On May 16, 2024, Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, the Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, made a discreet entry into the northern Gaza Strip to deliver a message of hope, solidarity, and support to the local Christian and civilian populations. His visit aimed to bring comfort to a community that has been deeply affected by the ongoing conflict that erupted on October 7, 2023.
During his time in Gaza, Cardinal Pizzaballa celebrated Mass at the Roman Catholic Church of the Holy Family. This church, together with the Church of Saint Porphyrios, tragically became a symbol of the war’s brutality when two Christian women seeking refuge were killed by Israeli sniper fire. His visit to this site was a powerful gesture of unity and compassion for the suffering community.
Additionally, the Patriarch visited His Eminence Archbishop Alexios and the Orthodox Christian community at the Church of Saint Porphyrios. Here, he witnessed the extensive damage to the church compound and observed the widespread destruction in Gaza City. This visit underscored the shared hardships faced by the two Christian communities and the importance of solidarity in times of crisis.
Cardinal Pizzaballa highlighted the severe humanitarian crisis in Gaza, noting that the Christian community is experiencing the same dire conditions as the rest of the population. They are dealing with a lack of basic necessities such as water, electricity, and safe shelter. His visit and ongoing advocacy aim to draw international attention to these urgent needs and promote efforts for peace and reconstruction in the region.
The Order expresses its deep gratitude for Cardinal Pizzaballa’s visit and solidarity with Archbishop Alexios and the Church of Saint Porphyrios. As a reminder, the Catholic Church of the Holy Family continues to provide shelter to dozens of Orthodox Christian families, reflecting the unity and mutual support among Gaza’s Christians. The Order calls on everyone to join us in praying for the Christians of Gaza, the Orthodox Christians of the Holy Land, His Eminence Archbishop Alexios, and those innocents suffering because of this brutal war.
The Holy Orthodox Order of Saint George the Great Martyr is the only authorized international non-governmental organization blessed to raise funds for the Orthodox Christians of Gaza. If you would like to assist us in helping the Christians in Gaza please donate below!
The Order remains committed to the community of Saint Porphyrios, to Archbishop Alexios of Tiberias, to the Christians of Gaza, to the Greek Orthodox Patriarchate of Jerusalem, and to all the Orthodox Christians who live and breathe across the Holy Land and Greater Middle East.
