Strengthening Bonds of Solidarity: Caritas Jerusalem Visits Caritas Spain

Caritas Jerusalem Strengthens Collaboration with Caritas Spain and AECID
March 19, 2025
Caritas Jerusalem Strengthens Collaboration with Caritas Spain and AECID
March 19, 2025
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Strengthening Bonds of Solidarity: Caritas Jerusalem Visits Caritas Spain

The Secretary General of Caritas Jerusalem Mr. Anton Asfar recently embarked on a significant visit to Caritas Spain, reinforcing the spirit of fraternal cooperation and humanitarian solidarity. This journey provided an opportunity to engage with representatives from the Diocesan Caritas working group for Palestine from Caritas Valencia, Caritas Alicante, Caritas Castellón, Caritas Menorca, Cáritas Alcalá de Henares, and Caritas Zaragoza, along with many other diocesan Caritas organizations.

During the visit, the International Cooperation Assembly brought together around 70 Diocesan Caritas representatives to discuss critical global challenges. Meaningful conversations took place on peacebuilding, integral ecology, human mobility, and humanitarian action, with Caritas Jerusalem contributing insights and perspectives from the Holy Land. These discussions emphasized the urgent need for joint efforts in responding to crises, supporting vulnerable communities, and fostering lasting peace.

Amid these important meetings, a spiritual gathering was held at the Resurrection Monastery in Zaragoza, led by the Cantonese of the Holy Sepulchre sisters. The event saw a heartfelt outpouring of solidarity, as members of the local community came together in prayer and support for the people of the Holy Land, reaffirming their commitment to justice, faith, and peace. A meaningful discussion with the President, Secretary General, and board members of Caritas Zaragoza. For over twenty years, Caritas Zaragoza has maintained a deep and strong partnership with Caritas Jerusalem. The visit also included a meeting with H.E. Husni Abdel Wahed, Ambassador of Palestine to Spain, who expressed appreciation for Caritas Jerusalem’s ongoing emergency response and humanitarian services. Recognizing the challenges faced by communities in the Holy Land, the conversation underscored the importance of international solidarity in addressing urgent needs.

A meaningful exchange also took place at Radio Maria, where Rev. Fr. Gerardo Duenes, Bishop Assistant of Madrid, interviewed Mr. Anton Asfar. The discussion illuminated the difficulties faced by Christians in the Holy Land, highlighting the Church’s vital role in preserving their presence and ensuring their voices are heard.

This visit to Caritas Spain served as a profound reminder of the shared mission that unites us all—a mission of peace, humanitarian service, and unwavering support for those in need. We extend our deepest gratitude to Caritas Spain and all the diocesan representatives who welcomed us with open hearts and a shared commitment to building a more just and compassionate world.