Skip to content
The Middle Atlantic Lieutenancy of the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem

Latest News & Press

Latest News

Catholic, Middle Atlantic Lieutenancy, and Holy Land News
Comments Box SVG iconsUsed for the like, share, comment, and reaction icons

Today’s readings include Saint Paul’s exhortation to “live as children of light,” and we certainly experienced that light throughout this weekend’s Annual Investiture in Raleigh, North Carolina.

Through prayer, fellowship, and the Rite and Mass of Investiture, we welcomed our newest Knights, Dames, and Knight Chaplains and renewed our commitment to the Church and the Christian communities of the Holy Land.

Our heartfelt thanks to Archbishop William E. Lori, Bishop Luis Rafael Zarama, and the Raleigh Section for making this a truly memorable weekend.

May the light we shared continue to inspire our mission of prayer, charity, and service.

May God be Praised.
…

Image attachment
Image attachment
Image attachment
Image attachment
Image attachment

Through joy, endurance, and reception of the Word, the Thessalonians became a model for believers far and wide. Their faith demonstrated that true transformation comes not only from hearing the gospel but from living it with conviction, courage, and steadfastness, turning hearts away from idols and toward the living God.

May this message inspire us to live authentically in our faith, becoming examples of hope, love, and steadfast devotion. Let us receive God’s Word with sincerity, allowing it to shape our thoughts, actions, and relationships. In doing so, we become instruments of His grace, spreading light and blessing to those around us, and offering witness to the power of Christ in every place we go.
…

Through joy, enduran

We are called to remember, pray, and give thanks for one another, following the example of faith, love, and hope demonstrated by the early Church. The gospel is proclaimed not merely in words, but with conviction, power, and the guidance of the Holy Spirit, transforming lives and communities.

May this message inspire us to embrace faith actively, cultivating love and endurance in all that we do. Let us lift one another in prayer, celebrate the work of God in our midst, and participate fully in the mission He entrusts to us. In this way, our lives reflect the power of the gospel, bear witness to God’s mercy, and bring joy to all who encounter His truth.
…

We are called to rem

The situation in the Holy Land remains deeply concerning. We share Cardinal Pizzaballa’s call to keep the suffering of the people of the Holy Land in the forefront of our attention, and to continue working and praying for peace, justice, and the protection of all communities, including the Christian communities who have called this land home for generations.

May God sustain all those suffering and strengthen all who continue to serve, comfort, and bring hope to those in need.Pizzaballa: Palestinians in the West Bank ‘Do Not Know Where to Turn’; Gaza Crisis Has Not Improved

VATICAN CITY – Three years after the October 7, 2023 attacks, Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, the Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, is warning of deepening mistrust across the Holy Land amid deteriorating conditions in the West Bank and Gaza.

He denounces a “total absence of law and respect for the law” in the West Bank, where Palestinian communities are facing increasingly violent acts by Israeli settlers, and says the humanitarian situation in Gaza “has not improved at all,” with the population becoming increasingly worn down and exhausted. He also says he intends to return to the Strip.

In an interview with Vatican media, Pizzaballa also addresses incidents of violence against Christians in Jerusalem, growing emigration concerns among Palestinian Arab Christians in Israel and East Jerusalem, and increasing divisions within Israeli society, along with fading confidence in the possibility of peace.

The Situation in the West Bank
The cardinal’s concern deepens when he turns to the West Bank, where he regularly meets Palestinian communities facing increasingly violent acts by Israeli settlers.

“These communities are deeply concerned and frightened by the continued deterioration of the situation, particularly in certain areas, such as Taybeh and Aboud, as well as in inland areas, where villages remain and agriculture is still important and essential to families’ livelihoods,” he says.

“What is most worrying of all is this total absence of law and respect for the law. We are in the olive harvest season, yet olives are being stolen and access to farmland is being prohibited,” he adds.

“These circumstances generate growing mistrust and concern among the Palestinian population, who do not know where to turn or whom to appeal to,” he continues.

