt to the south and Jordan to the east. Rather it's the grim prospect of an extremist Islamic takeover of the two arab governments. It bodes badly for Israel. It still has to contend with Hizbullah at the northern border with Lebanon. Then Gaza will be an open gateway to the extremists in Egypt; as will the Jordan River Valley for those in Jordan. The repercussions for Israel will be unthinkable.
It rained in the early morning and the wind was cold. Terribly grey skies. Few groups are visiting the land. There is a strange emptiness in the streets.
My headache has slightly subsided as did the fever, but the cough, sore throat and phlegmatic lungs are still weighing down on me. Could not do any studies today. And my internet line was cut ... or hacked. Shukri our technician had to come and restore everything. Awful ... he did say it was possible someone hacked into my computers and blocked or spied on them. So watch out! Jadallah came and helped me clean up my room - it was a thorough cleaning in preparation for the New Year. I couldn't do it all alone, with being ill and all.
And in 2 days, January 2011 slips into history ......
It rained in the early morning and the wind was cold. Terribly grey skies. Few groups are visiting the land. There is a strange emptiness in the streets.
My headache has slightly subsided as did the fever, but the cough, sore throat and phlegmatic lungs are still weighing down on me. Could not do any studies today. And my internet line was cut ... or hacked. Shukri our technician had to come and restore everything. Awful ... he did say it was possible someone hacked into my computers and blocked or spied on them. So watch out! Jadallah came and helped me clean up my room - it was a thorough cleaning in preparation for the New Year. I couldn't do it all alone, with being ill and all.
And in 2 days, January 2011 slips into history ......
Friday, January 28, 2011
Friday
The situation in Egypt is making us all nervous. We're worried for Fr Vincenzo and his community in Alexandria where riots have been taking place. An Egypt ruled by extremist Islamic groups will be very bad for the Copts living there; and definitely bad for us here in Israel. Our school excursion to Egypt next week has been cancelled.
Rioting and protests escalating in Amman, Jordan as well. Not good as Israel is now sandwiched by two unstable countries.
Jerusalem today was on high alert. Lots of soldiers at all intersections leading to the Old City. Roads were temporarily closed during the noontime Muslim prayer. There were fears of rioting due to the killing of a Palestinian youth yesterday. Clashes between Jewish settlers and Palestinians spread to 4 other places around the country, including Gush Etzion south of Jerusalem. I haven't seen anything like this since the last Intifada.
My fever and headache is still bigtime. Unfortunately I could hardly rest - calls and visits nonstop throughout the morning. I had to go back to the Pharmacy and pay for the medicine I took yesterday - Rami the pharmacist was very kind and allowed me to take home the medicine even when I didn't bring enough money to pay for it. Paid my debt, then went off to the Supermarket to get basic necessities before the weekend starts. Managed to rest only at 3pm this afternoon. Hope tonight will be better, with no fever and less headache.
Rioting and protests escalating in Amman, Jordan as well. Not good as Israel is now sandwiched by two unstable countries.
Jerusalem today was on high alert. Lots of soldiers at all intersections leading to the Old City. Roads were temporarily closed during the noontime Muslim prayer. There were fears of rioting due to the killing of a Palestinian youth yesterday. Clashes between Jewish settlers and Palestinians spread to 4 other places around the country, including Gush Etzion south of Jerusalem. I haven't seen anything like this since the last Intifada.
My fever and headache is still bigtime. Unfortunately I could hardly rest - calls and visits nonstop throughout the morning. I had to go back to the Pharmacy and pay for the medicine I took yesterday - Rami the pharmacist was very kind and allowed me to take home the medicine even when I didn't bring enough money to pay for it. Paid my debt, then went off to the Supermarket to get basic necessities before the weekend starts. Managed to rest only at 3pm this afternoon. Hope tonight will be better, with no fever and less headache.
Thursday, January 27, 2011
Sick
Three days of hibernation. Feeling very sick. The diarrhea has stopped but now it looks like I've caught the flu or something. Fever, severe headaches, cough with tonnes of phlegm, respiratory problems. Just got back from the doc who's put me on heavy antibiotics. Then the sharp pain on my right shoulder was diagnosed as probably a rotational whatever ... which could lead to frozen shoulder. Apparently the ligaments are inflamed or something so my shoulder hurts when I raise my arm. On pain-killers as a result. Last night the whole sick-thing was so bad I couldn't sleep a wink.
