We’ve been working with the Benedictine monks at the Dormition Abbey, as part of the Window to Mount Zion project, since the project’s inception.

Father Daniel, telling the Dormition Abbey's story

Father Daniel, telling the Dormition Abbey’s story

On Thursday, February 21, they wanted to say thank you.

View from the Dormition Abbey's tower

View from the Dormition Abbey’s tower

They invited project volunteers for cake, coffee, and a tour of the Dormition Abbey. Led by Father Daniel, who is in charge of relationships with the Israeli community, the 20 participants enjoyed stories from within the Abbey – about the monks’ daily lives, about the artwork that adorns the walls and halls. Father Daniel also told of his experiences as a Polish monk in a German monastery. We also enjoyed the view from the top of the Abbey’s tower.

Telling about the artwork and daily life

Telling about the artwork and daily life

It was important for the monks to express their thanks to the hard-won feeling of cooperation and teamwork among volunteers and Mount Zion residents that enables all groups and religions to share Mount Zion in peace.

Views of David's Tomb, from the Dormition Abbey tower

View of courtyard in David’s Tomb complex, from the Dormition Abbey tower

Thank you Father Daniel – and the rest of the Dormition Abbey community – for opening your home up to us. It was a fascinating visit! Thanks also to all our partners on Mount Zion – it’s amazing to look back and see how far we’ve come!

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