Overview
The Antidoron Bread Initiative preserves a cherished Orthodox tradition while creating dignified work for local women in Bethlehem. Produced at St. Martha’s House and distributed through parish networks, this project ensures high-quality prosphora (Eucharistic bread) and antidoron are accessible, consistent, and lovingly made in the Holy Land. Location: Al Jabal Street, Bethlehem.
What are Prosphora & Antidoron?
Prosphora is the leavened bread used in the Divine Liturgy, typically round and stamped with IC XC NIKA (“Jesus Christ conquers”). Small portions are shared with the faithful as antidoron—“instead of the gifts”—a sign of fellowship for parishioners and visitors.
Why this matters
Local Orthodox families face barriers getting proper liturgical bread: higher prices, limited shop hours, transportation hurdles, and inconsistent quality of ingredients.
Our solution
We produce and sell directly within the Orthodox church community and bake at St. Martha’s House as our production base—uniting tradition, quality, and women’s employment.
Who benefits
- Direct: St. Martha’s House + 3 unemployed women employed as bakers.
- Indirect: The wider Orthodox parish community in Bethlehem.
Budget (6-month pilot)
Total: 35,000 NIS. Line items include flour, yeast, mastic, utensils, utilities (electricity/water), gas, packaging, and salaries for three women.
(Ingredient & operations subtotal ≈ 7,992 NIS; salaries 27,000 NIS; total ≈ 34,992 NIS ≈ listed 35,000 NIS.)
How you can help
- Sponsor a month of production (ingredients/packaging/utilities).
- Fund a baker’s salary for dignified work.
- Parish partners: set up a standing order for feasts & Sundays.
Contact
Ahdaf Organization / St. Martha’s House — Al Jabal Street, Bethlehem.