Gaza: “I Plan to Return”
As winter approaches, conditions in Gaza are becoming even more desperate for a population already exhausted, despite the ceasefire agreement signed on October 10, 2025.

Pizzaballa, however, is clear about his intention to return to the Strip.
“We certainly need to go there, and so I plan to return,” he says.

He stresses that “the humanitarian situation has not improved at all, and the actual living conditions of the population, in tents, surrounded by sand and without adequate sanitation, have not improved. On the contrary, they have deteriorated.”

Incidents of Violence Against Christians in Jerusalem
Incidents of violence and intimidation in recent years have placed an additional burden on Christian communities, particularly in Jerusalem.

“Unfortunately, these incidents do occur, and it should be noted that they are concentrated in specific areas of the city, especially around the Armenian Quarter, an area of friction between the Jewish, Christian and Muslim quarters. These incidents continue, with periods of greater and lesser intensity, although they appear to have declined in recent months. Both the media and the relevant authorities are paying greater attention,” Pizzaballa says.

Christians in Israel and East Jerusalem: Growing Emigration Concerns
The climate of uncertainty is also affecting Christian communities. According to Israel’s Central Bureau of Statistics, the Christian population in Israel stood at approximately 184,200 on Christmas Eve 2025, representing 1.9 percent of the population.

A survey by the Rossing Center for Education and Dialogue, conducted in December 2024 among 300 Palestinian Arab Christians in Israel and East Jerusalem, found that 36 percent of respondents were considering leaving Jerusalem or Israel altogether.

According to figures reported by Vatican News, the proportion considering relocating rises to 48 percent among respondents aged 18 to 29 and 52 percent among those aged 30 to 44.

The survey does not include Christians in the West Bank or Gaza Strip and should not be read as representative of all Christians in the Holy Land.

“Christians, as I always say, are not a world apart. They experience what everyone else experiences,” Pizzaballa says, noting that emigration affects Palestinians and Israelis, Jews, Muslims and Christians alike.

“It affects us more because we are few,” he adds. The underlying concerns, however, are shared: “A lack of trust and fear about the future. For Christians, these are compounded by economic difficulties, which are also closely linked to the political situation.”

Divisions Within Israel
Israeli society is also marked by growing fragmentation, fatigue and exhaustion.
“Since 2023, there has also been considerable fragmentation within Israeli society itself. Former Israeli President Reuven Rivlin spoke of the ‘tribes of Israel’ when referring to Israeli society. Today, this fragmentation is much more pronounced. In Israel, people no longer talk about peace processes, nor do they believe that a two-state solution for two peoples is possible. There is a general sense of disorientation and perhaps also some anger toward the world.

“How Much Longer?”
This brings to mind the question that has echoed across the Holy Land for at least three years: “How much longer?”

Father Gabriel Romanelli, parish priest of the Holy Family Church in Gaza, recently told Vatican media that Pope Leo XIV had posed this very question to him.

Vatican media put the same question to Cardinal Pizzaballa, who replied:
“It is a question we all ask ourselves, in prayer and in all kinds of relationships and interactions, whether political or religious. We must continue to insist on keeping attention focused on the situation, because this is the only way we can eventually begin serious efforts toward reconstruction and bringing this terrible situation to an end.”

Source: Vatican News, Guglielmo Gallone, October 10, 2026. Translated and edited from the Italian, by Nabd El-Haya
…

The situation in the

Saint Paul reminds us that contentment and trust come not from circumstances but from Christ’s strength. In every situation, whether in abundance or in need, God provides the wisdom, courage, and sustenance required to endure. His provision is faithful, abundant, and perfect, flowing to those who rely on Him with hearts of gratitude.

