Gaza churches remain sanctuaries amid siege as clergy refuse to flee

GAZA, The Holy Land — In Gaza, the relentless roar of bombing contrasts with the quiet resilience of its residents. Amid rubble and destruction, prayers rise from Orthodox and Catholic churches whose doors remain open, serving not only as buildings of worship but also as sanctuaries for exhausted bodies and weary souls. Children cling to priests and monks, seeking comfort in the midst of chaos.

As Israeli forces tighten their siege on the city ahead of a planned takeover, the Greek (Rûm) Orthodox and Latin Patriarchates issued a joint statement emphasizing their clergy’s commitment to remain in Gaza. They warned that abandoning the city would be tantamount to a death sentence for the Church.

The statement read:

“We cannot predict exactly what will happen — not only for our congregation, but for all residents. Since the outbreak of the war, the St. Porphyrius Greek (Rûm) Orthodox Complex and the Holy Family Latin Church Complex have sheltered hundreds of civilians, including the elderly, women, and children. The Latin Church has long cared for people with disabilities, just like the rest of Gaza’s residents. Refugees seeking shelter within these two churches must decide for themselves how to act, many of them weakened and malnourished after months of hardship.”

The scene captures the interweaving of human resilience and faith. As thousands of civilians face imminent danger, the steadfastness of clergy and refugees inside the churches echoes the enduring words of Scripture:

“Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.” (Psalm 23:4)