Mass at the Grotto of the Nativity

Today we drove through and visited Bethlehem. There were three things or places that struck me: the wall, the Shepherds Field, and the Grotto of the Nativity Latin Rite Chapel.

When we were told to carry our passports, I had mixed feelings of excitement and curiosity because we were going into Bethlehem. The last time I did serious thinking about this region was back in high school for a school project. The project dealt with getting a better understanding of the relations between the Israelites and Palestinians. When we arrived at the wall separating each others' territories, I was amazed to see its height and width.

After passing through the wall, we entered Bethlehem. According to our local guide, Ashraf Shahean, the city once had a large Christian Palestinian population. However, in the past couple of decades it has been decreasing. As we continued through Bethlehem, the terrain was similar to that of Jerusalem, which has steep hillsides with narrow roads and houses or shops along the sides. When we were about a mile outside of Bethlehem, we stopped at the Shepherd's Field. This area was important because traditionally it is believed that the shepherds first heard the public proclamation of the birth of Christ there (Lk 2:8-14).

When we were done, we went to the Grotto of the Nativity. It was there in a cave that Jesus was born. Today, a church is built over the site. We had the blessing to have Mass about 6-8 feet away from the very place where we believe Jesus was born, known as the Manger Altar. This was very personal and moving although there were many tourists and pilgrims moving behind us. When we left, I knew something special had just happened.

I want to thank you (benefactors) for allowing me to come to these holy sites. Please know you are in my prayers.