Meantime Palileaks is shaking up our whole society. Everyone is worried at the instability the reports are causing in our country. Protests in Gaza. Accusations of treachery thrown back and forth within both Palestinian and Israeli govts. Then the larger picture of riots in Egypt, Lebanon, Jordan and Yemen against their govts. Instability is the word here - and it's getting dangerous. An unstable Middle-East will do no good to anyone around the world. Today a Palestinian youth was shot dead in the West Bank allegedly by Jewish settlers http://www.haaretz.com/news/diplomacy-defense/palestinians-rock-throwing-teen-shot-dead-by-west-bank-settlers-1.339538 . Yesterday helicopters were flying overhead in our area.
On a better note, yesterday we remembered Fr Allegra who died 34 years ago. There was a small display of his works and life at our school, organised by Osvalda.
Meantime Palileaks is shaking up our whole society. Everyone is worried at the instability the reports are causing in our country. Protests in Gaza. Accusations of treachery thrown back and forth within both Palestinian and Israeli govts. Then the larger picture of riots in Egypt, Lebanon, Jordan and Yemen against their govts. Instability is the word here - and it's getting dangerous. An unstable Middle-East will do no good to anyone around the world. Today a Palestinian youth was shot dead in the West Bank allegedly by Jewish settlers http://www.haaretz.com/news/diplomacy-defense/palestinians-rock-throwing-teen-shot-dead-by-west-bank-settlers-1.339538 . Yesterday helicopters were flying overhead in our area.
On a better note, yesterday we remembered Fr Allegra who died 34 years ago. There was a small display of his works and life at our school, organised by Osvalda.
Monday, January 24, 2011
Thanks
Thanks to Mr. and Mrs. Poon and Mr. Anthony Ho for the sweets and medicine which were sent to the orphans at St Vincent de Paul's convent.
Sunday, January 23, 2011
Saturday, January 22, 2011
Yet another day
So as many of you have noted ... it's snickers and not sneakers ..... i'm not that depressed as to eat my shoes ... yet. Anyway suffered from traumatising diarrhea for the whole night and today. Which is unusual because I ate nothing yesterday except for a piece of chicken that Khalil broiled and kept for me. Now I'm totally exhausted and weak.
Had to go to Gethsemani this morning. On the way there, I was accosted by a muslim proselytizer who wanted to give me a pamphlet on why Christianity is wrong and why I should be a muslim. I'ts not the first time s I've received it 3 times already - took it out of courtesy. But today I flatly refused. On the way back, a group of muslims trailed me shouting "la'illaha il Allah" and urging me to recite it ... thus making me automatically a muslim. It was pure harassment.
Thanks for the turtlenecks and beanies which are really needed now that the temp. is 5 degrees or so. And the Low Por Peng. And M. Lobo for the winter jacket which is just right for this weather.
Had to go to Gethsemani this morning. On the way there, I was accosted by a muslim proselytizer who wanted to give me a pamphlet on why Christianity is wrong and why I should be a muslim. I'ts not the first time s I've received it 3 times already - took it out of courtesy. But today I flatly refused. On the way back, a group of muslims trailed me shouting "la'illaha il Allah" and urging me to recite it ... thus making me automatically a muslim. It was pure harassment.
Thanks for the turtlenecks and beanies which are really needed now that the temp. is 5 degrees or so. And the Low Por Peng. And M. Lobo for the winter jacket which is just right for this weather.
Friday, January 21, 2011
Friday
3rd day I'm feeling terribly nauseous. Don't know what the matter is. Could be the binge of chocolate cake and sneakers I previously had - it's depression bingeing. Result: high rise in sugar level I think ... got frozen shoulder as well which the doc says could be related to diabetes. Been feeling terribly lousy this week. Nightmares for the past 3 nights which make me more afraid to go to sleep. Last night I got up screaming and twitching in the arms ... I mean, really loud. I even scared myself.
