Yesterday Pope Benedict XVI visited the Aida Palestinian refugee camp in Bethlehem.

Catholic Americans have had a tangible impact at the camp, courtesy of Catholic Relief Services. CRS, the foreign-aid charity of the U.S. bishops, helped build the camp’s youth center.

The photo accompanying this Daily Blog entry shows girl scouts playing drums at the youth center, preparing for their participation in the procession of welcome given yesterday to the Pope. Scout meetings, summer camps and other activities are held at the youth center.

In his remarks at the Aida refugee camp, the Holy Father said humanitarian efforts to assist the Palestinian people are essential.

But, Benedict added, “the long-term solution to a conflict such as this can only be political. No one expects the Palestinian and Israeli peoples to arrive at it on their own. The support of the international community is vital, and hence I make a renewed appeal to all concerned to bring their influence to bear in favor of a just and lasting solution, respecting the legitimate demands of all parties and recognizing their right to live in peace and dignity, in accordance with international law.”