Christmas greetings from Jerusalem

In her Christmas message for 2011, Caritas Jerusalem's Secretary General, Claudette Habesch, writes:
"Hope is needed in the Holy Land at this time when Palestinians are asking for recognition of their state and of their very existence. The children born in Bethlehem today are seeking justice and an end to the occupation. Only justice will bring peace in the hearts of the people of Palestine and Israel. Recognizing the state of Palestine is the first step in the path of reconciliation, it is the step of dignity.
This Christmas, I also want to thank you for all your generous support of Caritas Jerusalem in 2011. Because of you, we have been able to accompanying thousands of those most in need.
Our mission is to affirm the dignity of people who should be loved as they are. They are more than “a photo on the paper,” subjects to be pitied for the hardships and injustices of their lives. Together they share with us and with all in the family of love, the family of Christ. “Whoever lives in love lives in God, and God in him” (1 John 4:16)."
In an audio message for Vatican Radio listeners, Claudette reflects on this painting of Our Lady on the "separation wall" in Bethlehem.

"The Virgin Mary has suffered during her life," says Claudette, "but she has given us hope."
Listen to the entire Christmas message....