Comboni news from Lebanon during the ceasefire, and from Egypt

Life in Lebanon seems to be resuming after weeks of tension, with the introduction of a curfew which – it is hoped – may lead to an end to the bombardments, which have been particularly intense in the southern areas of the capital and the country.

Five of the seven scholastics who renewed their vows are completing their theological studies. We accompany them with our prayers and friendship, as they prepare, some for missionary service and others for perpetual vows. May the Lord bless their forthcoming missionary assignments with peace and make them missionaries of peace and reconciliation in the EGSD Province and throughout the world.

Egypt – Celebration of post-baptismal mystagogy at the tombs of the martyrs in Alexandria

On Friday, 17^th April, which, according to the Eastern calendar, falls within the Week in Albis, more than 150 adult Sudanese who received baptism during the Easter Vigil in various parishes of Cairo went on pilgrimage to Alexandria. They were led by Bishop Claudio Lurati, Apostolic Vicar of Alexandria and the only Latin-rite bishop in Egypt.

During the pilgrimage, each neophyte laid the white garment received at baptism on the altar of Saint Sabina, martyr, in Saint Catherine’s Church, and then received from the bishop the mandate to continue their journey of faith with joy and generosity, following the example of the martyrs.

At a time when migrants face very serious difficulties in their process of integration, this pilgrimage, 200 km from Cairo, represents a powerful moment of encouragement. Like the disciples on the road to Emmaus, we know that we are not alone on the journey.