Pope Leo XIV spoke of his “deep sorrow” on Sunday and called for an end to the “wildness of war” following the fire of the Holy Family Church, the only Catholic church in the Palestinian enclave, NBC News reported.
The Israeli bombardment that blows up the sanctuary on Thursday – killing three people, including the church custodian and wounding nine people, including the priest – elicit an unusually direct response from both global worshipers, seeing the solidarity of the voices around the world.
Pope Leo XIV spoke on Sunday about his “deep sorrow,” sought an end to the “barb of war,” and read the names of those killed in the Holy Family Church.
“Unfortunately, this law adds ongoing military attacks on civilians and places of worship in Gaza,” he said after Angelus’ prayers.
The Holy Family Church said Israel “deeply regrets” despite the fatal strike on Thursday.
The ornate cross and paintings depicting the Virgin Mary and Jesus Christ still adorn the walls. In the light of flickering candles, its crushed windows and burnt façade prove the strike.
MNA