Unable to move the elderly and disabled or to evacuate safely to the south at the beginning of the war, the sisters chose to remain by the side of those they serve.
Romanelli told CNA that since Saturday, no further incidents have been reported on the parish grounds, but after 74 days of conflict, people are at a breaking point. Resources are scarce, and hardships, as well as fear and tension, are increasing. The priest said that solar panels and water tanks have been destroyed, food has been rationed for weeks, and now there is no more drinkable water. The diesel fuel for the only functioning electric generator at the parish is depleted.
Among the most severe consequences of the lack of electricity, Romanelli said, is the non-operation of medical devices, including respirators and water purification systems. The doctors on site are trying to treat the injured with every means available, but without being able to reach a hospital, some people are at risk of dying.
CNA spoke to the close relative of a Holy Family parishioner who is taking refuge at the parish after his home was destroyed. He remains alone in Gaza after his family managed to escape a few years ago. He sees no way out as he could try to obtain a visa, but he wouldn’t be able to reunite with family members who are stranded in the West Bank, just a few dozen kilometers from Gaza, without valid documents.
Since the beginning of the war, parish committees have been organized for various tasks and survival needs: some procure food, some cook, some handle cleaning, others take care of children, some prepare the church and manage liturgical services, others focus on maintenance, and some are caring for the sick.
Just a few days before Christmas, while the possibility of a new cease-fire is being considered, the Christians in Gaza “are preparing like the shepherds of Bethlehem,” Romanelli told CNA. “They are doing what they must do, with great faith and great hope in heaven.”
In Holy Family Parish, prayers and liturgies continue without interruption.
“They ask for prayers for peace and appeal to all those with the power to decide to cease fire and ensure that the wounded and sick receive care,” Romanelli said. “Let us pray for peace, for everyone to be healed, for the release of hostages, and for Christmas to bring a breath of peace to the entire Holy Land.”
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Born and raised in Italy, Marinella Bandini has been a professional journalist since 2008. She works for several news agencies and online newspapers in the Catholic space. Currently based in Jerusalem, she collaborates with the Custody of the Holy Land.