Talks for March 2018

We are delighted to have been invited to give talks about the situation of children in crisis in the Holy Land.

11^th March                                       St. Mary’s Handsworth, Sheffield

18^th March                                       St. Peter and St. Paul, Great Missenden

23^rd – 25^th March                           St. Mary at Latton, Harlow

It will be good to see old friends and to meet new folk and to be able to talk and discuss the enormous problems faced by youngsters in an area of conflict.

Boutros Kalanzi

On 15^th February I heard the incredibly sad news that my dear friend Boutros Kalanzi had died having fought a long battle with cancer. This man, who I have known for the past ten years, was a man of complete selflessness, kindness, humour and compassion. It was in his house in Beit Jala that the idea of ACIC was conceived and it was his dedication to the welfare of others, particularly children in need, that helped me and ACIC so very much over the years. I cannot overstate how much this great man freely gave to others during his life. Over the past week I have been with his family in Beit Jala where we have been able to ensure that his fourteen year old son can continue with his education. Just a few weeks ago I was with Boutros at the hospital where he was being treated and he took the time to come with me to the children’s cancer ward where he talked with one of the children ACIC is supporting. Boutros spoke to him with such kindness and positivity and really ‘lifted’ this youngster who had been feeling so low. It is also the mark of this man that hundreds from his local community came to see his family to pay their respects. He was a man who was so greatly loved by so many and he will be sorely missed.