Update from Beit Al Liqa’ – Middle East

Dear friends,

Greetings from a surprisingly freezing Beit Jala! At the beginning of this new year, winter struck with all its might. Late January we had snow for two days, and even this coming weekend we’re expecting a snow wave for our area. Here, people not only long for the glorious white because of its rare appearance, but also because it brings public life to a standstill: no school for kids, no work for adults – and we must admit that even here at Beit Al Liqa’ such unexpected free time slots are welcomed as a precious gift!

December Newsletter from Beit Al Liqa

Dear friends!

Every year, thousands of tourists from all around the globe flock into Bethlehem to visit the site of Jesus’ birth. It is a very special experience for them to enter the ancient and venerable church in the place where the stable is said to have once been.

A few days ago, when our nursery school went there on a day trip the children were ever so excited. “Where’s the stable? Where’s the manger? And where’s baby Jesus?“ they kept asking all at the same time. Shortly before they had visited the Shepherds’ Fields in Beit Sahour. There, in a small chapel, they had seen a painting depicting the angels bearing the good tidings of Jesus’ birth to the shepherds. They had followed the footsteps of the shepherds but to their disappointment did not find the Christ child. “I’ve told you. Jesus is no longer in the manger!” Jimmy, our staff member, reminded them and went on to explain to them again why.

Prayer Letter from Beit Al-Liqa’

Dear friends,

Yet another month is over! These past few weeks have been filled with various big and small jobs at the office, throughout our centre and grounds. Presently, most of our time is being taken up by preparing for our upcoming Christmas festivities. But despite all the work, we are very much looking forward to one of the best times of the year. Thank you for all your prayers for us during this busy time.