As evidence that this land lives on gossip - the point was made clear when the French Foreign Minister was attacked while visiting Gaza ... because of a misinformation reported by the news. There was no attempt to verify those statements but crowds were worked up over it nonetheless. http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-middle-east-12249297 and http://www.haaretz.com/news/diplomacy-defense/palestinian-protesters-block-france-fm-from-entering-gaza-1.338324
The weather continues to be gray, cold and rainless. Everyone in the streets is talking about war - with Lebanon, with Gaza, in Silwan and Sheikh Jarrah. It's that kind of weather that brings up these topics. It was good though to see the crazy group of RiSe again ... a dose of the funnier side of life. And Praveen came over to say hi ... which was also nice.
As evidence that this land lives on gossip - the point was made clear when the French Foreign Minister was attacked while visiting Gaza ... because of a misinformation reported by the news. There was no attempt to verify those statements but crowds were worked up over it nonetheless. http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-middle-east-12249297 and http://www.haaretz.com/news/diplomacy-defense/palestinian-protesters-block-france-fm-from-entering-gaza-1.338324
The weather continues to be gray, cold and rainless. Everyone in the streets is talking about war - with Lebanon, with Gaza, in Silwan and Sheikh Jarrah. It's that kind of weather that brings up these topics. It was good though to see the crazy group of RiSe again ... a dose of the funnier side of life. And Praveen came over to say hi ... which was also nice.
Thursday, January 20, 2011
Goodbye yet again
Today is Tu b'Shvat - the 15th day of the month of Shvat - which marks Arbor Day - the birthday of trees. Tree planting is organised for the next 3 days. Israel's First Lady, Mrs Peres has died. I think they'll call for a day of mourning.
Today I had to say again goodbye - this time to my cameraman Andrea and his girlfriend Michela. They are a fantastic couple, both in their early 20s and Andrea has always been a loyal collaborator to me. He goes into the most dangerous places to get the images and news - particularly in Gaza. Both are leaving for Afghanistan this Saturday to start their new work. Michela is working for the Italian Association in Kabul and Andrea will continue as free lance journalist/cameraman. They brought me out to Zahara Restaurent, once the uptown place to be, now a shadow of its glorious past. It was good to be with them; we chatted alot and I asked them to constantly send me news so I'd know they're alright. Then they accompanied me back home as it was dark (9pm) and they wanted to be sure I was alright. I'll miss them very much. Goodbye once again.
Today I had to say again goodbye - this time to my cameraman Andrea and his girlfriend Michela. They are a fantastic couple, both in their early 20s and Andrea has always been a loyal collaborator to me. He goes into the most dangerous places to get the images and news - particularly in Gaza. Both are leaving for Afghanistan this Saturday to start their new work. Michela is working for the Italian Association in Kabul and Andrea will continue as free lance journalist/cameraman. They brought me out to Zahara Restaurent, once the uptown place to be, now a shadow of its glorious past. It was good to be with them; we chatted alot and I asked them to constantly send me news so I'd know they're alright. Then they accompanied me back home as it was dark (9pm) and they wanted to be sure I was alright. I'll miss them very much. Goodbye once again.
Wednesday, January 19, 2011
Cats on a hot tin roof
Yesterday evening the Sisters of Mother Theresa here in Jerusalem were in a fix: their phone was not working - their only contact with the outside world once their convent is locked for the night. Luckily I stopped over to bring some stuff to them. After searching around, we found out that someone had cut off their phone line from the outside. The sisters were panicking because they're surrounded by some aggressive muslim families (who constantly spit at them) and possibly someone might come in the night to rob them. So I went off to buy them a mobile phone. It's tough living in our area. Everyone is on edge - like cats on a hot tin roof (actually that was the phrase my classmate used before leaving on his flight yesterday: he said he couldn't take the tension of living here anymore as everyone living in Jerusalem is edgy and with their claws out - like cats on a hot tin roof ... thanks to Tennessee Williams). This morning I rushed off to check on the sisters to make sure they were safe.
The Foreign Ministry strikes continue as talks fail - embarassing because the Russian President is visiting but had to cancel the Israel sector because of the strikes; he only visited Palestine. And as a result issuing of visas continue to delayed as well.
Today it's nurses who begin on strike. They're not warding patients anymore to over-capacity wards. Pity the sick people. And lucky that my classmate left yesterday ... he'll get treated back in Italy - hopefully without facing a strike as Italy is also reknown for.
Looks like the tin roof is getting hotter by the day for everyone.
