Christian rivals find unity in Nativity church restoration

[hrmjustin]

AFP By Philippe Agret
11 hours ago

Bethlehem (Palestinian Territories) (AFP) - When Pope Francis visits Bethlehem in May he will see scaffolding covering the roof of the Church of the Nativity. It may be an eyesore, but it symbolises a rare show of unity among rival Christian faiths that are working together to restore the ancient basilica.

Built in the fourth century by the Roman Emperor Constantine and restored by Justinian after a fire in the sixth century, the shrine over the cave where Jesus is believed to have been born is undergoing a major renovation.

The project, which will see the entire church restored, began last September and is expected to cost 15 million euros ($20 million).

Following a historic agreement between the Palestinian Authority and the three churches that administer the site in an uneasy partnership, repairing the roof was designated as a priority.
http://news.yahoo.com/christian-rivals-unity-nativity-church-restoration-045701236.html