Cardinal Pizzaballa Letter to the Diocese
October 14, 2023
HoC Statement on the Recent Attack on Crowds Gathering to Receive Humanitarian Aid
March 1, 2024
On Friday, February 23, 2024, Caritas Jerusalem held a productive workshop at the Latin Seminary in Beit Jala that left a profound impact on its attendees. The day started with a retreat and Mass in preparation for Lent followed by an organizational development workshop that elaborated the way Caritas Jerusalem operates.
His Beatitude Pierbattista Cardinal Pizzaballa, the president of Caritas Jerusalem, opened a workshop with a video. He explained Caritas' mission at the international and local level and outlined the direction the organization will take in the next decade. The Patriarch's inspiring message was that Caritas Jerusalem must change its processes to adapt to the changing times and world. What worked ten years ago may no longer be applicable now.
His message was joined by H.E Msgr. Ephrim Semman, Caritas Jerusamem’s Vice-president, who echoed the sentiments and acknowledged the pivotal role that Caritas Jerusalem plays. He noted that Caritas is part of the sacred work that the church does. Caritas' message is that we put love into action.
The workshop centred around new operational and administrative procedures designed to enhance the efficiency, transparency, and accountability of Caritas Jerusalem. These measures are crucial as the organization gains global attention and receives significant contributions for relief efforts in Gaza and the West Bank.
To set the tone of the workshop, Mr. Anton Asfar, Secretary General of Caritas Jerusalem, gave the keynote address that reaffirmed the organization’s unwavering commitment to its mission. Notably, he introduced a Caritas Jerusalem website platform, which is now live. Then, attendees were introduced to comprehensive policies and procedures manuals produced by HLB Sahhar Advisory and Accounting. These curated policies were developed using current best practices in the Not-for-profit sector and are aimed at professionalizing Caritas Jerusalem’s processes.
The rest of the morning examined the Risk Analysis and Mitigation Plan, Financial Policies and Procedures, and the new Procurement Manual. Subsequently, discussions continued, focusing on the latest procedures related to administration, human resources, information technology, and monitoring, evaluation, accountability and learning.
Caritas Jerusalem is embarking on a transformative journey, empowering its dedicated team to serve more effectively and efficiently. Their unwavering commitment to humanitarian values remains at its heart, and these innovative procedures will serve to amplify its impact.
