Jerusalem: Patriarch appeals for urgent help as snow falls on Syrian refugee camps

Snow has drifted into tents

The Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, His Beatitude Fouad Twal, has emphasized the urgency of bringing help to Syrian refugees. He also calls for the generosity of all to support the refugees, victims of a conflict which has exceeded 1000 days, and of the material hardships affecting their lives.

Following a period of drought and the month of November, the hottest in 60 years, the religious leaders of the three monotheistic religions in the Holy Land called on their followers to pray for rain. The rain did come and was a blessing for both the land and its people. But because of  its sudden intensity, there were some floods. Then a bitterly cold snow storm hit the Middle East, covering several countries, including Jordan, Lebanon, Israel and Palestine. The heavy snow deprived people of electricity, material and medical help, and even food.

Syrian refugees, sheltering in tents have particualrly suffered. According to UN sources, there are now close to two million refugees in neighbouring countries of Syria. Nearly three quarters of them have found shelter in Lebanon and in Jordan. More than 50% are under 17 years old. The living conditions in the different refugee camps are very difficult. Frequently, they are without electricity or drinking water. Additionally, there is a massive daily influx of new Syrian refugees.

Source: Latin Patriarchate