The Foreign Ministry strikes continue as talks fail - embarassing because the Russian President is visiting but had to cancel the Israel sector because of the strikes; he only visited Palestine. And as a result issuing of visas continue to delayed as well.
Today it's nurses who begin on strike. They're not warding patients anymore to over-capacity wards. Pity the sick people. And lucky that my classmate left yesterday ... he'll get treated back in Italy - hopefully without facing a strike as Italy is also reknown for.
Looks like the tin roof is getting hotter by the day for everyone.
Tuesday, January 18, 2011
Another goodbye
So the dreaded day has come. I was out of my room for most of the day - and eating too. Revolutionary move. Had a late breakfast at Notre Dame with my best friend before we left for the airport. He was officially dressed, in full suit and tie. I looked like a hobo next to him. The airport was terribly empty - partly due to the strike by Immigration personnel. The groups and tourists have practically stopped coming as visas are not being issued. Anyway my friend had no problems going through security ... only he had to leave his computer and printer on the next flight ... due to security reasons. We had a short chat in the gallery; the huge glass walls looking out to the runway - his voice was practically gone but that didn't stop him punching the hell out of me - typical italian speaking with his hands ... and he was more worried about me than I was of him; after all he's leaving this place and will get medical help in Italy as soon as he arrives, and he'll be much happier back home. I'm sure his tonsillitis will be healed. A hug, a pat on the back, a punch on the arm and he left for the boarding gate and I went downstairs to take the shurut (mini-bus) home. Another goodbye. It sucked.
Monday, January 17, 2011
St Anthony the Abbot
10 degrees with grey skies. Feels terribly cold but no sign of rain. Miserable. Got another "hot air fan" to warm up my room just now.
Crisis in the government coalition as Defense Minister quits his party as chairman to start a new party - 4 other ministers follow suit. Meanwhile Foreign Ministry's workers continue their strike ... meaning people no longer are getting their visas approved. Groups are therefore fewer. Jean Paul's friends - Michel and Simone - from Cameroun have cancelled their visit this morning because they cannot get their visa - but canceling their lodging booking is a problem ... the hostel refuses to give even a 50% refund.
Don't know what's happening in the house for the past week as I have not been down to eat with the community - actually not been down for anything. Khalil the cook continues to keep food in the oven for me during each meal but I actually only ate it once - last night. Sr. Veronica caught me last night and made me eat it. Actually some people here think I've left the country because they haven't seen me for a week. Fr Vincenzo contacted from Cairo to scold me to get out of my room. Benoit, who's sponsored by the Holy Spirit Sem. College pilgrims in his studies, calls me every other day to see if I'm ok. I should go over to his little pizzeria and have a cup of coffee. It'll make him happy. Actually he's so grateful for your sponsorship in giving him a chance to study, he calls me after every lesson to tell me what he studied and thanks and thanks and thanks. No exaggeration. He's so very thankful.
Today we celebrate the feast of St Anthony the Abbot - founder of monasticism some 1700 years ago. He was egyptian and there're many tales regarding his amazing life in the egyptian desert. During Mass we prayed for Fr Testa who died last week in Assisi. And tomorrow my best friend returns to Italy. I guess not everyone has that resilience to survive this land. It's gonna suck tomorrow when I have to say goodbye.
Crisis in the government coalition as Defense Minister quits his party as chairman to start a new party - 4 other ministers follow suit. Meanwhile Foreign Ministry's workers continue their strike ... meaning people no longer are getting their visas approved. Groups are therefore fewer. Jean Paul's friends - Michel and Simone - from Cameroun have cancelled their visit this morning because they cannot get their visa - but canceling their lodging booking is a problem ... the hostel refuses to give even a 50% refund.
Don't know what's happening in the house for the past week as I have not been down to eat with the community - actually not been down for anything. Khalil the cook continues to keep food in the oven for me during each meal but I actually only ate it once - last night. Sr. Veronica caught me last night and made me eat it. Actually some people here think I've left the country because they haven't seen me for a week. Fr Vincenzo contacted from Cairo to scold me to get out of my room. Benoit, who's sponsored by the Holy Spirit Sem. College pilgrims in his studies, calls me every other day to see if I'm ok. I should go over to his little pizzeria and have a cup of coffee. It'll make him happy. Actually he's so grateful for your sponsorship in giving him a chance to study, he calls me after every lesson to tell me what he studied and thanks and thanks and thanks. No exaggeration. He's so very thankful.
