Gaza – September 22, 2026 — The Latin Patriarchate School in Gaza has reopened for the 2026–2027 academic year, welcoming 1,005 students from kindergarten through Grade 12 after nearly three years of disrupted education.
Providing education has remained a top priority for the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem and His Beatitude Pierbattista Cardinal Pizzaballa, Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, throughout the war. During his pastoral visits to Gaza, His Beatitude repeatedly emphasized the importance of restoring access to education, stating: “Without providing education to children, how can there be hope?”
The reopening of the school, including the establishment of the kindergarten building, has been made possible with the support of many donors and partners, whose contribution helped restore education for children in Gaza.
Schools are among the most important pastoral aspects and mission of the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem. During the war, especially in its most difficult days, the Holy Family Parish in Gaza continued to provide education to the displaced children who were staying in the parish premises. “As some returned home or found other housing in spring 2026, we were able to welcome more students”, shared Fr. Gabriel Romanelli. “This place, which sheltered displaced people during the war, is returning today to its educational mission. We hope that this space will be a place where love, healing, and mutual respect among members of the community can grow.”
Through the efforts of the local Latin Patriarchate team in Gaza and the supervising team in Jerusalem, the school has officially resumed its educational activities under the supervision of Fr. Gabriel Romanelli, despite continued challenges, including shortages of furniture, stationery, and basic educational materials. It is currently the only Christian educational institution operating in Gaza and continues to serve students from across the local community.
For the new academic year, 77 teachers have returned to work across the different educational stages.
Alongside education, the school is also in the process of establishing extra curriculum activities to support the students psychologically, responding to the needs of children and teachers returning after years of disruption.
Fr. Gabriel describes the first day of school as a deeply moving moment: “Today, we saw tears of joy in the eyes of the children, and the parents as they saw their children in school after three years.”
The Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem — guided by His Beatitude Cardinal Pierbattista — continues to work to ensure that the Church remains present alongside the community, offering not only spiritual witness but also practical care, education, and service.
