On January 10, 2026, a significant initiative reached fruition with a prosperous fundraising campaign benefiting both catholic and Orthodox schools in the Holy Land.
Acting on behalf of Cardinal Christoph Schönborn and the incoming Archbishop of Vienna, Josef Grünwidl, Middle East expert Manuel Baghdi recently visited the Holy Land. During his trip,Baghdi engaged in critical discussions with prominent religious leaders including Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa,the Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem,orthodox Patriarch Theophilos III,and Armenian Patriarch Nourhan Manougian to assess the present conditions facing Christians within the region.
Investing in the Future: Supporting Education in the Holy Land
Baghdi also carried with him the proceeds from a pre-Christmas fundraising drive initiated by Cardinal Schönborn, directly aimed at bolstering educational opportunities.
These funds are specifically allocated to support Catholic and Orthodox schools throughout the Holy Land. “All of our partners underscored the vital importance of investing in schools as the most effective form of assistance for Christians and the wider community,” Baghdi explained. Currently, the Latin Patriarchate maintains a network of 44 schools serving students of both Christian and Muslim faiths, contributing to mutual understanding and a more peaceful future.