Today we celebrate the feast of St Anthony the Abbot - founder of monasticism some 1700 years ago. He was egyptian and there're many tales regarding his amazing life in the egyptian desert. During Mass we prayed for Fr Testa who died last week in Assisi. And tomorrow my best friend returns to Italy. I guess not everyone has that resilience to survive this land. It's gonna suck tomorrow when I have to say goodbye.
Saturday, January 15, 2011
Gloomy skies
9 degrees outside and raining. The sky is grey and the roads are very slippery. Went to visit my classmate who's still sick with tonsilitis. Though it's gone down and the fever is less frequent, the signs are not good. He's decided to return to Italy. I guess that's the best option as he'll get proper medical care and insurance there. And I guess he'll not want to come back as he's very unhappy here. I'm sorry for that. He's a very good friend; my next best friend to Sr. Rania. Now I'll have to say goodbye to him as well.
Also moving away is Sr. Alphonse Rose, one of Mother Theresa's sisters here in Jerusalem. Next week she'll move to Amman. She's a very good cook; and was crying when I went this morning to say goodbye to her. And Sr. Batilda from the same community is moving to Gaza. She's very good at house visits and is always happy and smiling. And Sr. Aroti, superior of Bethlehem will also go to Gaza. She's very intelligent and creative. But too many changes - it's a traumatic week for me. Have to say so many goodbyes. It's psychologically destroying me.
I've been trying hard to finish my last 5 lines of analysis but it's very difficult to keep on for long. It's tiring - mentally tiring work - to analyse every single Greek word which requires me to consult 5 to 8 books. But it's raining and there's nothing else to do. And I need to distract myself from the awful moments of having to say goodbye.
Also moving away is Sr. Alphonse Rose, one of Mother Theresa's sisters here in Jerusalem. Next week she'll move to Amman. She's a very good cook; and was crying when I went this morning to say goodbye to her. And Sr. Batilda from the same community is moving to Gaza. She's very good at house visits and is always happy and smiling. And Sr. Aroti, superior of Bethlehem will also go to Gaza. She's very intelligent and creative. But too many changes - it's a traumatic week for me. Have to say so many goodbyes. It's psychologically destroying me.
I've been trying hard to finish my last 5 lines of analysis but it's very difficult to keep on for long. It's tiring - mentally tiring work - to analyse every single Greek word which requires me to consult 5 to 8 books. But it's raining and there's nothing else to do. And I need to distract myself from the awful moments of having to say goodbye.
Friday, January 14, 2011
Heroes
A heroic teenager who asked rescuers to save his younger brother and mother as he drowns in Brisbane's flood. http://edition.cnn.com/2011/WORLD/asiapcf/01/13/flood.teenager/index.html?hpt=C1 and http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-12182092
A 61 yr old woman who wrestled away the magazine of bullets from the Tucson (Arizona) killer. http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-us-canada-12154398
The rescuers of yesterday's Brazil's mudslide, in Sri Lanka's flood etc....
There are still people who are self-sacrificing and live Christ's commandment to love your neighbour in a truly selfless way, putting their own lives at risk. I think of the Franciscan sisters of the Mt. of Beatitudes and Dr. Yau, who gave selfless service. It is a powerful statement in the face of those who live only for themselves, for money and greed, for power.
A 61 yr old woman who wrestled away the magazine of bullets from the Tucson (Arizona) killer. http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-us-canada-12154398
The rescuers of yesterday's Brazil's mudslide, in Sri Lanka's flood etc....
There are still people who are self-sacrificing and live Christ's commandment to love your neighbour in a truly selfless way, putting their own lives at risk. I think of the Franciscan sisters of the Mt. of Beatitudes and Dr. Yau, who gave selfless service. It is a powerful statement in the face of those who live only for themselves, for money and greed, for power.
Thursday, January 13, 2011
Fr. Emmanuele Testa R.I.P.
Just received news that my former professor Fr. Emmanuele Testa OFM had just died this morning. He was a scholar - fearless of controversy. His research and results stirred academic circles. A larger than life character; Fr Testa was cameoed as a novice who aided to save Jews in Nazi-occupied Italy in the film "Assisi Underground" - a real life fact, it is attested. Another giant is gone.
