In the midst of escalating violence and uncertainty in Gaza City, the Christian community has made a bold decision to stand firm and refuse to abandon their churches, despite the looming threat of an Israeli attack.
The leaders of Gaza’s Christian community have issued a joint statement, declaring that forced displacement would amount to “nothing less than a death sentence” for the vulnerable populations sheltering in the churches.
The Holy Family Church in Gaza City has become a sanctuary for hundreds of displaced people, including the Abu Youssef family, who have lost their home and livelihoods due to the ongoing conflict.
Fouad Abu Youssef, a member of Gaza’s small Christian minority, has buried his sister after an air strike and seen his family’s house collapse.
Despite the trauma and hardship, Fouad and his family have chosen to stay in the church, citing its historical significance and the sense of community it provides.
The decision to stay is not taken lightly, but it is driven by a deep sense of faith and resilience. As Fouad says, “They took my home and my loved ones, but they won’t take my right to remain here on my land no matter how dark it gets.”
This sentiment is echoed by many others in the church, who see their presence as a form of resistance against the Israeli occupation.
The church’s relationship with the Vatican and its international connections are also seen as a source of protection and hope. Moussa Saad Ayyad, a father of four, believes that the church’s ties abroad give them some protection, saying, “we came to the church because it feels like the only safe place left, a place where we can be together and find help.”
The Holy Family Church has become a symbol of hope and resilience in the face of adversity. Despite being attacked multiple times, including a tank shell strike in July that killed three people and wounded several others, the church remains a beacon of hope for the Christian community.
Father Gabriel Romanelli, the parish priest, describes the decision to stay as preserving “the church as a place of worship and life”.
The church’s significance extends beyond its walls, representing centuries of historical continuity in the land. As a priest says, “Our presence [in the church] represents centuries of historical continuity in this land. We are here to pray, to serve and to bear witness to hope in the midst of darkness.”
The Christian community in Gaza City is united in its determination to stay and face the challenges ahead.
Maryam al-Omr, a 69-year-old woman who took shelter in the church with her grandson, says, “I will not leave here, even if it means dying. This church is my last home, and I will not abandon it.”
As the situation in Gaza City continues to unfold, the Christian community remains steadfast, refusing to abandon their churches and their homes.
Their decision is a testament to their faith and resilience, and a reminder of the importance of preserving cultural and historical heritage in the face of adversity.
In the midst of uncertainty and fear, the Holy Family Church stands as a symbol of hope and solidarity, providing a sanctuary for those in need and a reminder of the importance of community and faith. As Fouad Abu Youssef says, “we will stay here, whatever comes.”
