Yom HaKehilot on Solemnity of All Saints in Jerusalem

On November 1st, over 360 parishioners, families, clergy, and friends from across Israel came together to celebrate the annual Yom HaKehillot – Community Day of the St. James Vicariate. Held at the Notre Dame Center and the Collège des Frères La Salle in Jerusalem, the day was a vibrant expression of unity, faith, and shared mission.

A Warm Welcome

The morning began with joyful arrivals at the Notre Dame Auditorium. Helen and Danielle greeted participants with name tags adorned with a special 70th anniversary emblem, marking seven decades of pastoral service in the Holy Land. Children compared stickers and colors, turning registration into a moment of delight and connection.

United in Prayer

The heart of the day was the Holy Mass, celebrated by Fr. Piotr Zelazko, Patriarchal Vicar for the Hebrew-speaking Catholic communities, and concelebrated by Fr. Matthew from VMAS and all the priests of the Vicariate. The liturgy brought everyone together in prayer, grounding the day in the faith that sustains our communities.

“The Beatitudes are not distant ideals; they are a spiritual map for daily life. They show us that holiness is not about escaping the world, but transforming it through love, humility, and justice,” Fr. Piotr said in his homily.

He added: “In our Vicariate, this Gospel finds expression in the quiet faithfulness of our communities… The saints were not perfect – they were faithful. And we, too, are called to be faithful.”

Fellowship and Celebration

At midday, the gathering moved to the La Salle School near the New Gate. The courtyard buzzed with conversation and laughter. A delicious buffet prepared by students of the La Salle Hospitality School, along with homemade desserts from parishioners, created a beautiful moment of fellowship.

Children and youth shared lunch with pastoral educators, strengthening bonds that continue throughout the year in catechism, camps, and community events.

Afternoon Encounters

Participants chose from several enriching activities:

• Spiritual tours to the Holy Sepulchre (with Fr. Apo and Fr. Igino) and the Pentecost Room (with Fr. Andrej), offering fresh insights into Jerusalem’s sacred spaces.
• A reflective discussion on Nostra Aetate, led by Fr. Piotr and Fr. Roman, explored the Church’s evolving relationship with Judaism and interreligious dialogue.
• A youth program for over 100 children included:
• A multimedia experience with the Franciscans (led by Danielle)
• A Ramparts Walk guided by Fr. Benny and Salesian brothers
• A ceramic workshop at the Armenian studio Sandrouni, led by Ezraela, Rievyn, and Reigne

These activities helped young participants experience Jerusalem as part of their own spiritual journey.

Closing Moments

The day concluded in the La Salle Hall with two video presentations: one reflecting on the Vicariate’s pilgrimage to Rome, and another showcasing the Youth Festival in Deir Rafat. Fr. Piotr’s closing blessing brought together the themes of prayer, community, and shared mission.

Even after the formal ending, conversations continued testament to the deep connections formed during this special day.

Thank You!

We extend heartfelt thanks to all who made this day possible, especially Fr. Daoud, Fr. David, Fadi, Frédéric Hazou, and Jeries. Your dedication and support helped weave this beautiful tapestry of community.

Watch a video of CMC: HERE.