Gaza: Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem intensifies emergency relief

Nov 21st, 2024

Cardinal Pierbattista with parishioners at Holy Family Parish Gaza, during his May visit

Source: LPJ

In collaboration with the Sovereign Order of Malta and Malteser International, the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem launched a large-scale emergency humanitarian relief initiative in May 2024 to address the urgent needs of the Christian community in Gaza.

The operation was inaugurated by an extraordinary pastoral visit from His Beatitude Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, to the Parish of Gaza on May 16, 2024. This historic visit, made possible through months of careful preparation and coordination, marked the beginning of the Patriarchate's intensified relief mission. During this visit, essential aid packages were distributed to the community sheltering in the Holy Family compound, offering immediate support to those in need.Despite formidable logistical and security challenges, the Latin Patriarchate arranged shipments of critical aid and also ensured their safe delivery and distribution to the heart of Northern Gaza. Every step of the process, from shipment to final delivery, was meticulously coordinated to guarantee that aid reached those in need.

In September 2024, the operation reached a pivotal milestone with the delivery of 20 tons of fresh fruits and vegetables, alongside 40 tons of food and hygiene supplies.

By October, this effort doubled, resulting in 40 tons of fresh produce reaching the community.

In November, the relief initiative delivered critical support to over 1,000 families from the Christian community and neighbouring areas near the Holy Family compound, with each family receiving 20 kilograms of non-perishable goods. Simultaneously, 5,000 families were provided with five kilograms of fresh fruits and vegetables each.

In total, the operation has distributed approximately 140 tons of aid, benefiting nearly 40,000 individuals-10% of the population remaining in northern Gaza after the massive displacement of around two million residents.

Looking ahead, the Latin Patriarchate, in collaboration with its partners, is committed to sustaining this vital mission. Plans are underway to deliver two shipments per month, each carrying 100 tons of essential supplies. Additionally, efforts are advancing to establish a medical facility within the Holy Family compound to address urgent healthcare needs and to allow the reopening of the Patriarchate's school.

His Beatitude Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa emphasized the moral and pastoral imperative driving this mission, saying: "We share the deep pain of our brothers and sisters in Gaza, who have been enduring the tragic reality of total loss for over a year. This relief operation is not only a response to their needs but also a moral obligation on our part toward our brethren. It is our way of saying that we stand with them, embrace their suffering, and will never abandon them."

This comprehensive effort reflects the unwavering commitment of the Latin Patriarchate to delivering essential supplies and to ensuring their safe distribution, safeguarding the resilience and survival of Gaza's population during this time of profound crisis.

Watch a video from May this year: www.youtube.com/watch?v=6tlX_4irDaI&t=9s