Fr Samir Narouz R.I.P.

Rally in Jerusalem

Last night's March of the Million was a poor show - only half a million showed up. Nevertheless it was impressive - the largest ever rally in the history of Israel. In Jerusalem, 50,000 people marched to Paris Square in front of our Terra Santa College next to the PM's house. But the PM has his own tactics - ignore them and they will fizzle away. The protesters must change their tactics if they want to be effective. http://www.haaretz.com/news/national/some-450-000-israelis-march-at-massive-march-of-the-million-rallies-across-country-1.382366

The weather has chilled so much, winter blankets are brought out from the closets. Soon it will be Yom Kippur and Sukkot ... and probably the riots that follow it every year.

Fr. Samir died on Friday. He was 55 yrs old and was an Egyptian who worked in several capacities in the Holyland. He was my good friend. Despite his liver illness, he was always cheerful and patient. Finally as his liver transplant failed, he prepared for his final journey to heaven, always with a smile.

Any one who had encountered him during these last few months will tell you of his constant gratitude to everyone and for everything.

Eternal rest grant unto him O Lord, and may perpetual light shine upon him. May he rest in peace.