Holy Land Archives

France reopens contested Jewish tomb in east Jerusalem

Associated Press, Church in the Middle East
Nov 8, 2019

French authorities reopened one of Jerusalem’s most magnificent ancient tombs to the public for the first time in over a decade, despite a dispute over access to the archaeological-cum-holy site in the city’s volatile eastern half.

Byzantine church to mystery martyr unearthed near Jerusalem

Associated Press, Church in the Middle East
Oct 24, 2019

Israeli archaeologists have revealed an elaborately decorated Byzantine church dedicated to an anonymous martyr that was recently uncovered near Jerusalem.

Lutheran Palestinian bishop wins Iowa Catholic peace award

Catholic News Service, Church in the Middle East
Oct 5, 2019

Bishop Munib Younan told an audience in Rock Island it is “imperative that all religions teach their adherents to see the Image of God in those who are different.”

Restoring churches seen as key to have Christians return to Middle East

Catholic News Service, Church in the Middle East
Jul 19, 2019

Speakers at a July 18 conference in Washington argued that restoring churches in violence-plagued sections of the Middle East will help foster the return of Christians who fled the strife, as well as introduce greater stability to the region.

Monastery connects U.S. Catholics to Holy Land, events in Christ’s life

Catholic News Service, Church in the US
Jul 14, 2019

Father James Gardiner, a Franciscan Friar of the Atonement, who is director of special projects at the monastery, said the gardens and the replicas are meant to “whet your appetite” for seeing the real things in the Holy Land.

Peace prayers offered on centennial of statue’s return to Israel monastery

Catholic News Service, Church in the Middle East
May 7, 2019

Israel’s second largest annual Christian gathering became a vehicle to pray for peace as tensions between Israel and Palestinians living in Gaza intensified.