The parish priest of the Catholic parish in Gaza points to dramatic figures in the current mediate East War: so far more than 17,000 children have been killed in the Gaza Strip, as explained by Fr Gabriel Romanelli quoted by the papal Foundation Helping the Church in request (PKWP) on 10 April. "So many children have died so far – it's just terrible," added the clergyman.
The number of 17,000 children killed was reported by the Palestinian authorities a fewer days ago. The United Nations Children's Fund for UNICEF estimates are likewise high.
"So far, we have had over 50,000 deaths and over 110 000 injured. Many of them had to have amputated limbs," said the parish priest of the Holy household in Gaza. The resumption of the fight after the agreed ceasefire was considered fatal by the priest, for “no further day of war can solve the situation but only make it worse.” A clergyman from Argentina expressed hope for successful negotiations and the imminent release of all hostages kidnapped by Hamas.
According to Fr Romanelle, everyday life in the Gaza Strip poses a immense challenge: in the parish which he has been conducting in the city of Gaza, there have been around 500 people since the beginning of the war in October 2023 – in addition to Catholics there are besides respective Orthodox and Muslim families. regular life is characterized by unimaginable difficulties. "Most people lost everything – homes, jobs, schools of their children". Anyone who had a chance to escape has already done so. Most people stay poor, elderly, and sick. But there are inactive children in the parish.
Although Catholic Christians in the Gaza Strip represent a tiny number of respective 100 believers, The Church plays a leading function in humanitarian aid. "We could aid thousands of families, not just Christians, and make certain that aid truly got to those who needed it the most," said Fr Romanelli.
The Catholic parish in the Gaza Strip coordinates the distribution of food, drinking water and medicines. But the possibilities of the Church are besides limited in connection with Israel's re-closure of the borders to supply humanitarian aid. "We hope for a fast solution," explained the priest, adding the words of prayer, "God aid us to end this war rapidly and to experience actual peace."
KAI
