Tue Apr 22 05:58:27 UTC 2025: ## Pope Francis Mourned in Gaza as a ‘Beloved Father Figure’ After Death

**Deir Al-Balah, Gaza Strip –** The death of Pope Francis on April 21, 2025, has been met with profound sadness in Gaza, where he was revered as a compassionate advocate for the beleaguered territory’s Christian community. For the past 18 months of his life, the Pope maintained a nightly ritual of calling the only Catholic church in Gaza to check on the well-being of those sheltering within amidst the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas.

This consistent outreach earned him the title of “beloved father figure” amongst the approximately 1,000 Christians living in Gaza. Throughout the conflict, which began in October 2023, Pope Francis repeatedly called for a ceasefire, the release of Israeli hostages held by Hamas, and condemned the growing global antisemitism. He also criticized the Israeli military’s tactics, even going so far as to call for an investigation into potential genocide – a charge Israel denies.

While lauded for his interfaith efforts and advocacy for the hostages, the Pope’s legacy in Israel is more complex. However, Israeli President Isaac Herzog acknowledged his “deep faith and boundless compassion,” expressing hope that his prayers for peace would be answered.

The Pope’s consistent engagement with the Gaza community, including daily calls to the Holy Family Church, provided critical support during a time of severe humanitarian crisis. Thousands of Gazans face starvation and lack of access to essential resources due to the ongoing conflict and blockade.

The Pope’s death has left a void, particularly within Gaza’s small Christian community, who remember him for his unwavering support and concern for their well-being. His legacy extends beyond Gaza, with mourners across the Arab world and UN officials acknowledging his significant contributions to highlighting the humanitarian crisis. Even Hamas officials acknowledged his advocacy for Palestinian rights. The memory of Pope Francis’s compassion and unwavering calls for peace remain a source of solace and inspiration for many in Gaza.

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