Gaza Herald – Amid a deeply spiritual atmosphere, Christians in Gaza marked Palm Sunday for the first time since the outbreak of the Israeli genocide in October 2023. The prayers were held at the Church of the Holy Family in the Old City of Gaza, which had previously been damaged by Israeli shelling during the war.
Dozens of worshippers gathered inside the church, led by Father Gabriel Romanelli, to commemorate the occasion. Palm Sunday, which precedes Good Friday and Easter, symbolizes the entry of Jesus Christ into Jerusalem, where he was welcomed with palm branches.
For the past two years, celebrations had been largely absent due to continuous Israeli attacks. This year, however, worshippers were able to revive the rituals, lighting candles, carrying palm branches, and singing hymns, despite ongoing insecurity.
Participants expressed hope for peace and stability, emphasizing their desire to live in dignity and safety. Father Romanelli noted the heavy toll the war has taken on Gaza’s small Christian community, with significant losses among its members, underscoring that they remain an integral part of Palestinian society.
Before the war, Gaza’s Christian population numbered around 1,000 out of more than 2.4 million residents. Today, only a few hundred remain. Despite the hardships, the Palm Sunday celebration stood as a symbol of faith, resilience, and the enduring presence of Christians in Gaza.
