Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, appeals for financial support for his diocese as he reaches out to residents of Gaza and others suffering the consequences of the war in the Holy Land.
By Lisa Zengarini
As the war between Hamas and Israel continues to wreak humanitarian havoc in Gaza, Patriarch Pierbattista Pizzaballa issued a message urgent call Friday, asking for support to help the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem reach all those affected.
“Charity and prayer animate the entire extended family of the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem, especially in times of extreme difficulty,” declared the Cardinal Patriarch of Jerusalem.
War also causes economic hardship for many families
In his appeal, the Patriarch recalled that many lives have been saved and much suffering alleviated thanks to the support offered during other recent crises in the region, including the Covid-19 pandemic, the port explosion of Beirut in 2020 and the devastating earthquake in Syria and Syria. Türkiye this year.
In all these situations, he said, “we have heard and responded to the cry of the poor.”
His message draws attention to the fact that in addition to death, destruction and hunger in Gaza, the war is also causing job losses and economic hardship for many families elsewhere in the Holy Land, including in Bethlehem, West Bank, as well as other social issues.
Help us sow the seeds of hope
“We are facing a crisis that affects countless families of different religions and all our institutions, including schools, hospitals and parishes,” said Patriarch Pizzaballa. “In Gaza, our material resources have been extended beyond our walls to include our suffering neighbors and those who have sought refuge elsewhere. We share almost everything, from food and water to medicine and supplies. »
His letter ends with an appeal for financial assistance for the Patriarchate’s humanitarian aid to those in need.
“Please help us to make a concrete difference and create the environment necessary so that in this society marked by hatred, we can once again sow the seeds of trust, hope and love. Please be assured of my prayer and gratitude for each of you!
Donation details can be found in the call.
