Today, Caritas Jerusalem, in partnership with Caritas Sweden, inaugurated the Vehicle of Hope — the Popemobile gifted to Pope Francis by Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas in 2014, now transformed into a pediatric mobile clinic that will soon serve the children of Gaza.

The event was held at the Cantico Building – Custody of the Holy Land in Bethlehem and brought together the Secretary General of Caritas Jerusalem Mr. Anton Asfar, the Secretary General of Caritas Sweden Mr. Peter Brune, the Secretary General of Caritas Internationalis Mr. Alistair Dutton, Dr. Ramzi Khoury, President of the Presidential Committee for Church Affairs, and Fr. Ibrahim Faltas OFM, representing the Custody of the Holy Land. Diplomats, partners, and friends also joined to witness this historic moment.

Once a vehicle used by Pope Francis during his pilgrimage to the Holy Land, it has now been carefully refurbished in Beit Jala and transformed into a fully equipped mobile clinic. The Popemobile carries child-friendly medical devices, refrigeration units for medicines, shatter-resistant features, and protective fittings that ensure safe medical service delivery. Soon, it will travel across Gaza, offering life-saving care to children who have endured war, displacement, and unimaginable hardship.

Speakers at the inauguration emphasized Pope Francis’ enduring compassion for Gaza and recalled how deeply connected he remained to its people, especially during the war. They also highlighted the commitment of Caritas Jerusalem, Caritas Sweden, and the global Caritas family to stand with Gaza’s most vulnerable, ensuring that the Church’s presence, care, and solidarity reach those who need them most.

The inauguration carried a message that resonated deeply throughout the gathering: We will not forget you. We are with you. The Church is with you.

This video captures the essence of that day — a moment where history, faith, and humanitarian mission come together to bring healing and hope to the children of Gaza.