The next generation

When I look into the faces of the children with whom we work, when I listen to their stories, when I see the situation in which they live  - my heart breaks. I don’t think I am too much of a fool or too naïve. I think my heart and mind are relatively well balanced. I have seen much in my life so far but I am still surprised every single day by some people’s capacity for cruelty towards children in so many parts of this world. We, as adults, will soon be entrusting this world to these very children and if we have any hope of a better world then we must learn and learn quickly to be less careless with this next important generation.

A great privilege

Despite the ongoing difficulties found in the region, I see children smiling and working so hard to have a successful life. It is such a privilege to work alongside these brave children, parents, teachers and many others who join together in trying to find a better future for young people.

Good Visits

Good visits to the SOS Children's Village in Bethlehem and to the Boarding Section at Hope School in Beit Jala

Back to school!

Many visits today to check on the welfare of the children for whom we care as they return to school after the Easter holiday. All seem happy and we are satisfied that all are receiving the help they need. Also a visit today to the Bethlehem Rehabilitation Hospital to see the boys who were so terribly injured during the conflict in Gaza last year. Both are due to return to their homes soon and are sad to be leaving those who have cared for them so wonderfully but also happy at the prospect of seeing family and friends who they have not seen for nine months. The doctors, nurses, physiotherapists, psychologists, occupational therapists, the many friends they have made here in Bethlehem and I will miss them very much. These two exceptionally brave youngsters have been a great inspiration to many.

Great Welcomes

So good, today, to see some of the youngsters with their families 

Two of the bravest!

A very happy Easter to all (those of the Catholic persuasion) and a good Holy Week to those looking forward to Easter this coming Sunday in the Orthodox  Church.  This, the birthplace of Christ, is still a divided region in so many ways. As I return to the Holy Land I have been to see all of those for whom we presently care. Christian and Muslim children in hospital, in school and in homes. I am so happy that all are doing well and all are receiving the help they so badly need. Ayman and Salameh in hospital are now walking a little following terrible injuries sustained in the war. It is soon time for them to go home and regain their strength. Two of the bravest and most tenacious youngsters I have ever met. Today I will visit Al Shurooq School for blind children and then to see some youngsters in their homes with their families to ascertain the best help we can give. To those reading this in the U.K. – just to say that it is a beautiful warm day here in Bethlehem – I hope the weather there isn’t too cold!