“In Gaza, more than the lack of food, drinking water, or medicine,
more than the threat to our safety, what worries me most is that hope might be lost.” Father Romanelli, pastor of Holy Family Parish in Gaza
The Resilience of Christian Communities in the Holy Land
Since the attack on October 7, 2023, the Holy Land has been in the midst of a major and never-ending crisis.
In Gaza, after more than two years of war and nearly 66,000 deaths, the population continues to live under constant bombardment, facing famine, forced displacement, and the destruction of infrastructure. More than 90% of homes and buildings have been damaged or destroyed, and half of the hospitals are no longer operational, exacerbating an already catastrophic humanitarian situation.
In the West Bank, marked by settlement expansion, violence, and discrimination, the suspension of pilgrimages has deepened isolation and led to a sharp rise in unemployment. Despite this distress, Christian communities remain havens of peace and continue to provide essential services through their schools and hospitals.
Ongoing Projects in Gaza and the West Bank
To respond to the emergency in Gaza, the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem is organizing the dispatch of humanitarian convoys carrying food aid (40 metric tons for 1,000 families) and vital medical supplies to the Holy Family Parish.
In the West Bank, food aid is being distributed to displaced families.
In Taybeh, the construction of 5 homes, followed by 15 apartments, and the opening of a ceramics workshop are helping to create jobs and encourage residents to stay in the area.
Support for education is also a priority, with schools open to all faiths that remain a pillar of peace and the future. Finally, several Christian institutions with no financial resources are receiving support to survive, notably the Syriac Catholic guesthouse in Bethlehem and the Home of Our Lady of Sorrows in East Jerusalem.
School Construction, Beit Sahour, January 2026
Renovation of the cafeteria (or school lunchroom) at the Greek Melkite Catholic School of the Patriarchate of Jerusalem, in Beit Sahour (Bethlehem)
Priority Needs
In Gaza, the most urgent needs are for food and medical aid, particularly to combat famine and malnutrition. Father Romanelli and the Missionaries of Charity are on the ground, working alongside the 300 Christians in the enclave to support the most vulnerable.
In the West Bank, job creation and support for families are essential to stem the exodus. Maintaining access to education is just as vital: with €20 a month, it is possible to enable a child to attend school and give them a chance for the future. Finally, rebuilding homes, schools, and Christian infrastructure is essential to restoring hope to local communities and enabling them to remain in the Holy Land.
