Jerusalem Wildfire Hits Catholic Sites: Monks and Sisters Share Their Stories

Jerusalem, 3 May 2025: Raging wildfires near Jerusalem engulfed surrounding areas for over 30 hours, prompting evacuations and widespread damage. The Trappist monks of Latrun and the Community of the Beatitudes in Emmaus-Nicopolis were among the most affected. Although both monasteries were spared from direct fire damage, numerous residents—both religious and lay—lost their homes, and vast areas of farmland were completely destroyed.

Emergency Evacuations and Immediate Response

The fire broke out on the morning of 30 April across the hills of Neve Shalom, directly facing the Trappist monastery in Latrun. High temperatures and strong winds caused the fire to spread rapidly.

Authorities ordered immediate evacuations. The Trappist brothers sought refuge with the Benedictines and the Sisters of St. Joseph in Abu Ghosh.

In Emmaus-Nicopolis, the Community of the Beatitudes faced even more serious losses. After firefighters partially controlled the flames, community members returned to assist emergency teams on-site, working through the night until 4:00 a.m.

Heavy Losses and Narrow Escapes

“We lost all our utility buildings, the residence of our main superior, and the pavilion of an Orthodox couple who’ve served with us in ecumenical ministry for years. Their home burned down in thirty minutes. Thankfully, our icon workshop was spared,” shared Sister Eliana Kuryło with Vatican Radio–Vatican News.

The fire reached the terrace of the monastery. “Flames engulfed the palm trees, and the wind pushed the fire right onto our terrace. It was saved only because a firefighter happened to be present. If it had reached the library next to the terrace, we would have lost everything,” she said.

Despite some containment, flare-ups continued nearby, keeping emergency services on high alert.

Thanksgiving Mass and Ongoing Concern

A Thanksgiving Mass was held on 2 May at the church in Latrun to express gratitude for the preservation of the two sacred sites. The Trappist monks, despite the destruction of their farmlands, committed to rebuilding with the help of friends and benefactors.

“The fire consumed about 24 hectares of land, affecting two Catholic monasteries,” stated Bishop William Shomali, Vicar General of the Latin Patriarchate in Jerusalem. “Firefighters responded promptly, but with the ongoing hot weather and strong winds, we remain concerned about renewed outbreaks.”

Bishops Shomali, Marcuzzo, and Ilario visited the devastated sites. “We thank God that no lives were lost. We’re here to listen to their needs and offer our support,” Bishop Shomali added.

Interfaith Solidarity and a Plea for Help

Amid the devastation, gestures of solidarity offered hope. “A rabbi from the Reform kibbutz in Gezer, about seven kilometres away, invited us to stay there. That’s where we spent the night,” Sr. Eliana recounted.

She has now appealed for prayers and practical support. “Our monastery grounds need rebuilding. We have no electricity and only just regained water. If anyone wishes to support us financially, the details are on the Emmaus-Nicopolis website.”

About the Community of the Beatitudes

Emmaus-Nicopolis is a significant pilgrimage site entrusted to the Community of the Beatitudes since 1993. The community, founded in France in 1973, is Catholic and charismatic, comprising laypeople, priests, families, and religious brothers and sisters, all committed to a life of prayer, unity, and service.

Courtesy: Vatican News