Jerusalem Church condemns Israel's shelling of an Orthodox centre in Gaza

Consequences of Israel's strike on the Orthodox Center in Gaza. Photo: the Jerusalem Patriarchate website

The Jerusalem Patriarchate condemned the Israeli shelling of the Orthodox Cultural Centre in the Tel Al-Hawa area of the Gaza Strip, reports the Patriarchate's press service.

The statement says that the shelling of Gaza is "a stark embodiment of Israel’s unwarranted determination to destroy the civil infrastructure and social service centres, as well as shelters for civilians trapped in the besieged enclave". The Patriarchate highlights that social, cultural, and sports centres have become vital providers of essential humanitarian services and safe havens for those affected by Israeli airstrikes targeting residential areas.

The Patriarchate noted that the Israeli military "has targeted 19 places of worship, including mosques and churches, in Gaza during the past three weeks of the devastating conflict."

"Such attacks on civilians, particularly children, and the deliberate destruction of civilian infrastructure, cannot be justified on rational or humanitarian grounds and are fundamentally at odds with even the most basic moral values.," says the Jerusalem Patriarchate.

The Patriarchate reiterates its firm demand for an immediate and comprehensive ceasefire in the Gaza Strip and pledges to continue its international efforts to achieve this goal as soon as possible.

As reported, the Jerusalem Patriarchate called the strike on the temple in Gaza a war crime.

Read also

Oldest UOC church in Sumy marks its patronal feast

Metropolitan Yevlohiy led celebrations at the city’s oldest parish, where the wonderworking Pustynno-Hlynska Icon of the Mother of God was brought for the feast.

Hundreds of faithful in Bulgaria welcome Hawaiian Icon of the Mother of God

Patriarch Daniel led the ceremonial welcome for the myrrh-streaming icon in Sofia and thanked the ROCOR Synod for arranging its visit.

Pope Leo XIV approves new Vatican Сonstitution

The new Fundamental Law establishes the right of non-cardinals to head Vatican administrative bodies.

Church commemorates Prophet Elijah

The Church honors the memory of the prophet who lived in the ninth century BC and became an example of unwavering faith for Christians throughout the ages.

UOC priest’s home damaged in drone strike on Poltava

The home of Archpriest Kostiantyn Fisun, rector of St. Seraphim Church in Poltava, was damaged in a drone attack.

Kyiv Theological Schools begin enrollment for catechetical courses

The Kyiv Theological Academy has announced enrollment for the St. Peter Mohyla Catechetical Courses for laypeople.