Earthquake aid

Our Fr. Khukaz, ordained last
year, serves food to our refugees
of the earthquake in our
parish hall.

Our young friars have left for our 4 churches in the Orontes Valley affected by the earthquake. There are over 4000 living in our school and parish hall in Aleppo alone. We serve 2500 meals a day. Flour, oil, salt and other basics must be bought from other cities unaffected by the earthquake. Our parish in the village of Knaye is the worst hit. We have no news so far due to lack of electricity. The village is under ISIS control so it is extremely difficult in there right now. Pray for them.

Thanks to everyone for your generous support of our work with these victims in Syria. We will pray for your kindness. I received news that M. Teresa's convent was only a little affected ... 2 cracks that are superficial. They are sheltering 2 families in their convent which is already full of handicap children.

Yesterday our Old City was almost under chaos as thousands of muslims came to the Al Aqsa to pray. It was the feast of Mohammad's ascension to heaven ... which took place in the Al Aqsa mosque so that place was the center of the celebrations in the entire muslim world. Israeli police were out in force. The eastern City gates were packed with people. Moments of tension and provocations were sporadic. Riot police drove to break up the crowds ... who regathered to jeer. I had to pass by there yesterday as a visiting priest and friend came. As I cannot walk fast or run, being around Damascus Gate at that moment was a little dangerous.