Description

The dove is not only a universal symbol of peace, but also of the Holy Spirit, which descended on Jesus at his baptism (Matthew 3:16).It reminds us of the peace we find in Christ as we follow him in the strength of the Holy Spirit.

About this Traditional Palestinian Craft

The making of jewellery and decorative items from Mother of Pearl is perhaps Bethlehem’s oldest and most established industry. The practice supposedly came to Bethlehem in the 15th century with the arrival of Franciscan friars. Locals mastered the art and made a modest living selling handmade items to the many pilgrims who streamed into Bethlehem. Traditionally, the sea shells and abalone were brought in from the Port of Aqaba on the Red Sea. However, now they are imported from Australia, California, New Zealand, and Brazil. Palestinian Christians, particularly the Zoughbi family in Bethlehem, have often received international recognition for their mastery of this art form.