Gaza’s dwindling Christian population huddled together in two churches for Christmas, as the war-torn enclave faces an uncertain future.
Hundreds of Palestinian Christians, mainly Catholics and Orthodox, have taken refuge in St. Porphyrius and the Holy Family Church in Gaza City to escape the devastation. However, some say their 1,600-year presence in the territory may be at risk due to the ongoing conflict.
“We’re still here,” said Ramez Souri, a Christian in Gaza who lost his three children in an Israeli airstrike last year. “We just can’t celebrate this Christmas like we used to.”
The community has been struggling since the beginning of the war, with many facing hunger and displacement. While some Christians have fled, others remain, hoping to return home once the situation improves.
Pope Francis’s recent visit to Gaza highlighted the importance of preserving Christian heritage in the region. However, for Gazan Christians, their faith is also a source of strength during these trying times.
Despite the challenges, communal solidarity persists, and support from churches around the world has helped the community stay connected. In one notable instance, Gazan Christians made a traditional holiday dessert called burbara, which they shared with hundreds of people in the church.
As the war continues to ravage Gaza, it remains unclear what the future holds for the Christian population. However, their resilience and determination to preserve their faith serve as a beacon of hope in these uncertain times.
Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2024/12/24/world/middleeast/gaza-christians-war-hamas-israel.html