Vatican City: Pope Leo XIV has personally phoned Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa to express his deep concern, solidarity, and heartfelt prayers after a deadly Israeli tank shell struck the Holy Family Catholic Church compound in Gaza. The strike, which occurred Thursday, claimed three lives and left at least ten injured, including the parish priest, Fr. Gabriel Romanelli.
The Pope’s call came as Cardinal Pizzaballa, Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, made a courageous visit to the besieged Holy Family parish, accompanied by Greek Orthodox Patriarch Theophilos III. The visit marked a rare moment of ecumenical solidarity in war-torn Gaza, aiming to console and support the devastated Christian community.
According to a Vatican News report, the Pope told the Patriarch it is time to end the senseless bloodshed. “This is an unjustifiable tragedy. We must ensure that no more innocent lives are lost,” Pope Leo emphasized, renewing his appeal for a ceasefire and long-term peace in the region.
The Holy Father, who has been closely following the worsening conflict, sent a personal message to the parish, assuring the wounded community of his constant prayers and support. Since the onset of the Israel-Hamas war in October 2023, the late Pope Francis had maintained daily contact with Fr. Romanelli, underscoring the Vatican’s intimate involvement in Gaza's humanitarian crisis.
During their visit, the two patriarchs coordinated with humanitarian organizations to facilitate the delivery of critical supplies including hundreds of tons of food, medical aid, and first-aid kits to both Christian and non-Christian families in the enclave. The Patriarchate also oversaw the evacuation of injured civilians to hospitals outside Gaza.
Calling for the suspension of all military operations, the Latin Patriarchate reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to the Christian community and wider population of Gaza. “They will not be forgotten, nor left behind,” the statement said.
In a powerful joint statement, the Patriarchs and Heads of Churches in Jerusalem condemned the attack, describing it as a “blatant violation of international law and human dignity.” They emphasized that houses of worship must remain safe sanctuaries, especially when sheltering civilians, including children with disabilities.
The Church leaders urged the global community to intensify efforts toward an immediate ceasefire, protection of religious and humanitarian institutions, and provision of aid to Gaza’s suffering population. Their united voice sends a clear message: the sanctity of life and sacred spaces must be preserved, even amid the horrors of war.