Last Dec. 17, a few steps away from the Grotto of the Nativity in Bethlehem, the guests of the Franciscan Boys Home - 27 boys living in difficult social and economic situations - celebrated Christmas. Br IBRAHIM FALTAS, ofm Vicar of the Custody of the Holy Land "This house was created by the Custody of the Holy Land for children in need, so that they can live with dignity like all other children in the world." The Vicar of the Custody of the Holy Land, Br. Ibrahim Faltas, the president of the Franciscan Foundation for the Holy Land, Father Peter Vasco, and the director of the Children's Home, Br. Sandro Tomašević, were present at this festive moment. The Diyar Theatre Group presented a children's show on the meaning of Christmas, addressing themes such as giving, love and reconciliation, and having the children interact. At the end of the performance, Christmas gifts were distributed, which were received by the children with great joy. GEORGE ABU HANAK Franciscan Boys Home "I thank the Franciscans for this gift: a guitar and clothes. I am very happy. And I thank them for all the activities they organize for us at the Franciscan Boys Home." REZEQ CRESCIO Franciscan Boys Home "They give us everything we need. The Franciscan Boys Home is the best gift." But the children also presented some gifts to the priests in attendance. Br SANDRO TOMAŠEVIĆ, ofm Director of the Franciscan Boys Home "We have served more than 140 children in the last 15 years. Some of them still visit us today to see the house where they lived for several years. They experienced a family atmosphere here, and in turn they are giving this atmosphere to their families today." The Franciscan Boys Home is supported by the Custody of the Holy Land. The Association Pro Terra Sancta helps fund some of its activities. Br IBRAHIM FALTAS, ofm Vicar of the Custody of the Holy Land "As Franciscans we are close to every child in Bethlehem in so many ways: through education, generosity, housing, work, sports, extracurricular activities. And we try to make sure that none of our 'children' lack anything." ADRIAN IJHA Franciscan Boys Home "The Franciscan Boys Home is a daily gift from the Franciscans."