Assumption Solemnity

Vigi

Today is mid-August, or the italians call it "ferragosto" characterised by the heat. Both latin and orthodox churches celebrate the feast of the Assumption of Mary into heaven ... one of the rare feasts which all the churches unite to celebrate an event. The Tomb of Mary itself used to be franciscan but in the 18th century was taken over by the greeks. After Mary was buried in the tomb, she was assumed into heaven body and soul after 3 days ... that's one of the earliest traditions in church history.

There was a vigil procession last night. Because of Coronavirus restrictions, few people were allowed to join in ... some 50 in all. The liturgies of the vigil and feast day proper took place in the basilica of Gethsemane which is next to the church of Mary's Tomb. A statue of Mary in repose was carried around the garden of the ancient olive trees, and inside the basilica it was venerated.

Damascus Gate today

However on the national front, tensions with Gaza is rising very fast. Incendiary balloons are blown into Israel, burning up areas of farmland. Israel has bombarded Gaza at specific military sites and this morning we learn that Gaza has vowed to retaliate. Iran and Turkey are fuming over UAE's recognition of Israel and are vowing retaliation. We're now quite unsure what will take place in the next months ... when Israel celebrates Yom Kippur and Sukkoth. Bitter reminiscence of a former war have not been lost. Let's hope nothing comes out of this.