War is always evil. It brings death, destruction, disability, and separation. One may ask: "Who started it? Who bears more responsibility in the history of the conflict? Which side has killed more civilians?" Even if we knew the answer, we have little influence on politics, and thus on the homes and hospitals destroyed by bombs, the displacement of innocent civilians, and the tears of widows and orphaned children.

As Christians, we are called to love in all circumstances. We have the opportunity to stop and help those most affected by war. That is why we are helping children from the city of Gaza, located in the Gaza Strip, a Palestinian enclave within the territory of the State of Israel.

From Children to Children

As part of preparations for the 33rd edition of the Missionary Carol Singers of the Diocese of Tarnów, a group of musicians and children created the song "Viva Papa Leone," blending local Tarnów folklore with Peruvian music. The song premiered on October 10 during the Second Children's Mission Meeting at the Jaskółka Arena in Tarnów-Mościce.

"The song dedicated to Pope Leo has a special mission: to raise funds for a 'papal' project aimed at helping children from the Holy Family Parish in Gaza. It also recalls the long-standing tradition of missionary carolers in Poland and the Diocese of Tarnów, through which children participate in the Holy Father's concern for the poorest and for peace in the world," explains Father Maksymilian Lelito from the Missionary Department of the Diocese of Tarnów.

As part of the project, a novena to the Child Jesus will also be held for the residents of the Gaza Strip.

The funds raised will be transferred to the Holy Family Parish in Gaza through the Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development, whose mission is to help the poor, the marginalized, and those affected by disasters. It is headed by Cardinal Konrad Krajewski, the papal almoner.

We are carrying out the "Viva Papa Leone – Aid for Children in the Gaza Strip" project in cooperation with the Missionary Department of the Diocese of Tarnów.

Bank account numbers for money transfers are:

For $: PL 52 1600 1462 1847 3641 5000 0009; SWIFT: PPAB PLPK
For €: PL 41 1600 1462 1847 3641 5000 0013; SWIFT: PPAB PLPK
For others: IBAN: PL 79 1600 1462 1847 3641 5000 0008; SWIFT: PPAB PLPK