Father Francesco Patton

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Children welcome the custos of the Holy Land, Father Francesco Patton, upon his entrance into Bethlehem on Nov. 30, 2024, for the beginning of Advent. The custos’ entry was festive, but at the same time, it was impossible to ignore the echoes of war. The children were holding signs with messages of peace and solidarity for those suffering due to the war.

PHOTOS: Holy Land Christians begin another Advent in the midst of war

Dec 2, 2024

By Marinella Bandini

This past weekend, the people in Bethlehem welcomed the friars of the Custody of the Holy Land, led by the... Read more

Three Franciscan friars portray the Magi in Bethlehem on the afternoon of Jan. 6, 2024. After the Second Vespers of the Epiphany, they descended in the Grotto of the Nativity in Bethlehem, where they brought their gifts to the places of Jesus' manifestation.

The Magi reach Bethlehem, finding smaller crowd of faithful amid ongoing war

Jan 7, 2024

By Marinella Bandini

The Magi made their appearance for the recitation of the Second Vespers of the Epiphany, marking the conclusion of the... Read more

Father Francesco Patton, Custos of the Holy Land, presides over the solemn Mass for the 1st Sunday of Advent, on Sunday, Dec. 2, 2023.

Custos of Holy Land discusses the vocation of Christians in the region today

Dec 17, 2023

By Marinella Bandini

Speaking on Advent, Christmas, hope, and faith, Father Francesco Patton reflected on the meaning of the season for Christians who... Read more

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Dec 22
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