Farewell to Claudia at Saint Rachel

Claudia arrived in Israel about four years ago and began praying with the kehilla. In the winter of 2014, three children arrived at the Vicariate, needing an after-school environment in which they could prepare their homework, be looked after until their mother finished work and be able to pass time constructively. Claudia together with Father David’s support and assistance developed what has become an after-school program that accommodates tens of migrant children daily.

In the summer of 2014, Father David asked if she would be willing to look after Blessing, then about eight months old, the daughter of a Filipina migrant worker. Blessing suffered from various disabilities including not being able to breathe without oxygen. Claudia readily agreed. This was the beginning of the day care center that today welcomes twenty eight migrant children under the age of three daily. Claudia has been involved in developing this service since its inception.

Claudia has served with single minded commitment and devotion to the children. At the farewell celebration, Claudia was thanked by Father David, Fadia, the director of the day care, Daniel, fill in director of the after school, mothers and children. All underlined their gratitude and wished her well as she returns to Italy.