On Monday, January 20, 2025, Fr. Ibrahim Nino, Director of the Patriarchal Media Office, interviewed Fr. Gabriel Romanelli, parish priest of Gaza, and Fr. Youssef Assad, vicar priest, following the announcement of a ceasefire in Gaza.

Fr. Romanelli conveyed that the parish’s reaction to the ceasefire announcement was one of mixed emotions of joy and hope: “It’s a significant step forward, offering hope, but it does not mark the end of the conflict. We pray that this is the beginning of lasting peace. We are relying on international efforts to end the war and focus on the future of the Middle East and the Holy Land.”

A long-awaited calm amid loss

He reported that “the sound of explosions and drones has finally stopped, offering relief to many. Some left the monastery to check on their homes or what remained of them. Some discovered their homes were completely destroyed, while others have yet to locate their homes or even recognize the neighborhoods they once lived in.

He added that the first phase of rebuilding, expected to last 42 days, is full of challenges: “People are desperately seeking aid to address severe shortages of essentials like water, fuel, and food. The hardship is palpable, but so is hope and endurance, as the community holds onto the possibility of returning to some kind of normalcy.”

“Thanks to the efforts of the Latin Patriarchate and Malteser International, food aid continues to reach thousands of families, especially with the recent arrival of new shipments”, he communicated. Regarding the life of the parish, he said: “We’re also focused on organizing the pastoral life of Gaza’s parish. This includes ensuring everyone’s safety, continuing prayers, and maintaining daily activities, despite the difficult circumstances. 

Children's education, healthcare, and spiritual support

“Amid the turmoil, we’re committed to ensuring that children’s education continues, even if only partially, for those taking refuge at the parish. Hence, specific time has been set aside for educational activities, aiming to keep students on track for their 2023 school year, with a particular focus on preparing them for the critical Tawjihi exams. This provides a much-needed sense of hope”.

“Together with Caritas and the Sisters of Mother Teresa, we’re providing medical assistance to the sick and needy within our capabilities. Additionally, we’ve formed men’s and women’s fraternities to foster a spiritually enriching environment, including a focus on choir development and encouraging deeper exploration of faith”.

In his conversation with Fr. Youssef, he shared, "We are filled with hope and are working to rebuild our future." Despite the pain and suffering, the community remains focused on creating a dignified life and a brighter future.

Message of gratitude for the ongoing support

The faithful have expressed heartfelt thanks to Pope Francis and Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, as well as the priests and sisters who have supported them during these dark times. They sent a touching message to Pope Francis:

"How joyful we are to unite in thanking His Holiness Pope Francis for his continuous support and efforts on our behalf. From the bottom of our hearts, we thank him and ask the Lord to bless him and his spiritual and humanitarian work in Gaza and throughout the world."