The solemn entrance of the Custos of the Holy Land in Bethlehem this year brings with it the hope of a new beginning, perhaps starting with the Christmas celebrations Br FRANCESCO PATTON, ofm Custos of the Holy Land "This year the message of Advent is that we must have hope, and I believe that we need hope. We come from two very difficult years, especially for our Christian community here in Bethlehem, because it has been left without work, without pilgrims, without income. In the face of this situation, there comes to us, as a message of hope, the word of Jesus, who precisely in the Gospel of the first Sunday of Advent tells us, "Within this situation do not be discouraged but get back on your feet, lift up your gaze because your deliverance is near."" As per tradition and in keeping with the status quo, on Saturday, November 27, Br. Patton was welcomed near the monastery of St. Elijah. The car in which he was traveling crossed the wall that divides Jerusalem from Bethlehem at the height of Rachel's tomb. Brother Patton was welcomed by civil and religious authorities, scout groups and numerous faithful. The Custos presided over the recitation of the first vespers of the first Sunday of Advent in St. Catherine's Church. During the celebration there was a procession to the Grotto of the Nativity, where the first candle of Advent was lit. Br FRANCESCO PATTON, ofm Custos of the Holy Land "We are on the first Sunday of Advent, and here in Bethlehem it is experienced in a particularly intense way. We have lit the light of the Advent wreath candle in the Manger, marking the path to Christmas. This light will shine for now here in Bethlehem and then with Christmas it will spread throughout the world." The following day, in the Latin parish, the Custos of the Holy Land presided over the Mass of the First Sunday of Advent and the Feast of St. Catherine, together with the Franciscan community and the local faithful. VICTORIA MURAD Bethlehem "Bethlehem is the place where Christianity began, where Jesus was born. This is where the "Messenger of Peace" was born, the "Messenger of Love" to all, beyond religions. I hope that this year will bring peace everywhere among those in conflict and that the pandemic will end all over the world, this is my wish: peace above all. STEPHANIE SALMAN Bethlehem We must thank the Lord that we were born in this holy city, and we must defend our existence, keep our feasts and celebrate them all here in Bethlehem. The beginning of the Advent festivities strengthens our faith that no matter how long the night is, the light of Christmas will still shine!