The final call lasted 30 seconds. Just enough time to say hello and ask if everyone was okay. But for Gaza’s tiny Christian population, the phone call from Pope Francis was a ray of hope that shone through the horrors of war.

Palestinian Christians in Gaza are mourning Pope Francis' passing, remembering him as a spiritual supporter who maintained close contact.

Despite the brutal Israeli attacks, the Christian community in Gaza always received encouragement from Pope Francis, even when he was ill.