AMMAN — Patriarch Theophilos III of the Holy City of Jerusalem and All Palestine and Jordan and Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa on Monday arrived in the Gaza Strip for a pastoral visit.

 

The patriarchs expressed their “deep” appreciation for the humanitarian role played by Jordan, under the leadership of His Majesty King Abdullah, in supporting the people of the Gaza Strip, the Jordan News Agency, Petra, reported.

 

They praised ongoing Jordanian efforts to deliver relief and medical aid, support hospitals, and enhance the capacity of the healthcare sector despite current challenges.

 

They stressed that the efforts led by King Abdullah embody a steadfast humanitarian and moral commitment to standing by the Palestinian people, carrying a message of solidarity and hope that enhances the resilience of Gazans and helps alleviate their suffering.

 

The visit falls within the framework of the pastoral responsibility undertaken by the Churches of Jerusalem towards local churches and all residents of the Gaza Strip, amid the ongoing difficult humanitarian conditions faced by families, accompanied by loss, pain, and growing anxiety over the future.

 

They stressed that their presence in Gaza carries the prayers of Jerusalem and its spiritual message to the people of the Strip, embodying the values of solidarity and Christian witness rooted in the Gospel and Jerusalem’s humanitarian message.

 

During their stay in Gaza, the patriarchs are scheduled to meet with a number of clergymen and families to discuss ways to contribute to mitigating the repercussions of the ongoing humanitarian crisis through prayer, direct meetings, and pastoral presence, thereby reinforcing spiritual support and sending a message of hope.