For over three months, Pope Francis has reached out every evening at 7:00 p.m., Vatican time, to Father Gabriele Romanelli and Father Yusuf Asad of the Holy Family Parish in Gaza. This nightly call serves as a profound reminder of Pope’s solidarity and prayers for the community sheltering in the parish—a refuge for over 600 people, both Christians and Muslims, amidst the turmoil of the Gaza Strip.

The tradition began on October 9, just two days after the bombings intensified, and has remained a consistent expression of compassion. Pope Francis himself often mentions these calls, most recently during a General Audience, highlighting the importance of staying connected with those in need.

The calls, though brief, are packed with warmth and humanity. Pope Francis asks simple, heartfelt questions like “How are you?” and “What did you eat?”—questions that convey his genuine care. He listens, offers blessings, and shares moments of joy with the parish community, greeting children, the elderly, and families bundled against the evening chill.

For those in Gaza, an hour ahead of the Vatican, these nightly moments serve as a beacon of hope. Since the ceasefire on January 15, the oppressive atmosphere of fear and violence has begun to lift slightly. That night, Pope’s call turned into a small celebration, with Father Yusuf sharing the menu: “Tonight, the entire community had chicken—chicken wings!”

During one recent call, Pope greeted Father Yusuf with his usual warmth: “Good evening, Holy Father!” The excitement in Father Yusuf’s voice was palpable, as if speaking to  Pope for the first time. Father Gabriel joined in, exclaiming, “It’s our beloved Pope!” and inviting others to gather around.

As children, women, and men slowly approached the screen in the courtyard, they bundled in scarves and hats against the cold.  Smiling, he waved and exchanged playful greetings with the children, including a little girl named Karima.

Before concluding the call, Pope made the sign of the cross and expressed his gratitude, saying, “Muchas gracias, grazie tante.” His words were met with laughter and cheers, particularly when he humorously reminded the community, “Pray for good, not against!”

At the end of the General Audience earlier that day, Pope Francis reflected on his call to Gaza, noting the community’s cautious return to normalcy: “They’re happy. They ate lentils… and we must pray for peace.”

For a community that has endured over a year of fear, cold, and hunger, these nightly calls are more than just a gesture—they are a lifeline. Using modern technology, the 88-year-old Pope embodies the closeness, compassion, and tenderness he often describes as God’s defining attributes.

Through his actions, Pope Francis continues to shine as a beacon of hope, renewing his call for a just and lasting peace in the region. As the parish community in Gaza expressed their gratitude to him, his message remains clear: they are not forgotten.