We began our second week on the psalms course with a wonderful trip to Galilee. Each one with different expectations, but I’m sure everyone was ready for God to surprise them.

Following in the footsteps of Jesus at important moments in his teaching to his disciples, we also internalized in some way what this Fifth Gospel, the Holy Land, was revealing to us through all these places.

We visited Caesarea, Nazareth, Tabgha, and Capernaum among many other places; a very deep moment was to be able to say our prayer on a boat in the Sea of Galilee. When we closed our eyes It was like being transported to the time of Jesus and his followers. It was also interesting to hear the short talk about the Jewish Kabala, as it is present in many forms in everyday life and in some way connects us all, regardless of religion or belief.

January 20th – Anniversary of the Apparition of Mary to Alphonse Ratisbonne

At the beginning of an emotional and festive celebration, our Bishop, Piere Battista Pizzaballa, happily mentioned how each week you could be part of the anniversary of a religious community in Jerusalem. In the variety of gifts granted to the Holy Church, the Charism of Sion has an important and unique space here, in the land of Jesus. He recalled how he had shared many activities with the family of Sion, over several years and, referring to the Gospel of the day at the wedding in Cana, he remarked that all these occasions have always been a way of sharing wine. At the same time, he exhorted us not to leave our jars empty but to always be behind Jesus in bringing the wine of our joy to all.

After the Holy Eucharist, which was attended by other congregations, priests, friends and family, as well as the participants of the courses, we also shared a special meal.

It is true that many years have passed since January 20, 1842, when that young seeker and disbeliever found in a divine moment the courage to change his life. But now, more than ever, we hope that the same spirit of our Father Mary Alphonse, who often encouraged his brother to action, also pushes us to serve each day within this charism that we have received. In imitating him, through that silence, in front of Our Most Holy Mother, where he understood “Do whatever he tells you.” (John 2, 5) may we also follow Jesus whole-heartedly.

Helen NDS, novice
Ein Karem