Eternal life grant unto him, O Lord; and may perpetual light shine upon him. May he rest in peace. Amen.
Eternal life grant unto him, O Lord; and may perpetual light shine upon him. May he rest in peace. Amen.
Dr. Arthur Yau R.I.P.
My brother-in-law Dr. Yau passed away suddenly last night. He was a generous and compassionate doctor/surgeon; a well-respected professor, and a loving husband and father. He was always available whether I needed medical help or otherwise; always caring for my welfare. I've lost another friend.
Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord; and may perpetual light shine upon him. May he rest in peace. Amen.
Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord; and may perpetual light shine upon him. May he rest in peace. Amen.
Wednesday, January 12, 2011
Hadassah Hospital hurray
For the past few days I've been totally exhausted trying to help a very sick classmate. He developed severe tonsillitis - almost 2 inches big, inflamed with abscess. It caused pain in his ear and severe headaches. Fever was up to 40 degrees. Poor chap was almost delirious.
I brought him to our infirmary but the nurse said it's emergency room in the hospital or else .... so I rushed him to Hadassah Hospital. After some bureaucracy, he was warded.
I must say Hadassah, despite the huge load of incoming patients, did a fantastic job. The staff was very nice and caring; efficient in testing and warding my classmate immediately. And Hadassah management was very compassionate. I didn't have enough money on me to pay in advance for the 2 days stay and we had no health insurance. But the management allowed me to come back the next day to pay up the rest of the debt while warding my classmate. He could have died otherwise if we had been thrown out.
So I've been travelling between the city and Hadassah - some 35 kms away up in the hills - several times a day to bring clothes and other necessities. After 2 days of massive penicillin doses, he's now much better and was released home this afternoon. But I'm totally exhausted. Just glad he's getting better - fever is down, pain is down, tonsillitis reduced to half.
We're very grateful to Hadassah Hospital and its staff - they did a great job. And they reflect what is best in this land of Israel - compassion regardless of race, language or religion.
I brought him to our infirmary but the nurse said it's emergency room in the hospital or else .... so I rushed him to Hadassah Hospital. After some bureaucracy, he was warded.
I must say Hadassah, despite the huge load of incoming patients, did a fantastic job. The staff was very nice and caring; efficient in testing and warding my classmate immediately. And Hadassah management was very compassionate. I didn't have enough money on me to pay in advance for the 2 days stay and we had no health insurance. But the management allowed me to come back the next day to pay up the rest of the debt while warding my classmate. He could have died otherwise if we had been thrown out.
So I've been travelling between the city and Hadassah - some 35 kms away up in the hills - several times a day to bring clothes and other necessities. After 2 days of massive penicillin doses, he's now much better and was released home this afternoon. But I'm totally exhausted. Just glad he's getting better - fever is down, pain is down, tonsillitis reduced to half.
We're very grateful to Hadassah Hospital and its staff - they did a great job. And they reflect what is best in this land of Israel - compassion regardless of race, language or religion.
Tuesday, January 11, 2011
"God hates Catholics" - they say
Persecution of Catholics continue ... this time in the US.
The 9 year old girl who was killed in the attempted assassination of U.S. Rep. Gabrielle Giffords (Tucson, Arizona), was a Catholic. The Westboro Baptist Church is picketing at the innocent little girl's funeral because "God hates Catholics". http://edition.cnn.com/2011/US/01/11/arizona.funeral.westboro/index.html?hpt=C2
And a christian man was killed on a train in Egypt just a few minutes ago.
The 9 year old girl who was killed in the attempted assassination of U.S. Rep. Gabrielle Giffords (Tucson, Arizona), was a Catholic. The Westboro Baptist Church is picketing at the innocent little girl's funeral because "God hates Catholics". http://edition.cnn.com/2011/US/01/11/arizona.funeral.westboro/index.html?hpt=C2
And a christian man was killed on a train in Egypt just a few minutes ago.
