The small Christian community in Gaza—numbering just a few hundred—is mourning the death of Pope Francis, whose near-nightly video calls provided solace during the Israel-Hamas conflict that has ravaged the enclave since October 2023. Members of the Holy Family Catholic Parish, where over 600 displaced people (both Christians and Muslims) have sought refuge, described the pontiff as a “saint” who gave them hope through his unwavering support.
Daily Connection in Crisis
Francis began calling the parish hours after the war erupted, using WhatsApp to speak directly with priests like Fr. Gabriel Romanelli and Fr. Youssef Asaad. These brief but poignant conversations often included questions about meals (“What did you eat?”) and blessings for children and the elderly, offering a lifeline amid food shortages and bombardment. Even during his hospitalization for a respiratory infection in February 2025, Francis maintained the ritual, inquiring about their well-being from his hospital bed.
“A Saint Who Fought for Us”
“We’ve lost a man who tirelessly safeguarded his small flock,” said George Antone, head of the parish’s emergency committee, noting how Francis reassured them: “I am with you, do not fear”. The pope’s final call occurred on Saturday, April 20, when he urged prayers for peace and thanked the community for their resilience. His Easter Sunday appeal for a ceasefire and hostage release marked one of his last public statements.
Legacy of Solidarity
Beyond Gaza, Christians across the Middle East—including Lebanon’s Maronites and Syria’s Orthodox communities—praised Francis for amplifying their struggles during regional conflicts. In Jerusalem, clergy at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre highlighted his role as a “symbol of peace,” while Gaza’s faithful emphasized how his calls reminded them they were “not forgotten”.
The pope’s use of technology to bridge war zones underscored his vision of a church “close to the suffering,” leaving a legacy of compassion that Gaza’s Christians now vow to uphold.
