Holy Child Program – Holy Land

The Franciscan Sisters of the Eucharist have had a presence in the Holy Land since 1978. Over the years, the Community has ministered in teaching, social work and counseling. Several years ago, at the request of parents, the Community founded in Bethlehem a therapeutic educational program, Holy Child Program, for children who were affected by experiences of trauma. Having trained local professionals on staff in providing services, the Franciscan Sisters relinquished the operation of the Program in 2008. Since then, the Bethlehem Holy Child Program, a corporation comprising Franciscan Apprentices, provides oversight for the local staff who are successfully carrying out the mission of the Program. The Franciscan Sisters of the Eucharist continue as consultants and offer spiritual guidance.

The land of Christ remains an important place for the Franciscan Sisters of the Eucharist to live and work, as we carry out the mission Christ began on that very soil, made sacred by his life, death and resurrection. In 2010, the Community accepted invitations to serve in the offices of the Latin Patriarchate and in the offices of the Franciscan Custody of the Holy Land.