A legacy of Service and Advocacy 

On September 30, 2023, at the Vatican City, His Holiness Pope Francis appointed Latin Patriarch Monseigneur Pierbattista Pizzaballa as the Cardinal of the Holy Roman Church. Caritas Jerusalem, the humanitarian and development arm of the Catholic Church in the Holy Land, joins the Diocese of Jerusalem in celebrating the elevation of His Beatitude, who was presented with his Scarlet biretta and ring by His Holiness Pope Francis in St. Peter's Square, along with 21 new cardinals from around the world.

The entire Jerusalem Diocese cheered at this historic event, marking the first time a Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem has been made a Cardinal. Many faithful from various countries expressed their excitement for His Beatitude Cardinal Pizzaballa's mission as a voice for Christians in the Holy Land.

Mr. Anton Asfar, Secretary General of Caritas Jerusalem, expressed his pride in the appointment of His Beatitude, stating, "This appointment answers the longings of the Christians of the Holy Land to be embraced by the Universal Church." He emphasized that Caritas has embraced the words of His Beatitude to guide their work in Gaza, which is, "We put love into action."

"His Beatitude Cardinal Pizzaballa and his spiritual leadership inspire us," said Mr. Anton Asfar. "He has consistently supported Caritas Jerusalem in its mission to put love into action for the most vulnerable people in our society."

Caritas Jerusalem wishes His Beatitude Cardinal Pizzaballa every success in his new role as a Cardinal.