Some issues of ONE magazine are more challenging to put together than others.
Not just because our team of journalists file stories from communities in far-off lands and remote villages unknown to many in the West — where nevertheless the church works and witnesses.
Not just because we cover challenging issues and vulnerable communities who suffer in difficult political and social circumstances — where nevertheless the church remains present for those in need.
But because, where CNEWA is privileged to serve, the church suffers as a result of war, famine and persecution.
In this September edition, we bring you reports on the massive destruction of human life underway in Gaza, an intentional military campaign that has killed more than 63,000 people, mostly civilians, among them more than 18,000 children.
The articles, photos, audio and video our journalists have captured in the field in Gaza tell of a complete disregard for human life — where nevertheless the church remains, refusing coercive orders to evacuate and stating instead its commitment to remain with those in need.
Our team at ONE has stared into the eyes of those who knew their days were numbered —who nevertheless continue to express their hope that God will act, God will show mercy, and that there is still life to be grasped and lived.
As difficult as these stories and images may be to read and to see, we can assure you that our team has taken great care to select photos that show the reality on the ground yet still respect each person’s God-given dignity in their suffering.
The reality on the ground must be told. This is the work of journalism.
We hope you will spend time with each of these articles, contemplating the voices, the images, the faith, the fears, the hopes, the humanity that is on the line.
This edition also includes reports from other parts of the world that are suffering ongoing war — strife upon strife — and where the church is present, too, offering people a sense of agency, dignity and hope.
- In Ukraine, parishes are serving as “Beacons of Hope” through creative and much-needed social ministries despite the war.
- In Syria, a church health care network is saving lives by providing assistance for surgeries, medication and treatments.
- In Ethiopia, the Comboni Missionary Sisters persevere in their work with trafficking survivors despite the recent foreign aid cuts.
- In Georgia, Caritas is working to strengthen its network as the country’s social safety net starts to fray.
All these stories tell of the tragedy around us, but also of what persists: faith, hope and charity.
Finally, be sure to read the regular column of CNEWA President Msgr. Peter I. Vaccari, who shares the church’s message of hope for the jubilee year and extends an invitation to join in one of the many ways to support CNEWA’s mission.