Latest News
Bishop Gerald Barnes, KC*HS, celebrates his 25th Episcopal Anniversary
May 1, 2017
The Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre congratulates Bishop Gerald Barnes, KC*HS, on his 25th Episcopal Anniversary as Bishop of the San Bernardino diocese. His Silver Jubilee Mass on March 18 at St. Paul the Apostle Church in Chino Hills, was attended by several bishops including LA Archbishop José H. Gomez. Also in attendance were members of the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem, Knights of St. Peter Claver, Knights of Columbus, priests and deacons from throughout the diocese. For the full story, click here.
Recent Changes in Leadership Positions at the Latin Patriarchate
On February 4, 2017 Pierbattista Pizzaballa, Apostolic Administrator of the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem announced the Holy Father, Pope Francis, had accepted the resignation of His Excellency Msgr. Maroun Lahham, Auxiliary Bishop of the Diocese and Patriarchal Vicar of Jordan. Bishop Maroun Lahham was ordained in June 24,1972 and served as Rector at the Latin Seminary in Beit Jala from 1994 until his appointment as Bishop of Tunis on September 8, 2005.
Bishop William Shomali has been Nominated as Patriarchal Vicar for Jordan
H.E. William Shomali
H.E. Archbishop Pierbattista Pizzaballa, Apostolic Administrator of the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem, after consultation with the Bishops Council and the Consultative Council of the Latin Patriarchate, has nominated Bishop William Shomali as Patriarchal Vicar for Jordan, succeeding Bishop Maroun Lahham who resigned from office last week.
The Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem thanks Bishop Maroun Lahham for his long service to the Church in the Holy Land and wishes Bishop William Shomali success in his new mission and assuring him spiritual support of the Diocese and full collaboration of the clergy and faithful.
Bishop Shomali was born in Beit Shour (Palestine) and received his ordination to the priesthood on June 24, 1972. After serving in parishes in Jordan Father Shomali studied in Rome. In 1998 he became General Administrator and Economist for the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem.
On March 31, 2010 Pope Benedict XVI appointed William Shomali as Auxiliary Bishop and Patriarchal Vicar for Israel.
INTRODUCTION TO THE ORDER
The origins of the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem date back to the First Crusade over 900 years ago. A Papal Order, today, our members dedicate themselves to personal sanctification, fidelity to the teachings of the Roman Catholic Church, and support of the Christian Community in the Holy Land.
Knights and Ladies continue this tradition through prayer and pilgrimage, active involvement in their parish and diocese and a commitment of financial resources to support Catholic Institutions in the Holy Land.
The Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem is the only lay institution of the Vatican State charged with the task of providing for the needs of the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem and of all the activities and initiatives to support the Christian presence in the Holy Land.
Financial contributions by members of the Order are used throughout the Archdiocese of Jerusalem, which includes Israel, the Palestinian Territories, Jordan and Cyprus. Areas of support:
- Parishes, churches and community centers
- Convents, seminaries and seminarians
- Clinics and hospitals
- Parish grade schools, high schools and Bethlehem University
- Humanitarian assistance for food and medical supplies
It is through the dedication of our members that we support and educate our brothers and sisters in the Holy Land, living by example the command to love and serve.
