Reverend Joseph E. Kurtz, D.D. Bishop | Archdiocese of Louisville

Since the Hamas attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, and the subsequent outbreak of the Israel-Hamas war, Pope Francis has been offering daily spiritual support to Gaza Strip’s only Catholic parish. The parish, which includes priests, women religious, and a congregation of about 500 people, is housed in Holy Family Church in Gaza City. This church is named after Mary, Joseph, and Jesus Christ who are believed to have passed through the area during their flight to Egypt.

The church primarily shelters displaced Christians but also provides aid to Muslims and treats those injured in the conflict. Father Gabriel Romanelli and Father Youssef Assad lead the parish with assistance from religious sisters belonging to various orders.

In an interview with "CBS Evening News," Pope Francis shared that he makes daily phone calls to the parish. “They tell me about what happens there. It is very tough,” he said, emphasizing the severe suffering in Gaza. He mentioned shortages of food, water, medicine, and heating during winter. “People rush quickly whenever food arrives,” he noted.

On his return from a 12-day visit to Southeast Asia, Pope Francis reiterated his commitment to these personal calls. “They tell me ugly things, difficult things,” he informed reporters aboard his plane regarding the ongoing crisis.

“Please, when you see the bodies of killed children... this is ugly,” said Pope Francis. He expressed doubt that efforts were being made toward peace and urged for an immediate cease-fire in Gaza to allow for essential humanitarian supplies.

Jordanian Father Rifat Bader recounted how before departing for Asia, Pope Francis called Father Assad saying he would pray for him during his trip and continue daily contact as usual. Father Bader praised this gesture as a sign of mutual prayer and support.

Father Bader has firsthand knowledge of Gaza’s church operations since his cousin served at Holy Family Parish post-crisis eruption. He highlighted that despite official Vatican diplomacy positions, these personal initiatives by Pope Francis are significant acts of encouragement.

Holy Family Church has faced numerous attacks over the past year of conflict between Israel and Hamas. The charity Aid to the Church in Need reported damage from Israeli airstrikes in December 2023 that destroyed solar panels and water tanks at the parish complex.

Tragically, two Christians were killed near the convent within days of each other last December; another woman died from heat stroke while seeking refuge at the parish in April; four people were killed during an Israeli raid on Holy Family School in July.

Father Bader commended Pope Francis' personal care for Gaza's displaced population amid great loss and trauma: “When a priest receives a call from the pope... it is becoming a daily initiative... this is a very human touch.”

“This is a sign of encouragement, a sign of paternal care of the pope,” he concluded.