May this message encourage us to seek God’s guidance and provision, trusting that He will meet every need according to His glorious riches. Let us cultivate contentment, generosity, and faithfulness, using what we have to honor Him. In all circumstances, may we live with confidence in His care and rejoice in the knowledge that God’s wisdom and provision are unwavering.
…

Saint Paul reminds u

Wilmington Section Participates in Annual Red Mass

On Sunday, October 4, members of the Middle Atlantic Lieutenancy’s Wilmington Section participated in the annual Red Mass hosted by the Saint Thomas More Society at Saint Joseph on the Brandywine in Wilmington, Delaware.

The Mass was celebrated by Bishop William E. Koenig, with retired Archbishop Joseph E. Kurtz delivering the homily. The Red Mass is a longstanding Catholic tradition bringing together members of the legal profession, judiciary, government, and others involved in the administration of justice to pray for God’s guidance and blessing in their work.

Knights and Dames processed in regalia and were seated together during the celebration. In his homily, Archbishop Kurtz reflected on the importance of incorporating Christ into our vocation, a message that continues to resonate with the Order’s mission of service to Christ and His Church.

We are grateful to all the Knights and Dames who represented the Order at this year’s Red Mass.
…

Wilmington Section P

Christ chooses us to bear fruit that endures, calling us to a life of purpose, service, and devotion. In His love, we are given the strength and guidance to cultivate good works that bring glory to God and blessing to others.

May this message inspire us to reflect on the ways we can bear lasting fruit in our communities, families, and workplaces. Let us embrace the call to serve with diligence, patience, and love, allowing our lives to be shaped by His Spirit. In doing so, we participate in God’s work, leaving a legacy of faithfulness, hope, and transformation for generations to come.
…

Christ chooses us to

Several members of the Middle Atlantic Lieutenancy had the privilege of attending a special evening at the Catholic Information Center in Washington, D.C., where His Eminence Cardinal Fernando Filoni presented his newest book, My Days Are in Your Hands: Men and Women in the Footsteps of Jesus.

The evening offered an opportunity to hear Cardinal Filoni reflect on his new work and on the men and women whose lives bear witness to following Christ.

For those who were unable to attend, the full presentation is available to watch online:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=ICtj5zO2_ug

We are grateful for the opportunity to have shared in this special evening with His Eminence and the Catholic Information Center.

Photos from the evening:�https://www.facebook.com/share/1DNJkMP8SY/

May God be Praised.
…

Today, as our Grand Master Cardinal Filoni concludes his visit to the United States, we are grateful for a very special morning in Washington, D.C.

Cardinal Filoni visited the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception and the Franciscan Monastery of the Holy Land. During his visit to the Monastery, he blessed the offices of our Middle Atlantic Lieutenancy, which are located on the Monastery grounds.

We were especially honored that Cardinal Filoni took a moment to record a special video greeting for all our Knights and Dames outside the Monastery church.

We are deeply grateful for his visit, his blessing, and this meaningful connection with our Lieutenancy and its members.

Thank you, Your Eminence.

May God be Praised.
…

God’s justice is perfect, and His ways call us to reflection and repentance. When one turns from wickedness and acts with righteousness, life is preserved. Transformation is always possible through faithful obedience, and God’s mercy is extended to those who earnestly seek to do what is right.

May this message encourage us to examine our lives, turn from sin, and embrace the opportunities God gives for renewal. Let us take courage in His forgiveness, striving to live justly and honorably in every decision. In doing so, we participate in the restoration God offers and bear witness to His justice, mercy, and faithfulness in all that we do.
…

God’s justice is p

Mark Chopko, KC*HS, Lieutenant of the Middle Atlantic Lieutenancy, recently attended the Investiture of the Northern Lieutenancy, where His Eminence the Cardinal Grand Master installed Shawn Cleary as the new Vice Governor General for North America.

The Members of the Middle Atlantic Lieutenancy extend our heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to our new Vice Governor General, Shawn Cleary.
In the same way, we extend our heartfelt thanks and appreciation to his predecessor, Thomas Pogge, for his ministry and mission in service to the Order and the Holy Land.
…

Image attachment
Image attachment

Last Saturday, September 12, the Knoxville Section of the Order gathered at the Cathedral for its annual Scrolls Mass, celebrated during the 5:00 p.m. Vigil Mass.

