Pope Francis & Gaza: "This Is Terrorism" & His Legacy | Latest News
Can the voice of faith truly pierce the fog of war, and offer solace amidst the devastation? Pope Francis, in his final days, seemed determined to answer that question with a resounding yes, becoming a steadfast beacon of hope for the beleaguered people of Gaza.
The world witnessed the passing of Pope Francis, marked by his unwavering commitment to peace and his profound concern for the suffering in the Gaza Strip. News of his death, at the age of 88, reverberated across the globe, particularly in Jerusalem, where a photo of the late pontiff was placed at the Basilica of the Agony on April 21, 2025. His final Easter address, a plea for a ceasefire in Gaza, underscored his lifelong dedication to the marginalized and his unyielding condemnation of violence. "This is no longer war, this is terrorism," he had remarked after a meeting, a statement that would define his final years.
Shireen Halil, a Palestinian and Christian woman from Bethlehem, who was part of a group that met with the Pope, expressed her astonishment at his deep understanding of the complexities of the Gaza war. His knowledge wasn't just of the headlines, but of the human cost, the daily struggles, and the desperate cries for help. This intimate understanding was a hallmark of his papacy, particularly in these final, turbulent years.
His dedication to the people of Gaza was evident in his actions. Despite his health challenges, he maintained a nightly tradition of calling the Holy Family Church, the only Catholic parish in the region. These calls weren't just symbolic; they were a lifeline, a reminder that they were not forgotten. "To parishioners at the Holy Family Church in Gaza, the late pontiff was a shield who fought to provide succor to their tiny," spoke volumes about his impact.
The Pope's actions extended beyond words. He met with Palestinians whose relatives were trapped in Gaza, showing solidarity with their plight. He met with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, signaling his vocal criticism of Israel's military campaign. These meetings and actions highlighted his ability to navigate the intricate politics of the region.
The Vatican's stance under Pope Francis also showed a significant shift, with the Vatican unofficially referring to the "State of Palestine" for at least a year. During his 2014 visit to the Holy Land, the official program referred to Mahmoud Abbas as the president of Palestine, a clear indicator of his sympathies. This shift was further demonstrated by the annual Nativity scene displayed at the Vatican, designed by Palestinian artists from Bethlehem, featured baby Jesus dressed in a Palestinian keffiyeh.
The annual unveiling of the nativity scene took on a new significance. It was more than a religious display; it became a statement of solidarity with the Palestinian people. The star of Bethlehem, with its inscription of "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, goodwill to all people," served as a message of hope amid the turmoil. The scene was crafted by Palestinian artists, showcasing their heritage and struggle.
| Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Jorge Mario Bergoglio (Pope Francis) |
| Date of Birth | December 17, 1936 |
| Place of Birth | Buenos Aires, Argentina |
| Date of Death | April 21, 2025 (Reported) |
| Education | Master's degree in Chemistry, Philosophical and theological studies |
| Ordination | Ordained a Jesuit priest in 1969 |
| Episcopal Ordination | Titular Archbishop of Auca in 1992 |
| Cardinalate | Created Cardinal by Pope John Paul II in 2001 |
| Papal Election | Elected Pope on March 13, 2013 |
| Key Initiatives | Emphasis on social justice, climate change, interfaith dialogue, and pastoral care; Financial reforms in the Vatican |
| Notable Actions | Advocacy for the poor and marginalized; Condemnation of war and violence; Frequent calls for peace in the Middle East |
| Significant Visits | Visited the Holy Land in 2014, including an unscheduled stop in Bethlehem |
| Official Website | The Vatican |
The pontiff's unwavering advocacy for the Palestinians was often met with mixed reactions. Some viewed his actions as a necessary moral stance. Others, however, were critical. The use of the keffiyeh in the nativity scene, for example, sparked controversy. However, these criticisms did little to deter Pope Francis from his mission, a mission that reflected his deep-seated belief in the inherent dignity of all people.
The impact of Pope Francis was especially felt in the besieged Gaza Strip. His actions went beyond words; his phone calls and expressions of solidarity offered a lifeline to a congregation sheltering at their church, providing succor to their tiny community. These actions resonated deeply, as a spokesperson from Holy Family Church said, "Today we feel like we are orphans." His final Easter address, a call for a ceasefire and the release of hostages, was a testament to his continuous commitment to peace.
The late pontiff's efforts extended to direct engagement. He met with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, strengthening the Vatican's diplomatic ties. He met with Palestinians whose relatives were stranded in Gaza. He was an advocate, a voice for those who felt silenced.
Pope Francis's legacy is that of a leader who dared to challenge the status quo, a pontiff who spoke truth to power, and a pastor who tended to the needs of his flock. He left the world a clear example of how faith can intersect with global politics, offering a message of hope even in the face of unimaginable suffering. His voice, though now silent, continues to echo in the quest for peace and justice.
