Holy Land: Gaza Christians also want to meet Pope Francis

Giotto - Flight into Egypt

While great preparations are underway in Israel and Palestine, ahead of Pope Francis' visit next week, in the Gaza Strip little is happening. Although this area is part of the Holy Land – the Holy Family passed through it on their flight to Egypt – it is a separated area. Isolated from the world because of a siege that has lasted several years, many people living in the Gaza Strip feel that the world has forgotten them.

For the small Christian community of Gaza every day is a new challenge. During the month of May, which is dedicated to the Virgin Mary, the faithful gather each day in the chapel or in the Christian Quarter with the Sisters to pray the Rosary. Mass is celebrated, and after it comes the ritual of the sofa: a half-hour of mutual exchanges, discussions, and meeting new families, each time over a cup of tea and a delicacy. They all show an inner strength, a sense of conviviality and hospitality, and great kindness toward all.

Many Gaza Christians have applied for passes to attend events during Pope Francis' visit, but no one knows whether these will be granted. At Christmas and Easter, many were refused permission to attend services in Jerusalem and Bethlehem.

To read Andres Bergamini report for the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem see: http://en.lpj.org/2014/05/15/gaza-christians-also-want-to-meet-francis/