Pope Connects with Gaza Parish Amidst Conflict, Offers Support and Prayers – Vatican News
Gaza – Priests at the Sagrada Familia parish in Gaza reported a phone call from Pope Francis on September 10, expressing their joy at the outreach during a period of escalating conflict. The Pope had previously expressed concern for the parish, stating on September 9, as he left the Summer Palace in Gundolf Fort, “I am trying to call the Gaza Pure priests now, but I have no news.” He added,”They were of course very good before,but after the new order was issued,I am not sure,” referencing the Israeli evacuation order for Gaza residents.
Father Romanelli announced the successful connection on social media, detailing the Pope’s concern for their well-being. “He asked us how we were and how we were. He gave us blessings and prayed for us and for peace,” Father Romanelli shared. He explained he initially missed the call while leading a ceremony, but later connected with the Pope.
“This is not the first time the Pope is paying close attention to the whole situation, he always does so. And he actively promotes the end of this war, working for peace and praying,” Father Romanelli stated. “Therefore,he blesses all people,the entire Gaza and the entire parish.” he reiterated that the Pope specifically inquired about their condition, and they assured him they were remaining in Gaza despite the arduous circumstances.
The Sagrada Familia parish has become a refuge for approximately 450 people,including many elderly individuals,the sick,and children,and also families displaced from other parts of Gaza. Despite the dangers – “dangers, bombings, actual dangers everywhere, death, bombings, wounding and destruction” – Father Romanelli reported that most residents are reluctant to leave.”We continue our daily activities,and that’s all we can do. We help a lot of families,” he said.
Amidst the hardship, the parish experienced moments of joy. On September 9th,a wedding took place within the Catholic community,and a baby,named Marcos,was born amongst the refugees “in great pain.” Father Romanelli saw these events as signs of hope, stating, “God will always bless us. Even in such a difficult time, He still blesses us and shows us His care and blessings.”
Father Romanelli concluded by appealing for continued prayer. “Continue to pray for peace,” he urged. “As you see in the news,the entire Middle East is in chaos.we firmly believe that the end of this war will bring a touch of peace to the entire region and to most parts of the world… Let us continue to pray for God to give us a miracle of peace thru the transcendence of the Virgin Mary.”
