"Stunned Reaction": World of Christianity jolted by Israeli assault on Gaza's solitary Catholic church
The Church of the Holy Family in Gaza, the only Catholic institution in the Palestinian enclave, was struck by an Israeli shell on July 17, causing three fatalities and several injuries. The circumstances surrounding the bombing remain unclear.
Located in the eastern neighborhoods of Gaza, near Al-Ahli Hospital, the Church of the Holy Family has a rich history dating back to its establishment by the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem in 1974. The church also operates a school that serves over 1,200 students from various religious backgrounds.
Throughout its existence, the church has played a significant role in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, serving as a beacon of hope and resilience for the Christian community in Gaza, which numbers around a thousand, mostly Orthodox Christians. The school fosters a sense of community and coexistence among Christians and Muslims in Gaza.
The church has been led by figures like Manuel Musallam, a recognized Palestinian peace activist, who served as the parish priest from 1995 to 2009. Despite repeated attacks during conflicts, including damage during the 2014 Gaza War and the 2021 Israel–Palestine crisis, the church has continued to stand as a symbol of resilience and hope.
The recent bombing, however, has left the community reeling. At least three people were killed, including two aged 60 and 84. Several others were injured, including the parish priest, Fr. Gabriel Romanelli, who was lightly injured in the leg.
Pope Leo XIV expressed "profound sadness" about the incident, renewing his call for an "immediate ceasefire." The Israeli army expressed "profound sadness" about the incident and has promised to investigate. The investigation into the bombing is ongoing, and no new information has been provided about the number of casualties or injuries or Father Gabriel Romanelli's condition.
The bombing of the Church of the Holy Family has sparked strong denouncements from religious leaders, emphasizing the need for the protection of religious sites and an end to hostilities in Gaza. The church continues to serve as a symbol of resilience and hope for the Christian community in Gaza, despite the ongoing conflicts.
The bombing of the Church of the Holy Family, a significant symbol of resilience in Gaza amidst war-and-conflicts, has sparked General News discussions, with religious leaders demanding protection for religious sites and an end to hostilities in Gaza. Meanwhile, politics continue to play a crucial role in the unclear circumstances surrounding the incident, as the Israeli army investigates the crime-and-justice of this attack.
