Missionaries of Charity Nuns Resolve to Stay in Gaza Amid Ongoing Attacks

Speedy Summary

• Two nuns from India-headquartered Missionaries of Charity were seen in a viral video amidst a rocket attack in Gaza Strip.
• The Mother House in Kolkata reaffirmed its commitment to continue serving in Gaza,despite ongoing conflict.
• Three nuns are currently present on the ground, working with children and the elderly.They have been consistently active since February 26, 1973, through decades of conflict in the region.
• A video showed two nuns praying inside Holy Family Parish church as bombs fell outside during Sunday congregation. The church compound was previously bombed on December 16, 2023, injuring several including Father Gabriel Romanelli.
• Father romanelli shared the video of Sunday’s attack with international media and has sustained injuries from prior strikes near the church by Israeli forces.

Indian Opinion Analysis

The continuation of humanitarian efforts by Missionaries of Charity amid severe hostilities exemplifies resilience and dedication to service beyond national boundaries or personal safety concerns. Their decades-long presence since 1973 highlights enduring commitment amidst political instability and war-related risks in Gaza Strip. India’s link to such initiatives underscores its contributions to global humanitarian outreach inspired by figures like Mother Teresa.

This situation also reflects broader challenges faced by aid workers operating under extreme circumstances during protracted conflicts, where safety concerns often compete with moral obligations to serve vulnerable communities-the elderly and children being among those disproportionately affected by violence.

Read more at: The Hindu