Sunday, January 9, 2011
Baptism of Our Lord
Today ends the season of Christmas - the feast of the Baptism of Christ. In the ancient Church (and Orthodox churches today), the Epiphany was the celebration of the Magi's visit, Baptism of Christ and 1st Miracle at Cana - all manifestations (epiphany) of God among us in the person of Jesus. But in the Western Church, it became separated - Epiphany for the Magi's visit, Baptism as a separate feast and the 1st Miracle is only celebrated here in the Holyland. Anyway the Baptism of Our Lord reminds us of our own baptism - our own mission as christians on this earth. Unfortunately for some of us, we don't even know what that is.
The weather is sunny but cold. Rained last night, which is good. But we need much more of it. Looks like it'll be heating up the rest of the week.
And the madness resumes ... first the Egyptians accuse Israel of sending sharks to attack people at Sharm el Sheikh. Now the Saudis say Israel has sent a vulture as a spy into their country. http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-middle-east-12120259
Thank goodness no blackbirds are falling from the sky (cf Arkansas, Louisiana, Sweden) or fish / crabs dying on the seashores (cf New Zealand, Arkansas, England) here in our region ... it'll be fuel to the conspiracy theory wildfire. Read about the animocalypse at http://www.news.com.au/world/is-it-an-animal-apocalypse-here-are-the-facts-and-theories-about-recent-mass-die-offs/story-e6frfkyi-1225983078355 So all the news and hype over mass animal deaths - now, I've got one: how about mass Christian deaths: murdered, slaughtered, persecuted? Anyone concern about that? Any conspiracy theories on that? Anyone doing anything about that? Or do we sweep it under the carpet of history and say "natural phenomenon"?
The weather is sunny but cold. Rained last night, which is good. But we need much more of it. Looks like it'll be heating up the rest of the week.
And the madness resumes ... first the Egyptians accuse Israel of sending sharks to attack people at Sharm el Sheikh. Now the Saudis say Israel has sent a vulture as a spy into their country. http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-middle-east-12120259
Thank goodness no blackbirds are falling from the sky (cf Arkansas, Louisiana, Sweden) or fish / crabs dying on the seashores (cf New Zealand, Arkansas, England) here in our region ... it'll be fuel to the conspiracy theory wildfire. Read about the animocalypse at http://www.news.com.au/world/is-it-an-animal-apocalypse-here-are-the-facts-and-theories-about-recent-mass-die-offs/story-e6frfkyi-1225983078355 So all the news and hype over mass animal deaths - now, I've got one: how about mass Christian deaths: murdered, slaughtered, persecuted? Anyone concern about that? Any conspiracy theories on that? Anyone doing anything about that? Or do we sweep it under the carpet of history and say "natural phenomenon"?
Saturday, January 8, 2011
After Epiphany
5 degrees and raining. It's been cold throughout Epiphany. The Orthodox celebrated their Christmas on that day. So far everything took place in Egypt without incident. Thank God.
Meantime school has restarted. Students and professors are coming back from the Christmas vacation. Exams are round the corner.
So the new year begins. May God bless you all with health, wisdom and fervour for His Word.
Meantime school has restarted. Students and professors are coming back from the Christmas vacation. Exams are round the corner.
So the new year begins. May God bless you all with health, wisdom and fervour for His Word.
Wednesday, January 5, 2011
Goodbye
It's been inside me and I can't keep it in. It's not easy. But I must say goodbye.
Sr. Valeria Briccoli (Superior).
The homework you gave me the day before, I promise I'll do them. Everything will be done and printed as you wished. Thanks for the advice and the ideals we shared.
Sr. Salvatorina Camilleri (Sacristan).
You asked me for Chinese Bibles and other chinese literature for your bookshop so that it may become a center for Chinese Catholic literature in Galilee. I promise I'll get it set up for you. Thanks for caring for our Chinese pilgrims all these 30 years.
Sr. Rania Hadad
You asked nothing from me; only to continue living. Thanks for your laughter. Thanks for the hours of chats and sharings. Thanks for being my best friend.
Buona notte, suore. All'alba ci vedremo.
Sr. Valeria Briccoli (Superior).
The homework you gave me the day before, I promise I'll do them. Everything will be done and printed as you wished. Thanks for the advice and the ideals we shared.
You asked me for Chinese Bibles and other chinese literature for your bookshop so that it may become a center for Chinese Catholic literature in Galilee. I promise I'll get it set up for you. Thanks for caring for our Chinese pilgrims all these 30 years.
