Holy Family School in Gaza Reopens After Three Years of Closure

The Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem has reopened the Holy Family Catholic School in Gaza City, marking a significant step in restoring educational opportunities amid ongoing conflict. The school, which had been closed for approximately three years due to the war, now serves around 1,000 students. Despite the challenges, Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, emphasized the importance of the school as a beacon of hope and continuity in a region marked by turmoil.

The reopening comes amid a severe shortage of educational supplies, with Cardinal Pizzaballa noting that students study on the ground due to the lack of desks and pencils. Beato Sappaglia, a representative of the Patriarchate, highlighted the resilience of the community, stating that “amidst the rubble and fears in Gaza, a glimmer of life emerges that no war can erase.” This sentiment underscores the determination of educators and students to persevere despite the devastation surrounding them.

The school currently accommodates about 180 children in its nursery and kindergarten stages, with 820 students from first grade to preparatory school. Approximately 130 of these students are Christian, representing about 13 percent of the total student body, while the majority are Muslim. Father Gabriel Romanelli, parish priest at Holy Family Church in Gaza, described the school’s reopening as “light in the darkness and a sign of hope.” He noted that teachers and students continue their studies and work despite the war’s lingering effects and the destruction around them.

During the conflict, the school also served as a shelter for more than 450 displaced people. Father Romanelli expressed the parish’s commitment to restoring “some of the natural signs of life” in Gaza, acknowledging that “nothing is normal” in the region. This dual role of the school as both an educational institution and a place of refuge reflects the multifaceted needs of the community.

George Okrouch, director of the Office for Project Development under the Latin Patriarchate in Jerusalem, highlighted the Patriarchate’s efforts to provide psychological and social support programs for students and teachers, as well as humanitarian aid to affected families. These initiatives are part of a broader commitment to continue education and support the local community in Gaza. Okrouch noted that the reopening of the school represents a significant milestone, as it is the first time all Christian students in Gaza will study together in one Christian school, fostering a sense of belonging and community.

Before the war, Gaza had five Christian schools: three Catholic, one Orthodox, and one Evangelical. However, most of these institutions have ceased operations, leaving the Holy Family School as a vital resource for the Christian community. The school’s reopening not only addresses educational needs but also serves as a testament to the enduring presence and support of the Church in the region. This effort aligns with the biblical principle found in Romans 12:18, which encourages seeking peace and building each other up.

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