HOLY LAND: Gaza Catholic church hit in fresh army shelling

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Gaza's only Catholic church - housing 600 displaced people - was hit during military operations yesterday (Thursday) morning with three people killed and 10 more injured.

Father Gabriel Romanelli, Parish Priest of the Holy Family Church, Gaza City, was among those hurt amid reports that a tank shell struck the building, damaging the roof and smashing windows.

Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, the Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, was among those who entered Gaza this morning (Friday) as part of a Christian delegation aimed at expressing solidarity with the Churches of the Holy Land and concern for the community of Gaza.

The Church leaders called for an immediate ceasefire, echoing calls from Pope Leo XIV who sent a message to say to he was "deeply saddened to learn of the loss of life and injury caused by the military attack" on the Holy Family Church.

In a week which also saw attacks on Taybeh, described as the only entirely Christian town in the West Bank, ACN is renewing its appeal for prayers for the people of the Holy Land and an end to the violence.

Read the full report here>>

ACN PRAYER

PRAYER FOR PEACE

In light of the recent shelling as well as the on-going devastation in the Holy Land we ask that at some point this weekend, you take a moment to pray for peace. Together, let’s ask God to help those who are affected by this war and guide those in positions of power to ensure that this conflict comes to an end.

Lord Jesus Christ, who are called the Prince of Peace, who are Yourself our peace and reconciliation, who so often said, “Peace to you” – please grant us peace.

Make all men and women witnesses of truth, justice and brotherly love. Banish from their hearts whatever might endanger peace. Enlighten our rulers that they may guarantee and defend the great gift of peace.

May all peoples on the earth become as brothers and sisters.

May longed-for peace blossom forth and reign always over us all. Amen.

- Pope St. John Paul II

We continue our efforts to support the faithful in the Holy Land as they struggle amid the conflict in the region. The events of the last few days, as well as the testimonies of priests and Sisters in the region, highlight the desperation they face in their everyday lives, affecting even something as integral to their faith as attending Holy Mass.

We ask that you continue to support them in their plight through our latest appeal.

SUPPORT OUR HOLY LAND APPEAL

ACN PODCAST

BREAK THE SILENCE

The latest episode of ACN's Break the Silence podcast is now available online.

In this episode, you will hear from Regina Lynch, ACN (International) Executive President, who has visited persecuted Christian communities in 60 countries over her 45 years at ACN. She sits down with John Pontifex of ACN (UK) to reflect on the charity's mission of supporting the suffering Church and giving a voice to the voiceless.

BREAK THE SILENCE PODCAST

ACN EVENTS

WE BELIEVE FESTIVAL: 25^th-28^th JULY, OSCOTT

With just a week to go until the We Believe Festival there is still time to get involved.

Members of the ACN team, such as ACN (UK) National Director Dr Caroline Hull, will be there to share the important work we are doing now and in the coming months.

The We Believe Festival is a great way to celebrate the Catholic Faith in this Jubilee Year of Hope. From conversations, community and workshops to art, music and family, the We Believe Festival touches every part of Catholic life, and we hope to see you there.

Tickets are available as day passes or full festival passes which will give you access to the event on all 4 days. Family tickets are also available, including parish and group registrations, all of which can be accessed by clicking the button below. We hope to see you there!

GET YOUR TICKETS HERE

ACN SHOP

BLESSED CARLO ACUTIS - A SAINT IN SNEAKERS

If you are looking to get away this summer on holiday and enjoy some light reading, or want something to enjoy in the summer sun in your garden, then Blessed Carlo Acutis – A Saint in Sneakers is perfect for you.

Follow in Vatican journalist Courtney Mares’ footsteps as she learns about this incredible young man and all he did to connect the faithful in the digital age. With interviews with people who lives he had touched, celebrating the soon to be canonised Carlo

For all your support we are offering 20% OFF all non-sale products with the code "Ben20" in the shop. We also have our "Summer Harvest Collection" which you can browse:

SUMMER HARVEST COLLECTION

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