Pope Leo XIV sent a message of condolence following Israeli airstrikes that killed five civilians and wounded others near the Holy Family Church in western Gaza City on October 3. The pontiff addressed his remarks to Father Gabriel Romanelli, the parish priest of the church, which stands as the only Catholic place of worship in the Gaza Strip.

In his message, Pope Leo XIV invoked a biblical lament, asking, “How long, O Lord?” regarding the continued violence affecting the region. The attack struck the Rimal neighborhood, claiming the lives of several residents, including two Orthodox women: Maysa Khader Ibrahim Abu Daoud and her daughter, Mary Hafez Michel Najjar. Both victims have since been buried.

A Continuity of Pastoral Care

The Holy Family Church has maintained a unique connection with the papacy for years. Pope Francis kept regular contact with Father Romanelli for approximately 19 months prior to his death in 2025. Their correspondence included a phone call on April 19, just two days before the former pontiff passed away on April 21.

Father Romanelli recalled that final conversation, noting the spiritual support offered by the late pope. “He told us he was praying for us, blessed us, and thanked us for our prayers on his behalf,” Father Romanelli said.

Local Leadership Calls for Peace

Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, the Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, also responded to the recent escalation. He expressed closeness to those impacted by the strikes and voiced hope that the hostilities would come to an end. The Church continues to monitor the situation closely as it supports the faithful in the Holy Land.