Pope Francis, who died just a few days ago, repeatedly called for an end to the terrible war in Gaza. From the beginning of his papacy, he preached strong sermons of peace and hope. His vocal condemnation of Israel’s longstanding siege on the vibrant territory resonated with the local Christian community. This was particularly the case at the collective center inside the Holy Family Church at Gaza City. Church leaders described his concern as a “father’s fear for his children.” Instead, it reflects the profound emotional connection he developed with those who were suffering inside the enclaves.
Since the war started 18 months ago, Pope Francis has called the Holy Family Church every day. This church has been a crucial lifeline for Gaza’s dwindling Christian population. These simple 15-minute conversations provided an unexpected and needed boost in challenging times. Their artistry inspired the fortitude to remain in Gaza during the storm. He was often asking about Christians and Muslims — testifying that his love knew no religion.
During his papacy, Francis became the first pope to visit the occupied West Bank in May 2014. This brief visit, though, was a major reminder to Palestinians that the world has not forgotten them. He ensured, against the current, that communication remained open with Gaza as the war raged.
“He was concerned about all of Gaza, providing reassurance and strength to the Christian community so that they would not leave Gaza.” – Father George Antone
Father George Antone, an influential leader at the Holy Family Church, expressed succinctly just how far-reaching the pope’s calls could be: He continued by sharing how Pope Francis is always working to drive fear out from among the church’s people. He encourages them—first by praying for them, then by encouraging them all to pray for everyone. His pastoral presence and loving outreach nurtured the stubborn flicker of hope in the face of overwhelming despair.
Argentinian Father Gabriel Romanelli summed up this mood, saying how thankful he was for the pope’s courage.
“All the time he called us throughout this war – this horrible war – for more than a year and a half, he would call for peace and send his blessings to all of Gaza’s people.” – Father Gabriel Romanelli
The pope’s dedication to the cause of peace was clear in his official statements. He persistently called on the warring parties, demanding that they stop fighting and focus instead on ending the humanitarian disaster now engulfing Gaza. In one of his last missives to supporters, he wrote,
“I think of the people of Gaza, and its Christian community in particular, where the terrible conflict continues to cause death and destruction and to create a dramatic and deplorable humanitarian situation.” – Pope Francis
As recently as his last full day, Pope Francis was still in communication with Gaza. On Saturday, just before his death, he spoke with one of our colleagues at Holy Family Church on his cell phone. The entire call took less than a minute. And his commitment never faltered—he still made those calls while on his deathbed.
“It is true that we have lost his body, but we will not lose him as a spirit.” – Father George Antone
Musa Antone, another member of the church, highlighted the pope’s importance. Beyond a religious leader though, he represents a true man of faith – one who is guided by an intrinsic love for all humanity.
“His Holiness the pope was not an ordinary person. He was a man of faith who inquired about both Christians and Muslims.” – Musa Antone
In his last Easter address, Pope Francis left us with a profound hope for peace. He prayed for peace to cover not just Gaza, but the entire Holy Land and even the world. His words were a guiding light of resonance and hope while our world was in chaos and turmoil.
“I appeal to the warring parties: call a ceasefire, release the hostages and come to the aid of a starving people that aspires to a future of peace!” – Pope Francis