Sr. Rania Hadad
You asked nothing from me; only to continue living. Thanks for your laughter. Thanks for the hours of chats and sharings. Thanks for being my best friend.
Buona notte, suore. All'alba ci vedremo.
Tuesday, January 4, 2011
Spreading
Threats to attack more Coptic churches outside of Egypt have arisen in France, Britain, Austria and Germany. It's spreading. It would be wise if Pope Shenouda of the Copts would unite with Pope Benedict of the Latins in a public gesture of solidarity at this moment. http://www.channelnewsasia.com/stories/afp_world/view/1102544/1/.html
Monday, January 3, 2011
Christmas in Egypt
Today it is in Russia that a church has been burnt down. http://www.straitstimes.com:80/BreakingNews/World/Story/STIStory_620145.html In Iraq a Christian woman was shot dead in her sleep. Meanwhile Egypt's christians are on the alert as Orthodox Christmas begins. http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-middle-east-12107084
Catholics in Egypt also celebrate Christmas according to the Orthodox calendar. I just spoke with Fr Vincenzo in Musky who told me they have police at their church door, and barriers set up around the church so cars cannot park beside it. Anyway I'm very worried for him and his community. Told him to celebrate Midnight Mass quickly and get everyone home without risking people's lives - especially the children. But even as we spoke, he said he had to go downstairs to check the metal chains around the main door. Before leaving, he said something about imitating Jesus in judgement before Pilate, to remain silent in adversity until the right moment to answer. I disagreed with him about the silence but he had already left for downstairs. Let's pray and hope that no one gets hurt this Christmas in Egypt.
Catholics in Egypt also celebrate Christmas according to the Orthodox calendar. I just spoke with Fr Vincenzo in Musky who told me they have police at their church door, and barriers set up around the church so cars cannot park beside it. Anyway I'm very worried for him and his community. Told him to celebrate Midnight Mass quickly and get everyone home without risking people's lives - especially the children. But even as we spoke, he said he had to go downstairs to check the metal chains around the main door. Before leaving, he said something about imitating Jesus in judgement before Pilate, to remain silent in adversity until the right moment to answer. I disagreed with him about the silence but he had already left for downstairs. Let's pray and hope that no one gets hurt this Christmas in Egypt.
Sunday, January 2, 2011
And so it begins ...
More christians killed ... an elderly catholic couple in Iraq, dozens in Egypt during Mass.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-middle-east-12096078
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-middle-east-12102397
http://edition.cnn.com/2010/WORLD/meast/12/30/iraq.christians.attacks/index.html
http://edition.cnn.com/2011/WORLD/meast/01/01/egypt.attack/index.html
But the Coptic christians are fighting back. And the Pope is calling for international defence.
http://www.straitstimes.com:80/BreakingNews/World/Story/STIStory_619864.html
The apocalyptic persecution of Christians has begun. The apocalyptic war has begun. Today it's in the Middle East ... tomorrow it'll be beyond: persecution physically, psychologically, socially, economically, politically ... it will hit every Christian, priest, pastor or lay.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-middle-east-12096078
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-middle-east-12102397
http://edition.cnn.com/2010/WORLD/meast/12/30/iraq.christians.attacks/index.html
http://edition.cnn.com/2011/WORLD/meast/01/01/egypt.attack/index.html
But the Coptic christians are fighting back. And the Pope is calling for international defence.
http://www.straitstimes.com:80/BreakingNews/World/Story/STIStory_619864.html
The apocalyptic persecution of Christians has begun. The apocalyptic war has begun. Today it's in the Middle East ... tomorrow it'll be beyond: persecution physically, psychologically, socially, economically, politically ... it will hit every Christian, priest, pastor or lay.
Earthquake
A 3.6 earthquake hit northern Israel yesterday night. This might just be the beginning of something bigger for 2011. http://www.haaretz.com/news/national/jordan-valley-rattled-by-3-6-magnitude-earthquake-1.334669
Saturday, January 1, 2011
New Year 1/1/11
Now is 1/1/11. So the New Year begins. The sky is overcast; raining heavily and very cold. It's midnight, fireworks sputter in the downpour, churchbells are tolling... but there is no joy. I'm still sick with fever. Through the rain, I can still hear is Rania's mother wailing as the coffins were carried out of the church - "Mommy's beloved, come home".
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