How Are the Children?
Submitted by Douglas Smith, Phd, DMin
It is heartbreaking to imagine, yet crucial to know, that Palestinian childhood is currently under attack in the West Bank, including in Bethlehem. On October 3, 2026, Al Jazeera reported in a video that:
"More than 220 attacks on Palestinian education were recorded in the occupied West Bank during the first half of the year, according to the UN. Children are increasingly affected by military raids and settler attacks."
In fact, the UN documented attacks on 152 West Bank schools, affecting over 20,450 children in the first half of 2026 alone. The trauma is profound, and these children live in constant fear. To learn more about this reality, you can watch this short Al Jazeera video: https://youtu.be/PidKf2jXTEY.
Thank you for helping these children by supporting the projects of our Bethlehem ministry. We are creating ripples of hope. Keep an eye out for the Bethlehem Market this fall, where your donation will be recognized with your choice of a handicraft item. These items are made by Palestinians whose families receive food and clothing through our Circle of Life ministry.
Together, we are changing lives with our love. Sister Ellen of the Dominican Sisters at St. Joseph’s Center sends each of you her blessings in the following video, received just last week.
