Gaza children pray for peace and thank Pope Francis

By Vatican News

Parishioners from Holy Family Catholic Parish in Gaza are praying fervently for an end to the war and peace for all.

In a video recorded on Saturday, bombs can be heard exploding in the background. The Parish compound has turned into a refuge for many seeking shelter.

"Thank God everyone is alright," says Holy Family parish priest Fr. Gabriel Romanelli, who is currently in Bethlehem and unable to reach Gaza. He has remained constantly updated by his assistant parish priest, Fr. Iusuf Asad.

Sound of bombs

In the Strip and confirmed by some managing to get through the communications blackout, people are now lacking essentials supplies, such as food, medicine, and clean water, as well as telephone and internet access. 

At the same time, Fr. Romanelli wishes to share that despite so much anguish, children sheltering in the parish are bearing witness to hope.

They recorded the video posted above, addressed to Pope Francis and to all those praying for peace. The two-minute video of young people of various ages shows them making the sign of the cross, praying the Our Father, the Hail Mary and the Sub Tuum Praesidium prayer (Latin for “Under thy protection”).

They thank the Pope for Friday's Day of Prayer, Fasting, and Penance for Peace in the World, and pray for him, with a closing greeting directed to everyone.

And in the background, the din of bombs exploding can be clearly heard.