It is with deep sadness and very heavy hearts that we announce the death of our beloved friend and a very holy priest, Father Faysal Hijazen, the General Director of the Latin Patriarchate Schools in Palestine and Israel. Fr. Faysal died in his sleep on August 4th, the feast of St. John Vianney.

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How appropriate that Father should die on this great feast day for priests.   St. John Vianney is the patron saint of priests, and a saint many priests employ as a model for their ministry.  St. John Vianney once said, “Remain humble, remain simple. The more you do so, the more good you will do.” These words perfectly describe Fr. Faysal.

Humility. Fr. Faysal was kind, hard working and drew very little attention to himself. He truly was a man for others,and he worked tirelessly in recent years for the Palestinian children, assuring they received the best education possible. More importantly though, was his concern for their spiritual growth and emotional well being.

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Simple. Fr. Faysal truly lived the simple life of a priest, having to rely on the generosity of others, which is also quite humbling.  But mostly, he relied on God and turned to God in prayer, most especially the Mass. We were blessed to witness first hand his reliance on God and his commitment to prayer.

Good Work. We will never know the countless good work that Fr. Faysal accomplished on this earth, but as Director of the LP Schools we witnessed his tireless work for the benefit of the children. We are certain he will continue to be an influence in the lives of children, whom he loved so dearly.

Mark Bowen Media/HOPE

Our prayers and sincere sympathy go out to his family, friends and the people he served so well. We share in your loss and have hope in Jesus Christ who has risen from the dead. His resurrection gives us hope in life and hope in death.

“Let the little children come to me; do not stop them; for of such is the kingdom of heaven.”

Mark Bowen Media/HOPE

We’ll forever remember Father’s smile!

Mark Bowen Media/HOPE

Mark Bowen Media/HOPE

Fr. Faysal Hijazen +

February 5, 1961-August 4, 2016

Eternal Rest grant unto Fr. Faysal, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him, may his soul and all of the souls through the mercy of God rest in peace. Amen.