Jerusalem
and the Middle East
Church Association

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News

Obituaries

From Cyprus

Katafiyio Retreat House

This beautiful and peaceful house in the hills has provided a time of withdrawal and prayerful reflection for individuals and for groups from many places. It is not only for residents of Cyprus, there have been visitors from Jordan, Iraq, Kuwait, UAE and the States. The house is set in the midst of excellent walking country with spectacular views. For a Parish Day with a group or for a private time of renewal contact Maggie Le-Roy, the Retreat Facilitator PO Box 22075 Nicosia or email retreats@spidernet.com.cy

From Jerusalem

Property Restored

For some time the Diocese has been involved in a painful dispute concerning the ownership of the land and School in Nazareth. The Israeli courts have found in favour of the diocese and the school and land are confirmed as diocesan property. The school has reverted to its earlier name “Christ School Nazareth” A celebratory meeting took place in September at the school, attended by Bishop Suheil and diocesan officers with parents, governors and staff.

From St George's College

Next year's courses

Several of next year’s courses are fully booked but among those with vacancies are:
April 14-23 Risen With Christ (Orthodox Easter) £900.
May 16-29 Bible Lands (begins in Egypt, ends in Jerusalem) £1750
June 5-16 St. Paul in Greece. (Entire course in Greece) £2000
July 7-16 Youth course. £600
August 7-18 Praying with Music. £1000
September 5-18 St. Paul and the Early Church. (Entire course in Turkey) £1750
Sept 30-Oct 9 Abraham Yesterday and Today. (The three faiths)
For more information visit St George’s College Jerusalem at www.sgcjerusalem.org

From Syria

A Study of Iraqi Refugees

An important research by Joshua Kassanis, partly funded by JMECA, is investigating the effect of the invasion of Iraq on the Christian churches. An unknown number of Christians fled from the chaos and crossed the border into Syria. The investigation will reveal ‘what happened next’. Have the exiled Christians settled in Syria? How have they been received? And at what cost to the Syrian churches? The first findings reveal shocking suffering among the Iraqis and great compassion from the Syrians. Watch this space in a future issue for a fuller report.

From Aden

Maintenance and modernisation have gone ahead apace at Christ Church. The operating theatre has been remodelled, termites have been banished, the wiring throughout the compound has been renewed, an up to date fire alarm system has been installed in the clinics and church, and by the time this magazine is circulated the guest rooms should have been remodelled and refurbished.

The funding for these very significant projects has come largely from the Dutch Reformed Church and been overseen most diligently by Stefan Poldervaart, head of maintenance.

Meanwhile, Dr Yousef Fahim Gergis, the Medical Director, has continued updating protocols in the clinics and looking at new ways to improve patient care, and ongoing training for the medical staff.