St. Anthony of Padua/Lisboa

Getting to know the students

St. Anthony is the patron of the Holy Land .... he wanted to be a missionary and martyr here but he was not sent. Instead he was asked to teach theology in Italy. Anyway it's a big solemnity for us ... gloria and credo sung at Mass. This week also is my turn to preside at the liturgy so it's a lot of singing and chanting. Tiring for me as I have asthma and intoning the chants can be very difficult for my breathless lungs.

Blessing the people

Anyway the age old question: should St. Anthony be called "of Padua" or "of Lisbon"? He died in the former but was born in the latter. He is a portuguese. Italians and portuguese jostle to call the saint their own.

Saying the prayers

Last night we had the honor of Bishop Ha ofm coming to bless the Chinese Convent. It was a private affair. Mother Teresa's sisters came to join in. Also Chinese students from various universities and institutes here in Jerusalem. A simple meal ended the evening. It was nice to have the bishop's support in our endeavour dos serve the church in the Holyland.

Blessing the
Oratory

Blessing the rooms