Gaza City: Amid escalating violence in Gaza, Pope Leo XIV has expressed his deep concern and spiritual closeness to the faithful at the Holy Family Catholic Church, speaking by phone with Father Gabriel Romanelli, the parish pastor. The conversation, which took place on Tuesday, came as the Israeli army launched a massive ground offensive overnight, intensifying the humanitarian crisis in the region.
During the call, Pope Leo XIV was updated on the situation at the parish, which continues to shelter roughly 450 people displaced by the conflict. Despite being struck by an Israeli raid in June that left Fr. Romanelli injured, the parish remains a hub of relief efforts. The pastor reported that the church continues to distribute meals and water, maintain its internal pharmacy, and provide essential services for the elderly, sick, and children, while keeping oratory and educational activities ongoing amid the turmoil.
According to Matteo Bruni, Director of the Holy See Press Office, the Pope assured Father Gabriel and all those seeking refuge in the parish of his prayers, concern, and unwavering support. “The Pope expressed his closeness to the people of Gaza and reaffirmed his constant spiritual solidarity with those enduring the hardships of this conflict,” Bruni said.
This phone call follows a series of communications by Pope Leo XIV with Fr. Romanelli and his vicar, Father Youssef Asad, which have taken place nightly at 7:00 PM since the outbreak of hostilities in the Middle East. The Pope has also reached out several times individually to offer comfort and maintain a line of spiritual support, emphasizing his appeals for peace and protection of civilians in the embattled region.
Fr. Romanelli described his most recent conversation with the Pope as “a great joy” and “a blessing,” sharing the experience via social media channels and highlighting the moral support it brought to the parish community. Despite the sounds of bombs and the threat of violence, the faithful have continued to gather for liturgies, demonstrating resilience and devotion in the face of danger.
In a poignant moment captured on video, Fr. Romanelli shared scenes of parishioners praying silently during a service while explosions erupted nearby, underscoring the power of faith amid chaos. The Pope’s spiritual encouragement, Bruni noted, is intended to sustain not only the parish leaders but all those who look to Holy Family as a beacon of hope and humanitarian assistance in Gaza.