Even a University of Tennessee football game that evening could not compete with the celebration and fellowship. There were approximately 600 parishioners and guests in attendance. Members of the Order processed into the Cathedral and were seated together for the celebration.

During his homily, Bishop Beckman recognized the Order, the charity and works of the Section Members and its enduring support for Christians and humanitarian efforts in the Holy Land.

This marks the third year the Knoxville Section has been part of the Saturday Vigil Mass at the Cathedral. We are grateful for the opportunity to come together in prayer and to continue the Order’s mission in support of the Holy Land.
…

Image attachment
Image attachment
Image attachment
Image attachment
Image attachment

Seek the Lord while He may be found and turn from wickedness, for His mercy is abundant and His forgiveness unending. God’s thoughts and ways are higher than ours, and His generosity invites us into a life of humility, repentance, and trust in His perfect plan.

May this message inspire us to seek God earnestly in all aspects of our lives. Let us listen for His guidance, turn toward mercy, and embrace His higher purposes with faith and obedience. By aligning our hearts with His, we experience the depth of His forgiveness and the joy of walking in His ways, trusting that His wisdom surpasses all human understanding.
…

Seek the Lord while

Every life is lived for the Lord, and every death belongs to Him. In all that we do, we are called to dedicate ourselves to God, recognizing that our purpose and our destiny are found in His hands. Christ’s sacrifice reconciles life and death, inviting us to live fully in His service.

May this message encourage us to live with intentionality and devotion, honoring God in every decision and every relationship. Let us remember that our lives, our work, and our words are all part of His greater plan. In trusting Him, we embrace a life of purpose, guided by His love, sustained by His grace, and assured of His eternal presence in both life and death.
…

Every life is lived

God appoints us as watchmen, tasked with guiding, warning, and calling people to righteousness. When we witness injustice or sin, our responsibility is to speak truth and encourage repentance, for the lives of others and our own accountability rest in obedience to God.

May this message inspire vigilance and courage in our daily lives. Let us embrace the call to guide, to teach, and to act with righteousness and compassion, offering counsel and warning in love. Through our faithfulness, we participate in God’s work, preserving life, promoting justice, and reflecting His mercy to the world around us.
…

God appoints us as w

The Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA, annually honors the memory of Navy Chaplain and Servant of God Father Vincent Capodanno, M.M., who gave his life in Vietnam ministering to his fallen Marine Corps comrades, for which he was awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor. Celebrated in the Crypt Church of the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception by Archbishop Timothy Broglio, KC*HS, the Mass honors his memory and prays for his Cause for Canonization.

A beautiful evening of faith, fellowship, and reflection in one of our nation’s most inspiring sacred spaces.

Photos from the evening, including a few special moments from the Mass.
…

Image attachment
Image attachment
Image attachment
Image attachment
Image attachment

We are called to present our lives as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God. Through the renewal of our minds, we discern His will and are transformed to reflect His purposes. In resisting conformity to the fleeting values of the world, we discover the beauty of a life aligned with God’s goodness and perfection.

May this message encourage us to live intentionally, offering our talents, time, and hearts in devotion to God. Let us seek transformation through prayer, study, and service, allowing His Spirit to guide our thoughts and actions. In embracing His will fully, we bear witness to His glory and find fulfillment that surpasses earthly understanding, living each day as an offering to the Lord.
…

We are called to pre

Pope Leo XIV joined children and young people from the Holy Land, Uganda and Italy for the “Canticle of Peace” gathering at Borgo Laudato si’ in Castel Gandolfo.

Accompanied by Andrea Bocelli and the ABF Voices choir, 164 young singers came together through music and prayer, offering a beautiful witness to peace, unity and hope.
Reflecting on the power of music, Pope Leo reminded the young people that, like a stream leading back to its source, beauty can lead us toward God.

