Christmas in Gaza – December 2024

This Christmas, like the last, is marked by sorrow and minimal celebrations for many Gazan Christians. Traditionally a time for family reunions and travel, such gatherings are now impossible due to the ongoing conflict.

As the second Christmas under Israeli bombardment approaches, nearly 1,000 Palestinian Christians are sheltering in the Greek Orthodox Church of St. Porphyrius and the Latin Monastery in the center of Gaza City. For over a year—since the beginning of Israel’s assault on the Strip—they have lived in these two churches with little access to food, water, or electricity.

Over the past 14 months, both the Greek Orthodox Church of St. Porphyrius and the Latin Monastery have been repeatedly attacked by Israeli forces, despite serving as shelters for displaced Palestinians. These churches have historically opened their doors during previous wars. Since October 7, 2023, Israel has bombed and targeted churches and civilian shelters, killing dozens. In December 2023, Israeli snipers killed two women and injured others in the courtyard of the Latin Monastery.

Many Palestinians, including around 300 Christians, have since fled Gaza.