Christians in Gaza Face "worst period" Since Start of War, Report Says

“Food is simply in short supply and it is difficult to find where to buy it. The Christian community takes every possible opportunity to secure some clean water and food,” the project partner said.

The food supply is limited to two meals a week and one loaf of bread every other day per person, provided by the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem with the help of organizations such as ACN. However, the community must often share small portions with one another to survive.

Access to clean water is a challenge, and many people have lost weight due to food shortages. Health problems are severe, with sick children and elderly people needing urgent medical attention, which is difficult to obtain in the midst of conflict.

“People walk for long hours to get a small box of food, which in the end is not even enough for three people. Because of this forced diet, sharing is becoming part of daily life and a new Christian identity,” the project partner told ACN.

The health situation is also alarming. Children are suffering from an outbreak of a virus that causes nausea and diarrhea, while several elderly people are facing serious illnesses that require hospitalization.

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Despite the difficulties, faith remains a powerful force for the community. Religious and psychological support activities are held, including daily Masses, catechesis, and meetings for healing trauma through prayer.

Priests and religious sisters, such as Sister Nabila, play a crucial role in caring for the community, despite being exhausted. Sister Nabila emphasized that, despite everything, the faith of the community is strengthened.

“They are all exhausted; no one can really experience what they are living. But with God’s grace, our children are now even closer to their faith than ever. It’s a very special Easter; we are closer than ever to the crucified Savior,” she declared.

Although communication with the community is difficult, her constant request is simple: “Pray for us, pray for the whole population to end this war.”

This article was first published by ACI Prensa, CNA's Spanish-language partner, and has been translated and adapted by CNA.