Tel Aviv: Indians March for Peace from Jerusalem to Bethlehem

By Lenard Fernandes Israel
Bellevision Media Network

Tel Aviv/Israel, 14 Dec 2015: The Indian Chaplaincy organized a pilgrim procession, ‘March for Peace’ from Jerusalem to Bethlehem, here on Saturday December 12.

 

It has become an annual event in the life of the Indian community in the Holy Land. As an expression of their love and devotion to the Infant Jesus, they march the trail of the Holy Family.

 

 

The procession began on Saturday at 9.00am from Jaffa Gate in Jerusalem. Fr Tojy Jose OFM, the chaplain, welcomed everybody to the event and it was graced by Bishop William Shomali in the presence of Fr Dominic Mendonca OP, Fr Mathew Coutinho SDB and other religious. 

 

About 3000 people joined in this pilgrimage.

 

The procession was characterized by the singing of carols and reciting the rosary. The energetic dance of Santa Clauses to the tune of the musical band and the singing of Santa- Cap-clad faithful stole the attention of the Israelis and Palestinians on the road to Bethlehem.

 

The procession reached Bethlehem at 1.00pm and Konkani Mass was led by Fr Dominic Mendonsa OP at St Catherine’s Church. Fr Mathew, Fr Vincent, Fr Patrick, Bro Morgen also participated in the Mass and Malayalam Mass was celebrated at St Helen’s Chapel, Bethlehem.