Swapping his monk's habit for overalls and a sun hat, Father Christian-Marie knelt alongside volunteers in the freshly dug earth, planting grape vines to replace those damaged by wildfires that swept through central Israel earlier this year.

Wine production at Latrun monastery dates back 135 years, when the French monks first arrived. Cultivating fruit is central to both their spiritual practice and livelihood.

The monks say the wildfires that broke out in late April damaged about five hectares (12 acres) of vineyard -- roughly a third of their crop.

Undeterred, the monks called for help, drawing dozens of volunteers who busied themselves digging holes and planting stakes under the blazing sun.

Father Christian-Marie, who has spent almost 28 years at the monastery, said planting fresh vines symbolised optimism for the future.

"For me, it's quite important when I live here in this monastery to pray........

© Al Monitor