On Sunday, September 29, during the Franciscan Festival in Bologna, Pope Francis presented the preface for the newly released book, "Like a Pilgrimage - My Days in the Holy Land" (Ts Edizioni), authored by Father Francesco Patton, the Custos of the Holy Land, in collaboration with Italian journalist Roberto Cetera from 'L’Osservatore Romano'. The book sheds light on the significant responsibilities and challenges faced by the Custody of the Holy Land, which has managed the shrines commemorating the life of Jesus for centuries.

In his preface, Pope Francis emphasized that safeguarding the Holy Land is the first task entrusted to humanity by God. He noted that the Custody, which oversees numerous sites and welcomes over half a million pilgrims annually, requires the coordination of friars across eight countries: Israel, Palestine, Jordan, Syria, Lebanon, Egypt, Cyprus, and Rhodes. These friars embody the Custody's international character, representing a microcosm of the Church's universality while navigating the complexities of diverse cultures and traditions.

Pope highlighted the importance of ecumenical and interfaith dialogue, which transcends theological differences to touch the daily lives of many in the Holy Land. He acknowledged the essential work of the friars, who not only manage vibrant devotional practices but also engage in dynamic pastoral activities, including running significant parishes and schools that promote peace and dialogue among various ethnicities and religions.

In reflecting on Father Patton's leadership during extraordinary challenges, including the pandemic and the ongoing conflict in the region, Pope Francis expressed gratitude for his effective management. He recalled a particularly poignant initiative where Father Patton and his vicar, Father Ibrahim Faltas, facilitated the transfer of 150 injured and sick children from Gaza to Italy during the war.

Concluding his remarks, Pope Francis shared a personal memory from his first encounter with Father Patton, expressing his wish for peace for him and for the Holy Land. The book aims to further introduce readers to Father Patton's unique style of leadership, marked by patience, humility, and firmness in times of crisis.

Through the collaboration of the Custody and "L’Osservatore Romano", this book serves not only as a reflection of Father Patton’s experiences but also as a testament to the ongoing mission of the Church in the Holy Land, emphasizing the universal call for peace and solidarity.