Emad Rishmawi: Olive Wood Crafts Master
From the moment young Emad Rishmawi first stood beside his cousin’s workbench in 1979, he felt the pulse of something greater than wood and tools—a sacred calling that would shape his entire life. Over nearly five decades, that shy assistant became a devoted master, pouring skill, faith, and love into every Christian craft his hands touched. His crowning achievement—a breathtaking 1.5‑metre Baby Jesus, the largest ever made—stood in Germany as a beacon of Holy‑Land artistry, each delicate curve whispering prayers of hope to all who saw it. At 66, Emad still carves with the same reverence, sustaining his family while infusing every piece with the wisdom of years and the wonder of a believer who never lost sight of the divine spark within his craft. His legacy is not only the record‑breaking masterpiece, but the enduring tradition, devotion, and quiet beauty he continues to gift to the world.