Milhilard.org – Special Report

Parents and guardians of students in Latin Patriarchate schools across Jordan and Palestine expressed their gratitude and happiness at the decision of Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, to forgive all debts owed by families at Latin Patriarchate schools for the years preceding the Jubilee Year.

Parents said this decision aims to alleviate the heavy financial burden that has affected many families, leading to the accumulation of unpaid school fees over several years and creating difficulties in meeting financial obligations.

In a letter to parishioners, Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa stated: “In coordination with the Patriarchal Vicars, and after listening to the opinions of school principals, we have reached the conviction that it is our duty as a diocese to offer a tangible sign that expresses the spirit of the Jubilee. Therefore, we have decided to forgive all debts owed by families at Latin Patriarchate schools for all years preceding the Jubilee Year, except for the 2024-2025 academic year.”

One parent, Saleh Abbasi, told Milhilard.org: “As a parent of two children enrolled in Latin Patriarchate schools, I would like to express my deep gratitude to Patriarch Pizzaballa for his decision to waive the accumulated amounts from previous years. I have been unemployed since the coronavirus pandemic, and these obligations have become a heavy burden on me and my family. This decision has truly eased our burdens and allowed me to focus on my children’s future without the weight of old debts.”

Saleh added, “For me, the deduction wasn’t just a monetary relief; it was a significant psychological and moral support for me and my children. I felt that the school and the Patriarchate were standing with us, considering us as people, not just numbers or fees.”

A mother of two children at a Latin Patriarchate school told Milhilard.org: “I am sincerely thankful to the school administration for the decision to offer relief for previous years. As a widow, I bear the full responsibility of supporting my children. This decision greatly eased a heavy financial burden and was a true humanitarian gesture, showing constant concern for our children’s interests.”

Another parent expressed: “This decision was a blessing from God. We had debts from the coronavirus pandemic that increased each year, and we didn’t know how to pay them. The start of each school year was stressful, as we had to manage old debts along with registration fees. Praise be to God, and we thank His Beatitude the Patriarch and everyone involved in this relief, because it was more moral than material.”

The Cardinal acknowledged that the decision was not easy, given the high costs involved. “Our administrative departments naturally expressed legitimate concerns, but we believe in the necessity of this initiative and trust in divine providence once again,” he said. His Beatitude concluded by expressing hope that this step will “make the lives of many of our needy families easier and restore their confidence and hope.”