The Near East Council of Churches (N.E.C.C.) is a part of the Middle East Council of Churches, an umbrella body of the Catholic, Orthodox, Oriental Orthodox and Evangelical churches in the Middle East that fosters ecumenical and interfaith relationships, and witnesses to the Gospel through its many social service activities. These include counseling for those with special needs, health care for mothers and their children, vocational training, community improvement and infrastructure development.

Founded in 1949, the N.E.C.C. has long maintained close ties to CNEWA, especially with our Jerusalem-based team. Thanks to our generous donors, CNEWA has assisted the council in its many works in Gaza, especially its health care facilities for mothers and their children, counseling activities and vocational initiatives.

Of Gaza’s two million people, fewer than 1,500 are Christian. Most belong to one of the oldest parishes in the world, an Orthodox church of the Patriarchate of Jerusalem. Gaza’s only Catholic parish, dedicated to the Holy Family, includes a few hundred people. While tiny, the Palestinian Christian community of Gaza is dynamic and responsive to the great needs of the people. In addition to the activities of the N.E.C.C., works include the Al Ahli Arab Hospital — Gaza’s only Christian hospital — the schools of the Latin Patriarchate and the Rosary Sisters, the social service works of the Myrrh Bearers Society and the person-to-person care administered by priests and religious of the parishes.

The need remains great — especially for the children. Help those who are suffering by calling: 1-800-442-6392 (United States) or 1-866-322-4441 (Canada).