Patriarch Theophilos of Jerusalem and Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa visit Gaza

Patriarch Theophilos of Jerusalem and Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, arrived in Gaza today for a pastoral visit. They are accompanied by Dr. Josef D. Blotz, Grand Hospitaller of the Sovereign Military Order of Malta, together with representatives of Malteser International.

The visit expresses the pastoral responsibility of the Churches of Jerusalem toward the local churches and toward the whole population of Gaza, where families continue to endure grave humanitarian suffering, fear, loss and uncertainty. The presence of Patriarch Theophilos III and Cardinal Pizzaballa carries the prayer of Jerusalem to Gaza’s wounded faithful and to all who suffer, in a ministry of consolation, mercy and steadfast Christian witness rooted in the Gospel and in the sacred vocation of the Holy City.

During their stay, Their Beatitudes will meet with clergy, religious communities, local Christian families and people affected by the continuing humanitarian crisis. Through prayer, personal encounter and pastoral presence, they seek to offer spiritual strength, comfort and hope in the midst of deep suffering.

The participation of the Grand Hospitaller of the…