Jenin and Rafidia— Amid escalating instability and deepening hardship across the region, His Beatitude Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, continues to demonstrate unwavering pastoral commitment by being physically present among his people. On Friday, July 25, 2025, the Patriarch carried out a special check-up visit to the Latin parishes of Jenin and Rafidia, accompanied by Msgr. Jamal Daibes, and Fr. Davide Meli, offering both spiritual support and a message of solidarity to communities facing significant trials.
In Jenin, His Beatitude was warmly received at the Holy Redeemer Church by Fr. Amer Jubran, the parish priest, along with other priests serving the parish and neighboring churches, as well as by the parishioners. Despite the ongoing challenges and destruction that have affected the area in recent months, the atmosphere was one of hope and unwavering faith as the Patriarch presided over a Mass concelebrated by several priests. Following the liturgy, Cardinal Pizzaballa met with parishioners to listen firsthand to their experiences. Fr. Amer spoke openly about the deep suffering endured by the local Christian community.
In his response, the Patriarch expressed his closeness and solidarity, insisting on the importance of safeguarding the Christian identity in the Holy Land. He also referred to the pain of the Gaza parish, recalling his recent visit to the Holy Family Church after the grievous strike that claimed the lives of three parishioners and left others wounded. The right to live in dignity and security is a fundamental human right, the Patriarch emphasized.
Later that same day, Cardinal Pizzaballa visited the parish of Rafidia in Nablus. The visit, though brief, was filled with warmth and significance. After listening to the Gospel reading in the church, His Beatitude offered a heartfelt reflection, encouraging perseverance in faith amid adversity. He also shared updates on the situation in Gaza, reinforcing a sense of unity and communion among the Latin parishes.
The visit concluded in the parish hall, where parishioners showcased a video highlighting local parish activities.
Overview of the recent struggles faced by the Latin Parishes of Jenin and Rafidia
The Latin parishes in Jenin and Rafidia continue to endure considerable hardship as they navigate a landscape marked by political instability, military tension, and economic strain. In Jenin, frequent military incursions, road closures, and security disruptions have deeply affected daily life, placing additional pressure on the already vulnerable Christian community. Despite these circumstances, the parish remains a center of spiritual life and hope.
In Rafidia, the small Latin community grapples with growing economic hardship and social isolation. Yet, the parishioners remain resilient, drawing strength from their faith and the closeness of the clergy. Their quiet perseverance reflects the enduring spirit of Christian witness in the Holy Land.
Cardinal Pizzaballa’s recent visit offered more than words of support, it brought the physical presence of a shepherd who chooses to walk with his people in their pain. His visits to all affected areas send a clear message: the Church does not abandon her children in times of difficulty but journeys with them, listening, consoling, and lifting hearts toward the hope of Christ.
