Pope Francis maintains daily contact with Gaza’s Catholic community despite critical illness

Pope Francis remains in critical condition as he battles double pneumonia. Yet his commitment to supporting Gaza's Catholic community remains steadfast.

Since the war in Gaza began nearly a year-and-half ago, the Pope has made nightly phone calls to the Holy Family parish, offering encouragement and prayers.

Now, as he receives treatment at Rome's Gemelli Hospital, Palestinian Catholics in Gaza are praying for his recovery.

Pope’s tradition of nightly calls to Gaza

Since October 2023, a few days after Israel launched airstrikes in response to Hamas-led attacks, Pope Francis has been making nightly phone calls to Father Gabriele Romanelli, the parish priest at Holy Family, and his assistant, Yusuf Asad, according to Vatican News.

These conversations have provided emotional and spiritual support to Gaza’s Christian minority, many of whom have sought refuge in the church during the ongoing conflict.

Even after being admitted to hospital on February 14, there was uncertainty over whether the Pope would continue this tradition. But the Vatican confirmed that despite his condition, he resumed work from his hospital bed and managed to call the parish priest on Monday, according to a report in NBC News.

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Pope Francis’ condemnation of violence in Gaza

Throughout the 16-month-long war, Pope Francis has spoken out against the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. More than 48,000 people, including thousands of children, have lost their lives since Israel's military campaign began, according to local health officials.

In January, the Pope condemned the situation as “very serious and shameful” in a speech delivered to diplomats on his behalf.

Uncertainty over the ceasefire’s future

Concerns are growing over the future of the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, with negotiations for a second phase of the truce still unresolved. Israel recently announced a delay in releasing Palestinian prisoners until further hostage releases are secured. Meanwhile, tensions have escalated in the occupied West Bank, where Israeli forces have intensified operations.

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FAQs

1. Why is Pope Francis making nightly calls to Gaza?
Pope Francis has been making nightly calls to the Holy Family parish in Gaza, offering support and solidarity to the Catholic community affected by the ongoing conflict.

2. What is Pope Francis’ current health condition?
Pope Francis is in critical condition due to double pneumonia but has shown slight improvement. Despite his illness, he continues his work, including reaching out to Gaza’s Christian community.