Groups are back

Indonesian pilgrim group

The entire week was fluctuating between sunny and rainy. Temps fell to 10 degrees but has recently climbed to 16 degrees. Still people wear woollen clothes and hoodies to avoid the chill. The sun sets at 4.30pm and people prefer to stay indoors to avoid trouble. Security has been heavy especially starting today when the Jews celebrate their feast of Hanukkah. 

Christmas celebrations are played down this year. No public banners, trees or carols. It's a time of mourning for all the dead and injured. The solemn entrances of the Custos and the Patriarch into Bethlehem each Saturday of Advent is not a restricted event, low profile. No scouts, bands, bagpipes and processions. Even in our monasteries, there are no Christmas trees or lights. Just the statue of the Infant Jesus and some fresh flowers or poinsettias.

Cold rainy days

Nevertheless despite the exaggerated cancellations of flights and tour groups, the Indonesian pilgrims are the most resilient. Several groups continue to come each week, and see for themselves the pilgrim churches are unaffected by the war. A Singaporean group even came last week! We're hoping more groups will have the courage and faith to come this Christmas.