Cyprus allocates €150,000 for restoration of Gaza’s Saint Porphyrius Church
Cyprus will fund restoration work and social programmes through the Patriarchate of Jerusalem after the 2023 damage to Gaza’s historic Saint Porphyrius Church.
Nicosia, Cyprus. Cyprus will provide €150,000 to the Patriarchate of Jerusalem for the restoration of the historic Church of Saint Porphyrius in Gaza, which was partially destroyed during an Israeli bombardment in October 2023. The funding will also support educational and social programmes, expanded school facilities and childcare.
Church damage and casualties
The Greek Orthodox church was struck on October 19, 2023, while hundreds of Palestinians were sheltering in the compound.
At least 18 people, including a three-month-old baby, were killed, according to reports at the time, and parts of the building were destroyed.
The Israeli Defence Forces said the church was not the target of the strike and that the attack had been directed at a Hamas control centre nearby.
Historic site
Saint Porphyrius is among Gaza’s oldest Christian places of worship. It was established in the early fifth century around the tomb of Saint Porphyrius, who served as bishop of Gaza from 395 to 420.
The present structure largely dates from the 12th century. The church has served as a place of worship and community life for Gaza’s Christian population, as well as a refuge for civilians.
Additional assistance
A further €20,000 grant has been approved for Cypriot monks of the Holy Sepulchre serving in Bethlehem, Bethany and Jordan.
The government has also allocated €148,000 to the Patriarchate of Antioch for assistance in Syria.
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