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, warns that Christians in the Holy Land face increasing pressure that makes staying in their homeland difficult. Speaking during a Day of Prayer for Christians in the Middle East in Augsburg, Poggi stated that the cumulative effect of various hardships is shrinking the living space available to Christian communities.

Poggi identified several factors driving emigration, including economic hardship, a lack of jobs, restrictions on movement, and intimidation. He noted that roadblocks, inaccessible farmland, and a lack of work permits prevent families from securing a future for their children. He argued that when families feel forced to leave to ensure their children's safety, their decision to emigrate is no longer truly free.

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