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February 19, 2008

Young Christians' centre in Gaza is attacked

by Judith Sudilovsky
Ecumenical News International

JERUSALEM — Gunmen overpowered two guards at the Gaza YMCA (Young Men’s Christian Association) and blew up its library, says the head of the centre where the attack took place.

A group of gunmen placed explosive charges on Feb. 15 inside the building, which is located in the centre of Gaza City, destroying the library and thousands of books. Staff said the attackers unsuccessfully attempted to damage an adjoining wedding hall.

“We are living in an insecure situation for several years [with the] Israeli attacks and the internal problems,” said Gaza YMCA director Issa Sabbah. “The situation is complicated.”

The Reuters news agency reported that it was not immediately clear if the attack was a reprisal for the re-publication in Denmark and Sweden of cartoons which Muslims say are insulting to their prophet Muhammad.

Catholic priest the Rev. Manuel Musallam said the local media had been broadcasting against the Danish cartoons since their publication. He also noted that many people in Gaza are displeased with the open character of the YMCA where young boys and girls can mix freely.

“When you are in a very conservative Muslim society you can’t … [easily] live an open life,” said Musallam.

The YMCA is open to both Christians and Muslims and in addition to the wedding hall and library includes a sports hall and school. It also runs a summer camp.

“Everybody is scared,” said a Christian teenager who asked that her name not be used. “But still we went to the YMCA. There weren't a lot of people there. We don't have any other place to go.”

The YMCA used to be seen as a refuge from the boredom and tensions for young people, she said. “Now we can’t relax [even there] but what can we do?” she said. “There is a lot more anti-Christian feeling now.”

Young people generally congregate at the YMCA on Thursday evenings. “We have many different activities here. What is the problem if they sit together?” said Sabbah. “We need to take care but we can't stop working. We are Arab Palestinian people. We are afraid of the general atmosphere but not because of religion issues.”