As bombs continue to fall over Gaza, Pope Leo XIV has once again shown his closeness to the suffering faithful sheltering at Holy Family Catholic Church. On Tuesday, the Holy Father spoke by phone with the parish pastor, Father Gabriel Romanelli, who shared details about the desperate situation inside the enclave.
According to the Holy See Press Office, Fr. Romanelli explained that the parish “continues to assist the approximately 450 people who have taken refuge there and those who turn to them, distributing meals and water and keeping the internal pharmacy open” (Vatican News). Even amid a massive ground offensive, the parish has kept its oratory open for children and youth, while also offering help to the elderly and sick.
Matteo Bruni, Director of the Holy See Press Office, reported that Pope Leo “assured Father Gabriel, and all those who turn to the parish, of his closeness and prayers” (Vatican News).
The Pope’s gesture follows a pattern of personal outreach. Since the beginning of the war in the Middle East, Pope Francis began making nightly video calls to Fr. Romanelli and his vicar at precisely 7:00 PM. Pope Leo has continued this practice, calling several times to check on the parishioners, often after major evacuation orders or airstrikes. Last week, Fr. Romanelli described such a call as “a great joy” and “blessing,” sharing his gratitude through social media.
The cost of discipleship in Gaza is heavy. In June, the parish itself was struck by an Israeli raid in which Fr. Romanelli was injured. Yet the faithful refuse to abandon prayer. On Monday, the pastor released a video from inside the church, where bombings could be heard outside as a liturgy continued. Despite the thunder of explosions, the congregation prayed silently together.
For Catholics around the world, the perseverance of Holy Family Parish serves as a moving witness of faith. The Holy Father’s prayers remind us that even in the darkest nights of war, the Church is united in Christ.
Your support brings the truth to the world.
Catholic Online News exists because of donors like you. We are 100% funded by people who believe the world deserves real, uncensored news rooted in faith and truth — not corporate agendas. Your gift ensures millions can continue to access the news they can trust — stories that defend life, faith, family, and freedom.
When truth is silenced, your support speaks louder.