“The Holy Father loves you and prays for you, for your families and for your countries.”
Read the full story:

www.vaticannews.va/en/pope/news/2026-07/pope-music-leads-us-to-god-concert-castel-gandolfo-choir….
…

Pope Leo XIV joined

Saint Paul expresses deep sorrow for his people, the Israelites, longing that all may come to salvation through Christ. He reminds us that God’s promises, covenants, and the gift of the Messiah are testimonies of divine faithfulness. Even in our sorrow and lament, we witness the power of God’s plan and the depth of His mercy.

May this message inspire us to recognize the weight of God’s promises and to respond with humility, devotion, and compassion. Let us consider the ways we can embrace His truth in our lives, sharing the hope of Christ with others. In moments of grief, longing, or concern for those yet to know Him, may we trust that God’s plan is perfect, and His love remains steadfast throughout all generations.
…

Saint Paul expresses

Humanitarian organizations continue to warn of the rapidly deteriorating situation in Gaza, where ongoing conflict has left civilians facing severe shortages of food, clean water, medical supplies, and essential services. UNICEF has reported that hundreds of children have been killed or injured in recent months, with many more suffering lasting physical and psychological trauma. Aid officials have expressed grave concern that children continue to be harmed in places that should offer safety, including homes, schools, and shelters.

The humanitarian crisis has also placed enormous strain on Gaza’s infrastructure. Limited access to fuel, spare parts, and critical supplies has reduced water production to a fraction of previous levels, leaving much of the population dependent on emergency water deliveries. International relief agencies continue working to support families, farmers, and displaced communities while calling for expanded humanitarian access through border crossings so life-saving assistance can reach those most in need. As the crisis continues, Church leaders and humanitarian organizations alike remain steadfast in their calls for peace, the protection of civilians, and renewed efforts to alleviate the suffering of those enduring the ongoing conflict.

Read the full CNEWA report, “Israeli Strike Damages Christian-run Hospital in Gaza,” here: cnewa.org/israeli-strike-damages-christian-run-hospital-in-gaza/
…

Humanitarian organiz

Nothing can separate us from the love of Christ. Neither hardship, distress, persecution, or any power in creation can diminish the overwhelming love that God pours into our hearts through Jesus Christ. In every trial, every moment of uncertainty or fear, we are held secure by His boundless mercy.

May this message encourage us to rest in the certainty of God’s love, letting it shape our thoughts, our courage, and our responses to the world. Even when circumstances seem impossible or life feels uncertain, His love surrounds us, strengthens us, and empowers us to endure. Let us hold fast to this truth, living boldly in His grace and reflecting His unwavering love in every action and every encounter.
…

Nothing can separate

In this passage, we are reminded that God is always at work in the lives of those who love Him, shaping every moment into something that leads toward His purpose. Nothing is wasted in His hands. Every joy and every burden, every challenge and every triumph becomes part of the path He uses to draw us closer to the image of His Son. This truth offers profound comfort, because it tells us that we are never left to wander without direction. We are held, guided, and carried by a purpose that was written for us long before we understood it.

Saint Paul reveals that God knows us intimately, that He calls us with intention, and that He shapes us through grace to reflect the life of Christ. In this calling, we discover our true identity as brothers and sisters in a family formed by His mercy. The steps of being predestined, called, justified, and glorified are not distant theological ideas. They are the unfolding of His love in real time, in our daily decisions, in our prayers, in the small moments where hope is tested and renewed. God moves with purpose, forming us with patience and guiding us with tenderness.

May this message strengthen us in faith and give us confidence that God leads us through every season with wisdom beyond our understanding. Let us open our hearts to His work, trusting that even when the path is unclear, His purpose remains steady and filled with goodness. In every moment of surrender and every act of love, we grow into the likeness of His Son, becoming signs of His glory in the world. May we walk forward with peace, knowing that the God who calls us also completes His work within us.
…

In this passage, we