During Mission Month, we hold in prayer all missionaries around the world who are dedicating their lives to bringing God’s light and love to all our sisters and brothers. Fr Gabriel, from the Holy Family Catholic Church in Gaza, recently shared an update of the situation and why he feels his mission is clear:
‘Despite the devastating humanitarian crisis, I made a decision to return to Gaza and stand by this community,’ says Fr Gabriel.
In October 2023, Fr Gabriel had left Gaza to gather medical supplies for his community, but when he tried to go back, he was refused entry. It wasn’t until May 2024 that Fr Gabriel finally managed to get re-entry and join his parish:
‘Regardless of the dangers and challenges that lay ahead, I returned to provide spiritual, moral, and material assistance to those in need, whatever their religious affiliation.’
So many problems – compounded by conflict
The problems Fr Gabriel’s community face are manifold:
‘Gaza is considered the poorest area in Palestine and one of the most densely populated areas in the whole world with about 5,046 persons per sq km, combined with a high level of unemployment. Christians represent 0.05% in this Muslim region.
‘Gazans have suffered considerably during the past decade of political upheaval. Border closures, strikes, and curfews were abnormally excessive in the Strip. The stagnant economy and many years of violence have severely affected the social and economic well-being of the family… Conditions have created a volatile society and open to wide swings in political instability. This creates insecurity and fears that contribute further to social deterioration.’
Why missionaries are vital
Fr Gabriel is determined to continue his mission to bring light and hope:
‘I feel that I have a purpose in working tirelessly to do everything I can to alleviate the suffering and bring hope to those who have been affected by the war.
‘Here in the parish, we have around 500 refugees. Of these about 50 individuals, primarily children, are under the care of the Sisters of Mother Teresa. Additionally, we provide assistance to thousands of people in the neighbourhood, offering water, food, and medicine.’
He is clear about his missionary role:
‘I am not a saviour. Our Saviour is our Lord Jesus Christ, but I feel that here, at least, I can do something so no one is left behind and sow a little justice and peace. We must speak out for justice, peace, and the liberation of those deprived of freedom. We need the entry of humanitarian aid to heal the thousands of wounded and to see the displaced return to their homes.’
Support World Mission Sunday
Mission Month is a time of grace, where the entire global Catholic family can reach out and ensure that everyone deserves to know the love of Christ, no matter where they are or what their circumstances. Fr Gabriel shares:
‘Your support through prayer and donation is more than aid; it’s a beacon of hope for those who suffer for their faith. We thank all our benefactors for all that you do, and encourage you to continue providing spiritual, existential, and material aid to console the suffering Heart of Jesus in all those who suffer. May the Virgin Mary bless us, and thank you again for everything. May God bless you for your kindness and generosity.’
At this time, we ask for your prayers particularly for our missionary partners across the Holy Land, who continue to stand with and serve their communities in the midst of bitter conflict.
Without you, so many people would never have the chance to know God’s love. But together we can ensure missionaries can continue to invite all our sisters and brothers to the banquet.
- Download and pray our World Mission Sunday prayer here>>
- Give to World Mission Sunday here>>
- Find resources to use in your parish here>>