The tragic violence in the Middle East and the highly restrictive policies imposed by the government of Israel on Palestinians have created severe economic instability for Arab Palestinian Christians who live in the area of Bethlehem, a name which means “House of Bread.”
In the neighboring village of Beit- Sahour, from where the shepherds most likely came to be the first people to worship the Christ Child, Palestinian Christian families have carved exquisite olive wood religious works for generations. Current travel restrictions imposed by Israel on Palestine have dramatically reduced both pilgrimages and tourism. The livelihood of these Christian families is severely threatened.
Mr. Victor Hannuneh is part of a group of Palestinian Christians traveling around our country selling these superb carvings. The revenue generated helps to restore justice to an oppressed Palestinian Christian minority, supports over 300 families of skilled carvers, and helps in keeping a Christian presence in the Holy Land.
Victor will display the carvings after the all Masses next weekend (August 25 and 26). Your purchase, however small or big, will be an act of justice as well as provide an opportunity to own or give as gifts original folk art from Bethlehem.