By Sr. Cecilia Sierra, cms – Holy Land
In a small Bedouin village near Jericho, a woman carefully stitches an embroidered cloth with the word “peace” in Hebrew, Arabic and English. This work of art will make its way as a gift to Pope Francis, hand-delivered by an archeology Daniela Massara traveling from the Holy Land to meet the Pope at the Vatican from behalf of Terra Sancta Museum.
Om Ibrahim and other women in her village are filled with joy and hope that the Church will continue to stand for peace and make its presence felt through concrete acts of solidarity. These Muslim women sincerely appreciate the visits each Saturday from the Comboni Sisters who provide embroidery and English lessons. The additional income from selling embroidered items helps support their families in difficult times.
One Saturday, Om Ibrahim ask if they can write a simple, heartfelt message to Pope Francis, even though they know he may not read Arabic. The Sisters assure them that the Pope has translators. Excited to have their words reach the Pope, Om Ibrahim dictate while another writes. Their spontaneous, hopeful message is soon on its way along with the embroidered “peace” cloth.
When the Sisters returns to the village, the waiting women eagerly ask: Did he like our gift? Does he send his blessing? They are overjoyed to hear that the Pope appreciated the handmade gift from their village.
To keep this ministry alive, Om Ibrahim and her family continue creating beautiful embroidered works, hoping someone will see them and order more to support these communities. Will you help spread hope and empowerment by ordering or supporting these handmade creations from the Holy Land? Any amount helps ensure these women can sustain their livelihoods and this bridge-building ministry can continue touching lives each Saturday.