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Since the onset of the Israel-Hamas conflict following Hamas' attack on October 7, 2023, Pope Francis has been in daily contact with Gaza's only Catholic parish. The Holy Family Church in Gaza City provides refuge to approximately 500 people, including both Christians and Muslims. It is believed that Mary, Joseph, and Jesus passed through this area during their escape to Egypt.
Father Gabriel Romanelli and Father Youssef Assad, along with religious sisters from various orders, minister to those taking shelter in the church. The parish also faces shortages of food, water, medicine, and heating during harsh winter temperatures.
Pope Francis mentioned his regular phone calls to the parish during an interview with “CBS Evening News” in May. He shared that the people of Gaza have been telling him about their struggles. "It is very tough," he said, emphasizing "a lot of suffering" in the region.
Upon returning from a trip to Southeast Asia, Pope Francis spoke about his conversations with the parish: "They tell me ugly things, difficult things." He expressed concern over civilian casualties and criticized military actions targeting areas presumed to house guerrillas. The pope has called for an immediate cease-fire and for humanitarian aid to reach those affected by the conflict.
Father Rifat Bader from the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem relayed how Pope Francis promised prayers for Father Assad before his trip to Asia and asked for reciprocal prayers from Gaza’s community. Father Bader noted that these daily calls demonstrate personal care amid official Vatican diplomacy.
The Holy Family Church has suffered damage due to airstrikes over the past year. Aid to the Church in Need reported destruction of infrastructure within its complex in December 2023. Tragically, several individuals associated with the church have lost their lives amidst ongoing violence.
Father Bader emphasized the significance of these calls: "When a priest receives a call from the pope...it is a big thing inside the Catholic Church." He described it as a sign of encouragement and paternal care from Pope Francis.
Dale Gavlak reports for OSV News from Amman, Jordan.
