Father Bernard Poggi warns of growing pressure on Christians in Holy Land

Father Bernard Poggi, rector of the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem’s seminary in Beit Jala, warned that the Christian presence in the Holy Land is under threat due to increasing pressures. Speaking during a Day of Prayer for Christians in the Middle East in Augsburg on September 13, Poggi noted that the living space for these communities is shrinking.

Poggi identified several factors making it difficult for Christians to remain in their homeland, including economic hardship, lack of jobs, restrictions on movement, and intimidation. He specifically highlighted the cumulative effect of roadblocks, inaccessible farmland, and a lack of work permits. He stated that when families feel they must leave to secure a safe future for their children, emigration is no longer a truly free decision.

The rector also expressed concern regarding rising violence from Jewish settlers against Christians, mentioning attacks on homes, vehicles, churches, and fields. He cited Taybeh, the last entirely Christian village in the West Bank, as an example of the challenges faced. Despite these pressures, Poggi noted that hope remains strong and local communities continue to be vibrant.