Geographically it is nearby, surprisingly only 8.5km from Jerusalem, but being in the Palestinian territory of the West Bank, it is isolated. Isolated by the imposing concrete wall that has been erected around the perimeter.
We started with a tour of the Church of the Nativity which is the birthplace of Christ. This is a short descent down under the Church to the cave that was used (not a stable!) Again, not a particular moving moment as we are rushed through with little to no time to stop.
We then went to visit Sr Maria Grech , and amazing woman doing extraordinary things for the Palestinian people Bethlehem.
We then celebrated Eucharist in the 'Shepherd's Fields' a series of caves used by Shepherds of the region to protect their flocks at night.
After lunch we went to Bethlehem University which is a Catholic university operated by the De La Salle brothers. Of the 3000 student population, 70% are Muslim and 30% Christian. They too are doing wonderful things but providing hope through Education to the young Palestinian people - the future of this troubled region.
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