EAPPI Stands In Solidarity with Church Related Organizations and Projects
Caritas Baby Hospital
Children’s Relief Bethlehem is an international Christian
Charity that has been providing aid to people in need in the Holy Land since
1952. They co-finance projects in the
Middle East that place an emphasis on the principles of self-help, taking the
initiative and person responsibility.
The Caritas Baby Hospital in Bethlehem is one of them. Caritas Baby Hospital’s brochure states that
they provide aid to children and mothers and are committed to sustainable,
holistic and social development. They
take the political realities in the holy land into account in their work and
support efforts aimed at leading to social justice and peace. They are building bridges of solidarity and
of mutual understanding between peoples.
The tour guide explained the problems caused to sick
children because of the occupation, including economic pressures on the
families and permits required. The
occupation related delays on needed medical help are especially detrimental if the
child needs services beyond what Caritas is equipped to handle.
We actually took our tour with a tour group from Germany. Ulrike, a teammate from Germany, provided me
with the translation.
The tour guide told of the H. H. Pope Benedict XVI's visit to and blessing of the work of Caritas Baby Hospital in 2009.
The tour was impressive; we saw a well-staffed and equipped
facility. I did not take photos inside,
but you can get photos and information on how you can be involved at www.childrens-relief-bethlehem.org.uk.
