Cyprus to fund restoration of Gaza’s Saint Porphyrius Church damaged by Israeli strikes

Cyprus has announced a €150,000 contribution to the restoration of the historic Church of Saint Porphyrius in Gaza, which was partially destroyed during an Israeli strike in October 2023. The Greek Orthodox church, established in the early fifth century and rebuilt largely in the 12th century, was struck on October 19, 2023, while hundreds of Palestinians were sheltering inside the compound. At least 18 people were killed, including a three-month-old baby, according to reports at the time. Parts of the building were damaged in the attack.

The Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) stated that the church was not the intended target and that the strike was directed at a Hamas control centre nearby. The church has long served as a place of worship and community life for Gaza’s Christian population, as well as a refuge for civilians during times of conflict. Its destruction has been a significant loss for the local Christian community and a symbol of the broader humanitarian challenges in the region.

Cyprus’ funding will support not only the restoration of the church but also educational and social programmes, expanded school facilities, and childcare through the Patriarchate of Jerusalem. This initiative reflects a commitment to supporting Christian communities and their institutions in the Holy Land, particularly in areas affected by ongoing conflict and instability.

In addition to the church restoration, Cyprus has approved a €20,000 grant for Cypriot monks of the Holy Sepulchre serving in Bethlehem, Bethany, and Jordan. The government has also allocated €148,000 to the Patriarchate of Antioch for assistance in Syria. These efforts highlight Cyprus’ broader engagement with religious freedom and the protection of minority communities in the Middle East.

The programme includes support for the reconstruction of a primary school in Hama province, serving children from different religious backgrounds, and €48,000 to provide food, water, and medical care to Orthodox and other Christian churches and monasteries. Cyprus has also announced support for church programmes in Jordan and is considering further assistance for Christian communities in Iraq.

Through its special representative for religious freedom and the protection of minorities in the Middle East, Cyprus aims to address the needs of vulnerable religious communities and promote stability in the region. The restoration of the Church of Saint Porphyrius is a tangible step toward healing and reconciliation, reflecting the biblical call to care for the vulnerable and seek peace among neighbors.

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