Bring peace and hope in the Holy Land

We are pleased to share the following letter received directly from Father Gabriel Romanelli, parish priest of the Holy Family Catholic Church in Gaza City:

Dear friends and benefactors,

I am writing to you from the Holy Family Parish in Gaza City during a brief window of internet connectivity, relying on generator power fueled by what little diesel we can secure at exorbitant prices.

I often compare the situation in Gaza to a massive tsunami: even when the initial wave passes, the destruction continues through lingering rubble, a strict lack of building materials, spreading diseases, and contaminated water. With over 80% of infrastructure destroyed, basic necessities have become extraordinarily difficult to obtain.

Yet, amid this severe trial, our parish remains an oasis of relief and sanctuary for the entire neighborhood:

• Clean Water for All: Our underground cistern continues to function, providing clean drinking water to thousands of residents every day.

• Healing Our Children: We have reopened our parish school, welcoming back 460 students (both Christian and Muslim). Though they lack notebooks and pencils and must sit three or four to a desk, their desire for a future is stronger than anything, and we are here to help heal their emotional wounds.

Among our community, there is no sentiment of revenge, but rather an overwhelming longing for peace, safety, and human dignity.

I ask you from the bottom of my heart: please, do not forget Gaza. Every bit of help you provide allows us to remain present, serve those in need, and keep hope alive.

With deep gratitude and prayers,

Father Gabriel Romanelli

Parish Priest, Holy Family Catholic Church — Gaza City