Sun May 11 13:02:37 UTC 2025: ## Holy Land Christians Welcome New Pope, Seek His Support Amidst Ongoing Conflicts

**JERUSALEM** – Christians in the Holy Land have expressed hope and excitement following the election of Pope Leo XIV, calling on him to continue the legacy of peace and justice established by his predecessor, Pope Francis. In a statement released today, the community highlighted the numerous challenges they face, urging the new pontiff to actively intervene on their behalf.

The statement emphasizes the persistent impact of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, citing violence, religious extremism, and economic hardship as major concerns driving emigration among the 230,000 strong Christian community. They specifically highlighted the need for the Holy See to engage with regional and global players to achieve a lasting peace. Pope Leo XIV’s initial call for a ceasefire in Gaza and delivery of humanitarian aid was welcomed as a positive first step.

Beyond the conflict, the statement detailed various issues requiring the Pope’s attention: discriminatory Israeli laws targeting Christians based on ethnicity and religion, the ongoing struggle for the return of expelled residents to their ancestral lands in Iqrit and Biram, and insufficient funding and threats against Christian institutions and schools.

The community also appealed for increased support from the Holy See in resolving internal issues, such as unifying religious holiday dates and fostering collaborative pilgrimage programs to better highlight their plight and strengthen their connection to the universal Church.

Ultimately, the statement expressed a desire for Pope Leo XIV to act as a father figure, visiting the Holy Land, listening to their concerns, and actively protecting them from oppression, mirroring the actions of the Church’s founder. While acknowledging the Pope’s many responsibilities, the statement emphasized the critical need for his support and unwavering presence amidst the challenges facing Christians in the birthplace of Christianity.

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