As U.N. agencies continue warning of humanitarian collapse in Gaza, the Catholic arm of The Philos Project is launching a nine‑day novena on July 16–24, coinciding with the feasts of Our Lady of Carmel and St. Charbel of Mount Lebanon. The prayer initiative aims “for a complete end to the conflict in the Holy Land, the return of all hostages, the rebuilding of devastated communities, the healing of deep wounds and the restoration of trust”.
This bold act of prayer follows last year’s novena, which drew more than 1,000 participants praying for peace between Israel and Lebanon. “Against all odds, peace has held,” reflected Simone Rizkallah, Director of Philos Catholic. This year, Rizkallah invites participants to “dare to ask for more”.
Why Now?
Gaza is experiencing not just war, but a humanitarian crisis that touches the heart. Despite cautious ceasefire negotiations, the reality for Gaza’s 2.1 million residents is dire:
- Fuel shortages have reached “critical levels,” threatening to collapse hospitals, bakeries, water networks, sanitation systems and aid distribution.
- Malnutrition among children has doubled since March—rising to over 10% of under‑fives diagnosed as acutely malnourished in June.
- The threat of famine looms large: nearly one in three Gazans skip meals for days. According to the World Food Programme, famine is now a high risk.
Such trauma has prompted a spiritual response: Catholics worldwide are asked to lift up prayers—not only for peace, but for vulnerable lives caught in this humanitarian catastrophe.
How the Novena Seeks to Make a Difference
The novena centers on Catholic devotion and solidarity:
- Daily communal prayer aligns with Marian and Lebanese saints, fostering spiritual union.
- Scripture, petitions, and reflection are offered for hostages’ safe return, cessation of hostilities, and protection of civilians.
- Public witness and solidarity by prayer—intending to draw attention to human suffering and inspire sacrifice and advocacy.
As Rizkallah affirms: “God’s promises are never revoked… Let’s pray boldly together.”
Looking Ahead with Hope and Faith
The philosophies behind this novena are deeply Marian: invoking Our Lady of Carmel and St. Charbel symbolizes divine intercession, unity, and healing. Through prayer, Catholics embrace both the mystery of suffering and the power of hope.
Similar spiritual practices in history—like the novena before Vatican II—have shown how prayer movements can shift hearts and inspire tangible change. In Gaza’s current plight, prayer stands with action in seeking justice, peace—and relief for the suffering.
As The Philos Project opens this novena on July 16, Catholics are invited into a profound act of solidarity. The Holy Land’s wounds are deep, but so too is the call to faith and compassion. Through prayer, charity, and advocacy, this devotion seeks to echo Christ’s plea for peace: “Blessed are the peacemakers…” (Mt. 5:9).
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.
