Between July 24 and 26, 2025, Br. Francesco Ielpo made his official entrance into the three main holy sites of Christianity under the care of the Custody of the Holy Land: the Cenacle and the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem, and the Basilica of the Nativity in Bethlehem. This marks a significant moment in the Franciscan tradition, signifying the beginning of his service as Custos, leading the Franciscan presence in the places tied to the life of Jesus. Each stop was […]
“Is it appropriate to speak today of beauty and art, at a time marked by so much suffering? I think that it is necessary more than appropriate. I am convinced that beauty is a source of hope and strength.” With these words, María Ruiz Rodríguez speaks of the decision to put her works on show to the public in an evening dedicated to sacred art and music. The exhibition entitled “Light of Grace” was inaugurated on 22 November, at the […]
At the Church of Saint Saviour, the solemnity of Our Lady of the Pillar, patroness of Spain and of the Guardia Civil, was celebrated. The celebration was presided over by the Vicar Custos, Br. Ulise Zarza, with the participation of friars, religious, Spanish diplomatic representatives, and faithful from the Spanish-speaking communities present in the Holy Land. As is tradition, the Spanish Consul General in Jerusalem, José Javier Gutiérrez Blanco-Navarrete, attended the Mass, accompanied by his wife Rebekah Kosinski. Also present […]
The first night footage that shows the start of the humanitarian operation to provide medical care for the children of Gaza arrived from Rome’s military airport of Ciampino on 29 January. The first 11 minors and one adult, ill or injured during the massive bombings, were able to reach Egypt through the border crossing of Rafah, currently the only point of exit from the Gaza Strip, and from there board the plane for Ciampino. One “step towards peace” Fr. Ibrahim […]
