In the Holy Land

Over 1300 square feet of ancient mosaics in the Church of the Nativity fully restored in time for Christmas pilgrims. Read more.         (Photo Credit: Thomas Coex/AFP)

Churches along the Jordan River near the famous baptism site of Jesus could reopen within a year after decades of being uninhabited. Read more.         Photo Credit: Christopher Sprake/Shutterstock

Pope Francis expresses desire to be close to “martyred land of Syria” in letter to Holy Land Franciscans. Read more.         (photo credit: Vatican News)

Holy Land Franciscans begin Advent at the Basilica of the Nativity joined by friars from all over the world. Read more.

Holy Land Franciscan Commissaries meet in Jerusalem to discuss their efforts to connect people all over the world to the Holy Land. Read more.

Holy Land Franciscans say future pilgrims should focus on the unheard stories of the Holy Land, instead of the stories of conflict stressed by the media. Read more.         Credit: Alexandra Lande / Shutterstock

New wing of the Terra Sancta Museum in Jerusalem focuses on what daily life was like during the time of Jesus. Read More.         (Photo Credit: Neva Gasparo)

The Feast of Cleophas and Simeon is celebrated at the Shrine of Emmaus Qubeibeh, the site of the remains of a crusader-era basilica. Read More.

Holy Land Franciscan Father says situation in Idlib, Syria, the last rebel stronghold, is unstable; Christians and other civilians fear major attack. Read More.         Photo Credit: Mohammed Badra/EPA via CNS

Holy Land Franciscans in Syria appeal for help as the area of Idlib, where their convents are housing refugees, comes under attack. Read more.