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The Holy Family Parish in Gaza

The Holy Family Parish in Gaza

Photo: The Holy Family Parish in Gaza

“The loss of Nahida and her daughter Samar, who were fatally shot inside the Holy Family Parish in Gaza, deeply saddens us,” Pillay stated. 

“These senseless deaths remind us of the urgent need to end the ongoing trauma afflicting both Palestine and Israel.” 

According to the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem, the two women were victims of gunfire from the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) on 16 December. The statement from the patriarchate recounted the harrowing events, revealing that the women were targeted while seeking refuge in the parish, a known sanctuary for many Christian families. 

“One woman was fatally shot while attempting to carry the other to safety. Seven additional individuals suffered injuries as they bravely tried to shield others within the church compound,” the statement described. 

The patriarchate emphasized that the attack occurred without warning and condemned the violence as an act of cold-blooded aggression within the sacred grounds of the parish, where no combatants were present. 

Further distress was caused earlier that day when an IDF tank launched a rocket at the Convent of the Sisters of Mother Theresa (Missionaries of Charity), part of the same church compound. This attack not only caused significant damage to the building, but also destroyed its generator—the sole source of electricity—and vital fuel supplies. 

This has had a dire impact on the 54 disabled residents of the convent, who now find themselves displaced and without access to necessary medical equipment, including respirators critical for some of their survival. 

The WCC continues to advocate for peace and calls for immediate cease fire to prevent further loss and suffering in the region.